I asked the question, and people responded. This back-to-school shoe-shopping thing is pretty serious.

The answers fell across the financial and geographic map. The most popular close haunts for Shorewood are Stan’s by a large margin, followed by Kohl’s, then big box, outlet, online and used. Back-to-school shoes are more carefully selected; people pay a bit more to start the year off right.

Stan's in Glendale is No. 1 for proximity and quality.

"Always check for sales online," says Melissa Ugland, who prefers the store because of the fit and the brands like New Balance they carry for kids (there is an online offer 'til Aug 31). Personally, I find the thoroughness with each child and the measuring devices alone make you feel you can check off a trip to the doctor as well. They carry Keen, Naturino, Geox, Umi, Florscheim, and Kamik and Sorel boots, just to name a few. The rest of the family will likely find something they like as well.

Another top contender, Kohl’s, has a big children’s section, and carries varieties of gym and dress shoes for boys as well as girls, though you’re on your own to measure, and corral, your kids. A boy’s gym shoe in size 4 with Velcro will run you $35 unless you have a coupon (easily had, I always forget, don't be like me).

Big Box: Walmart is close and good in a pinch, like a lost shoe, though no one admits going there. Target (the store near Miller Park is my favorite) has a wide selection for girls and will cover your sparkle fix. Resident Kathy Yanoff suggested Target, or online, if your child is into Crocs (careful not to ride on an escalator) or Converse.

Outlet: Stride Rite Outlet at Gurnee and Pleasant Prairie, (shh -word here is the brand's been bought by Payless, but the outlet has older models with the arch support we remember...according to multiple sources- thoughts?).

The Internet: allows for a wide variety with the obvious hit-or-miss size and color drawback — but no lengthy trip to the store — with sites like Zappos being mentioned as fun and easy.

Used: Consignment used shoes and clothing from the Playroom Closet in West Allis comes highly recommended by resident Annette Swanson who owns City Market. Two other used sources are expanded local Goodwill on East Capitol Drive, and in spring, the annual Lake Bluff Elementary Rummage Sale offers great finds.

Shorewood options: A new store to Shorewood, Performance Running Outfitters, has been given high marks for attention and industry knowledge by customers. Resident Mara Kuhlmann shops for her son Sam’s shoes there (one of the top mile splits in the land). If you have a child who is serious about running, he or she could probably be a large enough foot size to fit one of these golden arches. 

Speaking of golden arches, the opposite end of the shopping spectrum, one parent, who chose to remain anonymous, joked that he’s fond of the play areas at McDonald’s that require children to remove their shoes.

“I have my kids bring old shoes that don’t fit, and just try all of them on ‘til they find a good swap," the resident said.

All joking aside, shoes are serious. Make sure you label them with name and phone number and/or your email address if you want to get that fancy running shoe (or one left shoe that fits at the moment) back in real time (note to self).