Your ultimate guide to finding the right kids shoe size

As a parent, you know that keeping up with your child’s ever-growing feet can be a bit like chasing a moving target.  

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One minute, their shoes fit just fine on their little feet, and the next, they’re complaining that their toes are squished, or worse—they’ve suddenly outgrown their favourite pair overnight.

Trying to find the perfect shoe size can sometimes feel like a game of guesswork, especially when you’re dealing with wiggly little ones (at least older kids can sit still for about 3 seconds longer).

But finding the right fit is more important than you might think. Ill-fitting shoes can lead to discomfort, blisters, and even long-term foot problems.

Whether your child is just taking their first steps or they’re already running rings around you, understanding how to measure their shoe size accurately can save you time, money, and a whole lot of hassle.

How to measure kids’ shoe size

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Getting the correct shoe size for your child starts with accurate measurements. Fortunately, you don’t need any fancy equipment—just a few simple tools and a bit of patience. Here are three easy methods to measure your child’s feet at home.

Basic measurement

For a quick and straightforward measurement of your child’s shoe size, all you need is a ruler or measuring tape.

Step 1: Have your child stand on a flat, hard surface with their heel against a wall. Make sure they’re standing straight with their weight evenly distributed on both feet.

Step 2: Place a ruler or measuring tape along the length of their foot, from the heel to the tip of the longest toe (which isn’t always the big toe!).

Step 3: Note the measurement in centimetres or inches. This gives you the foot length, which you’ll use to determine the correct shoe size.

Tracing/footprint measurement

This method is ideal if your child has trouble standing still or if you want to double-check the measurements.

Step 1: Place a piece of paper on the floor and have your child stand on it with their heel against the wall.

Step 2: Using a pencil or pen, trace around the entire foot. Be sure to hold the pen vertically to get an accurate outline.

Step 3: Measure the distance from the heel to the longest toe in the tracing. This measurement will help you find the right shoe size.

Foot ruler measurement

If you have a foot-measuring ruler (also known as a Brannock device), you can get an even more precise measurement.

Step 1: Have your child stand on the foot ruler, making sure their heel is properly aligned with the back of the device.

Step 2: Adjust the slider to measure the length of the foot, and take note of the size indicated by the ruler.

Step 3: Some foot rulers also measure foot width, which is important for finding correct shoe width that aren’t too tight or too loose.

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Kids' shoe size conversion chart

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Once you’ve measured your child’s feet, the next step is to match those measurements to the correct shoe size.

Kids’ shoe sizes can vary depending on the brand and country, but having a standard chart as a reference can help simplify the process.

Note: The age ranges are approximate, as children’s feet grow at different rates. Always use foot length measurements to determine the most accurate shoe size.

When using a size chart, remember that other brands may have slight variations, especially in shoe width, so it’s a good idea to check the specific brand’s size chart when shopping for shoes.

Additionally, if your child’s foot length falls between sizes, it’s usually best to size up to allow for growth and to avoid tight-fitting shoes. If they have narrow feet they may need a smaller size shoe or brand that allows for this.

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Shoe size gauge

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If you’re shopping for kids’ shoes in-store, a gauge can be a handy tool to ensure you’re getting the right fit. Many shoe stores provide these devices, which measure both the length and width of your child’s foot to get the correct size.

Positioning the foot: Place your child’s foot flat on the gauge, with the heel firmly against the back of the device. Ensure that their toes are lying flat and not curled up.

Measuring the length: Slide the gauge’s pointer until it touches the tip of the longest toe. This measurement will give you the correct shoe size in terms of length.

Measuring the width: Some gauges also measure the width of the foot. To do this, look at the width markers on the device, and note where the widest part of the foot (usually around the ball) sits on the scale. This helps determine whether your child needs a standard, wide, or extra-wide shoe.

Checking both feet: It’s not uncommon for one foot to be slightly larger than the other. Always measure both feet and use the larger measurement to select a shoe size.

