Why is proper fit important for my child?
You might find it surprising that nearly 99% of children are born with perfect feet. And yet by the age of 13, only 40% of children's feet are still considered completely healthy. The culprit? Poorly fitting shoes with inflexible soles. That's why our shoes are designed to fit children properly. What's more, we have shoes for every stage of your child's development.
How often should I measure my child's foot?
A child's foot changes dramatically in the early years — starting out broad, fat, and squarely shaped, then developing into a more conventional tapered foot. Furthermore, the growth of a child's foot is sporadic, uneven, and can happen quickly. In fact, most children under sixteen months grow more than half a shoe size every two months. In order to ensure that your child's shoes fit comfortably and properly, a fitting professional should check foot growth as follows:
- 12-18 months: every 2 months
- 18-30 months: every 3 months
- 2½-4 years: every 4 months
- 4-6 years: every 6 months
What type of shoe is best for my growing child?
It might be shocking to learn that the best shoe is no shoe at all, but it's the truth — barefoot is best. However, when it comes time for your child to wear shoes, the "type" that's best depends on what stage of development your child is in. Infants need a flexible shoe. Toddlers need a shoe that allows for natural movement. Kids need a shoe that offers comfort and durability.
Should my child's shoes be rigid or flexible?
Ideally, your child's first steps should be cushioned by soft and flexible shoes. With this in mind, we make our children's shoes with leather insoles and full leather linings. So they act like a natural, supportive, and non-restrictive "landing pad." Flexible soles are crucial because children's feet must be allowed to move freely. This is important for proper foot development.
Do you have any advice when it comes to buying my child's first pair of shoes?
Yes. We believe it's important that children's shoes be made of soft, pliable leather with lightweight, flexible soles. These two characteristics are essential in helping children take those first wobbly steps.
What characteristics should I look for in the uppers of my child's shoes?
Feet sweat. Kids' feet sweat a lot. Based on this fact alone, the upper part of a child's shoe should be made of leather, canvas, or a mesh material. These allow the foot to breathe and help to control perspiration. Avoid synthetic materials.
What is considered important in terms of insoles for my child's shoes?
First and foremost, make sure the insole is made of a natural, absorbent material. Ideally, the footbed should mirror the contour of the bottom of a child's foot, absorb perspiration, and prevent odors.
What should I look for in the outsoles of my child's shoes?
The purpose of the outer sole is to provide traction, cushioning, and flexibility. Steer clear of very slipperly and stiff outer soles found on some shoes. These types of soles can lead to more falls.
Where are Umi Shoes made?
Umi Shoes are handcrafted by artisans in Brazil and selected regions of Asia.
