Why Shoe Fitting Matters More Than Just Measuring

When it comes to buying children’s shoes, many parents think measuring is the most important step. And while measuring is a helpful starting point, it’s only a guide. The real difference comes from fitting — taking the measurement and applying it to the unique shape of your child’s foot, the style of the shoe, and how the two work together.

At SoleLution, we often say: there’s no such thing as a “fitted shoe” on the shelf. A shoe only becomes a good fit when it’s matched to the foot wearing it.

Why Measuring Alone Isn’t Enough

A shoe gauge can tell us the length and width of a child’s foot — but children’s feet are rarely that straightforward.

Just yesterday, we had a child measure as an E width. On paper, that would suggest a narrower shoe. But, in reality, he had a prominent big toe joint and a shallow foot.

Together, that meant he needed to try wider styles (F or even G fitting) depending on the shoe. If we’d gone by the measurement alone, the shoes would have been uncomfortable, caused pressure points, and simply wouldn’t have supported him properly.

This is why fitting is essential. We don’t just measure, we look at how the foot sits in the shoe, how it moves, and how the shoe supports each part of the foot.

Different Feet, Different Shoes

Two children can measure the same length and width yet need completely different shoes. Why? Because:

• Toe shape (some have long second toes, some have wide forefeet, some have prominent big toes)
• Arch type (flat, average, high)
• Heel shape (slim, average, fuller)
• Flexibility (some feet roll in, others are more rigid)

All of these influence which styles work. That’s why one child might be perfect in a narrow lace-up, while another needs a wider velcro style in the same measured size.

Why Fit Matters in Every Shoe

Some shoes are designed with wide toe boxes, flexible soles, or extra cushioning. Others are more structured and supportive. Each has its place — but only if it fits your child’s foot.

Take barefoot shoes, for example. They’re designed to give toes room to spread out, which is great in theory. But if the heel doesn’t fit securely and the child has to curl their toes to keep the shoe on, the wide toe box no longer does its job.

The same goes for any shoe. A supportive lace-up, a trainer, a school shoe or a sandal — if it doesn’t fit properly, the features that make it appealing won’t work as intended.

That’s why we always say: it’s not about the style of shoe being “good” or “bad” — it’s about whether it fits your child’s foot.

Shoes Have Different Purposes

Just like we don’t wear the same clothes for every activity, not every shoe suits every situation.

• School shoes need to support long days of walking, running, and sitting.
• Sports shoes are built for performance and cushioning during activity.
• Casual shoes or sandals have their own roles too.

Matching the right shoe to the right activity — and to the right foot — is the key to comfort and long-term foot health.

Why We Fit, Not Just Measure

At SoleLution, fitting means:

• Measuring as a starting point
• Assessing the shape and needs of your child’s feet
• Trying on different styles and sizes
• Checking comfort, support, and growing room
• Making sure the shoe works with the foot, not against it

Because every child’s feet are unique, and the shoe that’s right for one child may not be right for another — even if they measure the same size.

Final Thoughts

There’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to children’s shoes. Measuring gives us numbers, but fitting gives us answers.

If you’re buying school shoes or everyday shoes for your child, make sure they’re not just measured but properly fitted. Their comfort, confidence, and foot health depend on it.

👣 Book your fitting today — or pop in and we’ll be happy to check the shoes you already have if you’d like reassurance.