need suggestions for boy's shoes

[Michael Dec]

My 6 year old son will be joining me this season at reenactments. I finished making his civilian shirts, trousers, and drawers, and am trying to see what to do about shoes. He's in a toddler 13,almost a child 1, and I am looking for suggestions on what civilian style shoes he should be wearing and where to get them. I would even consider something that may not be totally authentic but perhaps something that could be modified so that it would be acceptable.

Thanks for the help,
Michael Dec

[gwagner]

I would get him a 4...their shoes run small...and let him wear a few pairs of sock until he grows into them.

http://fugawee.com/kids.htm


But, wet them...and let him wear them around the yard until they dry...then spray them with Lexol. Should prevent rubbing at the first event.

[Ross L. Lamoreaux]

I would get him a 4...their shoes run small...and let him wear a few pairs of sock until he grows into them.

http://fugawee.com/kids.htm


But, wet them...and let him wear them around the yard until they dry...then spray them with Lexol. Should prevent rubbing at the first event.

That is exactly what I had to do with my son. We found some shoes at (gasp) WalMart that were of course modern with rubber soles and heels, but I took out the laces, added hemp twine, and most people didn't notice (except my son who asked, Daddy am I a farb because of these shoes?). There just aren't too many authentic options for the young uns, so get the smallest you can and wear lots of socks.

[Elaine Kessinger]

[QUOTE=Ross L. Lamoreaux;119517](except my son who asked, Daddy am I a farb because of these shoes?).

Once again Mr. L., your son is just plain adorable!
Mr. Dec- Your son looks very nice in his new outfit. :)

Some of the mothers on the Sewing Academy Forum have used what's called a Paddock Boot. here are a coupla choices in "appropriate" styles, the laced: http://www.horse.com/Saxon-Childs-Lace-Up-Paddock-Boots-ERM20.html?scode=hbizrate&mr:referralID=b3c460ce-59e2-11de-8327-000423bb4e79
..and the elastic sided (yes, I realize these have a zip in the center front, but zipped it looks unintrusive in the picture :) ) :
http://www.doversaddlery.com/product.asp?pn=X1-38566&tid=shopz&CATALOG_CODE=1X844&EID=X1844001&zmam=1460880&zmas=1&zmac=45&zmap=X1-38566

[mravery]

I'm with Ross on this one...

I have a 5 and 8 year old and they both want to come out with me. Problem is, if you drop $40-$60 for the shoes you MIGHT get 2 seasons out of them before they are out grown.

Check with your local 2nd hand shops (Goodwill, Salvation Army etc) as I have found acceptable shoes there.

Also, check with your unit..... The first time out I was able to borrow clothes and shoes to fit my 8 year old.

Hope the info helps.

Cheers
Mark

[Chasesmommy]

I've had pretty good luck finding passable shoes on ebay. Some better then others. Just search for paddock boots. Most will have the speed lacers which aren't period but very easily removed... I've had pretty good luck and all of the shoes I've found for Chase have been under 10 dollars. Goodwill stores and the likes might have some options as well!!