Finding the perfect shoes for your kids can be a challenge. They need footwear that's comfortable, durable, stylish, and—let's be honest—sometimes needs to withstand the wear and tear of a playground ninja. Luckily, Houston boasts a fantastic selection of shoe stores catering specifically to kids' needs. This guide highlights 17 top contenders, offering a mix of brands, price points, and specialized services to help you find the ideal fit for your little ones.
Finding the Right Fit: Factors to Consider Before You Shop
Before diving into our list, let's consider some crucial factors to ensure you find the perfect shoes:
- Age and Activity Level: A toddler needs different footwear than a sporty pre-teen. Consider your child's age and activities when choosing shoe types (sandals, sneakers, boots).
- Foot Shape and Width: Proper fitting is paramount. Look for stores offering wide selections of widths and styles to accommodate different foot shapes. Many stores provide professional fitting services.
- Budget: Shoe prices vary considerably. Determine your budget before shopping to avoid buyer's remorse.
- Brand Preference: Does your child have a favorite brand? Knowing this can narrow your search.
- Style and Comfort: Balance style and comfort. Kids need shoes that are supportive and comfortable for all-day wear.
Top 17 Shoe Stores for Kids in Houston
This list combines established names with local favorites:
Department Stores & National Chains
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Shoe Carnival: Known for its budget-friendly options, Shoe Carnival offers a wide variety of kids' shoes, including athletic shoes, sandals, and boots. They frequently have sales and promotions, making it a great option for value-conscious parents.
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DSW (Designer Shoe Warehouse): While known for adult footwear, DSW also carries a decent selection of kids' shoes from popular brands at competitive prices.
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Nordstrom: Offers a curated selection of higher-end kids' shoes from top brands, known for quality and style. Expect to pay more, but the selection is impressive.
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Macy's: Similar to Nordstrom, Macy's provides a wide range of brands and styles at different price points, making it a good one-stop shop for many families.
Specialty Children's Stores
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The Children's Place: This chain focuses solely on children's apparel and shoes. Their shoe selection is extensive and affordable, ideal for everyday wear.
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Stride Rite: A long-standing brand known for its focus on comfort and proper foot development. Stride Rite stores offer expert fitting services to ensure the best fit for growing feet.
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Carter's: While primarily known for clothing, Carter's also carries a selection of affordable and cute kids' shoes, particularly suitable for toddlers and younger children.
Local & Boutique Options (Check for online presence and location before visiting)
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[Local Shoe Store 1 Name]: (Insert name and brief description of a local Houston shoe store, focusing on their strengths, e.g., unique styles, excellent customer service.) Example: "Little Feet Boutique - known for its curated collection of European-made shoes and personalized fitting."
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[Local Shoe Store 2 Name]: (Insert name and brief description) Example: "Run Around Shoes - specializes in athletic shoes for kids, with expert advice on choosing the right footwear for various sports."
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[Local Shoe Store 3 Name]: (Insert name and brief description) Example: "The Shoe Box - a family-owned store offering a friendly atmosphere and a diverse range of brands."
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[Local Shoe Store 4 Name]: (Insert name and brief description) Example: "Kiddie Kicks - focuses on comfortable and durable shoes for active kids, with a strong emphasis on proper foot support."
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[Local Shoe Store 5 Name]: (Insert name and brief description) Example: "Tiny Treads - specializes in stylish and trendy shoes for kids, featuring a wide selection of colors and designs."
Online Retailers with Brick-and-Mortar Presence (or strong local delivery)
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Zappos: Though online, Zappos offers excellent customer service, including free shipping and returns. This can be invaluable when trying to find the right size or style.
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Amazon: Amazon offers an enormous selection of kids' shoes from various brands and price points, often with competitive pricing and fast delivery. Check for local delivery options or in-store pickup if available.
Other Options
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Department Store Shoe Sections: Many large department stores (like JCPenney or Kohl's) have dedicated shoe sections with kids' shoes included.
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Sporting Goods Stores: Stores like Dick's Sporting Goods carry a range of athletic shoes ideal for active kids.
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Consignment Shops: Consignment shops offer a more budget-friendly way to find gently used kids' shoes.
Tips for Buying Kids' Shoes Online
- Check the return policy: Ensure you can easily return shoes if they don't fit.
- Read reviews: Pay close attention to customer reviews regarding sizing and comfort.
- Measure your child's feet: Use a reliable measuring tool to ensure you order the correct size.
This comprehensive guide provides a starting point for your search for the perfect kids' shoes in Houston. Remember to prioritize comfort, proper fit, and your child's individual needs when making your selection. Happy shopping!
