Kids' running shoes

Evening.

My daughter, aged 11, is getting more interested in running at school and with me.  Obviously I'm keen to encourage this and want to buy her a decent pair of shoes - does anyone have advice on what I should look out for? She's a size 5-6-ish but her feet are still growing - the junior running shoes I've looked at all seem to stop at 5.5 so I think they would be too small. Adult shoes are more complicated though - and would it be sensible to have her gait analysed or is she too young for this? I don't want to get anything over-the top (or too expensive!), but equally I don't want to damamge her growing body by buying something unsuitable.  Tips please!

Thanks.

Talk to Tortoise and Hare. They are top, really top. Spotted my 7 year olds dropped arches and the 4 year olds lack of them.

And cured my ITBS. 

Hi,

You have raised some interesting points, my Son is a keen runner and is currently a size 1.5 - 2 (uk) His father has bought him size 3.5 Walsh fell shoes for Cross country...are these too big and will they cause damage to his growing bones etc?

We have bought him spikes but are now unsure if these are ok or if we should get him some rubber spiked shoes for the really muddy tracks? 

We are thinking of getting his gait and feet analysed etc is he too young at 9?

Please help...confused Mum. 

Thanks Dustboy - do Tortoise and Hare specialise in children's shoes or are they just a good all-round running shop? I'm wondering if it's worth making a special trip there or seeking out a good running shop closer to home.

Naomi - I know all about being confused! It's great when your kids are interested in sports, but you do want to do what's best, especially if it can affect their physical development.

I'll stick my neck out here and big up T&H all the way. They are "just" a running shop. They also look after Richard Stannard I believe, my bike shop which is full of ponces and people in the know. They have also doen me, my wife, kids, friends, mothers of kids frineds, colleagues, all of whom paint them as Mr Glowy. Same price as the high street but very individual and bespoke help as part ofthe service.

They actually said to watch my eldest and to bring him back in a couple of years and if still dropped to refer him to the GP to ensure that his bones grow properly and don't end up needing orthoses later on.  

Very impressed with them so far. 

Dusty as i am a long way from T&H could you recommend a retailer closer to manchester?

I'm thinking of taking him to Up & Running, for gait and foot check etcdoes anyone have any experience of them??? 

Thanks Dustboy - I didn't mean to sound derogatory by saying 'just' a running shop, honest - I think independent running shops are great! If we can get to T&H I'll let you know how we get on.