How To Find The Right Shoe Size For Your Child
Choosing shoes for your kids should be about more than just looks. The right pair can improve comfort and support healthy foot growth, whilst also reducing problems such as rubbing, blisters, and poor posture. Children's feet grow quickly so it’s important to get the fit right at every stage. Footwear experts have also found that many kids wear the wrong size shoe.
In this ultimate kids shoe fit guide, we cover how to measure your Childs feet, tips for getting the perfect fit and knowing when it’s time for a new pair.
Why Kids Need Properly Fitting Shoes
Kids feet are continually growing and developing from birth. Babies have soft feet which will harden with age. Toddlers feet also grow quickly as they learn how to walk, run and balance.
Tight or bad fitting shoes can restrict natural movements and cause discomfort. Shoes should:
- Allow natural foot movement
- Have room to grow
- Feel comfortable all day
- Support stability and balance
- Minimize rubbing
- Help prevent common problems
Children can quickly outgrow shoes, which is why it’s important to regularly check their shoes fit correctly.
How Often Should Kids Feet Be Measured?
Kids feet can grow quickly, so we recommend measuring your Childs feet every 2-3 months during early years. This will help you stay on top of growing feet and avoid size surprises.
As a rough guide:
Baby & toddler: every 2 months
Young children: every 3-4 months
Older children: every 4-6 months
How to Measure Kids Feet at Home
Ideally, you should measure your Childs feet each time you shop for new shoes. It’s quick and easy to do at home too.
Step 1: Measure Both Feet
One foot is often slightly larger than the other, so be sure to measure both feet and choose the larger size when buying new shoes.
Step 2: Have Your Child Stand
Your child should stand upright, and make sure they’re wearing the type of socks they’ll wear with the shoes.
Step 3: Trace Foot & Measure Lengths
Trace around each foot and measure the length from heel to longest toe. Use the brands size guide to determine which size fits best.
Step 4: Leave Room to Grow
Kids shoes should have some room to grow. However, there shouldn’t be so much extra space that their foot slides around. We recommend leaving around a thumbs width of space at the front of the shoe.
How Shoes Should Fit Kids’ Feet
Ideally shoes should feel comfortable and supportive from the moment your child puts them on. Here are some key areas to check:
Length
Kids shoes should have extra room at the front to allow toes to move comfortably. Press gently at the front of the shoe while your child is standing. There should be no contact between their toes and the shoe.
Width
The widest part of the foot should fit comfortably in the shoe. Shoes that are too narrow can cause rubbing, while shoes that are too wide won’t be very supportive.
Heel
The heel should fit snugly against the shoe. There will be some movement when walking, but the shoe shouldn’t come loose off the heel with every step.
Depth
The shoe shouldn’t feel tight on the top of the foot. Equally, there shouldn’t be lots of room between the foot and the inside of the shoe.
Flexibility
Kids shoes should flex with the foot. They should also be supportive with good grip.
Signs Your Child’s Shoes Are Too Small
Kids won’t always tell you when their shoes don’t fit. Look out for these signs that your child has outgrown their shoes:
- Rubbing or red marks
- Children complaining their feet hurt
- Toes touching the end of the shoe
- Difficulty putting shoes on
- Change in how they walk
- Shoes wearing out quickly at the front
If you notice any of these signs, try sizing up half a size and see if the fit improves.
Signs Your Child’s Shoes Are Too Big
Many parents assume buying shoes with plenty of room will save money. However, shoes that are too big can cause children to lose their balance and feel uncomfortable.
Some signs to look out for include:
- Heel slips out when walking
- Child trips and falls more
- Feet slide forward in shoes
- Shoes have deep creases when your child takes them off
- Difficulty walking normally
While it may be tempting to buy your child shoes that will “last them a while.” It’s important to get the correct fit.
Kids Shoe Shopping Tips
When it comes to kids shoes, not all are created equal. Focus on features like support and comfort rather than looks alone. Here are some features to look out for when shopping:
- Soft soles
- Adjustable fastenings, Velcro/fasteners or laces
- Breathable materials
- Good grip
- Lightweight
- Durable construction
- Roomy toe box
Flexibility is especially important for younger children and toddlers.
Tips for Trying On Shoes
Kids should try on shoes later in the day as feet are more swollen after standing and doing exercise. Have your child walk around in the shoes and pay attention to how they move.
If your child looks like they’re struggling to walk normally, stumble, or try taking the shoes off, it may not be a good fit. Brands vary when it comes to kids shoe sizing. Use your measurements as a guide and try different brands to find the perfect fit.
Final Advice on Kids Shoe Sizing and Tips
Having the correct shoes can help support healthy foot growth and improve your Childs comfort. Measuring your child’s feet regularly and paying attention to fit will ensure their feet always stay comfortable and protected.
At SoleLution, we know how important comfortable shoes are for kids of all ages. Whether you’re looking for flexible shoes for toddlers, school shoes, or durable kids trainers, the fit makes all the difference.