Best Running Shoes for Kids

There are so many fun designs in kids shoes today. Shoes with flashing lights, squeakers, vibrant colors and patterns, superheroes splashed all over them, brands, and even no name brands. These are all great, but if your child enjoys running, and you would like them to advance in this sport, then a proper running shoe will be required.

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Why Your Child Needs Special Running Shoes to Run

Buying shoes for adults and teenagers, especially when it comes to running shoes is not such a daunting task, yet when it comes to decent fitting athletic footwear for children under 12 it is not quite as simple as it seems.

You will need to consider when and how your child will wear their shoes and also keep the growth factor in mind, as younger children outgrow their shoes much faster than teenagers, who have a more stable foot size.

The most important consideration in any shoe, whether for running or even just casual wear for younger children is the FIT, and then, of course, there is your budget, and what it allows for a growing child.

First and foremost, you need to realize that your child CANNOT run in sandals, boots or general casual shoes, this is not good for their performance, or the health of their feet.

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Considerations in a Running Shoe for Children

A comfortable and well fitting pair of running shoes is very important for a young child with delicate growing feet. Shoes that are chosen according to a few basic criteria’s can help your athletic child perform well and prevent foot injuries such as muscle and tendon tears, as well as fractures.

• Quality – The quality of the running shoe for your child is very important, as you want something that is durable and will last them some time. For Quality you need to look at the materials of the shoes, I would highly recommend rather avoiding synthetic materials, as these are less durable and tend to hold sweat and odor. Rather opt for suede, canvas, and leather, with a rubber outsole.

• Arch Support – For Children with a lower or flat arch look for a flexible shoe with a controlled motion, a sturdy heel counter, and a firm foam layer in the midsole. For a Higher arch, a good shock absorbing running shoe is required with a cushioned midsole and flexibility. A neutral arch type can wear any type of shoe.

• Weight – Weight is yet another vital aspect in kids running shoes. If you have a child on the heavier side, a more stable and heavier shoe is required. For lighter shoes, they are usually better when it comes to long-distance running and walking.

• Width – The width of the shoe will depend on the shape of your child’s foot. Luckily today most running shoes come in different width options, even for children.

• Length – Try to avoid a shoe that is too tight, make sure that there is around the space of a fingertip between your child’s longest toe and the front end of the shoe.

• Size – The size is just as important, though you do not want shoes that are slipping around causing blisters always opt for a size slightly larger for growing little feet. This can initially be accommodated with thicker socks or and insole.
  

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Features of a Good Kids Running Shoe

• Lightweight and breathable uppers form Suede Leather or mesh materials.
  
• A durable rubber outsole, that offers good grip and good traction on multiple surfaces for running..
  
• Arch specific arch support and motion control for flat feet.
  
• Cushioning.
  
• Shock absorbing midsole, to protect feet, knees, and hips against impact.
  
• Flexible design that moves with your child’s feet and is ideal for many activities and running.
  
• Correct fit, that is not to tight and not too snug, with a few millimeters of extra length from the tip of the big toe and the end of the shoe.
  
• Colorful designs, patterns, and colors that are fun for children to wear.
  
• size availability for children, young kids, and older children.
  
• different width options.
  

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Reviews: The Best Running Shoes for Kids

Here is a list of the most sought after and top rated running shoes for children today;

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Index Table: Top Rated Running Shoes for Kids