Rileyroos Steps it Up
By Emmi Kern
Baby shoes are available at most stores; some even have pretty impressive selections of color, size and style, but how do parents know whether the shoes they’re buying are of high quality? In many cases, baby shoes are “just for show” — in other words, made to match baby’s outfits but not made to fit all that well or to last very long. While durability isn’t that much of an issue considering the lightning-fast speed at which kids’ feet grow, proper fit IS important for any baby that is old enough to stand and/or walk. Ill-fitting shoes can lead to poor foot development, unhealthy gait, foot pain and back problems later in life. That’s why orthopedists stress the importance of developmentally healthy shoes for even the youngest children. Rileyroos is a company built on the belief that kids should take their first steps in shoes that are good for their feet. Founders Kim and Brian Gross launched the company with their daughter Riley in mind. When shopping for her, they saw that there was a need for foot-friendly baby shoes that were also attractive and fun. Today their company ships product to customers and stores across the United States and around the world. High-quality, fashion-forward footwear is the secret to their success.
When developing the designs for their shoes, Rileyroos consulted with Dr. Sylvie Shapiro aka Dr. ShoeMom, a California-based pediatric podiatrist and mother of two. With her advice, they created shoes that meet high standards of comfort and style. Unlike some baby shoes that are stiff and clunky, Rileyroos are soft and flexible while still sturdy enough to support the child’s foot. These characteristics mimic barefoot walking and help babies practice a natural gait.
In addition to feeling good, Rileyroos look good, too. Whether the style is classy or casual, Rileyroos has a pair of shoes that will fit the mood. They offer a variety of shoes to go with just about any outfit — from classic oxfords to hip sneakers to rugged boots — so parents are likely to be impressed with the selection. They also offer a range of sizes and a handy sizing chart and measuring instructions on their website to help parents get the best fit for their child. Recently, the company has expanded their size range so now even big kids can enjoy the benefits of the brand.Step in and see what’s new at www.rileyroos.com