Occupational therapist, Nicole van Besouw and her husband John (founders of Common Tread shoes) have put together 5 design specifics that we should look for when choosing footwear for our children.
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Occupational therapist, Nicole, shares tips below that parents can use to ensure they are buying the best shoes for their little ones:
- Zero-slope from heel to toe and minimal cushioning – a heel on the shoe alters the position of leg muscles and the spine.
- A pliable sole that offers grip but still allows for optimal flexibility of the fore-foot during climbing, running and jumping. The foot needs to be able to absorb stress and adapt to all the various terrains.
- Minimalist, thin sole that allows optimal feedback (sensory input) from the environment – the foot is a sensory organ receiving messages to send to the brain – the more the child feels, the more confidence there is when moving about.
- Wide toe box – the toes should be able to splay in the shoe in a natural position – this improves natural foot function, stability during play, balance and proprio-receptive feedback.
- Soft, natural, toxin-free materials – parents should choose shoes made from natural materials. An example is a vegetable-tan leather lining that is breathable and naturally fights foot bacteria which causes foot odour. The shoes should also be light and easy to fasten so that children can put their shoes on themselves. This is important to encourage independence.
