Children’s shoe retailers and podiatrists are raising alarms over a rise in foot problems among young people, linking the trend to the decline of specialist shoe shops and increased online purchasing. Experts say ill-fitting shoes can cause lifelong issues, including bunions, hammer toes, and problems in the ankles, knees, and back.
Expert Warnings on DIY Shoe Fitting
Nadia Arden-Scott, co-founder of Footwear Hub, emphasized that many parents mistakenly believe they can fit shoes at home, but DIY shoe fitting may lead to long-term damage. She urged parents to value their children’s feet as they do their teeth and eyes, noting that skipping professional fittings is akin to avoiding dentist appointments.
Impact of Shop Closures
According to data from property analysts Green Street, over 1,000 shoe shops have closed in Great Britain since 2020, reducing access to professional fitting services. Many parents now order shoes online, often without proper measurements. Research by Footwear Hub found that some families must drive up to 50 miles to reach a fitting specialist.
Campaign for Better Foot Health
Footwear Hub, a not-for-profit organization formed by 40 specialist shops, has launched the “fit well, grow well” campaign to combat declining children’s foot health. The campaign offers free advice and links to fitting services across the UK.
Podiatrist Jill Ferrari warned that children’s feet grow until their mid-teens, and poorly fitting footwear can lead to toe deformities, poor foot function, and reduced gait efficiency. In younger children, it increases the risk of tripping and falling.
Tanya Marriott, a co-founder of Footwear Hub and professional shoe fitter, reported seeing more children with bunions and other conditions. She stated, “Shoes directly affect how children move, develop, and grow, and the consequences of a poor fit can last a lifetime.”
Fitters frequently encounter children with existing foot conditions, such as toe deformities and structural differences, who lack specialist support. The campaign aims to reverse this trend by promoting professional shoe fitting and raising awareness about foot health.
