Little Feet's Little Blog

Let's Get Running!

     Are you and your kids doing any fun runs or charity races this spring?  There are so many exciting options to get the whole family running together, and these runs are a great way to introduce kids to healthy exercise.  Before you start training, it's important to make sure you are keeping their feet healthy, too! Here's some pointers and tips from your favorite shoe fitting experts at Little Feet!

     Especially because kids are small (for every stride you take, they will take 2 to 3!) and because their feet are still developing, it is important to get a good fitting, supportive running shoe.  Here's some important points to consider:

     -Flexibility:  The sole and upper should be flexible to move with your child's foot in a heel to toe running movement.

    -Breathability:  Running shoes should be lightweight and breathable to keep those little feet ventilated!

    -Support:  A good running shoe will combine flexibility with support in the footbed, arch and heel cup.  Many offer extra shock absorption systems to protect the foot as it strikes the ground.

    When you're buying running shoes for your kids, you might be surprised how many brand names you will recognize as familiar from buying your own running shoes! Nike, Reebok, Adidas, Saucony and New Balance all offer kids versions of their adult running shoes.  However, there are also several children's brands that make great running shoes specifically geared towards kids, like Tsukihoshi, Stride Rite and Jumping Jacks.  If your child isn't ready (or doesn't want!) laces, many styles are available in velcro closures as well. (Click here to see a selection of some of our running shoes from the brands listed above.)

    It's definitely fun to look at all the great colors and styles out there, but as always, the most important feature of any shoe is the fit!  As a general rule, it's best to fit with a half size growing room so toes are not bumping the end of the shoe, which can create blisters or hotspots, but still snug enough to achieve maximum support.  At Little Feet, we also pay special attention to the width of a child's foot.  No matter whether your child is narrow or wide, we can find a running shoe that will fit just right!

    When you come to get your kid's running shoes, it's important to bring three things:

    First, don't forget the feet! It's best to have your child measured and fit by a professional.  Since sizes vary from brand to brand (and even between different shoes of the same brand!)  The best way to get a great fit is by taking a current measurement and trying on the shoes.

    Second, bring the socks your child usually wears, or will wear for running.  Believe it or not, socks can make a difference in how the shoe fits and feels.

    Third, bring an open mind!  Not every brand fits every kid - and many times, the brand you as a parent find most comfortable can be uncomfortable for your child's foot.

    Another important tip to remember is to leave enough time between your shopping day and your race for kids to "break in" their new shoes.  They should be able to wear the shoes for at least a few days before race day!

    By following these simple guidelines, you will be on track for great running shoes for your kids, and a great family running experience!

Easy Gifts, Easy Shopping, and Cookies For All

Not to sound like Scrooge, but holiday shopping wears pretty thin before the calendar even turns to December. Malls are crowded. Department stores are understaffed. Everyone is locked in desperate competition for a few precious consumer dollars. You probably need a break from the mall.

We have declared Little Feet a stress-free zone this holiday season. We invite you to come sit down, rest your shopping bags, and enjoy our full service. Please, let us do the work! To make it even easier we've listed some of our favorite gifts for each age group. Everything on the list -and everything in the store- is 15% off the marked price through December 31st.

 

Infants and prewalkers:

Tiny toes still need protection from the cold. We love Emu's Lil' Grubs crib shoe ($39.95) for their cozy shearling inside and cute designs outside.

 

Ages 1-3:

New walkers and toddlers get to have outdoor fun with their families.The Kamik Snowbug Boot ($46.95) is a warm, waterproof boot that is very easy to get off and on, over or under snow pants.

 

Ages 4-6:

School age kids like gaining some independence. Our shoe tying kits ($12.95) teach a new skill in a fun, interactive way perfectly tailored to little learners.

 

Ages 7 and up:

Uggs are popular with "sophisticated" girls discovering fashion. The Bailey Bow ($100 to $120 depending on size) is this season's new style, available in hot pink or cool black.

 

Of course you can always get a gift certificate for any amount you wish. Whatever you choose, we aim to make the experience as relaxing as we can. As a literal mom and pop shop we look forward to seeing our friends from the neighborhood and sharing warm holiday feelings. And cookies, can't forget the cookies... 

 

 

Back to School Shoes that Put the Fun in Functional

Back to school shopping can have all the fun and excitement of a new school year. It can also bring about a bit of conflict between parents and kids about their school shoes. Parents focus on fit, durability, and value for their money. Younger kids are all about shoes that go on easily, and older kids like fashion and want to "look cool." Whether your child always likes to dress up or just wants to run the fastest at recess, we can help satisfy the entire family.

For girls, a Mary Jane style is pretty and practical. StrideRite and Nina both excel in sparkly, colorful shoes on a durable rubber bottom for comfort and support. Merrell makes a sporty Mary Jane that is still cute with dresses and skirts. Twig is an independent designer exclusive to Little Feet; they have fashions as cool and unique as your daughter is.

Boys - and many girls - turn to athletic shoes for everyday wear. Yes, sneakers can be good for a child's feet! Favorite brands like New Balance, Nike, Saucony and Adidas back up their reputations by creating kid's shoes that perform as well as their adult lines. Kid-specific brands such as Jumping Jacks and Tsukihoshi make great styles with unique features, including being machine washable. Of course, all these brands have Velcro and lace-up options for kids of all sizes and stages.

We often have parents request little versions of their favorite comfort brands such as Merrell and Keen. Many brands do "takedowns" of their most popular styles. The Merrell slip-on has been our best-selling school shoe for several seasons, thanks to versatility and a wide color selection. Sanita makes clogs starting at a little size 7 in cute colors like candy apple red. Ugg and Emu boots are all over the kid's market as well.

Don't forget the littlest family members! They may not be walking to class, but preschool and daycare tots have shoe needs, too. Montessori programs often request "indoor shoes" the kids can take on and off by themselves. Ragg slippers are ideal, with one easy Velcro strap and a protective rubber bottom. See Kai Run and Riley Roos are great for that time between crawling and walking. Even infants can slip on some Robeez to stay warm on wood or vinyl floors.

Fun and practical footwear is the key for fall. Once you find the style you and your child love, we'll take care of proper fitting and growing room. Your trip to Little Feet can be the easiest stop on your shopping list.