Choosing Kids' Running Shoes
Running is a great exercise that is also fun for the whole family. Buying good kids' running shoes for your little runners is important to avoid injury and allow children to excel at running. There are many kids' running shoes available but many of these are not meant for serious running and put style over substance. There are a few things that you can look for in running shoes for children to make sure that you have a good shoe.
When and How to Buy
Avoid buying shoes in the morning, feet expand throughout the day, a shoe that fits in the morning may not fit in the evening. Try and buy shoes in the evening if possible or the afternoon. This way you will get the best fit. It may seem obvious but remember to get your children to wear the socks that they will be wearing when running to the shoe shop. Thin everyday socks won't feel the same as socks meant for sports.
Kids grow fast and you may want to buy shoes that will still fit the next time your little one has a growth spurt. Though this may make sense economically it's not a good idea, get kids' running shoes that fit the best. The shoes should fit snugly with about a thumb's length of space between the toes and the toe of the shoe. Any smaller than that and the shoes are too small. If your child is around eleven or twelve and is already wearing the largest child sizes it might be a good idea to check adult running shoes.
Kids' running shoes should have some of the same structural features as an adult running shoe. Make sure that the midsole is made from EVA foam, squeeze it and if it springs back then you have a good midsole. If it is stiff then it is probably made from rubber and will be uncomfortable when running. Kids' running shoes should not be overly flexible around the arch area. Instead the shoe should be able to flex comfortably just behind the toes.
Kids' running shoes range in price from the affordable to the ridiculously priced. Don't spend on a shoe that boasts lots of structural features that are give lots of support. Children generally don't need as much support as adults do and are less injury prone. At the same time don't pass up good running shoes in favor of saving a few bucks. Once your child has a great pair of shoes they'll be well on their way to starting a lifelong love of running.
