As featured by Andrea Robertson for Daily Mail Australia

With the school year fast approaching, parents are preparing for the annual shoe-shopping task. After all, kids spend an average of 15,500 hours in their school shoes each year, making it one of the most important decisions a parent will make. But with so many options available, how can you be sure you're making the right choice for your child's feet?

Daily Mail Australia recently spoke to Sydney-based podiatrist Kate McArthur of City Feet Clinic to uncover the biggest mistakes parents make when buying school shoes and how to avoid them.

1. Not Getting a Professional Fit

While it might seem convenient to guess your child's shoe size, McArthur warns that this often leads to improper fits, which can affect your child's foot development. “A common mistake we see is buying shoes that are the 'right size for now,'" McArthur explains. “Kids grow so quickly, and shoes that are too small can cause pain, while shoes that are too large can lead to toe gripping, which results in discomfort."

She advises parents to visit a professional shoe fitter who can properly assess your child’s foot.

2. Prioritising Price Over Quality

While it’s tempting to buy cheaper shoes, McArthur cautions that this may not be the best option for growing feet. “Kids carry heavy backpacks, so they need shoes with proper

support,” she says. “Cheap shoes often lack the durability and structure that growing feet require."

Investing in a high-quality, supportive shoe can save you money in the long run, as well-made shoes last longer. If budget is a concern, McArthur suggests taking advantage of sales events, like the current 20% off all full-price school shoes at Shoes & Sox, to buy durable shoes without breaking the bank.

3. Waiting Until the Last Minute to Buy

Many parents wait until the last few weeks of the holidays to purchase school shoes, hoping their child’s feet haven’t grown too much. McArthur warns against this approach. “Buying shoes early gives your child time to break them in before the school year starts,” she explains. “If you wait too long, they’ll have to wear them for extended periods right away, which can cause discomfort and blisters."

Plus, buying early allows you to take advantage of discounts, like those currently available at Shoes & Sox, which can ease the financial burden.

4. Choosing Fashion Over Function

As children grow older, they often prioritize style over comfort. But McArthur stresses that while kids want trendy shoes, they must still meet certain criteria for foot health. “Look for shoes with shock-absorbing soles, a good grip, and breathable materials," she recommends. "These will keep your child comfortable and safe during all-day wear."

The good news is, supportive shoes can still be stylish. Shoes & Sox carries popular brands like Nike, Asics, and Skechers, which combine style and function, ensuring that both kids and parents are happy with their choice.

5. Forgetting to Factor in Foot Growth

Children’s feet grow quickly, and McArthur advises parents to regularly check that their shoes fit well. "Shoes should leave some room for growth,” she says. “Shoes that are too tight can cause pain and restrict foot development, while shoes that are too loose can lead to discomfort and instability."

By leaving a little extra room in the shoe, parents can ensure that their child’s feet stay comfortable throughout the year, and they won’t need to buy a new pair too soon.

Five of the Best School Shoes on Sale

Looking for shoes that check all the boxes? McArthur recommends these five pairs, which are all currently on sale:

1. Clarks Daytona Senior Injection – Flexible, supportive leather shoes available in a range of sizes. Now $127.96 (was $159.95).

2. Harrison Kasey School Shoes – A sleek and practical mary jane style. Now $79.96 (was $99.95).

3. Asics Gel-550 TR Black Pre-School – Durable and breathable shoes, perfect for active kids. Now $87.96 (was $109.95).

4. Pablosky School Mary Jane – Comfortable shoes with padded collars for extra comfort. Now $111.96 (was $139.95).

5. Pablosky School Self-fastening Straps – Antibacterial linings and durable soles make these shoes perfect for all-day wear. Now $111.96 (was $139.95).

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right school shoes is crucial for your child’s comfort and foot health. By avoiding common mistakes like waiting until the last minute, prioritizing price over quality, and choosing fashion over function, you can ensure your child has the right footwear for a healthy and active school year. For expert fitting and advice, head to Shoes & Sox, where knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect pair for your child’s feet.

By following these tips, you'll set your child up for a successful school year with shoes that offer the best support, comfort, and durability.