From rugged sneakers to sparkling flats and sturdy boots, Stride Rite has more than 400 different styles to help meet all of your family's needs this year. During our recent Macaroni Kid Back to School party, local Macaroni Kid families received a hands-on (ok, maybe foot-on?) look at some of this year's newest fashions.
For the Girls
Stride Rite Elsie - Available in caramel or black for both preschoolers and big kids in sizes 8.5 to youth 3.
Stride Rite Propel A/C - Available in lavender or pink for toddlers through big kids in sizes 6 to youth 3.
My 4.5-year-old loved both of these shoes. The Elsie is a classic flat that is dressy while still providing comfort with a soft, bendable shoe. Kids can wear them barefoot now for the start of school and then transition into wearing them with tights for those cooler fall days.
The Propel A/C sneakers are still in my daughter's closet, since we were lucky enough to be provided a pair in her size. We have the pink pair that are bright and fun, but what I love most is that they are lightweight and breathable, two important qualities that I look for in sneakers!
For the Boys
Stride Rite Christopher - Available in Navy for babies through big kids in sizes 4 through youth 3.
Stride Rite Propel Lace - Available in Black/Red, Blue/Lime and Gray/Lime for toddlers through big kids in sizes 6 through youth 5.
The boys' sneakers we received were just as great as the ones for girls - again flexible, lightweight and breathable. And did you know that many of Stride Rite's shoes come with an anti-stink lining to help control odor?
Stride Rite prides itself on making shoes that help kids stay active while also allowing them to be comfortable.
Visit Stride Rite's website or stop into your nearest Stride Rite store today and take advantage of their Buy One, Get One 40% off sale now through Sept. 2. An added bonus of shopping at Stride Rite is that your kids will be able to have their feet measured to ensure a great fit. Here are some other tips for your Back to School shoe shopping:
• Shoe shopping should always be done later in the afternoon or evening, since feet swell over the course of the day.
• With the rate children outgrow shoes, it's probably tempting to buy shoes that are too big, but shoes that are too big can cause a child to trip and develop foot problems.
• It’s recommended to switch between at least two pairs of shoes to avoid wear and tear and maintain support – they will last longer.
• As adults, we often say we're "breaking in" a pair of shoes – this is not smart for anyone, especially for kids. Shoes need to be immediately comfortable - don't allow for a breaking in period or expect shoes to get more comfortable over time - they need to fit and feel good now.
• Hand me downs might save money but they are not good for your kids' feet. Old shoes lose support from wear and tear and sharing shoes can spread foot and nail fungus. It’s best to start off each season with a new pair of comfortable shoes in their new and right size.
I received complimentary products for the purpose of this review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
