How to Size Toddler Shoes
How Do Ttoddler Shoe Sizes Work? Toddlers have lots of energy and are always moving, so they need good shoes. They also grow fast, so parents need to get them new shoes often.
Shoe sizes for little kids are different from adult sizes, so it’s important to know how to find the right size for your toddler. With the right shoes, your toddler can keep playing and exploring without any trouble.
Things You’ll Need
- Paper
- Pencil
- Washable marker
- Measuring tape
Step 1
To guess your toddler’s shoe size, you can use a simple trick. Multiply your child’s age by 2 and then add 2 if your child is a boy or add 1 if your child is a girl. This way works for kids until they are 5 years old.
Step 2
To guess a toddler’s shoe size based on their age, here’s an easy guide:
- For a 1-year-old, size 5 shoes are good.
- For a 1 and a half-year-old, size 6 fits well.
- For a 2-year-old, go for size 7.
- For a 2 to 2-and-a-half-year-old, size 8 is best.
- For a 3-year-old, choose size 9.
- For a 3 and a half-year-old, size 10 is right.
- For a 4-and-a-half-year-old, size 11 works.
- For a 5-year-old, size 12 is the way to go.
Tip
Step 3
Have your child stand on a plain piece of paper with socks on. Trace around their feet with a pencil or a marker that washes off. Then, take this paper to the shoe store to help pick the right size shoes.
Step 4
Measure your toddler’s feet from the big toe to the heel to find out their shoe size.
Tip
You can also buy a tool to measure feet at home called the Squatchi. It costs $17.99 on Amazon.
Step 5
To find the right shoe size from the foot length, go up by half a shoe size for every 1/6 inch of length. For instance, if a toddler’s foot is 5 inches long, they need a size 6 shoe. If their foot is 5 1/6 inches long, they wear a size 6.5.
Tip
Measure your toddler’s foot right before you plan to buy shoes. If you wait a few weeks, your toddler might grow. Since toddlers grow fast, you might want to buy shoes that are a half size bigger than what you measure.
Step 6
Try the shoes on your toddler. Different brands might fit differently, so it’s important to find shoes that fit your toddler nicely. Try shoes on both feet because one foot might be a little bigger than the other.
Kids’ Shoe Sizes By the Numbers: How Do Toddler Shoe Sizes Work?
Shopping for kids’ shoes can be tricky because figuring out their sizes isn’t always straightforward. Here’s what you need to know:
Toddlers’ Sizes Run From 0–13
The smallest ones are for babies, but the bigger sizes can fit kids who are 4 or 5 years old or more. Shoes for toddlers up to size 7 might have a “T” next to the number (like 4T, 5T, 6T, 7T). Sizes 8 to 13 are usually labeled as “Kids” (like 8 Kids, 9 Kids, etc.).
Bigger kids’ Sizes Run From 1–7
This can be confusing because size 1 for bigger kids comes right after size 13 for smaller kids. Some brands mark toddler sizes with a “T” and bigger kid sizes just as “Kids.” So, a shoe size marked as “5 Kids” is for the bigger kids, not toddlers.
Not all Brands and Retailers Us the Same Language
When shopping for shoes, it can be hard to understand the different names for sizes because brands and stores use various terms. You might see labels like baby, walker, toddler, little kid, big kid, and youth.
Usually, terms like baby, walker, toddler, and little kid are for sizes 0 to 13 for younger kids. The names Big Kid and Youth are for older kids sizes from 1 to 7. At REI, we mostly use the words toddlers (or tots) and kids to keep it simple.
Men’s Sizes are a Continuation of Kids’ Sizes
If your child wears a size 7 in kids’ shoes, the next size up is a men’s size 8. Also, men’s and women’s shoe sizes are a bit different.
A man’s size 8 is about the same as a woman’s size 9.5. This is good to know when your child needs bigger shoes or when comparing men’s and women’s sizes.
