Freelance Lady: Quality, Affordable Footwear for Kids: Jambu

My son, Carter, is a rambunctious, hyper child. It doesn't matter if we're indoors or out, he's always running around, getting in plenty of cardio, and just generally enjoying himself. All of his movement doesn't come without a cost, however. Over the past several years, Carter has gone through several pairs of shoes—and not just because he's growing like a weed. No, Carter has worn down shoes because he tends to wear them out rather quickly.

Investing in a high-quality shoe is very important to us when it comes to our children. My husband and I know first-hand what it's like to have an unsupportive shoe—it can affect your body in many different negative ways. Because of this, we like our children to have shoes that are supportive, while still remaining practical.

* Product and/or service provided for review without cost. As always, all opinions are my own.

Recently, I had the chance to try out a pair of shoes for Carter from Jambu, a footwear brand—but not just any footwear brand. Jambu cares about nature and the environment, and therefore takes certain measures to help reduce their carbon footprint. They offer shoes for children and adults.

Their shoes are created with partially recyclable outsoles and come in 100% recyclable packaging. In 2014, they partnered with American Forest to provide the opportunity to plant 50,000 trees. Needless to say, Jambu is a footwear brand that I can stand behind.

Once Carter learned that we would be trying out a pair of Jambu shoes, he became pretty antsy. He was ready to browse the catalog right away, so that's what we did!

After going through several different styles, Carter finally settled on "Coachella." He loved the combination of red and black, and just generally liked the overall look of the shoes.

As a mother, I liked them because they appeared functional, looked comfortable (I was hoping that I wouldn't be proven wrong), and also appeared to have durable soles.

The description is what sold me on the shoes. From the Jambu website:

An easy, and stylish slip on made for adventure. The Coachella is made from suede and mesh and features a functional strap to keep your child's feet snug.

The upper part is made of textile lycra, real suede and includes micro-injected rubber piece

Textile insole/phylon midsole/non marking rubber outsole

Hook and loop closure

The shoes arrived in a 100% recyclable box—one that I see myself using for school supplies for the 2015-2016 school year (we educate through an online charter school at home).

Carter couldn't wait to try the shoes on! But first, I wanted to get a better look.

The first thing that stood out to me was the amount of padding inside of the shoe. This, to me, was a change from almost every pair that Carter has owned before. I have never seen a kids' shoe appear more comfortable.

The hook and loop closure was functional and easily secured. It is convenient and quick—great for a "boy on-the-go" like Carter. He is always ready to get out as soon as he can, so throwing on shoes and strapping them, as opposed to tying them, is ideal.

The final part of the shoe that really impressed me was the toe area. I love that it is reinforced with rubber. With all of the running, jumping, skipping, and playing that Carter does, he's been known to scuff this area of his shoe, leaving it worn and susceptible to holes. Because this area isn't just fabric, I can rest assured that this is unlikely to happen with the Coachella shoes from Jambu.

Overall, the shoe itself is fantastic! It is stylish yet simple, and practical but high-quality. Even my husband remarked on how "cool" and "comfortable" they looked—and he's a pretty picky guy when it comes to shoes!

After I was done examining the shoes, Carter was finally able to get the chance to slip them on, just in time to get outside to play. He immediately remarked, "These shoes fit better than any other shoes I've ever had!" As his mother, that of course made me smile. There's nothing better than seeing your child happy.

Of course, Carter wasn't too pleased with all of the pictures I was taking. He was ready to get them on and get outside to try them out.

Carter loved the shoes and enjoyed showing them off to his aunt. The Jambu Coachella shoes have quickly become one of his favorite pairs!

The Coachella shoes are not only comfortable, stylish, and functional, but they're also affordable. For only $55, you'll receive a pair of shoes from a company who cares about the Earth and if you don't like the way they look, you can return them within 30 days for a refund.

As of July 30, 2015, the Coachella style for kids is on sale for only $33!

I am beyond satisfied with this pair of shoes and I highly recommend them. A good pair of shoes is a must, and Jambu creates quality shoes at affordable prices.