What does PS Mean in Shoes?

Being the shoe enthusiast I am, I can’t help but emphasize the importance of getting the right pair of shoes for yourself.

And the same goes for your kids as well. As you send your little ones to preschool, you may want to ensure their feet are in their best shape, growing appropriately, and not facing any posture concerns. And that is what a pair of PS shoes can help you with. Wondering what does PS mean in shoes? Well, this blog will answer all your questions relating to the PS kicks and why you should consider getting one for your kid(s).

So, buckle up, and let’s start discussing.

What does PS stand for?

Simple answer: PS stands for “preschool.”

When you come across the term “PS” on shoe boxes or online listings, remember that it is a way of telling the customers that the shoes are intended primarily for kindergarteners. It is a convenient method for parents and babysitters to quickly and accurately find shoes for children aged 3-5 years.

These shoes are crafted with the unique needs of preschoolers in mind. In this age group, children are highly active and adventurous, constantly running, jumping, and exploring their world with boundless energy. So their shoes should be sturdy enough to support an extremely high level of activity and still be easy to put on and take off.

Now, one may wonder, why the PS badging then? The shoes are anyway small if they fit, they should be suitable. Well, here’s how it helps.

• The term PS helps you ensure that you have obtained the correct sized and appropriate-style footwear for your child.
• This highlights the specific features tailored to the developmental needs of preschoolers, such as better support, flexible soles, and often playful designs that appeal to young children.
• Different sizing categories can often be overwhelming and confusing when it comes to kids’ shoe sizes, but understanding the term can simplify these issues.

For that matter, the next time you’re shoe-hunting for your kid and come across a “PS” piece, you can be sure that it’s perfect for your kindergartner’s footwear needs!

The importance of PS shoes

A common characteristic of preschool-aged children is the rapid growth and transformation of their feet. PS shoes are, in particular, targeted at these one-of-a-kind requirements.

The design of PS shoes ensures they offer the necessary flexibility and stability to match their active lifestyle. This design also guarantees that kids move with their feet and maintain a natural and healthy foot development.

Picking the right fit!

Getting the proper fit for preschoolers is crucial. Ill-fitting shoes can lead to discomfort, blisters, and even long-term foot problems. Designed with the growing foot in mind, PS shoes provide ample room for the toes to wiggle and space for the feet to grow.

Many PS shoes feature adjustable fastenings like Velcro straps or elastic laces, making it easier to achieve a snug yet comfortable fit. Ensuring that the shoes fit well not only keeps your child comfortable throughout the day but also encourages them to be active and explore their surroundings without any hindrance.

Built with safety in mind

When we talk about preschool shoes, the number one goal is undoubtedly safety. PS shoes have been planned according to the essential features that will aid in their foot development and ensure their safety. 

They often have cushioned insoles to absorb the impact, which is necessary for the protection of young, developing bones and joints. Durable and slip-resistant materials produce the soles, preventing the frequent slips and falls common at this adventurous age. 

Furthermore, the shoes provide a certain level of arch support, which, while minimal, is sufficient for the child’s correct alignment and posture.

In short, it is not wrong to say that PS shoes are the mini versions of adult footwear. This craft needs great thought so it meets the specific needs of preschoolers, ensuring they have the support, comfort, and safety necessary for their daily activities.

How do PS shoes differ from other kids’ shoes?

While PS shoes are parallels to adult shoes in one way, they are certainly different from other kids’ shoes. Let’s see how.

Size range

It may be hard to understand the sizes of kids’ shoes. PS, which stands for pre-school, are the shoes specifically meant for kids in the following age bracket, usually between 3-5 years old. The following comparison will guide you through different typologies of children’s shoes:

• Toddler (TD) sizes: Typically, these sizes span from 4 to 10, catering primarily to children under the age of 3.
• Preschool (PS) sizes: These sizes cater to kids who are in the preschool age group, roughly 3 to 5 years old. They normally fall between 10.5 and 3.
• Grade school (GS) sizes: This type is usually for older kids, about 6 years and older. GS starts at 3.5, going up to 7.

Understanding such size ranges is important in ensuring that you get the most suitable shoe size according to your child’s age group.

Design element

They are crafted by keeping the special needs of preschoolers in mind, such as:

• Easier fastenings: For instance, you can use Velcro straps instead of laces to make it easier for small hands to untie or tie their shoes on their own, encouraging independence in babies.
• Flexible soles: Because their feet are in the process of growing, at this point flexibility matters more than anything else when it comes to young ones’ feet; hence, PS shoes tend to have more flexible soles meant for natural foot movement alongside growth.
• Playful designs: When it comes to PS shoes, they are full of bright colors, funny patterns, and favorite characters, making them popular among today’s kids. These patterns not only draw children’s attention, but they make the process of putting on shoes fun too.

