When it comes to growing feet, the short answer is: it’s usually best to avoid second hand shoes. Children’s feet are constantly developing, and the shoes they wear play an important role in supporting healthy movement.
One of the biggest concerns with used shoes is that they adapt to the unique shape and walking pattern (gait) of their original wearer. Over time, the sole, cushioning and uppers mould to that child’s foot.
This means that when a second child wears them, they’re effectively stepping into someone else’s footprint. The result? Uneven wear patterns can place pressure in the wrong areas, potentially affecting posture, balance and comfort during an important stage of development.
School shoes are a particularly good example. Because they’re worn for long periods every day, they tend to show more pronounced moulding in the footbed. Passing these on can compromise the support a new wearer needs.
There’s also a practical consideration: shoes that have already been worn will naturally have a shorter lifespan. What might seem like a bargain could wear out faster than expected, meaning you may need to replace them sooner. If you’re unsure whether a pair is past its best, it’s helpful to check for clear signs of wear.
Hygiene is another factor to bear in mind. Shoes create a warm environment where bacteria and fungi can thrive, particularly if they’ve been worn frequently. While cleaning can help, it’s not always possible to fully restore the inside of a heavily used shoe.
For all these reasons, well-fitted, supportive footwear that’s fresh and unworn is generally the best option for children’s healthy foot development.
While new shoes are always the preferred choice, there are a few situations where second hand options may be suitable.
Babies’ shoes
For very young babies, pre-walkers or soft-soled crib shoes are often perfectly fine to pass on. Because they’re only worn for short periods and don’t bear weight in the same way, they’re far less likely to have moulded to the original wearer’s foot.
A stop-gap measure
Second hand shoes can work as a temporary solution. For example, if your child’s usual pair gets soaked, muddy or damaged unexpectedly, having a backup pair – even if lightly used – can be helpful until you can replace them with properly fitted new shoes.
Second hand but almost new
Another acceptable scenario is when shoes are barely worn. Perhaps they were bought for a special occasion, or a growth spurt meant they were outgrown almost immediately. Seasonal styles like sandals or boots often fall into this category. If they show minimal signs of wear and still offer good structure and support, they may be worth considering.
Shoes for older children
For older teenagers whose feet have stopped growing, the risks are lower. However, it’s still important to check that any second-hand pair fits correctly and hasn’t developed uneven wear patterns that could affect comfort.
In any case, it’s always worth inspecting used shoes carefully. Look for worn-down soles, misshapen heels or creasing across the upper that suggests the shoe has adapted significantly to another foot.
If cost is a concern, there are plenty of ways to find high-quality footwear without compromising on fit or support.
Shopping end-of-season sales or our Outlet can be a great way to pick up well-made shoes at a reduced price. Choosing durable styles designed to withstand everyday wear will also provide better value for money in the long run.
Another option is to take good care of your child’s current shoes so they last as long as possible. Rotating between pairs, keeping them clean and storing them properly can make a noticeable difference.
When shoes are outgrown, consider passing them on responsibly or recycling them where possible. Our guide on what to do with old shoes offers practical ideas for giving them a second life in a more suitable way.
Ultimately, investing in a well-fitted, supportive pair tailored to your child’s feet is one of the simplest ways to support their comfort and development. While second hand shoes may seem like a quick saving, choosing the right footwear from the start can help to avoid potential issues later on – and keep little feet happy every step of the way.
Author: Start-Rite Shoes, published 23-07-2026.
