Kids' shoes: when to buy, and when to wait
Back-to-school week is the worst time to shop for them. I buy in November instead.
Every December, the shoe shops are packed with parents buying school shoes in a hurry. I used to be one of them. Now I shop earlier and calmer.
Measure first
Trace your child’s foot on paper while they stand, then measure. Do it in the evening, when feet are slightly bigger. Leave about a thumb’s width at the toe.
Buy in November
Shoes are often on sale during the November sales, and the sizes haven’t sold out yet. By late December, the common sizes are gone and nothing is discounted.
Buy school shoes one size up only if they’ll be worn within a few months. Too big is as uncomfortable as too small.
When to spend more
Shoes for daily school wear and PE. They take the most beating, and cheap pairs wear out by mid-year.
When to save
Party shoes and anything worn a few times a year. Those can be the cheapest pair that fits.