Choosing Childrens Shoes – Practical Help with Size and Fit

Children grow fast and this means parents will need to continually monitor feet size to ensure comfortable fit for shoes. If childrens shoes are too tight they will not only be uncomfortable but they could also impede the development of the feet.

Before you buy childrens shoes in-store or online you do need to make sure you understand how to accurately estimate the size of your child’s feet. Here are just 3 simple steps to help you measure feet for childrens shoes.

Step 1 – Draw an Outline

The easiest way to get started is to place your child’s foot on a blank piece of paper and draw around it completely with a pencil. Try and make sure they stand still and that you get an accurate outline. Now you will have an up-to-date template that you can use when buying shoes.

Step 2 – Measure the Template

Now you need to measure the template from the heel right through to the largest toe. Shoe retailers then recommend that you subtract 5mm from this measurement and jot it down on your template. Some manufacturers also provide foot width options so it can also be a good idea to measure the widest part of the foot as well.

Measuring your child’s feet yourself can be useful as many shoe retailers (supermarkets, market stalls, online stores etc) will not offer the sizing services you find in dedicated shoe stores.

Step 3 – Shopping for Shoes

You can take your template with you when you go shopping for childrens shoes. The measurements will apply whether you are shopping online or in a shoe store. This is useful if you want to avoid the hassle of taking your children with you and getting them to try on the shoes.

Shoe templates are also handy as shoe manufacturers all have different ideas about shoe size. Although your child may fit into a size 3 in their trainers they may need a size smaller or larger for their school shoes. Having the exact measurements to hand will help you choose the right size childrens shoes no matter what they are for.

It is important to make sure you take regular measurements of your child’s feet. This will help to ensure you pick them the perfect size childrens shoeswhether you are shopping online or in-store.