Post Title

February 19, 2025

From Toddler to Big Kid Shoes

Footwear is an essential component of a wardrobe, even for young toddlers. Many parents are often unsure when to begin the transition from soft-bottom shoes, which promote natural foot development due to their flexibility, to the more rigid hard-bottom shoes that offer increased protection but limit mobility. It’s recommended that you wait until the child is walking independently, which is usually around 12-18 months of age. However, some little ones may begin walking skillfully by the age of 9-10 months.

The key is to keep an eye on your child's walking development and notice when they start walking confidently on their own. Once your child is eager for outdoor exploration, hard-bottom shoes offer optimal support and protection for their active little feet. Their sturdy soles shield feet from hazards on the playground and provide protection from temperature variations on hot or cold surfaces. Additionally, the durable sole structure ensures your toddler's safety while playing.

It has been traditionally believed that shoes featuring hard soles offer structural support that can help prevent certain foot conditions like flat feet and pronation. Furthermore, modern hard-soled shoes designed for new walkers often incorporate a broader and higher toe box, providing ample space for toe movement. In contrast, many soft-soled baby shoes lack elevation at the front and have a narrow toe box, constraining toe movement and necessitating larger sizes. This limitation could potentially lead to an increase in trips and falls for young children.

Hard-soled shoes provide various advantages for infants, including enhanced stability, increased support, and improved protection. These attributes make them a favorable option for babies transitioning to standing and walking. Furthermore, hard-soled shoes offer protection against rough surfaces, sharp objects, and inclement weather conditions.

Some physical signs that show your baby is prepared for hard-soled shoes may include:

Standing and walking without support
Showing a more steady and confident walking style
Often walking on tiptoes
Displaying curiosity about shoes and attempting to put them on independently

Recognizing these cues indicates that it might be time to switch to hard-soled shoes.

At Boger's Shoes, we know the importance of hard-bottom shoes for children and that's why we're excited to introduce the Todd as our Shoe of the Month! Not only do they provide extra support and durability, but they also help your child improve their posture and balance for their developing feet.

Stop by our store and let us help your child take their first steps in style with the Todd.

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Ingrown Toenails: What They Are and How to Kick the Pain to the Curb

September 10, 2025

Ingrown toenails are a common foot issue that can cause pain, swelling, and even infection if not treated properly. Whether you're dealing with one for the first time or looking to prevent future problems, understanding how they develop and how to care for them can make a big difference. What Is an Ingrown Toenail? An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of your toenail grows into the surrounding skin instead of over it. This usually affects the big toe but can happen to any toenail. The result is often redness, pain, and sometimes infection. Common Causes of Ingrown Toenails Several factors can contribute to the development of an ingrown toenail, including: Improper Nail Trimming : Cutting nails too short or rounding the corners can encourage the nail to grow into the skin. Tight Footwear : Shoes that squeeze the toes can put pressure on the nails, forcing them into the skin. Injury : Stubbing your toe or other trauma can lead to nail growth problems. Genetics : Some people inherit the tendency for curved or thick nails. Poor Foot Hygiene : Not keeping feet clean and dry can lead to nail issues, including ingrown toenails. Signs and Symptoms Tenderness or pain along one or both sides of the toenail Redness and swelling around the nail Pus or other signs of infection Warmth around the toe If symptoms worsen or don’t improve, medical attention may be necessary. How to Care for an Ingrown Toenail Mild cases of ingrown toenails can often be managed at home with proper care. 1. Soak Your Foot Soaking the foot in warm water for 15–20 minutes, 2–3 times a day, helps reduce swelling and softens the nail and skin. Optional : Add Epsom salt to the water for extra relief. 2. Gently Lift the Nail After soaking, try to gently lift the edge of the nail using a clean piece of cotton or dental floss. This can help separate the nail from the skin and guide proper growth. Change the cotton/floss daily. 3. Apply Antibiotic Ointment Use an over-the-counter antibiotic cream to prevent infection. Cover the toe with a sterile bandage after applying. 4. Wear Comfortable Shoes Choose open-toed or loose-fitting shoes to avoid putting pressure on the toenail while it heals. 5. Avoid Cutting the Nail Further Trimming the nail might seem helpful, but cutting it too short can make the problem worse. Let it grow out a bit before reshaping it carefully. You should consult a healthcare provider if: The ingrown toenail shows signs of infection (pus, redness, increased pain) You have diabetes or poor circulation Home treatment doesn't improve the condition in a few days You experience recurring ingrown toenails A doctor might perform a minor procedure to remove part of the nail or prescribe antibiotics if there’s an infection. Preventing Ingrown Toenails Trim Nails Properly : Cut straight across, not too short, and avoid rounding the edges. Wear Proper Footwear : Make sure your shoes fit well and provide enough room for your toes. Keep Feet Clean and Dry : Good foot hygiene can prevent a variety of nail problems. Protect Your Feet : Be cautious during sports and other activities that might cause toe injury. Ingrown toenails can be painful, but with the right care and attention, most cases resolve without complications. By understanding what causes them and how to treat and prevent them, you can keep your feet healthy and pain-free. If you're ever unsure or dealing with persistent symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek professional care.