Here at Little Walkers we offer a full professional shoe fitting service.
Why? Well, children’s feet tend to grow rapidly in the first four years of their life, but it can take up to 18 years for the foot’s bones, muscles and ligaments to harden into adult form. So teenage feet need to be looked after as well as those of smaller children.
According to the research, one in 10 parents say their children have continued to wear shoes that are too small for them. Half admit to only buying new shoes when their children complain their feet are hurting.
Podiatry experts say many people neglect their children’s feet because they simply don’t understand the problems an ill-fitting pair of shoes can cause. Only 40% of parents interviewed as part of the research took into account whether the shoes on their offspring’s feet were well fitting and supportive.
False economy
Another issue is money. Two fifths of parents admitted to buying shoes that were too big so their children could grow into them over time, saving money. When it came to actually purchasing footwear, a quarter of parents said they based their decision on the cost.
The rise of cheaper shoes, sold without expert advice and proper fitting in stores and supermarkets, has also had an impact. Not only do they cost less, but they are often more convenient to buy than taking a child to a proper shoe shop for a fitting.
Fashion is often bad for feet
But it’s a false economy in more ways than one, says Bob Hardy, a leading expert on shoe fitting and fellow of the Society of Shoe Fitters.
“Not only are the health of their child’s feet at risk, cheaper shoes often fall apart and people end up going back two or three times for a new pair. They end up paying the same as they would have for well-made, properly-fitted shoes.
“Also, these shoe often don’t come in half sizes or different widths, both of which are important if you want a shoe to fit properly.”
Fashion trends also sway one in ten parents. This is a particular problem among older children and teenagers.
“Often fashionable shoes offer very little support,” says Dr Watt.
Specialist training
“Take the current trend for ballet pumps among girls. They offer no support and are very flat. If you have an active child running around in them it could lead to Achilles [tendon] problems in the future.”
There are checks that parents can do at home to make sure their child’s shoe fits properly, says Mr Hardy.
Our Professional Shoe Fitting Service
As your children grow and develop, we are here to assist and advise on the best shoe for the occasion whether it be for the rough and tumble of the playground/sports field, or for weekend/occasional use. We can schedule regular fittings to monitor your childrens’ growth and advise accordingly.
Customer service is paramount at Little Walkers. Our aim is to provide the best customer experience from day one – we will only grow with you! For working parents – we can provide private appointments to suit your busy lifestyle – book an appointment online now!