As kids transition from children’s shoe sizes to adult ones, many parents wonder: does “extra wide” mean the same thing in both categories? This is a common question I hear from families at the shoe store where I work, and the short answer is: not always. While the term “extra wide” exists in both kids’ […]
Last updated: June 2026 | By Juan Valenzuela, Certified Children’s Shoe Fitter | Est. reading time: 15 minutes Does your child constantly say their sandals feel “too tight,” “too loose,” or “too pinchy”? Kids with sensory sensitivities often struggle with footwear, and while a proper shoe fitting at a local store is ideal, these environments […]
By Juan Valenzuela, Certified Children’s Shoe Fitter | Washington, D.C. After more than a decade of helping families and working alongside physical therapists, occupational therapists, and pediatricians, I kept running into the same problem — parents were leaving appointments with a recommendation for “supportive shoes” but no clear guidance on what that actually meant. And […]
The New Balance 990 is one of the most supportive sneakers for kids—but its high price and frequent sell-outs make it less practical for many families. Many parents ask: The good news is that there are several excellent alternatives that offer strong support, stability, and proper fit—without the high price tag. As a children’s shoe […]
Do you have a toddler with flat feet, low muscle tone, hypermobility, or stability issues—and you’re looking for an effective but affordable solution? As a children’s shoe fitter with over a decade of experience working in a specialized shoe store, I fit toddlers with foot conditions in supportive shoes and orthotics every day. Over the […]
Looking for toddler shoes with extra long Velcro straps? These specially designed shoes are perfect for little ones who need a more adjustable fit—especially those with AFOs, high insteps, or extra wide feet. The extended straps make it easier to get the shoes on and off, while also providing a secure, comfortable fit that supports […]
Finding the best sneakers for summer camp is essential, since kids spend long days running, hiking, playing sports, and exploring the outdoors. Parents want shoes that are durable, breathable, and supportive enough to handle every camp activity while keeping their child’s feet comfortable and protected. The right summer camp sneakers can help prevent blisters, reduce […]
Struggling to find the perfect cheerleading shoes for your child’s unique foot shape? Cheerleaders spend hours jumping, kicking, and performing stunts, so wearing the right shoes is essential for both comfort and injury prevention. The best cheerleading shoes for kids should be lightweight, flexible, and supportive—with excellent grip and shock absorption. As a children’s shoe […]
Have you noticed your child walking or running differently and you suspect your child is dealing with a foot condition such as flat feet? When it comes to identifying foot problems, the condition of your child’s footwear is more important than you might realize. Paying attention to how your child’s shoes wear down can provide […]
Kids can be surprisingly passionate about their favorite colors—and once they choose one, they often want everything from clothes to shoes in that shade! As someone who’s worked in a children’s shoe store for over 10 years, I’ve seen firsthand how color preferences shift as kids grow. While parents often pick out shoes when kids […]