Factors to consider while shopping for shoes

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While getting the right size is crucial, there are other factors you should keep in mind when shopping for kids’ shoes:

Growth room: Choose shoes with a little extra room at the front, about a thumb’s width, to allow for growth. However, they shouldn’t be too loose, as this can cause the foot to slide around inside the shoe, leading to discomfort or blisters.

Flexibility: Kids’ shoes should be flexible enough to allow natural movement but also provide enough support. Test the shoe by bending it gently to see if it flexes where the foot naturally bends.

Breathability: Materials like leather or mesh are great options as they allow air to circulate, keeping your child’s feet cool and reducing the risk of blisters.

Arch support: Depending on your child’s foot shape, especially if they have flat feet, you might need to look for shoes with good arch support. This can prevent issues like pain or improper foot development.

Signs that your child’s shoes are too small

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Even with careful measuring, kids can quickly outgrow their shoes, sometimes before you even realise it. Ill-fitting shoes can lead to discomfort and even long-term foot issues, so it’s important to watch for signs that your child’s shoes may be too small.

1) Complaints of discomfort

The most obvious sign is when your child complains that their shoes are hurting, especially around the toes or the heel. If they’re reluctant to put on their shoes or frequently take them off, it’s a clear indication that something isn’t right.

2) Red marks and blisters

After taking off their shoes, check your child’s feet for any red marks, blisters, or calluses. These can develop when shoes are too tight and rub against the skin, causing irritation. Red marks around the toes or heel suggest that the shoes are pressing too much on those areas.

3) Toes touching the end of the shoe

Ask your child to stand up straight and feel the front of their shoes. If you can feel their toes pressing against the tip of the shoe, there’s no room left for growth, and it’s time for a new pair. If the shoes are too small, your child’s toes may appear cramped or overlap when they take their shoes off.

4) Changes in walking

Pay attention to how your child walks. If they’re limping, dragging their feet, or altering their gait, it could be because their shoes are too small and causing pain. These changes in movement are often subconscious reactions to discomfort.

Tips to buy kids’ shoes

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Buying shoes for your child can sometimes feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can make sure their footwear is comfortable, stylish, and most importantly, properly fitted. Here are some expert tips to keep in mind when shopping for kids’ shoes:

1) Shop in the afternoon

Kids’ feet tend to swell throughout the day, so it’s best to shop for shoes in the afternoon or early evening when their feet are at their largest. This ensures their shoes won’t become too tight as the day goes on.

2) Bring their favourite socks

Always have your child wear the socks they’ll be using with the shoes when trying them on. Thick socks can significantly affect the fit, and it’s important to replicate the conditions under which they’ll actually be wearing the shoes.

3) Check for flexibility and support

While in the store, bend the shoe to see where it flexes. The shoe should bend at the ball of the foot, not in the middle, to support the foot’s natural movement. Check for a sturdy heel counter (the back part of the shoe) to provide proper support.

4) Ensure the shoes have adjustable fastenings

Shoes with laces, Velcro straps, or buckles are preferable because they allow for adjustability as your child’s feet grow. Slip-on shoes might be convenient, but they can’t be tightened or loosened as needed, which could lead to poor fit over time.

5) Allow room for growth

When trying on shoes, make sure there’s about a thumb’s width of space between your child’s longest toe and the end of the shoe. This room allows for growth and ensures the shoes won’t be outgrown too quickly.

6) Don’t rely solely on size labels

Size can vary between brands, so always try the shoes on and assess the fit rather than relying solely on the size label. Encourage your child to walk around the store to see if the shoes are comfortable.

Wrapping it up

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Shoe shopping with kids can be a lot. Just getting them to sit still (i.e. no toe tapping or poking their sister) is a mission by itself. But at least now you know what to look for – fingers-crossed that makes your life easier.

Importantly, your child’s shoe fit matters. It’s not something we can shortcut. Getting them the right fit means they can explore, learn, and play with comfort and confidence.

Sources

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Posture Podiatry,Fitting Tips For Kids Shoes, January 2024

Start Rite Shoes,Large measuring gauge, n.d

Cleveland Clinic,How to Find the Best Shoe (and Fit) for Your Child, December 2016