Finding the perfect pair of shoes for your kids can be a challenge. They need shoes that are comfortable, durable, and stylish – and let's be honest, sometimes finding a store that caters specifically to kids' shoe needs can feel like a quest! This guide helps you navigate the best shoe stores in Long Beach, offering a range of styles, brands, and price points to fit every child and family. We've compiled a list of 19 excellent options, categorized for your convenience.
Finding the Right Fit: Types of Kids' Shoe Stores
Before diving into our Long Beach recommendations, let's consider the different types of kids' shoe stores you might encounter:
1. Department Stores: These offer a broad selection, often including popular kids' brands alongside adult footwear. They frequently have sales and loyalty programs. Examples include Macy's, Nordstrom, and JCPenney.
2. Specialty Kids' Stores: These focus solely on children's footwear, providing expert fitting services and a wider variety of sizes and styles specifically designed for growing feet.
3. Athletic Stores: These specialize in athletic shoes, perfect for active kids. You'll find brands like Nike, Adidas, and Under Armour.
4. Independent Boutiques: These often carry unique, higher-end brands and may offer personalized service and styling advice.
5. Online Retailers: While not brick-and-mortar stores, online options offer convenience and a vast selection. Always check return policies carefully.
Top 19 Shoe Stores for Kids in Long Beach:
This list is not exhaustive and store availability may change. Always check store locations and hours before visiting.
Department Stores:
- Macy's (Long Beach Towne Center): A wide selection of brands and styles, often with sales.
- Nordstrom (South Coast Plaza - Costa Mesa): While slightly outside Long Beach, Nordstrom offers a premium selection and excellent customer service.
- JCPenney (Multiple Locations): Affordable options and a decent selection for everyday wear.
Specialty Kids' Stores:
- [Insert Local Long Beach Kids' Shoe Store Name 1]: (Address and details needed) (Add a brief description emphasizing their unique selling points, e.g., wide size range, specialized fitting)
- [Insert Local Long Beach Kids' Shoe Store Name 2]: (Address and details needed) (Add a brief description emphasizing their unique selling points, e.g., focus on eco-friendly brands, expert advice on foot health)
- [Insert Local Long Beach Kids' Shoe Store Name 3]: (Address and details needed) (Add a brief description emphasizing their unique selling points, e.g., large selection of athletic shoes, discounts for school teams)
Athletic Stores:
- Foot Locker (Multiple Locations): A reliable option for popular athletic brands like Nike and Adidas.
- Finish Line (Multiple Locations): Similar to Foot Locker, with a good selection of athletic shoes for kids.
- Dick's Sporting Goods (Multiple Locations): Offers a broader range of sporting goods, including a decent selection of kids' athletic shoes.
Independent Boutiques:
- [Insert Local Long Beach Boutique Name 1]: (Address and details needed) (Add a brief description emphasizing their unique selling points, e.g., unique styles, personalized service)
- [Insert Local Long Beach Boutique Name 2]: (Address and details needed) (Add a brief description emphasizing their unique selling points, e.g., focus on sustainable brands, handcrafted shoes)
Online Retailers:
- Zappos: Known for excellent customer service and wide selection.
- Amazon: A vast selection with varying prices and brands. Check reviews carefully.
- 6pm.com (Shoes at a discount): A great option for finding deals.
Other Options (Potentially in nearby cities):
- Shoe Carnival: Affordable options, often with sales.
- Famous Footwear: Another affordable option with a decent selection of kids' shoes.
- DSW: Wide selection, including designer brands.
- Payless ShoeSource (Limited Locations): If still available in the area, known for budget-friendly options.
- Target/Walmart: While not solely shoe stores, they offer a basic selection of children's footwear at affordable prices.
Tips for Choosing Kids' Shoes:
- Proper Fit: Always have your child's feet measured by a professional.
- Comfort: Choose shoes that are comfortable and allow for proper foot movement.
- Durability: Consider the activity level of your child when choosing a shoe.
- Style: Let your child have some input in the selection process, while ensuring the chosen shoes are appropriate and practical.
This guide provides a starting point for your search for the perfect kids' shoes in Long Beach. Remember to check store hours, locations, and specific offerings before your visit. Happy shoe shopping!
