The Best Kids’ Shoe Stores in the United States – Where to go for Proper Fittings

Unlike generic shoe stores, specialized kids’ shoe stores focus on fitting and selecting shoes designed for specific foot shapes (narrow, medium, wide, extra wide) and conditions (flat feet, in-toeing, low muscle tone). These stores ensure that every child walks away with a pair of shoes that fits perfectly and supports their unique needs, whether they need extra arch support, a wider fit, or shoes suitable for orthotic inserts.

Finding a Local Kids’ Shoe Store

While specialized shoe stores may not be on every corner, they can be found in many states across the country. These stores are often family-owned businesses that take pride in their personalized service and expertise. Here is a guide to some notable mom and pop kids’ shoe stores by state. 

Personalized Recommendations from a Shoe Fitter

For families without access to local shoe stores, personalized virtual shoe recommendations from a shoe fitter can be a lifesaver. I am happy to provide you with personalized shoe recommendations taking into account your child’s foot shape and any existing conditions. This tailored approach ensures that children not only find comfortable shoes but also ones that promote healthy foot development. Feel free to contact me via email or through the comments section below for specific shoe recommendations.

How to Retrieve Your Child’s Foot Length and Shape from Home

I created a virtual shoe fitting service that will help you retrieve your child’s shoe size from home. In that article I help parents determine their child’s exact foot size and shape (narrow, medium, wide, extra wide, high instep) and whether the child is dealing with a foot condition such as flat feet. This thorough approach results in a more precise fit, catering to the specific nuances of each child’s foot.

The Advantages of Buying Shoes at Your Local Shoe Store

1. Specialization – We Know Exactly What We Are Doing

Independent kids shoe stores are able to order their own shoe brands, and they can choose the ones that promote healthy foot development and offer shoes in different widths. For example, certain shoes come in different widths such as medium, wide, and extra wide. The staff that is hired at independent stores is not made up of vague sales associates. They are trained in fitting shoes, brand knowledge, and high-end customer service.

2. We Enjoy What We Do – Incentives Not Based on Commission

This is a key differentiation between the independent retailer versus chain retailers. At independent stores, the commission doesn’t necessarily motivate the staff. This sets the tone for the store’s staff and encourages/insists. The sell-sell-sell model is completely demoralizing, in my humble opinion, for both the employees and the customers. Rather, independent kids’ shoe stores provide a basic function: outfitting your children with shoes.

3. Vision and Versatility – We Truly Care About Your Kids’ Feet!

You will find a different and unique vision for every independent retailer rather than a large overarching vision that has to fit the mold of hundreds to thousands of stores nationwide and in some cases, globally. Independent kids shoe store’s vision is simple: Provide outstanding customer service and fit your children’s feet with the most responsible and knowledgeable approach possible.

4. Personalized Attention – The Bond Is Real!

What’s so special about independent retailers is the personalized attention each customer is guaranteed. Customers come back and refer their friends and family to shop at a store like the one I work for based on the quality of our service, from fitting to brand knowledge even to fashion advice.

I have formed bonds with the customers, not only the parents but the children as well.  These families are placing their complete trust in me with their children’s feet and I must use all my expertise so that children can move around in comfortable, well-fitted shoes.

Do you have a trusted children’s shoe store in your area that I haven’t mentioned? If you happen to have one, please let us know in the comments section below, so we can all benefit from your experiences.