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  • Is it Better to Have a Leather Shoes or Canvas Shoes?

    Is it Better to Have a Leather Shoes or Canvas Shoes?

    When it comes to kids’ shoes, leather and canvas are the most popular materials being used these days. They both have distinct benefits and offer your little one’s feet the support and comfort necessary for unhindered growth and development. However, while shopping for children’s footwear, you might be wondering – is it better to have leather shoes or canvas shoes? The right answer can help you make an informed decision for sure.

    So, let’s delve deeper into the pros and cons of each material here. This way, you can pick the right pair for your tiny one after a quick comparison. 

    Pros and Cons of Leather Shoes for Kids

    A classic and time-tested material, leather has the following benefits:

    • Durable: Genuine and top-quality leather lasts for years and can tough it out in harsh environments. Usually, it lasts longer than canvas.
    • Breathable: Since leather allows air to pass through easily, shoes made of this material let your child’s feet breathe and keep them cool. You won’t have to worry about smelly or sweaty feet this way.
    • Good Fit: While wondering about is it better to have leather shoes or canvas shoes, remember that leather ones adapt to the shape of your feet and lend much-needed comfort and support.
    • Resistant to Liquids: Leather shoes can repel water and other fluids if you wax and treat them regularly. So, even if your child loves skipping in puddles, their feet won’t get wet.
    • Hassle-Free to Clean: You just need a damp piece of cloth to clean leather toddler shoes. Being breathable, they dry up fast as well.
    • Offers Additional Protection: Leather, being a sturdy material, can protect your kiddo’s feet against injuries and accidents caused by falling objects or sharp bumps on the road. It can also keep those little tootsies safe if your child spills something hot on their feet.
    • Environment-Friendly: As it is a natural material, leather is safe for the environment, and the manufacturing process doesn’t involve the emission of any poisonous gases.
    • Stylish: Kids’ shoes crafted with leather look stylish, shiny, and sleek. They are a great choice for both formal and casual occasions and can complement different outfits too.

    Now that you know about the benefits of leather shoes, it’s time to take a look at the aspects that are not so advantageous:

    • Requires Regular Maintenance: If not cleaned, waxed, polished, and conditioned on a regular basis, leather shoes can dry out and crack. So, you need to take good care of them.
    • Costly: Shoes made of leather are usually more expensive than those made of other materials. However, since leather lasts long and can withstand unfavorable weather conditions too, it is worth investing in a single pair of such shoes rather than two or three made of another material.

    Pros and Cons of Canvas Shoes for Kids

    The debate on is it better to have leather shoes or canvas shoes can only reach a conclusion once you know about the benefits and disadvantages of the latter. Canvas is widely used for sneakers and casual shoes these days, so let’s take a look at the pros first:

    • Light in Weight: Toddler canvas shoes are usually super light, which makes them comfortable and apt for free movement.
    • Easy on the Pocket: Shoes made of canvas are generally less expensive than their leather counterparts and this makes them a good pick if you are shopping on a budget.
    • Breathable: Like leather, canvas is a highly breathable material and allows air to pass through smoothly. So, your child’s feet will stay cool, dry, and fresh for hours.
    • Easy to Maintain: It is easy to throw canvas shoes into the washing machine for a good cleaning whenever they get dirty. Hence, these shoes are perfect for casual or rough use.
    • Offers Wide Variety: Toddler canvas shoes come in a wide array of colors and fun patterns, as the material absorbs dyes easily. You can pick up a different style, design, or shade for different occasions and outfits.
    • Retains Shape: Canvas is not very stretchy, which means shoes made of this retain their shape well. Your child won’t need inserts or other supportive materials for a long time.

    Now that you know about the advantages, let’s go through the less-than-great aspects of canvas shoes: 

    • Lack of Ankle Support: Since canvas is thin compared to leather, shoes made of this material are not ideal for sporty activities as they don’t offer ample ankle support.
    • Not as Durable: Canvas shoes are less durable than leather ones on an average. They tend to wear out fast especially when worn regularly. Hence, you might have to buy more pairs than in case of leather.
    • Prone to Staining: The material stains more easily than leather. And while it is no-fuss to clean canvas shoes in the washing machine, it can be difficult to get rid of stubborn stains.

    What to Remember for Both Leather and Canvas Shoes

    Whether you go for leather or canvas shoes for kids, getting the size and fit right for both is important. So, make sure your measure your child’s feet accurately and opt for shoes that are flexible and complement natural movement. Whether the pair is made of leather or canvas, ensure ample toe space and anti-skid outer soles to prevent accidents and injuries. Irrespective of the material, consider shoes with Velcro straps, buttons, or laces, so they can be adjusted to your child’s growing feet.  

    Is It Better to Have Leather Shoes or Canvas Shoes?

    So, what’s the final verdict – should you go for toddler canvas shoes or leather ones? It all depends on your little one’s needs, activity, occasion, preference, and your budget. While leather shoes are durable, extra protective, water-resistant, and align easily with the shape of the feet, they are a little more expensive and need regular maintenance. Canvas shoes, on the other hand, are light, affordable, available in a wide variety, and retain shape over time. They, however, stain easily, wear out faster, and offer less ankle support. But if you go for top-quality pairs, you will find both materials to be worth the investment.

