Finding the best shoes for boys, especially those that grow really fast, is not a simple task. The feet of children grow rapidly until they turn 18. But you do not need to buy an oversized shoe because you think your baby will outgrow it within three months.

Getting an incorrect size for your child, especially those under the age of 5, can result in foot pain, blisters, or ingrown nails. But the right size will support and protect their feet. However, getting good shoes for boys is more than just about how they fit; it is about the functionality of the shoes.

Boys are not like girls. They like to run around, jump, and roll in the sand. They can even step into muddy waters in a bid to know what it feels like. Boys are adventurous and their feet should be well protected at all times.

Things to Consider when Choosing Boys Shoes

Because boys will always be boys, they want to know what’s in every nook and corner. Here are a few important things to consider when choosing their footwear.

1. Proper Fitting

We previously mentioned the need to get the right size for your child. This encompasses the length, breadth, and depth of the shoe. Improperly-fitted footwear can make the feet grow abnormally. For very young boys, touch the top of the footwear to be sure that it is not pressing the toes. This is important because they may not be able to say whether they are comfortable in the shoes or not.

2. Ventilation

Boys sweat more than girls because of the intensity of their play. This sweat can extend to their feet and cause them to smell. It can also cause some health problems if there is no way to get rid of all that sweat. Therefore, the footwear should be breathable.

Examples of materials that offer ventilation to the feet are leather, canvas, and cloth. They are durable and great for outdoor activities during summer. In addition to ventilation, the footwear should be waterproof. Assuming your kids play in the water for long periods, they will become prone to cold because their bodies are still building immunity.

So, it is a good idea to consider waterproof footwear as they will keep the child warm when the environment is cold. You can visit https://www.nbcnews.com/ to get tips for buying water-resistant shoes.

3. Quality Material

The material used in constructing the shoe should be of high quality and offer comfort. Shoes are made up of different parts but here’s what you should take note of:

• The top part where the toes fit in should be made from a comfortable material like mesh or leather.
• The insole should be a material that is soft like a sponge. It should also be padded if the child is between 0 to 5 years.
• The outsole should be durable, flexible, and allow for easy movement.
• The footwear must not have a heel but if it does, ensure that it is not too high.
  
  

4. Usage

Footwears are in different categories and each has its characteristics. For instance, buckle shoes are easy to use but usually heavy and make children uncomfortable. The lace-fastened category ensures the foot sits well on the shoe’s heel when the wearer is walking. The challenge with it is the difficulty in fastening the lace and children might trip over them if left untied.

An easier category for boys is the Velcro type, which is very comfortable as it does not have any pressure point. Manufacturers use Velcro for kiddies’ footwear because of its versatility and comfortable nature. Sneakers are an example of a Velcro footwear.

Tips for Getting Properly Fitted Shoes for Boys

To buy footwear that fits well, use the following tips:

Measure the Boy’s Feet

Do not try to measure the feet at home by yourself. If you want to buy the right item, take the child to the store and let the rep or salesperson take the measurement. They have the right equipment for measuring the dimensions of your child’s feet. However, you can read this article to know how to get the right measurement at home if you can’t take the child to the store.

Avoid Buying Bigger Sizes

Children between the age of 0 and 2 years are still learning how to walk. As a result, they need fitted and supportive footwear that will help to mold the shape of their feet, preparing them for when they will be able to walk and run on their own.

The problem here is that parents prefer to buy bigger sizes for kids with the notion that they will grow into them. Some do this because they do not want to walk into the store every 3 or 4 months to get a new pair of shoes. But the consequence of not buying the right size is that your child might trip and fall and sustain injuries.

Choose Function Over Style

Boys are full of energy and love to engage in sporting activities or plays that require a lot of energy. So, they need footwear that is made for such activities. Your first port of call should be a closed-toe because it offers protection to the toes.

You should also choose materials that are well ventilated like mesh or canvas. This will help to drain the sweat that tends to accumulate on the feet during play. Also, the soles should be hard for adequate support. Rubber soles have high slip resistance such that your child will not trip and fall when walking or running.

Ensure There’s Adequate Room for the Toes

The upper part of footwear houses the toes and it should not be crammed. Your child should be able to wiggle his toes inside the footwear. To ensure adequate space for the toes, press one finger on the upper part when the child is still wearing the footwear. The space between the front of the footwear and the child’s longest toe should be between one or two centimeters. Anything less than or above this range is too much.

The Bottom Line

Although a boy’s feet will keep growing until he is almost an adult, he requires the right pair of shoes to avoid developing serious health conditions. Before purchasing footwear for a boy, consider how the shoes would be used e.g., playing, running, etc., the quality of the material, the ventilation it offers, and the fitting.

The tips for getting properly fitted shoes were discussed above. Ensure you replace your child’s footwear when the need arises because your boy’s feet need adequate room to grow. Overall, ensure the footwear is comfortable, sturdy, and supportive.