Finding the perfect shoes for your little ones can be a challenge. Between picky preferences, growing feet, and the need for durable, comfortable footwear, the search can feel endless. Luckily, Houston boasts a wide variety of shoe stores catering specifically to children's needs. This guide highlights 17 top shoe stores in Houston, offering diverse styles, brands, and price points to simplify your shopping experience. Whether you're looking for everyday sneakers, dress shoes for special occasions, or athletic footwear for budding athletes, this list has you covered.
Finding the Right Fit: Types of Kids' Shoe Stores in Houston
Houston's diverse retail landscape offers a range of options for kids' shoes. Understanding the different types of stores can help you narrow your search:
1. Department Stores with Kids' Shoe Sections:
These offer convenience, with shoes alongside other clothing and accessories. However, selection may be more limited than specialized stores.
- Examples: Macy's, Nordstrom, Dillard's
2. Specialty Children's Stores:
These focus solely on children's apparel and footwear, often carrying a wider selection of brands and styles.
- Examples: Many boutiques throughout Houston specializing in children's wear often include shoes.
3. Athletic Stores with Kids' Sections:
Perfect for sports-focused footwear, these stores offer expertise in athletic shoes and often feature brand-specific selections.
- Examples: Dick's Sporting Goods, Academy Sports + Outdoors
4. Online Retailers with Local Pickup:
Combine the convenience of online shopping with the ability to pick up your order locally, avoiding shipping costs and delays.
- Examples: Zappos, Amazon (with Prime options), specific brand websites.
Top 17 Shoe Stores for Kids in Houston: A Detailed Look
This list provides a mix of store types and locations, ensuring there's something for every family in Houston. Remember to check store websites for hours, locations, and specific brand offerings.
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Shoe Carnival: Affordable options for the whole family, including a good selection of kids' shoes. Known for frequent sales and deals.
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Journeys Kidz: A popular choice for trendy styles and name brands, often catering to older children and teens.
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Stride Rite: Focuses on healthy foot development with a range of styles designed for growing feet. Often features specific features for different foot types.
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The Children's Place: Offers a broad range of kids' clothing and footwear at budget-friendly prices.
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Famous Footwear: A reliable option with a consistent selection of popular brands and styles. Offers frequent sales and promotions.
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Rack Room Shoes: Similar to Famous Footwear, providing a wide variety of brands at competitive prices.
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Payless ShoeSource (limited locations): While fewer locations exist than in the past, Payless still offers affordable options in some areas of Houston.
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Nordstrom: Upscale department store with a dedicated children's shoe section featuring premium brands and designer styles.
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Macy's: Another department store offering a selection of kids' shoes, often featuring sales and promotions.
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Dillard's: Similar to Nordstrom and Macy's, with a diverse selection across various price points.
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Little Feet: (If applicable - verify existence and location) A smaller, specialty store (if one exists) specializing in children's footwear might offer personalized service and a curated selection.
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Zappos (online with local pickup): Convenient online shopping with the option for in-store pickup, providing a broad range of brands and styles.
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Amazon (online with local pickup): Similar to Zappos, offering a huge selection with varying price points.
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Dick's Sporting Goods: Excellent for athletic shoes and active footwear for kids involved in sports.
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Academy Sports + Outdoors: Another option for athletic shoes, often featuring competitive prices and a wide range of brands.
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Local Boutiques: Explore smaller boutiques in your neighborhood – these often have unique selections and personalized service.
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Children's Consignment Shops: A budget-friendly choice offering gently used shoes in excellent condition.
Tips for Shopping for Kids' Shoes in Houston
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Measure your child's feet regularly: Feet grow quickly, especially in younger children.
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Consider the activity: Choose shoes appropriate for the activity – sneakers for play, dress shoes for special occasions, etc.
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Prioritize comfort and fit: Proper fit is crucial for healthy foot development.
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Check for sales and promotions: Many stores offer discounts and promotions throughout the year.
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Read reviews: Online reviews can provide valuable insights into the quality and comfort of different shoe brands and styles.
This guide provides a solid starting point for your kids' shoe shopping journey in Houston. Remember to research specific stores' locations and offerings based on your needs and preferences. Happy shopping!
