Very few children have foot abnormalities at birth, but up to 60% of adults have unhealthy feet. Many of these problems can be attributed to poor quality and bad fitting footwear. Interestingly, societies that often go barefooted experience far lower rates of foot malformations!

As a child's foot develops, it is important to walk outdoors, barefooted as often as possible. But shoes also play an essential part in protecting the foot and supporting healthy growth. Whenever a child is wearing shoes, they should be the right fit, provide appropriate support and use only the highest quality materials.

What the experts say

Naturino has for years collaborated with the FIMP (the Italian Paediatricians' Medical Federation) whose experts advise parents on the ideal shoe for children and the morphology of the foot. To learn more about looking after your children's feet, download the Naturino paediatrician's guide.

As the exclusive outlet for Naturino and Falcotto, Snappy Feet also works in partnership with leading australian podiatrist Sally Child to make sure that parents have the best advice when it comes to buying shoes for their children.

Additional tips for caring for your child's feet 

1. Have your children's feet checked regularly by your family doctor to ensure healthy development 
2. Allow your children to walk barefooted outdoors as much as possible 
3. Ensure your child wears shoes that are supportive and flexible 
4. Make sure you buy shoes made of high quality and breathable materials such as leather or canvas to prevent sweating, blisters and smelly feet 
5. Ensure the correct fitting of shoes. Wearing shoes that are too big, or too small, can inhibit the healthy growth of your child's feet 
6. Check the length of your children's feet every 2-3 months to ensure shoes do not become too small (your child might not complain even if shoes are uncomfortable)  
7. Check the soles of your child's shoes for uneven wearing
8.  Check the arches of your child's feet to ensure proper, healthy growth 
9. Choose a textured sole to prevent your child from slippingAvoid backless or slip-on shoes for children  
10. Avoid high-heels on children's shoes as they are particularly bad for normal foot development.