Back-to-school shopping usually means backpacks, notebooks, and lunchboxes—but don’t forget about your child’s feet. Kids spend hours every day standing, walking, and running around in their shoes. The wrong footwear can lead to foot pain, poor posture, and even long-term problems.
At Complete Feet, we’ve helped countless kids avoid foot issues by starting with the right shoes—and custom orthotics when needed. Here’s what every parent should know.
Why School Shoes Matter More Than You Think
Most kids wear their school shoes for 6–10 hours a day, five days a week. That’s a lot of pressure on growing feet. Ill-fitting or unsupportive shoes can lead to:
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Heel pain (including Sever’s disease)
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Flat feet and overpronation
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Knee and back pain
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Fatigue, tripping, or clumsiness
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Arch collapse over time
With the right shoes, many of these issues can be prevented.
What to Look for in School Shoes
Here are a few expert tips to guide your back-to-school shoe shopping:
1. Arch Support
Most off-the-shelf kids’ shoes are flat and flimsy. Look for a structured insole or bring custom orthotics to fit inside.
2. A Sturdy Heel Counter
Press on the back of the heel—if it collapses easily, skip it. A strong heel counter helps control foot motion.
3. Proper Fit (Not Too Big!)
Parents often buy shoes a size too big to “grow into.” But shoes that are too large cause instability and rubbing. Aim for about a thumb’s width of space beyond the longest toe.
4. A Flexible Forefoot, Not a Bendy Arch
The sole should flex only near the toes—not in the middle. Too much midfoot bend means zero support.
5. Lace or Strap Closures
Slip-ons are easy, but they don’t hold the foot in place well. Velcro or laces provide better alignment and support.
Pedorthist-Approved Brands to Consider
While every foot is different, here are some shoe brands we often recommend for kids:
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New Balance – Wide sizes, good structure
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Asics – Excellent arch support for active kids
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Stride Rite – Classic choice for young children
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Saucony – Lightweight with good stability
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Brooks (Youth) – Great for older kids and teens
Avoid cheap, flat shoes from fashion brands—they may look fun but offer little to no support.
What If My Child Still Complains of Foot Pain?
Even with good shoes, some kids still experience discomfort. In many cases, that’s because their feet need additional support. Custom orthotics can:
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Control flat feet or overpronation
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Alleviate heel and arch pain
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Prevent sports injuries in growing athletes
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Help with balance and gait issues
At Complete Feet, we use non-weightbearing foam impressions to create custom orthotics that fit your child’s foot precisely—no gimmicks, no scans, just real support.
Schedule a Free Foot Check-Up
Not sure if your child’s shoes or feet are causing problems? We’re here to help. Book a free foot evaluation before school starts.
Complete Feet
3141 Lorna Road, Hoover, AL 35216
205-822-1606
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