If you have a toddler, then you know exactly how tricky it is to shop for toddler’s clothing and shoes. Shoes can be especially tricky, since toddlers’ feet grow and change sizes rapidly.

Shopping for toddler shoes

When shopping for toddler shoes, look for soles that are thin and soft. This way, your child can feel the ground he or she is walking on. Also make sure that the material is breathable and that the size is slightly larger than your toddler’s foot; leave about a pinky finger’s width from the heel of his foot to the back of the shoe, and about a thumb’s width from the tip of the shoe to the tips of his or her toes. High-tops are not advisable for toddlers since they can hinder proper walking development.

To make sure that you get a right fit even if you’re not bringing your kid along, take a drawing of your tot’s feet. Your kid’s feet can also change in shape as much as it changes in size. A drawing that you can take to the store with you will definitely help you choose the right toddler shoes if you are not taking your kid to shoe shopping with you. Toddler shoes come with Velcro or lace fasteners. Velcro is easier to put on, remove, and adjust, but both are good choices.

Since toddlers’ feet grow rapidly, expect to buy a new pair of toddler shoes every three to six months. Shoes are perfect for walking around but you can also use booties when the cold season starts to roll in. Also pair shoes with socks that are not too tight. Socks should not be worn by your toddler not until they have started to crawl.

Where to find cheap toddler shoes

Price is often a consideration when you buy toddler shoes. Younger kids outgrow their shoes and clothes far more rapidly than older kids, which make buying cheaper toddler shoes practical. The best place to buy toddler shoes is your local retail outlets where you can buy inexpensive but quality baby shoes.
If you are not picky about buying used or semi-used stuff, you can head to charity stores and sites that specialize on free baby stuff. Since most toddler shoes are easily outgrown, it will not be hard to find toddler shoes that are brand new but at a fraction of the original price.