    For instance, check out the awesome collection of both leather and canvas shoes at Jack & Lily. You can also contact the professionals here if you can’t make up your mind and need more guidance.

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  • How to Measure an Infant's Shoe Size?

    How to Measure an Infant's Shoe Size?

    Shoe-shopping for your baby’s teeny weeny feet can be an exciting experience. There are so many styles, patterns, and colors you can pick from these days. However, your primary focus should be on getting the fit right and ensuring that the pair offers ample support and comfort. This means you need to know how to measure an infant’s shoe size. While the process is not too hard, accuracy is the key to finding shoes that promote your child’s development and enhance their balance, coordination, and posture.  

    Keep reading to find out how to take measurements before buying baby girl or baby boy shoes. This write-up covers other helpful tips as well.

    How to Measure an Infant’s Shoe Size?

    Here are some simple steps to follow to measure your munchkin’s feet:

    • Get your child to stand barefoot on a large and blank piece of paper (ideally white).
    • Make sure they are putting their entire weight on those adorable tootsies and not curling their toes.
    • Then use a measuring tape or ruler to assess the distance between the back of the heel and the tip of the longest toe for both feet.
    • Mark it on the paper for future reference.
    • Or you can use a pencil to trace the outline of the feet first, ask the little one to step aside, and then measure the tracing.

    Ideally, get the measurements in both cm and inches, as different brands use different units in their sizing guides. Remember to add about half an inch or 1.3 cm to the measurements you have taken before zeroing in on the corresponding shoe size. This will allow adequate room for your child’s feet to grow.

    At Jack & Lily, sizes for T-straps, boots, and sneakers start from 0-6 months, for baby feet measuring 3.75 inches or 9.5 cm in length. Canvas kicks and slip-ons are available for children between 6 and 12 months and above, and the smallest size is 4. It corresponds to 4.5 inches or 11.5 cm.  

    Other Factors to Consider Before Buying Baby Shoes

    While you now know how to measure an infant’s shoe size, it is not enough to get your hands on a pair that is comfortable, protective, and supportive enough. You must consider the following as well:

    • Buy for the Bigger Foot: Baby feet aren’t exactly the same in size, whether you consider the length or the width. So, choose a pair that is right for the bigger foot, otherwise it will be too tight and uncomfortable.
    • Check If the Toes Have Enough Room: Go for shoes with a wide and spacious toe box, so your infant’s feet can grow easily. Stay away from pointy or tapered shoes even if they seem fashionable. Make sure there is a gap of 1.3 to 1.5 cm between the longest toe tip and the shoe’s front.
    • Opt for Flexible Shoes: The shoes should match your child’s natural movements, and hence, should be flexible enough. Ideally, you should be able to bend them almost halfway.
    • Examine the Backs of Heels: Sufficiently firm backs are essential so your infant gets the support they need to grow strong heels and ankles. Pinch the back of the heels to see if they collapse or stay solid. If they don’t give in at all, the shoes are too rigid. And if they collapse completely, they are too soft.
    • Choose Anti-Skid Outer Soles: Whether you are picking up baby girl or baby boy shoes, make sure the outer soles are made of top-grade rubber and offer ample traction or grip on smooth or wet surfaces. This will prevent accidental slips and injuries, especially during monsoons.
    • Shoes Should Not be Too Tight or Loose: While shopping for infant shoes, make sure there is a bit of space around toes, heels, and the sides. However, the pair shouldn’t be extra tight or loose. If you see the shoes digging into your baby’s skin or they seem to be wincing while walking, the pair is too tight and can cause blisters, calluses, pain, and redness down the line. If your child seems to be dragging their feet around, the shoes are too loose.
    • Avoid Heavy Shoes: Lightweight shoes will allow your infant to move around comfortably without feeling encumbered. Heavy ones can not only cause pain but also interfere with development.
    • Pick Shoes with Closures: Since your infant’s feet are likely to change over time, it is advisable to shop for shoes that can be adjusted to achieve the best fit. You can go for pairs with buttons, Velcro straps, or laces for that. In fact, with Velcro straps or buttons, your baby will soon learn to put on and take off their shoes on their own.
    • Avoid Trying on the Shoes in the Morning: Feet usually swell and grow bigger over the day after your child has been active for hours. So, to truly judge the fit of a pair, get your child to try them on later in the day instead of in the morning.
    • Pick Shoes that Fit Well Right Away: If a pair of shoes doesn’t fit your infant’s feet right the first time, return them. Your child shouldn’t have to walk around uncomfortably, waiting to break into the shoes. It can hamper their growth and development.

    Make an Informed Decision When Buying Infant Shoes

    By now, you know how to measure an infant’s shoe size and also the things to be mindful of when selecting a pair. You can also consult a podiatrist to be doubly sure of the shoe size and get suggestions on the best type of footwear for your child. Remember that every child is different and can have different needs. Also make sure the materials used are durable yet breathable and cozy while shoe-shopping. Most importantly, avoid making decisions based solely on the price, since quality is of utmost importance when it comes to infant shoes.

    Can’t wait to get started? Go online and explore the adorable collection available from Jack & Lily. If you feel you need more guidance or advice, feel free to get in touch with the professionals here.

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