Sneakers

At what age should I buy my child their first pair of sneakers?

You can find sneakers for babies as young as newborns on the market, but kids don't actually need them until after they've started walking. And even once your toddler is walking, you'll want to stick to softer, more flexible shoes at first. Once your child is about 4 to 5 years old, you'll want to look for shoes with more support, like sneakers. After that, your child will most likely need a new pair every six months until they hit puberty.

How can I be sure my sneakers fit correctly?

If your sneakers feel good on your feet, they probably fit correctly. For length, there should be a little less than half an inch of space between your longest toe and the shoe while standing. On the sides, make sure your foot doesn't hang over the midsole. Otherwise, you'll need a wider width.

How can I tell if a pair of sneakers is high quality?

High-quality sneakers provide arch support, have a stiff heel, are flexible where your toes bend, twist slightly when you twist them with your hands, and provide cushioning when you walk or jog in them. Always test a shoe by walking in it to ensure it is comfortable as well.