Finding the right shoes for your kids can be a challenge. They need shoes that are comfortable, supportive, and stylish – and that can withstand the wear and tear of active play. Luckily, Austin boasts a fantastic selection of shoe stores catering specifically to children's footwear needs. This guide explores 17 top shoe stores in Austin, offering a diverse range of styles, brands, and price points to help you find the perfect pair for your little ones.
Finding the Right Fit: Factors to Consider Before You Shop
Before diving into our list of Austin's best kids' shoe stores, let's consider some key factors that will influence your decision:
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Age and Activity Level: A toddler's needs differ drastically from a pre-teen's. Consider your child's age and how active they are. Do they need sturdy shoes for sports, or something more casual for everyday wear?
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Foot Shape and Width: Proper fit is paramount. Children's feet can have unique shapes and widths. Look for stores with knowledgeable staff who can assess your child's feet and recommend the appropriate size and width.
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Budget: Shoe prices can vary widely. Establish a budget before you start shopping to avoid impulse buys.
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Style Preferences: While functionality is key, don't underestimate the importance of style. Involve your child in the selection process to ensure they feel good about their new shoes.
Top 17 Shoe Stores for Kids in Austin: A Diverse Selection
This list includes a mix of national chains, local boutiques, and online retailers that offer convenient shipping options to Austin residents.
National Chains with Strong Kids' Sections:
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Shoe Carnival: Offers a wide selection of affordable shoes for kids of all ages, including athletic shoes, sandals, and boots. They frequently have sales and promotions.
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Famous Footwear: Another great option for budget-friendly kids' shoes. They carry popular brands and often have clearance sections with significant discounts.
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DSW (Designer Shoe Warehouse): While known for adult footwear, DSW also stocks a decent selection of kids' shoes from various brands, sometimes including name brands at discounted prices.
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Nordstrom: Nordstrom's children's department usually includes a comprehensive selection of high-quality, stylish shoes. Expect higher price points than discount stores.
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Macy's: Similar to Nordstrom, Macy's offers a wide range of children's shoes, from everyday wear to special occasion footwear. They often have sales and promotions.
Local Boutiques and Specialty Stores:
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Little Feet: (If this store exists, replace with actual Austin local store - research needed) This hypothetical boutique focuses on high-quality, comfortable shoes for young children. They may specialize in specific brands or offer personalized fitting services.
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[Austin Local Store Name 2]: (Research needed) Another example of a hypothetical local store. Look for stores specializing in particular shoe types, like athletic footwear or dress shoes.
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[Austin Local Store Name 3]: (Research needed) Research local Austin stores known for excellent customer service and personalized fitting advice.
Online Retailers with Austin Delivery:
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Zappos: Known for its wide selection, excellent customer service, and free shipping and returns, Zappos is a convenient option for busy parents.
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6pm.com (a Zappos outlet): Offers discounted prices on a wide variety of kids' shoes.
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Amazon: Amazon offers a massive selection of kids' shoes, with many options for same-day or next-day delivery in Austin.
Specialty Stores (Potentially in Austin or Nearby):
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Stride Rite: Stride Rite specializes in children's shoes designed to promote healthy foot development. They often have stores with trained fit specialists.
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New Balance Kids: New Balance offers a wide range of athletic shoes specifically designed for children's feet.
Other Options to Consider:
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Department Stores (Target, Walmart): While not exclusively children's shoe stores, Target and Walmart carry a decent selection of affordable kids' shoes.
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Local Consignment Shops: Consignment shops can be a great place to find gently used kids' shoes at bargain prices.
Online Marketplaces:
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Poshmark: This online marketplace can be a treasure trove for finding gently used name-brand kids' shoes at discounted prices.
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ThredUp: Similar to Poshmark, ThredUp offers a curated selection of used clothing and shoes.
Tips for Shopping for Kids' Shoes in Austin:
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Go in the afternoon: Children's feet can swell throughout the day. Shopping in the afternoon ensures a more accurate measurement.
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Bring socks: Have your child wear the type of socks they'll usually wear with their shoes.
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Measure both feet: Children's feet can be different sizes. Always measure both feet to ensure the best fit.
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Check for wiggle room: There should be about a thumb's width of space between the end of your child's longest toe and the end of the shoe.
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Don't rely solely on shoe size: Shoe sizes can vary between brands and styles. Always have your child's feet measured.
This comprehensive guide provides a starting point for your kids' shoe shopping journey in Austin. Remember to prioritize comfort, proper fit, and your child's preferences to find the perfect footwear for their active lives. Happy shopping!
