How to Choose the Right Kids’ Boots for Autumn

Autumn has officially arrived - and so has the mud, rain, and the sudden realisation that your children’s feet might have grown again!

Half term is the perfect time to check whether your little one’s shoes still fit properly and to invest in a good pair of boots to see them through the season.  But with so many styles to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start.

Here at SoleLution, we’ve been fitting children’s shoes for 20 years, so we’ve put together a few expert tips to help you choose the right kids’ boots for autumn. 👣

1. Check the Fit — Not Just the Size

One of the biggest misconceptions we see is that children just need a quick measure to find their next pair of shoes.  But children’s feet grow in all sorts of ways — sometimes wider, sometimes longer, and not always at the same time!  That’s why we always recommend a proper fit check.

A good fitting should check:

• Length (room to grow, but not too much)
• Width (wiggle room for those toes)
• Depth (no pressure on top of the toes)
• Support (around the ankle and heel)

If you’re not sure, pop in and let our friendly team take a look — it only takes a few minutes, and can make a world of difference to your little one’s comfort and development.

2. Think About Their Activities

Kids use their shoes a lot - from playground adventures to weekend walks and everything in between. Their autumn boots need to keep up with every step.

When choosing, think about how and where they’ll wear them:

• For everyday school runs and weekends: a durable, waterproof style from Geox or Ricosta is ideal — keeping feet dry, supported, and ready for anything.
• For outdoor adventures: look for grippy soles, fleece linings, and lightweight flexibility to keep little feet warm and steady.
• For active days or older kids who prefer a sportier look: Skechers offer lightweight, cushioned styles that feel just as good on the go as they do for relaxed days out.
• For smarter occasions: soft leather ankle boots from Bobux strike the perfect balance between comfort and style, with just the right amount of growing room.

And remember flexibility is key.  Boots should bend with the foot, not fight against it, allowing natural movement and healthy development.

3. Prioritise Support and Comfort

Feet are still developing well into the teenage years, so support matters just as much as style.

Look for:

• Firm heel counters to keep growing feet stable
• Adjustable fastenings (laces, Velcro, or zips) for a secure fit
• Soft, breathable linings to prevent rubbing or overheating

Avoid heavy boots - little legs tire easily, and lightweight materials like those in our Geox and Ricosta collections give freedom to move without compromising on protection.

4. Check Waterproofing and Warmth

Autumn weather can be unpredictable, and no one likes soggy socks!

Waterproof or water-resistant materials make a huge difference — especially for school or park days.  Geox’s Amphibiox range and RicostaTex styles are designed to keep feet dry while still allowing them to breathe.

If you’re shopping for winter-ready styles, fleece or faux-fur linings are worth considering too.

5. Let Them Have a Say (Within Reason!)

Comfort is key but we know kids love to choose their own shoes.  Let them be part of the process by picking the colour or style they like best (once you’ve narrowed down the options that fit properly).

That way, they’re more likely to wear them happily — and you’ll avoid the “I don’t like them!” battle on Monday morning.

6. When in Doubt — Ask for Advice

At SoleLution, we’re always happy to help. Whether your child’s feet have suddenly shot up a size or you’re not sure which style offers the best support, our trained fitters are here to guide you.

We measure, check, and fit every pair with care — so you can feel confident you’ve found the right solution for your child’s feet.

Our Favourite Kids’ Boots for Autumn

🍂 Ricosta – German-made, waterproof, flexible soles, built for adventure.
🍂 Geox – breathable comfort and stylish practicality.
🍂 Start-Rite – classic, durable designs made for growing feet.
🍂 Skechers Kids – fun, lightweight options with cushioned comfort.

Pop into our Portishead shop for a fitting or browse online to see our latest children’s styles.

Because when it comes to little feet, getting the fit right now means healthier steps later. 💛

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