how long should kids wear those white hard bottom shoes?

Question

I was wondering is it necessary for kids to wear those hard botttom shoes until they're 5 or older. My son is 3 and he wore them during the time he started to walk and for a while after that. Probably until he was about 2(maybe a little longer). Lately I buy him different shoes (sneakers, boots, sandals, etc). My mom seems to think he should wear them until he is 6 or 7 (something to do with his arch and balance or something). I've discussed this with other moms around my age (30) who have more than one child, and they say they don't have problems with their kids that wear sneakers and some never wore the hard bottoms. Of course, my mom goes on about the younger
generation doing things so different and us not knowing anything and so on. Does anyone know exactly how long kids should wear these shoes and if him wearing other shoes will hurt him later.

Answer 1

Since my son could walk , which that was the age of one... he wears regular shoes, he never liked the hard bottom type of shoes. Your son is 3 , i think you should start buying him sneakers, boots etc... he is going to be in pre school soon and needs comfortable shoes and flexible.

Here a few tips!

* Make sure you get the proper fit. Shoes that are too tight or too loose could be painful or cause blisters, and may even hamper walking. Have your pediatrician measure your child’s feet, during the regular check-ups. This will provide you with an accurate measurement when you refer to a shoe company’s sizing chart.

* Avoid stiff, high-top leather shoes; there is no evidence that they help babies walk. Instead, look for something soft and flexible that allows your baby to use the movement of his feet to maintain balance and to walk. They should be made from canvas or some other breathable material, and have flat, flexible, non-slip soles.


* Safe closures. Make sure that your baby’s shoes fasten well. Double-knot laces so that they are less likely to come undone and make sure buckle straps are secure without being too tight. Velcro fasteners are the easiest option.

* It is normal to have a slight discrepancy in foot size between the two feet; you want to make sure to go with the shoe size that fits the larger foot. Allow about one-half inch of space at the end of the longest toe to the end of the shoe. The toes should be able to wiggle freely, and the heel should not slip with normal walking.

* Get the shoe that is most comfortable for your child, even if it is not the same size that the measurement device indicates. Be aware that sizing differs with each shoe company, so refer to their respective sizing charts. It is advisable to inspect the shoe fit every couple of weeks, to insure the continuing comfort of your child’s feet.

Answer 2

There is no need for your son to wear hard bottom shoes. I know what you mean though, my mom is the same way. Ever since my son could walk we've bought him sneakers, dress shoes, hiking boots, etc.

The theories on child shoes have completely flipped. The thought today is the soles should be flexible. Check out Stride Rite's website.

I'd recommend that you take him to a child shoe store. That way they can explain the different fits and he can get properly measured.

Answer 3

I was told by my doctor that its not necessary any longer to wear those shoes. It was a theory at one time but no longer the common thought. My 3 year old has been wearing normal shoes since he could walk, and run without stumbling. Prior to that I had him wear slip on slipper type things so he could get used to proper balance. My 1 year old is still in this stage now and trips on the sneakers when we try them so we only use them once in a while.

Answer 4

It is not necessary for kids to wear the hard shoes at all. Barefoot is best for learning to walk. A child's feet does not need this kind of support, they were designed to walk just they way they are. At your son's age any, comfy and practical shoe is just fine. When in doubt about your mom's advice, don't hesitate to ask your dr.

Answer 5

I do wear a uniform to school. I have mixed feelings about it. Some days I'm grateful that I don't have to worry about picking out an outfit, but other days I can't stand to wear it. They tend to be pretty expensive. When you're buying the whole uniform for the first time, it can be a couple hundred dollars. The blazer alone that I have to wear to school costs a hundred dollars. You can buy it at the uniform store that carries it. In general, I don't think uniforms are a good idea. I think that students should be able to express themselves through what they wear. Making students wear a uniform is just one more way of preventing individuality. I think that, especially in high school, students should be encouraged to be their own person, not just to conform, which is what uniforms force you to do.

Answer 6

Those shoes are actually no good, they are too hard and not flexible enough. My daughter is 2 and we go to a good shoe store for kids, they measure her feet and fit the shoes properly.

Answer 7

The best way for kids to learn to walk is barefoot. After they have walking down pretty good, you can get them any shoes you like as long as they fit well and are comfortable.

Answer 8

Kids should never wear those shoes. They are not good for their feet.