Halloween is one of the most exciting nights of the year for kids, filled with costumes, candy, and, most importantly, lots of walking! But all that excitement, combined with darkness and cumbersome costumes, creates a frightening storm for foot and ankle injuries. Let us at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists walk you through the best foot safety tips to have an injury-free 2025 Halloween.
Costumes are the heart of Halloween, but the shoes that come with them are often the biggest hazard. Avoid having your child wear oversized, high-heeled, or flimsy shoes that come with a costume. Those ill-fitting boots or character heels can compromise stability and lead to an easy twist or fall.
Instead, insist on comfortable, properly fitting, supportive athletic shoes. Have your child wear the athletic shoes under the costume if possible, or opt for a costume that works with sneakers.
Long, flowing costumes might look dramatic, but they are a major trip hazard, especially when navigating steps and sidewalks in the dark. Make sure you hem or pin up any costume that drags on the ground.
Costume trips can also sprain an ankle, so another solution is to use duct tape or safety pins to clear the ground by a couple of inches.
Walking around neighborhood streets is spooky, especially for podiatrists, as poor visibility drastically increases the risk of tripping over uneven pavement, tree roots, or obstacles.
We recommend carrying a flashlight or glow stick with you, or to ensure your child wears one. Directing the light at the ground just in front of their feet will help them spot changes in sidewalk level and avoid unseen debris.
Adding reflective tape to their shoes or costume can also help drivers spot them easily.
Trick-or-treating is often a marathon, not a sprint. If your route is long, those little feet are going to get tired. Put on fresh, thick socks and ensure your child’s supportive shoes are laced up snugly to prevent unnecessary friction and movement inside the shoe. And if your child uses custom orthotics for arch support, make sure they wear them! This small step will help absorb shock and prevent arch or heel pain (like plantar fasciitis) that could otherwise start halfway through the route.
Before you head out, think about the path you're taking. Avoid houses with cluttered steps or poorly lit walkways, and encourage your children to stay on sidewalks and to take steps one at a time.
For any podiatric concerns you’re dealing with, come see Dr. Hubert Lee and the team at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists for guidance and advice. You can schedule an appointment online or call today at 425-455-0936.