Material choices

The materials used in these types of shoes influence their comfort and durability. Here are some examples of the materials used in these shoes:

• Durability: This implies that most preschoolers’ shoes are manufactured using tough substances that can withstand any activity involving running, jumping, falling, or skipping, thereby reinforcing the claim made earlier regarding suitability for rough and tumble activities. In this regard, reinforced stitching and tough outsoles are common features.
• Breathability: To keep feet comfortable and dry, many different models from P.S. Shoes utilize breathable fabrics such as mesh, which helps to avoid sweat and discomfort during activities.
• Comfort: PS shoes frequently use soft, cushioned insoles and padded collars to provide extra comfort for all-day wear.

These unique designs and material choices ensure that these shoes perfectly fit children while supporting their active, developing feet. When it comes to supporting and protecting your growing child’s feet during the most critical period of their life, PS shoes are unmatched.

Tips for buying PS shoes

Finding the right footwear for your little one can be a challenge. As you step out to find the perfect pair, make sure you don’t overlook the following factors.

Measuring feet

Properly measuring your child’s feet is the first step in choosing the best shoes, and it could become a favorite activity for both of you! Here’s a simple and interactive way to do it at home:

Materials needed: A sheet of paper, a pencil, a ruler, and some fun stickers.

Preparation: Prepare the paper by placing it on a flat, firm surface.

Once this is done, go through the following steps to determine your child’s foot size.

1st Step: Place your child on the paper with their weight evenly distributed.

2nd Step: Trace around each foot with the pencil, making sure the pencil stays upright and close to the foot.

3rd Step: Using a ruler, check both the length from the heel to the longest toe and the width of the wide part.

Trying on shoes

Whether you’re in-store or at home, fitting is the foremost requirement while trying on your shoes.

1. Socks on: Always have your child try on shoes with the type of socks they normally wear.
2. Walk around: Encourage your child to walk around in his shoes for the next few minutes. Observe if he is showing any signs of discomfort or awkward walking.
3. Check fit:

• Length: There should be approximately a thumb’s width, about half an inch, between the end of the longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• Width: The shoe should fit snugly but not tightly across the widest part of the foot. Make sure there’s no pinching.
• Heel: When one walks, the heel should not be so loose that it slides out of the shoe.

4. Comfort: Ask the child how comfortable the shoes are. Preschoolers are generally able to tell if a shoe is too tight or uncomfortable.

Growth room

Children’s feet grow at a high rate, so there should be some room for that growth without compromising on fit.

1. Length room: Allow a length of about half an inch at the front of the shoe or the width of your thumb. This gives room for growth but ensures the shoes are not oversized and sloppy.
2. Check regularly: Check the fit of your child’s shoes every couple of months. Kids’ feet can grow in spurts, outgrowing what fits well today before one expects it.
3. Avoiding oversize: Do not buy shoes that are oversized, thinking that your child will grow into them. Ill-fitting, too-big shoes can cause trips and discomfort for your child, eventually affecting their gait and ease.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your preschooler’s shoes fit properly, are comfortable, and accommodate their rapidly growing feet. Happy shoe shopping!

Do popular brands make PS shoes?

Here are a few of the best names that you should think about:

Nike

Well known for their sporty-looking designs as well as quality, they offer quite a variety of PS shoes that go with style and functionality. Their shoes are usually fitted with easy-to-use closures, are lightweight, and are durably constructed for the active preschool child.

Adidas

Adidas brings trendy, athletic-inspired footwear into the PS market. With most shoes in this brand, comfort and support are put at the forefront, often by using breathable fabrics and flexible soles to assist the busy little feet.

Stride Rite

Stride Rite is a best-selling children’s shoe brand, with a lot of PS styles focusing on support for healthy foot development. Many of their shoes include padded support for the arch, a spacious toe box, and adjustable fasteners.

Skechers

It has some really fun and flashy shoes, so the kids will like them a lot. Some of them come with a light-up feature, most of them with bright colors—all to make sure they are comfortable and long-lasting.

Trendy styles in PS shoes

Preschoolers adore shoes that are stylish and fun. Some of the trendy brands that you should consider for your kids are:

Light-Up sneakers

Sneakers with lighting effects are always in. Brands such as Skechers and Stride Rite integrate a lot of variety with light-up elements into their functional shoes, which brings so much fun to them.

Slip-on sneakers

Slip-on sneakers are easy to put on and take off—perfect for preschoolers who may just be learning to dress themselves. Nike and Adidas both have some pretty dapper examples—using stretchy, breathable materials.

