Shoe Fetish

July 3rd, 2008 · No Comments

I grew up in a small, midwestern town where everyone went to public school. Perhaps it was because it was the only option…perhaps it’s because the average median income was $40,750. (Thank you, Wikipedia) The point being, I grew up relatively simple. We didn’t have much, but I didn’t realize that until years later.

After graduating high school, I headed to Chicago, then New York City and most recently in Los Angeles. Life has…..well, it’s sped up a bit. Things aren’t quite as simple as they used to be. Despite the drastic change of environment, now that I have a child of my own, I try to keep my priorities in focus and not pay too much attention to all the bells, whistles and Rodeo Drive all around me.

I’ve never felt the need to give my son everything. He has the necessities—and then some. But, let’s talk shoes. His first, second and third pair of shoes were from Payless Shoe Source. I figured their shoes would be just as good as the more expensive ones. As he got older, and started school, I was astonished by the number of mothers that purchased their children’s shoes at expensive boutiques. These mothers were convinced that premium shoes were better for their child’s growing feet and were a bit oddly passionate about it. I didn’t give it much thought, until my son turned 3 and started wearing through a pair of shoes every 2 weeks. That’s when I caved. I went to my local Stride Rite and purchased him a “good” pair of shoes. One month later, they looked just about as bad as the last pair from Target. Somewhat begrudgingly, I went back to the store and purchased another pair. And one month later….well, let’s just say that will be the last time.

While not controversial (unless you’re at the Prospect Park 9th Street playground on a Saturday morning), as a parent, and consumer, I’d like to ask you to vote yes or no to the following questions: