We all know how expensive kid's shoes are and how quickly their feet grow. It is tempting to buy cheap shoes thinking that they are only going to be worn for a couple of months, but this is a false economy, as this can lead to severe foot problems in later life.

You should always buy the best quality possible within your budget, such as traditional kid's shoes or Reebok trainers for school. Many of the more modern styles are designed with fashion and looks in mind and the comfort and wearability are secondary.

Where possible you should always buy leather instead of synthetic materials. This allows the foot to breathe and is less conducive to infections such as athlete's foot. Leather shoes are also more supple than synthetic ones and allow the child's foot to grow more.

Go for comfort rather than looks, although it is tempting to go for the fashionable ones, which often give little support and can pinch the feet.

In short, buy the best you can for your child. They will thank you for it in later life when they have problem-free feet. If you do not pay attention to this issue from as soon as they can walk, they risk suffering in later life with all sorts of problems such as bunions and infections.