As a podiatrist — and someone who sees children in clinic every week — one of the most common concerns parents raise at this time of year is school shoes.

With the return to school, many families are buying new shoes and wondering:

  • Are these actually the right shoes for my child’s feet?
  • Could the wrong shoes cause pain or long-term problems?
  • Do I need to worry about flat feet, heel pain, or the way my child walks?

These are very valid questions. Children’s feet are still developing, and footwear can either support that development — or work against it.

This guide is designed to help parents understand what really matters when choosing school shoes, what common foot issues we see in children, and when it’s worth booking a podiatry assessment for peace of mind.

 

Why School Shoes Matter More Than Many Parents Realise

At PEAK, we commonly see children presenting with:

  • Foot or heel pain after school or sports
  • Fatigue or leg aches
  • Changes in walking or running patterns
  • Shoes wearing unevenly
  • Blisters, calluses, or ingrown toenails

In many cases, footwear is part of the picture.

 

Key things to look for What to Look for in a Good School Shoe

When helping parents choose school shoes, I suggest focusing on fit, structure, and function rather than brand names.

1.

Proper Fit

  • There should be a thumb’s width of space at the front of the shoe
  • The shoe should not squeeze the toes or forefoot
  • The heel should feel secure and not slip when walking

2.

Firm Heel Counter

A firm heel helps control excessive movement and provides stability, particularly for children with flatter or more flexible feet.

3.

Flexible Forefoot

The shoe should bend where the toes bend — not in the middle of the shoe.

This allows for natural movement during walking and running.

4.

Secure Fastening

Laces or Velcro straps help keep the foot stable in the shoe.

Slip-on styles often lack sufficient support for all-day wear.

Children’s feet grow quickly, so fit should be checked every few months.

Common Problems Common Foot Problems We See in Children

 

Flat Feet

Flat feet are extremely common in children and are often part of normal development. Many children have flexible flat feet that improve as they grow. However, if flat feet are associated with: Pain, Fatigue, Poor endurance, or Frequent tripping, then footwear and, in some cases, orthotic support may be helpful.

Heel Pain (Sever’s Disease)

Heel pain is common in active children, particularly during growth spurts. This is often related to irritation of the heel growth plate and can be worsened by unsupportive or worn-out shoes. Early assessment and appropriate footwear can significantly reduce symptoms.

Toe Walking

Occasional toe walking in younger children can be normal. Persistent toe walking, however, may be linked to muscle tightness or biomechanical factors and should be assessed if it continues beyond early childhood.

Ingrown Toenails and Skin Irritation

Shoes that are too narrow or short are a frequent cause of ingrown toenails, blisters, and skin irritation in children. Proper fit and nail care are key to prevention.

Should Children Wear Orthotics?

Not every child needs orthotics — and they are never a one-size-fits-all solution.

Orthotics may be considered if a child has:

  • Ongoing foot or leg pain
  • Significant fatigue with activity
  • Poor alignment that is contributing to symptoms

A podiatry assessment allows us to determine whether footwear alone is sufficient or whether additional support would be beneficial.

When Should Parents Book a Podiatry Assessment?

I recommend booking an assessment if you notice:

  • Persistent foot, heel, knee, or leg pain
  • Limping or changes in walking or running
  • Uneven shoe wear
  • Your child avoiding sport or activity due to discomfort
  • Ongoing concerns despite trying new shoes

Often, a single assessment can provide reassurance — or early intervention that prevents problems from escalating.

Our Approach at PEAK Sports & Spine Centre

At PEAK, our podiatrists take a practical, evidence-based approach to children’s foot health.

We focus on:

  • Understanding how your child moves
  • Assessing footwear and growth stage
  • Providing clear, honest advice (including when nothing needs to be done)
  • Supporting long-term, healthy development

Our goal is not to over-treat — it’s to help children move comfortably and confidently.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • Do children need “supportive” shoes all the time?
    Not necessarily. Children benefit from a balance of supportive footwear for school and sport, and barefoot time in safe environments to strengthen foot muscles.
  • How often should school shoes be replaced?
    As a general rule, check fit every 3–4 months. Growth spurts can happen quickly, and children may not always notice tight shoes.
  • Are flat feet always a problem?
    No. Many flat feet are normal and pain-free. We only intervene when symptoms or functional issues are present.
  • Can the wrong shoes cause long-term issues?
    Poor footwear over time can contribute to pain, altered movement patterns, and secondary issues — which is why early guidance matters.

Support your child’s growth Final Thoughts from Lachlan

If there’s one takeaway for parents, it’s this: you don’t need to have all the answers — but you shouldn’t ignore ongoing concerns either. Choosing the right school shoes is an important part of supporting your child’s growth, comfort, and confidence. And when in doubt, a simple podiatry assessment can provide clarity and peace of mind.

Book an appointment with our podiatrists at PEAK Sports & Spine Centre and ensure your child is starting the school year on the right foot.

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