Echuca-born footwear label Archies has expanded into the kids footwear market, launching its first range of thongs for kids.
Following the success of its collection for adults and the strong demand from customers for a children's range, the brand has launched a kids collection of its Arch Support Thongs in sizes 9K to 3Y.
Archies Footwear founder and physiotherapist Daniel Jones welcomed the launch of the new range.
"It's great for kids to wear bare feet as often as possible, to help strengthen their feet.
"However, there will be times when they cannot do this, or they just want to wear what the 'big kids' are wearing.
"This is why we created Archies Thongs for little ones – especially those who need a bit of extra support.
"The real benefit for kids is that as Archies Thongs have a tight strap, they stick to their feet which allows their arch to function normally, and the child to walk naturally.
"This is not achievable in most thongs that typically have loose straps," he said.
Archies Thongs' tight strap and form-fitting structure reduce the need for toes to grip into the thongs to keep them on, instead activating the arch of the foot.
The launch of the range is a significant milestone for Jones and the brand, signalling just how far it as come from its humble beginnings, where Dan would drive up and down the east coast of Australia, selling Archies at local markets.
And now, alongside expanding its range, the brand has over 2,500 stockists Australia-wide and also generates international sales.
The new Archies children's collection is available in four colours; black, coral, pink and mint.
The Archies Arch Support Children’s Thongs are available for purchase online for $30.