Choosing kids’ shoes is not an easy task for parents. Especially when winter comes, and it’s time to shop for the right winter shoes. When the weather turns cold, you need footwear that keeps your little ones comfortable and warm. You need the perfect shoes for your kids to play outside in the cold, even if it’s frosty outside. There are myriads of boots out there in the market. But where to start, and what should be considered in order to select the best option for winter? When buying kids’ shoes, you should consider the age, purpose, and preferences of the child. Let’s look at the main factors that you should pay attention to and find out how to pick the right pair.
SIZE SELECTION
Kids grow up very quickly and sometimes even in one season you have to buy two pairs of shoes. The first thing to do is decide on the size. Between the ages of 2 and 4, it can be quite difficult to get a toddler to try on shoes. Moreover, due to the peculiarities of the children’s legs, they will not always be able to immediately feel whether shoes are convenient or not. Therefore, you should measure the baby’s foot yourself from the tip of the thumb to the end of the heel. Many parents buy winter shoes in a slightly larger size. Either for growth or for warm woolen socks. This is a big mistake. Modern models are already designed for socks, so you should decide the exact size. Otherwise, the shoes will hang loose and the foot will not receive proper support for its normal development.
MATERIAL
For a long time, genuine leather was considered the most comfortable, durable, and right material for kids. It really is. It is flexible, durable, and breathable, it retains heat well, and removes moisture. Over time, leather shoes take the shape of their owner’s foot, which is very convenient. To date, many synthetic materials have been developed that are not inferior to leather in their properties. So-called high-tech materials, including a waterproof membrane (most often Gore-Tex). Such boots are lightweight, strong, and durable. They do not get wet, while they “breathe” and perfectly keep warm. Manufacturers actively use similar materials for winter and off-season shoes. Some modern shoes can withstand temperatures down to minus 35 degrees, the foot will not freeze in such shoes even during long walks. A membrane shoe is recommended especially for very humid regions, as the membrane is waterproof. Suede is not a very good material for kids’ boots as it requires special care. Suede boots are only suitable for special occasions. Various leather substitutes that do not breathe are not suitable for a child’s foot. Try to avoid them.
SOLE
In winter, roads typically get slippery, and the chances of getting an injury are always high. Therefore, check the texture and material of the sole of the shoe. It must be flexible, durable, and non-slip. Currently, the sole is made from rubber, synthetic or natural rubber, and polyurethane. These options are the most preferred. The plastic sole is not flexible enough and also freezes at low temperatures – it is best to avoid it. Slip protection is provided by the applied relief. Cushioning inserts protect the foot while jumping and running.
TYPES OF WINTER SHOES
The shoes should be warm and comfortable for your kid’s delicate feet. So, finding something that will work best for their needs is important.
Thermo Boots
This is the most popular and versatile option. The external waterproof synthetic finish prevents moisture from getting inside the boot. From the inside, they are trimmed with high-quality artificial fur, which contains at least 80% wool. This is a great combination that will keep kids’ feet warm even when they run through the snowdrifts. Such boots are fixed with laces, Velcro, or side locks. The laces allow you to relax your leg or vice versa, tightening it more tightly, which is convenient for woolen socks. Velcro is suitable for children who have not yet learned how to handle laces.
Knee High Boots
In high boots, the child can play even in the highest snowdrifts, the snow will not get inside. They are made of waterproof material, the inside is also trimmed with dense fur with wool. Suitable for both cold and wet seasons.
UGG boots
UGG boots are made of sheepskin or felt, so the heat inside the boot is perfectly preserved. Another advantage of this material is its environmental friendliness. Indeed, to create such shoes, only natural fabrics, and fibers, or even their substitutes, are used, which do not harm the environment. The shoes look quite beautiful and stylish, they can be worn both in the yard with friends, and on holidays to school or kindergarten. But, despite their warmth and beautiful appearance, do not allow kids to wear UGG boots in wet winter weather – they are ideal for dry frosty weather.
Now you know that when choosing kids’ winter shoes, you should first pay attention to water resistance, warmth, durability, sole material, and of course appearance. Do not forget about the preferences of your little one – after all, kids should like their winter boots. By following these tips, you will choose great shoes and your baby’s feet will be warm even in the most inclement weather.