I love to watch children running and playing! In order for them to enjoy it, they must wear comfortable running shoes!
Choosing the best running shoes for your children can be tricky. Whether they are running cross country, long distances, or a 50-yard dash, each event has a recommended dedicated running shoe.
You want to make sure they're comfortable and durable. Each time you buy a new pair of shoes you want them to last through your kids' adventures, at least until they outgrow them!
Use this guide to help you choose high-quality running shoes for your little and big kids.
Here is an excellent video that I found by Dr. Mikkel Jarman, a pediatric podiatrist at the Pediatric Foot & Ankle in Gilbert, Arizona. This video explains how to choose the right shoes for your children and the need for a foam midsole. I do not endorse or validate the following video - I found it interesting and wanted to share it with you:
How to Choose the Best Kids Running Shoes
There are a few things you'll need to consider when choosing the perfect running shoes for your little ones. Whether you are looking for the best running shoes for teens or jogging shoes for boys you need to focus on the dedicated running shoe that meets their needs.
- what type
of arch does your child have? Do they need shoes with added support or extra foam cushion?
- where will they wear the shoes? In what activities will your child wear the shoes? Basketball, track, general playing? The tougher the sport the greater the need for high quality and durability!
- Why do they need the shoes? Are the shoes required for a sport? Grade school kids are getting involved in all sorts of after-school athletics these days! Do they like to run among nature and therefore need trail running shoes?
- What is your child's personal style? A lot of the styles these days are youth running shoes: not only are they the best boys running shoes, but the same style is also the best girls running shoes! Not only do today's shoes consist of a colorful rubber outsole and a flashy but breathable mesh upper, but they also have a toe box for a big kid's or a child's feet.
Some brands carry shoes in ranges of sizes from little kids to adult shoes. How fun to dress alike - all the way down to your shoes!
Type of Shoe
There are three main types of running shoes:
- stability
- motion control
- neutral
Foot Type: What type of arches does the child have?
High arches: If your child has high arches, they will likely need a stability or motion control shoe. These shoes help to keep the foot in place and prevent it from rolling inward when running.
Normal arches: If your child has a normal arch, they will likely do fine in a neutral shoe. This type of shoe allows for a natural range of motion and is lightweight and flexible.
Flat foot: If your child has flat feet, they will likely need a stability or motion control shoe. These shoes help to keep the foot in place and prevent it from rolling inward when running.
Activity Level: Where will they wear the shoes?
The next thing you'll need to think about is what type of activity your child will be doing in their new shoes.
If they are just starting out with running, look for a shoe that has good cushioning and support. This will help protect their feet as they build up their mileage.
Do the shoes have good tread and a rubber sole to provide traction?
If your child is an experienced runner, look for a shoe lightweight and with good traction. This will help them stay safe on their runs and go faster.
And moms, find yourself a pair of excellent running shoes so that you can run along with your kids!
Personal Style: Why do they need the shoes?
Finally, you'll want to think about your child's personal style preferences when choosing their new shoes.
If they're looking for a sneaker that makes a statement, there are plenty of brightly colored options available.
If they prefer a more subdued look, there are plenty of black-and-white options available as well.
Ultimately, you want them to pick a shoe that they love, and that will motivate them to get out there and run!
SIZE: Can they be a bit big to grow into, or must they fit snugly?
One more item to consider is the SIZE! Does your child wear a size 2 running shoe? Is it acceptable for their shoes to be too big? If yes, you could probably jump up one size, but I recommend that you not jump up to a size 3 running shoe.
It is so tempting to buy their shoes too big, so "they can grow into them". Depending on the use of the shoe, buying them a bit big MAY be OK. Or, it may cause them to trip if the shoes are too large.
For example, my great-granddaughter is a competition cheerleader. Because of the dangerous flips and jumps that she does, her shoes must fit snugly and tight, so she doesn't trip. In addition, her shoes must be secure on her feet to prevent one from flying off, injuring herself or a teammate.
This would be a decision for you to make depending on the intended use of the shoes.
Suggestion: always try on new shoes in the evening, when their feet would be a bit swollen from the actions of the day.
Make sure they fit comfortably - if they are not comfortable at the store, chances are they won't get much better. Your young one may be advancing to junior running shoes in the near future.
Conclusion:
These days, there are so many shoe features, different types, and styles of running shoes available on the market that it can be tricky to choose the perfect pair for your little ones.
With this guide, you'll have everything you need to pick out the perfect, dedicated running shoe for your little ones! While the kids are young, the best running shoes for boys are similar to the same style and features for the best girls running shoes. When they get older is when their choice of style and features changes.
Remember to consider their foot type, activity level, personal style preferences, size, and beneficial shoe features, when making your decision. Kids who love being active can enjoy themselves much more in athletic shoes that keep their feet comfortable.
Happy shopping!
As you can see, there are several suggestions, each with its own pros and cons. Selecting which running shoes are best for your child is up to you. You may start out with one type and then switch to another as they grow and progress. The COLORS and styles these days are spectacular!
Remember, this is not medical advice or diagnosis - just words for thought!
Please remember that all of the suggestions are just "suggestions". How your child feels wearing the shoes is an important thing to consider! Comfort is most important. Remember, no two people experience the same feelings!
Good luck with your search for the Best Running Shoes for Your Child! Enjoy the time together - now go and MAKE MEMORIES!
Annie, Founder of AnniesAnswers.com
I recently wrote an article that you might enjoy reading about kids' running shoes:
Annie
