Buying Wellies for Kids - A Guide
With cold, wet weather coming in over the UK recently, your attention may be turning to your child’s footwear. When preparing for the rainy and muddy autumn and winter months, choosing the right wellies for your child is essential.
Not only do they need to fit comfortably, but they also need to offer protection from the elements. Here’s our guide on how to ensure your children’s wellies are practical, durable and comfortable.
Measure Your Child’s Feet Correctly
Children’s feet grow rapidly, so it’s crucial to get the right size to avoid discomfort. The easiest way to do this is to visit a shoe shop that offers measuring services.
If you’re measuring at home, ensure your child is standing and measure both feet as they may vary slightly in size. Always buy wellies based on the larger foot to avoid tightness. Ensure there is enough room for thick socks, but not too much space that their feet slip inside the boot.
What to Look for in Kids' Wellies
When shopping for kids’ wellies, quality and fit are both important. Choose wellies made from sturdy, waterproof materials such as rubber or PVC and which have a good tread to prevent slips on wet surfaces.
Kids need wellies that allow natural movement and are comfortable for walking long distances. If the boots are too rigid, they can cause discomfort. Additionally, consider wellies with pull handles to make it easier for children to put them on themselves.
Choosing the Right Style and Size
Wellies come in a wide variety of styles, from bright colours to patterned designs featuring favourite cartoon characters. While style is important to many children, fit should always be the priority. Choose wellies that are slightly larger than their regular shoes to accommodate thicker socks and ensure the boots can be worn comfortably through the colder months.
For younger children, shorter wellies may be more practical as they are easier to walk in and less cumbersome. Taller wellies offer better protection in deep puddles but may be heavier for toddlers and younger kids to wear.
Welly Socks
Thick socks are a must-have when it comes to wearing wellies, especially in colder weather. Insulated socks provide extra warmth and help prevent rubbing or blisters. Many parents opt for fleece-lined socks or those made from merino wool, both of which offer excellent warmth without being bulky.
Another advantage of welly socks is that they take up a bit of extra space in the boots, ensuring a snug fit without the need to buy smaller wellies. Always ensure the socks are long enough to fold over the tops of the boots, which will help keep them in place and add an extra barrier against rainwater.
Making Wellies Last
Finally, kids' wellies can take a beating, especially during autumn and winter. To ensure they last through the season, it’s worth considering a few care tips. Always clean the wellies after use, particularly after muddy outings. This helps maintain the rubber or PVC material and prevents cracks from forming.
Store wellies in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat, which can degrade the material over time. Encourage your child to put their wellies on and off properly to avoid pulling the boots from the soles. Regular use of welly socks can also extend the life of the boots by reducing wear and tear on the lining.