By the KMW Podiatry team. Last reviewed November 2026.
Children spend a large part of the school week in their school shoes, walking between classes, standing at assembly and running at recess. A well-fitting pair helps keep them comfortable. This checklist covers what podiatrists generally look for in a school shoe, how to check the fit, and when it is worth getting your child’s feet or walking assessed.
Start with the fit, not the brand
There is no single school shoe that suits every child. Feet come in different lengths, widths and depths, and the right shoe is the one that fits your child’s foot and suits how active they are. Price and brand do not guarantee a good fit.
Try to shop:
- later in the day, when feet are slightly larger
- with the socks your child will wear to school
- with both feet measured, as one foot is often a little bigger
- with time for your child to walk around the shop, not just stand
The school shoe checklist
1. Length
Allow some room for growth, but not so much that the foot slides. Healthdirect suggests about a thumb’s width (around 1.5 cm) of space between the longest toe and the front of the shoe. Press gently on the toe of the shoe while your child stands to check.
2. Width and depth
The toes should be able to wiggle, and the widest part of the foot should sit at the widest part of the shoe without bulging over the sole. Look for pressure marks on the toes or sides of the foot after your child takes the shoes off.
3. A firm heel counter
The back of the shoe should be firm and hold the heel in place. Squeeze the heel cup: it should not collapse easily. The heel should not slip up and down when your child walks.
4. Flexibility in the right place
A good school shoe usually bends where the toes bend, across the ball of the foot, not in the middle of the arch. Hold the heel and toe and gently bend: the shoe should resist twisting through the middle.
5. Secure fastenings
Laces, buckles or velcro straps hold the foot in the shoe so the toes do not have to grip. Slip-on styles tend to give less hold. Velcro can be a good option for younger children who cannot tie laces yet.
6. Cushioning and grip
A sole with some cushioning and good grip is helpful for playground surfaces and wet days.
7. A comfortable inside
Feel inside for rough seams or stitching. If your child has orthoses, take them to the fitting and check they fit in the shoe with room to spare.
How often should school shoes be replaced?
Children’s feet grow at different rates, so there is no fixed timetable. Check the fit every few months, and sooner if your child complains of sore feet, the toes are close to the end, or the shoes are worn unevenly or have lost their shape. Hand-me-down shoes are often moulded to the previous owner’s feet, so they may not fit well.
Sports days and PE
Many children wear school shoes all day and then run in them at lunch. If your school allows it, a well-fitted pair of runners for sport and PE can be more comfortable for active play. Our shoe fitting advice page has more general tips.
Is it normal for kids’ feet to look flat or turn in?
Many young children appear flat-footed, and some walk with their feet turned in or out. These patterns are often a normal part of development and change as children grow. Healthdirect’s guide to children’s feet explains what is typical.
It is worth seeing a podiatrist or GP if your child:
- has pain in their feet, knees or legs, especially during or after activity
- trips or falls more often than other children of the same age
- walks with feet turned in or out in a way that is getting more noticeable, or is different on one side (in-toeing and out-toeing)
- has flat feet that are painful or stiff (flat feet)
- wears out shoes very unevenly or quickly
- avoids sport or activity because of their feet
What happens at a children’s podiatry appointment?
A podiatrist will usually ask about your child’s development, activities and any pain, look at their feet and legs, watch them walk and run, and check their current shoes. If needed, they can give footwear advice, exercises or other management suited to your child. Many children only need reassurance and footwear tips.
Frequently asked questions
Should school shoes be leather?
Leather uppers are common because they are durable and hold their shape, but materials matter less than fit, a firm heel counter and secure fastenings. Check your school’s uniform policy too.
Is it OK to buy shoes a size up so they last longer?
A little growing room is fine, but shoes that are too big can cause the foot to slide and the toes to grip. Aim for about a thumb’s width at the front rather than a full size up.
Do children need arch supports in school shoes?
Most children do not need arch supports. If your child has pain, or their foot posture is causing problems, a podiatrist can assess whether any extra support is appropriate.
When should my child see a podiatrist?
If your child has ongoing foot, heel or leg pain, frequent tripping, or a walking pattern that worries you, an assessment can help.
Book a children’s foot check
KMW Podiatry offers paediatric podiatry at clinics across Adelaide and Gawler. Book an appointment online or call 1800 962 113.
This article is general information only and is not medical advice. Please see your GP or podiatrist about your child’s own situation. KMW Podiatry’s podiatrists are registered with the Podiatry Board of Australia through Ahpra.
