What are the most important things to look for in kids shoes?

Kid's feet aren't properly developed until they're in their late teens, therefore it's really important to know what to look for when picking kids shoes.... Here's some of the key things to look for:

Size and Fit: Proper sizing is crucial for children's shoes. Ensure that the shoes are neither too loose nor too tight. Leave about a thumb's width of space between the longest toe and the end of the shoe to accommodate growth and make sure the shoes fit comfortably around the heel and don't slip off. Also an important but obvious thing that is often overlooked is are they foot shaped? There should be enough width at the toe to allow the feet to spread naturally, both to allow natural movement and to support muscle development and balance. All ZIG+STAR lasts have been developed in conjunction with a biometric expert and paediatric podiatrist.
Support and Stability: Look for shoes with adequate cushioning to support your child's feet, especially if they are active or involved in sports. Also shoes with a firm but padded heel counter provide stability, comfort and can help prevent ankle injuries.
Breathability: Choose shoes made from breathable materials allow airflow and keep your child's feet dry and comfortable, reducing the risk of infections like athlete's foot. The most breathable material of all is leather, all our products are made with gold certified LWG leather uppers and linings. Leather has the added benefit of being repairable too, and we offer toxin free leather repair creams.
Flexibility: Flexibility is one of the most important things to look for in kids shoes. Opt for shoes that are flexible in the sole, especially around the toe area, to allow natural foot movement and proper development... it's amazing how many kids shoes have rock hard soles, which is the exact opposite of what their feet need! We use natural rubber on all our soles which is not only flexible but lightweight and durable too.
Easy Fastening: Child-friendly designs encourage on/off independence, so shoes with easy-to-use fastening mechanisms like Velcro straps, elastic laces, or slip-on styles are ideal, especially for younger children. We use self fastening hook and loop straps which are not only easier to wear, but also allow you to get the perfect fit!
Non-slip Soles: Ensure that the shoe soles provide good traction to prevent slips and falls, particularly on slippery surfaces. Natural rubber is a superior material for this, plus its less toxic and has better biodegrading qualities than synthetic alternatives such as TPU or EVA.
Durability: This is SO important if you don't want to be buying new shoes every 5 minutes! Make sure you select shoes made from high-quality materials such as leather with a robust construction to withstand the wear and tear of daily activities and rough play. Another added durability factor with our shoes is that they are all created with "Good-To-Grow" design... Shoes and Boots have a removable midsole that allows them to grow by half a size, and our adjustable sandals expand around a child's growing foot!
And finally, Style: For us, good design isn't just about aesthetics. The shoes we choose for our children have a direct impact on how they function AND how they feel about themselves. All our shoes are built for fun and consciously unisex as we believe kids choices shouldn't be pigeonholed by gender... plus they have the added benefit of being able to pass from brother to sister!

It's best to regularly check your child's shoes for signs of wear and tear, both inside and outside of the shoe to make sure they are still protecting and supporting their feet, and measuring their feet every 3-4 months to check their shoes still fit.

So why not try ZIG+STAR, we tick all the boxes of comfort, foot health, durability and style... the No-Compromise Kid's Footwear Brand.

Ali x