When it comes to purchasing shoes for children, it's not just about style or colour. The right footwear can support your child's foot development and promote healthy walking habits. Here are the key features parents should look for:

1. Flexible Sole

A flexible sole in a child's shoe is crucial. It allows for enhanced flexibility and balance, making it easier for your child to move naturally. Shoes that bend easily with the foot's natural movement help in developing strong, flexible feet.

2. Wide Toe Box

Children's feet are naturally spread out, so shoes with a wide toe box are essential. These foot-shaped shoes enable toes to splay naturally, which is important for balance and correct foot alignment. Tight shoes can cramp the toes, leading to discomfort and problems with walking.

3. Zero Heel

Shoes with zero heel-to-toe drop (flat from front to back) encourage the normal alignment of the spine and proper positioning of leg muscles. This 'zero drop' helps maintain a natural posture and walking pattern, which is important for growing bodies.

4. Easy On/Off Fastening

Shoes that are easy to put on and take off foster independence in children, allowing them to dress themselves and develop fine motor skills. Look for shoes with velcro, elastic laces, or other simple fastenings that your child can manage.

5. Thin Sole

A thinner sole provides more sensory feedback from the feet to the brain. This feedback is vital for developing brains to understand and adapt to various surfaces, enhancing motor skills and balance.

Common Tread shoes, don't just support these needs, but were designed to specifically answer them. Now parents can choose shoes that not only fit their child's feet but also support healthy foot development and overall well-being.