Comparing Custom Orthotics and Off-The-Shelf Insoles
For many families, summer holidays mean time at cottages, beaches and pools. Flip-flops have been a long-standing go-to for summer footwear, but are they the best choice for your kids this summer?
Are flip-flops bad for your children’s feet?
No matter the season, well–fitting, supportive footwear is essential for healthy play and growth. The standard foam flip-flop simply does not provide support for most children’s activities. When simply going from the house to the pool, or from the dock into the lake, a flip-flop is an OK choice. For all other activities, supportive sandals are always a better choice. Children love to run, jump and engage in all kinds of explosive activity that can lead to ankle, knee and foot injuries without proper support and protection.
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How to choose the summer footwear for your children
Here are some basic tips when choosing footwear for your children this summer:
1. Choose shoes & sandal with heel support
Look for shoes or sandals with support in the heel and shank. You shouldn’t be able to bend, twist or contort the shoes in your hands with little effort. Keen and Teva offer some great options for sandals for children.
2. Buy footwear that fits
Always buy footwear to fit the child’s feet. Don’t buy shoes with “room to grow”. Shoes that are too long or wide may increase the incidence of slip and fall injuries or aggravate foot problems.
3. Purchase new footwear
Don’t buy second hand or use hand-me-downs. Wear patterns established by the first child can cause problems.
If your child insists on wearing flip-flops, avoid the standard flat foam style. Look for ones that have a thicker sole, arch support, adjustable straps and are made from durable materials.
If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s summer footwear, contact your SoleScience pedorthist!
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