Affordable shoe fitting?

amother

Today at 12:49 am

Been trying to buy my toddler's first shoes online. I'm following all the guides and everything but I'm confused and unsure if I'm getting it right and whether I'm getting it wrong enough to cause harm. This is not my first rodeo but I think this child just has complicated feet. And yes I'm about to cross-post in a non-NY specific forum about the issue in general but I think I need in-person help.

I really really can't afford to pay $100 for shoes that will be outgrown in five days (he's growing fast!) Is there a store that sells basic American shoes but fits them well? (it looks like Stride Rite doesn't have fitting stores anymore.) Or is there anyone who knows about shoes and fitting who might be able to tell me how I'm doing with the online shoes just as a favor/mitzvah, if I bring the baby and the shoes in to take a look at, since I'm not in the market to be their customer for their $100 shoes anyway?

Location could be Brooklyn, Queens, or 5 Towns.