How to Choose the Right Shoe Size for Your Child
, by Lilly Almar, 2 min reading time
How to Choose the Right Shoe Size for Your Child
As a parent, you already know how fast kids grow — especially their feet! One day their shoes fit just fine, and the next, they’re complaining of sore toes or tripping over their own boots. That’s why finding the right shoe size is so important, not just for comfort, but also for foot development and safety.
Here’s our easy, parent-approved guide to measuring, fitting, and choosing the perfect shoes for your child — without the guesswork.
1. Why Proper Fit Matters
Poorly fitted shoes can cause more than discomfort. They can lead to blisters, foot pain, balance issues, and even long-term posture problems. On the flip side, well-fitted shoes help:
- Support natural foot development
- Prevent slips, trips, and falls
- Encourage confident movement and play
2. Measure at Home in 4 Easy Steps
You don’t need fancy tools to measure your child’s foot size at home. Here’s what to do:
- Place a piece of paper flat on the floor against a wall.
- Have your child stand straight with their heel against the wall and foot on the paper.
- Mark the longest toe with a pencil.
- Measure the distance (in inches or cm) from the wall to the mark.
Pro Tip: Measure both feet — one is often slightly larger. Always size based on the larger foot.
3. Use Our Kids’ Shoe Size Chart
Once you’ve measured their foot, use our size chart to find the right fit. We offer sizes for:
- Infants (0–12 months)
- Toddlers (1–4 years)
- Youth/Kids (5–12 years)
4. Leave “Wiggle Room” — But Not Too Much
Kids' feet grow quickly, but buying shoes that are too big can cause tripping and rubbing. Here’s a good rule of thumb:
- Leave about a thumb’s width (½ inch) between the toe and shoe front
- The heel should stay snug and not lift when walking
- Watch for signs of tightness: red marks, complaints, or curling toes
5. Know When It’s Time to Size Up
Kids grow an average of one shoe size every 3–5 months. Check their fit often and look for these signs that it’s time to upgrade:
- They say their shoes hurt or feel tight
- The toe is pressing against the shoe front
- Heel blisters or redness
- Increased tripping or “clumsy” steps
6. Shop Smart with Adjustable Styles
At Kids in Boots, we offer shoes with:
- Adjustable straps or elastic panels
- Half sizes for in-between feet
- Wide fit options
These features help you get more wear out of each pair without sacrificing fit or comfort.
7. When in Doubt — Ask Us!
Still unsure about size? Our team is happy to help you pick the perfect pair for your child’s age, activity level, and growth needs. Just send us a message or check out our size help page.
Let Their Next Steps Be Their Best Yet
Proper shoe sizing doesn’t have to be a headache. With a little measuring and a lot of love, you can keep your kid stepping strong — from the playground to the picture wall.