A pair of Skechers trainers for children needs to do more than look good. Children wear them to school, play outside and often put them on and take them off themselves. There are a few common pitfalls to watch out for, though, which may only become apparent after you’ve bought them.
1. Lights get more attention than the fit
Skechers light-up shoes for children are popular for their eye-catching soles and colours. But lights tell you nothing about the width, fastening or room to move. Always check the stated fit, shoe width and size. A style that looks appealing may still not fit properly.
2. Buying a size too big so the shoes last longer
Children’s feet grow, but extra room doesn’t automatically make trainers more comfortable. Shoes that are too loose may slip around as they walk. Check the size advice for each style. Most of the styles listed are described as true to size. The Skechers Flex Glow 90542L BBLM 28 is an exception: according to the product information, it comes up small, so going up one size is recommended.
3. Ignoring care instructions
Not all light-up shoes and trainers with rubber or synthetic soles are suitable for machine washing. Several styles are recommended for cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap. Soaking shoes that aren’t machine washable can damage the materials or built-in components. Always check the care information before buying a pair.
Many styles in this selection have a regular fit and a shoe width of D. This includes the Skechers Microspec Texlor and several Flutter Heart Lights styles. A regular fit is a useful starting point, but every child’s foot is different.
When comparing styles, look at:
The product information for many styles recommends ordering your usual size. If you’re unsure, measure both feet and compare the longer one with the size guide for that specific style. The range includes sizes from 28 to 35, as well as some half sizes.
For young children, Velcro trainers are often practical. They can fasten their shoes more easily themselves and adjust the fit throughout the day. Some styles combine elastic laces with Velcro, including the Skechers Microspec Texlor.
A style with Velcro only is handy for school and everyday wear. High-top trainers with Velcro can also offer a little more coverage around the ankle, while low-top trainers are often easier to slip on and have a lighter look.
The uppers in this selection are made from materials including textile, mesh, synthetic material or synthetic leather. Textile and mesh feature on low-top trainers such as the Microspec Texlor and Flex Glow. Depending on the style, the soles are made from rubber or synthetic material.
When choosing Skechers trainers with lights, it’s important to check:
According to the product description, the Flex Glow has an on/off switch on the side. Some Flutter Heart Lights styles are described as having heart-shaped openings in the midsole. The lights are a visual feature, so choose the shoes first for their size, fastening and intended use.
Why it suits this profile: A simple black low-top trainer for school and everyday wear, with no lights or bold print.
The product information specifies a regular fit, shoe width D, and a combination of elastic fastening and Velcro. This means you can check the key fit details before buying.
Textile upper, rubber sole, low-top design and size 30 with a regular fit.
Why it suits this profile: A colourful low-top girls’ trainer for children who want a playful design with a regular fit.
The features are clearly specified: Velcro fastening, textile upper, rubber outsole and regular fit. The lights aren’t presented as a substitute for getting the right size.
Heart-shaped light openings, flexible rubber outsole, lightweight lining and size 34 in width D.
Why it suits this profile: For active children looking for a sporty boys’ trainer with lights and a clearly defined fastening.
The different size advice is clearly stated: this style comes up small. The instructions also say to clean it with a damp cloth and that machine washing isn’t suitable.
Mesh upper, elastic laces with Velcro, lights with an on/off switch and a flexible sole.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and current European safety regulations.
After outdoor play, check that sand and mud have been removed from the sole. Clean the upper with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap if the product information allows it. Don’t use bleach or harsh chemicals. Leave the shoes to air-dry, away from direct heat and strong sunlight.
Light-up styles need extra care. Don’t soak them or put them in the tumble dryer, and follow the care instructions for each style. This helps prevent unnecessary damage caused by cleaning the shoes incorrectly.
Low-top styles with Velcro or elastic laces are practical for school. The Microspec Texlor has a simple colour, regular fit and a combination of elastic fastening and Velcro. For a bolder design, the Flutter Heart Lights styles are an alternative, as long as lights are allowed at school.
It varies by style. Many styles in this selection are described as true to size, so you can order your usual size. According to the product information, the Flex Glow 90542L BBLM 28 comes up small. Always check the size guide and size advice on the product page.
Don’t assume they can. Several light-up styles are recommended for cleaning with a damp cloth. As there may be light components in the sole, it’s best to follow the specific care instructions and avoid soaking the shoes.