Why Good Shoes are Important for Children?

As parents, we often find ourselves questioning the necessity of certain items for our children, especially when we are in the middle of uncertain economic times.

One such item that often comes under scrutiny is shoes. You might wonder, why are good shoes important for kids, are they really a necessity?

The simple answer is yes, they really are that important. Good shoes play a crucial role in the overall development and well-being of your child. They not only protect your child's feet but also contribute to their growth, posture, and balance, among other things.

Importance of Proper Footwear in Physical Development

Children's feet grow rapidly during their early years, and their bones are still forming. It is during this time that their foot shape and size change frequently. It's essential to provide them with good quality shoes that can accommodate these changes without causing any discomfort or harm. They should be adjustable, foot shaped and provide adequate room-to-grow.

Wearing ill-fitting or poor-quality shoes can lead to various foot problems like blisters, corns, ingrown toenails, and even deformities over time. Moreover, children's feet are more flexible and softer than adults' making them more susceptible to injuries and damage.

Plus we all know how active children are! Good shoes provide the necessary support to your child's feet, helping them maintain balance while walking or running. They also aid in developing proper gait patterns which are crucial for their physical development.

The Role of Good Shoes in Posture Development

Another reason why good shoes are important for kids is their role in posture
development. The alignment of your child's feet directly affects their posture.
Wearing unsupportive or poorly designed shoes can lead to incorrect foot alignment resulting in bad posture.

Bad posture not only affects the appearance but also has serious health implications like back pain, neck pain, and other musculoskeletal problems later in life. Good quality shoes ensure correct foot alignment which promotes healthy posture development.

Impact on Confidence and Activity Levels

Children are naturally active beings who love exploring their surroundings. We want then to run, explore and find adventure. Wearing uncomfortable or ill-fitting shoes can hinder this exploration if their footwear isn't fit for purpose.This can lead to a decrease in their activity levels and negatively impact their physical health.

Moreover, children who are comfortable in their shoes are more likely to participate in physical activities and sports. This not only boosts their confidence but also contributes to their social development.  On the other hand, children who face difficulty walking or running due to poor-quality shoes may feel self-conscious and avoid participating in activities, leading to lower self-esteem and confidence levels.

Choosing the Right Shoes for Your Child

So we know good shoes for children are important, so how do we choose the right pair for them?

Here are a few tips:

1. ALWAYS measure your child's feet before buying shoes and check the brand's size guide. Children's feet grow rapidly and they might outgrow their shoes faster than you think. Don't be tempted to size up from their last pair as sizing can be very different between brand. Check out our ZIG+STAR printable size guide which will help you measure your childs' feet.

2. Look for shoes with good insole arch support. This will help maintain proper foot alignment and promote healthy posture development.

3. Choose shoes with non-skid soles to prevent slips and falls. Natural rubber is great for extra grip (which is what we use on all ZIG+STAR shoes).

4. Opt for breathable materials like leather or canvas to prevent sweaty feet and
odour. We use Gold certified, premium leathers for our uppers and lining material

5. Ensure there is enough room at the front of the shoe for your child's toes to move freely. There should be half a thumb length space when you squeeze the front of the shoe.

Good quality shoes play a significant role in your child's overall development – from physical growth, social confidence and health in adulthood. They protect your child's feet from injuries, aid in posture development, boost confidence levels, and encourage participation in physical activities.

So next time you find yourself questioning why are good shoes important for kids, remember that investing in a good pair of shoes is investing in your child's health and well-being. It’s not just about fashion or style; it’s about setting up a foundation for healthy growth and development.

Ali x