I quite often get asked by parents what big brand shoes I recommend for kids and if things like jandals and ballet flats are good for kids to be wearing. My view on this has definitely changed a lot over the past few years. Recently some really good research has been published around the essential elements required when selecting footwear for children:
The main role of shoes is to protect the foot from injuries and infection.
The selection of a pair of shoes for children should be based on the “barefoot” model so that the foot develops in an optimal way. Stiff and tight shoes are not recommended.
The more often children are barefoot, the better.
There is no age when kids/teenagers should start wearing maximalist running shoes (cushioned, elevated heel, relatively rigid). However, if a teenager has already grown accustomed to maximalist running shoes, there should be a progressive transition to minimalist shoes spread over a few weeks in order to allow the foot to adapt.
For more information and recommendations please contact one of our physiotherapists.
