Should Parents Buy Their Kids’ Shoes a 1/2 or Full Size Bigger?

Buying shoes for kids can be tricky—especially when you’re trying to figure out whether to size up to leave room for growth. Should you go a half size up, a full size, or just stick with the current fit? It’s totally normal for parents to want a little extra growing room, especially with how fast […]

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How to Tie Shoes for Kids Who Wear AFOs – Follow These 3 Simple Steps

Does your child wear AFOs due to a foot or leg condition? The way you tie their shoes can make a big difference in how well the braces function. Even if you’ve found shoes that work with AFOs, you might notice extra space around the heels—this can impact support and stability. A co-worker with over […]

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Best Alternatives to the 990 New Balance Kids’ Shoe – Top 3 Alternatives!

As a specialist at a children’s shoe store, I often get asked if the New Balance 990 is the best shoe for kids—especially those with flat feet, in-toeing, or toe walking. Known for its unmatched support, cushioning, and wide sizing options, the 990 is a favorite for comfort and fit. But its high price and […]

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Companies Allowing Purchase of Mismatched Shoe Sizes for Kids

Does your child have a noticeable size difference between their feet or wear an orthotic on only one side? Finding properly fitting shoes in these cases can be frustrating—and expensive—especially when most families are forced to buy two pairs just to get the right sizes. The good news? Some forward-thinking shoe companies now allow parents […]

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Shoes for Toddlers Who Wear AFOs – Extra Deep, Removable Insoles, and Oversized Openings!

Is your toddler wearing AFOs and you’re unsure which shoes will fit properly? You’re not alone — many parents feel overwhelmed when it comes to finding the right shoes to accommodate ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs). As a children’s shoe fitter with over a decade of experience helping families navigate this process, my first recommendation is to […]

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Boys with Achilles Heel Pain – The Best Shoes and Sandals for Boys with Achilles Pain!

Is your son struggling with Achilles heel pain that hasn’t improved, even after wearing supportive shoes? While heel pain is common in growing children, it shouldn’t be ignored. The right footwear can make a world of difference—especially shoes designed with targeted cushioning and support around the heel. As a dedicated children’s shoe fitter, I’ve helped […]

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Foot Pain in the Top of the Foot – Stop Your Kids’ Foot Pain!

Has your child been complaining about pain on the top of their foot? This type of discomfort is more common than you might think, especially in children with high insteps. When too much pressure is placed on the top of the foot—often due to tight or shallow shoes—it can irritate nerves and soft tissues, leading […]

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Arch Support for Kids – The Solution to Your Kids Foot Pain!

Are you struggling to find children’s shoes with built-in arch support? You’re not alone—most kids’ shoes today lack proper arch support, even if they offer firm heel counters and structured soles. If your child needs extra arch support but you’re not ready to invest in orthotics, arch support cookies may be the perfect solution. These […]

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Is Your Child Complaining About Foot and Leg Pain at Night? – The 3 Most Common Reasons!

Is your child waking up at night with foot or leg pain? While nearly 40% of children experience growing pains, it’s important not to assume that’s the cause. If the pain fades by morning, it’s likely harmless. However, if your child’s discomfort lingers into the day or affects their activity levels, it could signal an […]

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The Best Shoes for the Ball of the Foot Pain – Let’s Solve your Kids’ Foot Pain!

As a dedicated children’s shoe fitter, I’ve seen how difficult it can be for parents to find the right footwear—especially when their child is dealing with pain in the ball of the foot, also known as metatarsalgia. This type of discomfort can impact your child’s mobility and overall quality of life. Choosing the correct shoes […]

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