Velcro straps

Shoes with Velcro straps are a must for preschoolers, offering convenience and independence. New Balance and Stride Rite provide numerous designs with secure Velcro closures.

Character-themed shoes

Kids want to wear shoes with cartoon and movie characters. Skechers partners with some popular franchises to design the most endearing character themes on shoes.

Athletic shoes

These are baby-sized versions of athletic shoes worn by adults, providing equal amounts of support and comfort while coming in fun designs appropriate for kids. Look for options from Nike and Adidas that mimic their popular adult versions.

Budget-friendly PS shoes options

You don’t have to be a spendthrift to find quality PS shoes. Here are some budget-friendly brands that offer great value without compromising on quality:

Carter’s

Known for its affordable and cute children’s clothing, Carter’s is an umbrella of many varieties of PS shoes. Their shoes have been designed with the young child in mind, with a focus on comfort and ease of use.

Target—Cat & Jack

Target’s Cat & Jack brand offers a long line of stylish and functional PS shoes at very pocket-friendly prices. They are known for their durability and fun designs.

Walmart (Wonder Nation)

Wonder Nation by Walmart offers an extensive selection of PS shoes that are both affordable and reliable. Their shoes come in a variety of styles and colors, ensuring there’s something for every preschooler.

Payless

Payless carries a range of budget-friendly PS shoes from various brands. You can find trendy and practical options without spending a fortune.

Amazon essentials

Easy and comfortable PS shoes make this wallet-friendly Amazon in-house brand a repeat customer favorite. They bring basic styles that suit daily wear.

And what do the parents say about different PS models?

Nothing is better than to hear from other parents who have literally walked in your shoes. Here are some real-life testimonials from parents who have gone through the same adventure —and occasional frustration—of finding those perfect PS shoes for kids:

Nike Boys Air Max 90

Patricia Espinoza Arguello says: “I ordered a smaller number because they are big, I look perfect, they are comfortable, they don’t weigh and very nice, I really liked them.”

Nike Boys Air Max 270

Kristina S says: “5.0 out of 5 stars – These are perfect and comfortable. Love the bright red color!”

Adidas Unisex-Child Racer Tr23 (Little Big Kid) Sneaker

Taylor Bladen says: “5.0 out of 5 stars – As a mama of a 1st grader, I will buy these shoes again. My son goes through so many shoes in a school year and these have lasted the longest! I don’t have to worry about laces coming untied while at school. My son says they are very comfortable. Definitely worth the money.”

Stride Rite Unisex-Baby Soft Motion Kylo Sneaker

Hillary Kozeny: “5.0 out of 5 stars – These shoes are so cute, wide toe box, lightweight, and stay on! Perfect for my newly walking 13-month-old. She’s been cruising around barefoot or in soft-sole moccasins for a month or so, and we decided it was time to get her real shoes. Took her a few laps around the living room to get her sea legs but now she’s moving in them with ease.”

ASICS Kid’s PRE VENTURE 9 Pre-School Running Shoes

Lassie VeUss writes: “5.0 out of 5 stars – The most comfortable shoes. We have gone through a lot of shoes, and these have been, by far, the best ones we have found. Most importantly, my son says they feel really good on his feet. While he usually took off his shoes immediately, he would sometimes wear them around the house for hours on end. They have held up very well, even after several washings (but per the instructions, do not put them in the dryer at any temperature—the plastic soles will melt). The Velcro is still in good condition. These shoes have fantastic traction, and the bottoms are not showing much wear. There are two stitches at the toe that inevitably come loose. Cutting them off doesn’t affect the integrity of the shoe at all.”

Skechers Girls Power Jams Everyday Bestie

Matthew Earl says: “5.0 out of 5 stars – Great quality color weight comfort & fit. Ordered 9t & she’s like 8.5 & it’s great all around. Light.”

Skechers Girl’s Microspec Max Sneaker

Anna writes: “5.0 out of 5 stars – I ordered 6 other shoe models for my daughter and had to return them all because she didn’t feel comfortable in them. The minute she put these shoes on, she was in love. She has wide feet so these fit without a struggle and she loves them so much I am going to buy another pair.”

Marty speaks as a parent

While both of my kids have grown up beyond the preschool age, as a parent, I understand how important it is for us to provide the best comfort and safety to our kids. For that reason, it becomes a little crucial for us to learn deeply about their body’s safety and health needs.

And in the process, we may come across various types and styles of shoes—PS being among them. Through this blog, I tried to enlighten my fellow parents about the importance of these shoes and the intricacies to look at while picking them for their little ones. I hope this helps you make an informed decision.