Where to Find Shoes for Kids
Find your child's fit and style at these Charlotte-area shoe stores, plus online options for kids
When it comes to kids’ shoes, what fits today could be in the donation pile tomorrow. Finding a pair that can withstand a beating, won’t make for repeated faceplants, look cute, and are reasonably priced can be a challenge. Here are a few spots to try that might meet the durability, support, affordability, and aesthetic equation.
Kixx Shoes
Jennifer Kennedy opened Kixx—Cool Shoes for Kids in May 2008 to help families put their best foot forward for infants up to size youth 6. The store also carries hard-to-find sizes including mediums, wides, and extra-wides. They have loads of socks and cute accessories, too, including Crocs and Croc accessories, plus Geox, John Deere, Native, Puma, Rainbow, Sperry, Tsukihoshi, Vans, Umi, and more. 1730 E Woodlawn Road, Ste. G. 704-676-1517
photo courtesy of kixx
Nordstrom Rack
The same spot that can be a slam dunk for mom can also be a great score for the kids. The organization in the kid’s section can be a little lacking, but you can usually find a range of sizes in brands like Nike, Adidas, Puma, Crocs, Vans, Sketchers, UGGs, Mini Boden, and more, all at discount prices. 9563 South Blvd. 704-705-2161
Lebo’s
Lebo’s is known as the “go-to” place for dance and western shoes, but they also carry casual and dress shoes in brands like Native, Blowfish, Toms, Sketchers, UGG, Ariat, and many more. If your little one is into dance, check out the online store that carries an extensive collection of ballet, pointe, tap, square dance, and ballroom shoes! Lebo’s staff measures to fit, so you go home with shoes you might never want to take off. 7300 E. Independence Blvd. 704-535-5000
photo courtesy of Lebo’s
Kid to Kid
Kids are hard on shoes, so if you like to save some money and are OK with buying them gently used, check out Kid to Kid. Stores have shoes ranging in size from baby to big kid size 3. You can also turn in well-loved and outgrown shoes and put the credit toward your purchase. Multiple locations
Pediped
For some parents, if it can’t be done online, it doesn’t get done. Pediped is a popular shoe brand with a full-service website that shows how to size your child correctly at home using a printout and video. Once you know your child’s size, shop from hundreds of baby and kid styles. Every user creates a login ID, and if you need to make a return, simply log in and click “return an item.” The return shipping label is $6.95, saving you a trip to the post office.
Keen
If you’re an active family, you’ll love the durable, washable, footwear that justifies the slightly higher price point. From easy on/off hybrid sandals and sneakers to protective hiking boots, Keen’s options are meant to withstand a good old fashion stomp in the dirt.
Zulily
This is a great online option to find deals on sneaker brands or stock up on non-everyday shoe styles like rain boots or dress shoes at a reasonable price. Each day the site releases new sales that typically last up to three days, so the inventory is constantly changing. For most sales, be prepared to wait up to two weeks before your purchases ship; if you need something right away, shop under the “Ready to Ship” section.