A Size Chart Can Help
When you’re shopping, look for a size chart from the shoe brand you’re interested in. This chart will help you understand how toddler sizes change to kids’ sizes and what names to look for. Here’s a typical size chart for young kids’ shoes you might come across:
Toddlers’ and Little Kids’ Shoe Size Chart
| 4T | 5T | 6T | 7T | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | |
| U.S. Kids’ | 4 Tots’ | 5 Tots’ | 6 Tots’ | 7 Tots’ | 8 Kids’ | 9 Kids’ | 10 Kids’ | 11 Kids’ | 12 Kids’ | 13 Kids’ |
| EU | 19 | 20-21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25-26 | 27-28 | 29 | 30 | 31 |
| UK | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 |
Big Kids’ Shoe Size Chart
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | |
| U.S. Kids’ | 1 Kids’ | 2 Kids’ | 3 Kids’ | 4 Kids’ | 5 Kids’ | 6 Kids’ |
| EU | 32-33 | 34 | 35 | 36 | 37 | 38 |
| UK | 13 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
How Should Kids’ Shoes Fit?
Kids’ feet grow fast, so even if you’re not looking to buy new shoes right now, it’s good to regularly check if their current shoes still fit well. Here are some tips to remember when checking their shoe fit:
How to Measure Kids’ Feet
To measure kids’ feet, have them stand on paper with socks on. Trace around each foot, then measure the length from heel to toe to find their shoe size.
Measure frequently
It’s important to measure your child’s feet every time they need new shoes, especially for activities like playing outside or sports. Even if you don’t think they need new shoes, getting their feet measured by a shoe expert a few times a year is a good idea.
If your child says their shoes feel uncomfortable, check their size again. Measuring how long and wide their feet are, and checking the arch and overall shape, helps find the best-fitting shoes for them.
Measure Against the Insoles
The old trick of pressing the front of a shoe with your thumb to check for extra space can help sometimes. If that’s hard, take out the shoe’s insoles and put them on the floor.
Have your child stand on them, making sure their heels and arches are right. This way, you can easily see how much room there is in front. Usually, it’s good to have about a half inch of space.
Additional Fit Tips for Kids’ Shoes
Check for a thumb’s width of space at the toe for growth. Ensure the heel fits snugly, without slipping. Choose shoes with good support and flexibility for comfortable wear.
Check-in With Your Kids
If your child says their feet hurt, it might be because their shoes don’t fit right. They could be wearing the wrong size.
Kids often don’t say their shoes are uncomfortable unless you ask. So, it’s smart to ask a few times a year. When you do, ask clear questions about how the shoes feel.
You can ask, “Do your shoes feel tight here?” or “Does your foot slide here?” while showing them where on the foot. Asking simply, “Do your shoes fit okay?” might not get you the details you need.
Consider Adult Shoes if your Kid Weighs More than 80 Pounds
If your child is heavier and can wear adult shoes, it’s better to switch. Kids’ shoes don’t offer enough support for more weight.
This is also good to know for adults with small feet who think about buying kids’ shoes to save money. You might save money, but your feet might not like it.
Consider Women’s Shoes When Moving out of Kids’ Sizes
When your child gets too big for kids’ shoe sizes, consider looking at women’s shoes for more choices. For instance, finding size 7 in kids‘ or men’s might be hard, but you can often find similar styles in women’s size 8.5. Just remember, adult-size shoes usually cost more.
Do Toddlers Need To Wear Shoes All the Time?
Finding the right shoes is key, but toddlers don’t always have to wear them. They should wear shoes mainly when needed.
Walking without shoes is good for their growth. Babies don’t need shoes, just socks to stay warm. Toddlers too, walk better barefoot. Walking and moving around without shoes helps their feet grip the ground well, according to Dr. Pierrette Mimi Poinsett, a pediatric expert.
But, it’s not always safe for toddlers to be without shoes outside. They need protection when playing outside or when you’re out and about. If they’re walking barefoot at home, make sure the floor is clean.
Non-slip socks are a good idea for inside the house. Once your child starts walking, think about getting shoes for when they’re needed.
What Shoes Are Best for Development?
Toddler shoes should be bendy and have soles that don’t slip, so your little one can walk without sliding.
Dr. Poinsett recommends low-top sneakers because they’re the best. She says to avoid shoes that are too stiff or high-top since they don’t let the foot move right.
Choosing sneakers with velcro straps is smart because they’re easier for your child to put on and take off by themselves.
This helps until they learn to tie their shoes. Toddlers like doing things on their own, so shoes they can fasten themselves make things easier and less frustrating for them.
How Often Do Toddlers Need New Shoes?
Kids’ feet grow fast, so even the perfect shoe might become too small quickly. Dr. Poinsett says, “Most toddlers need new shoe sizes every two to three months,” and she suggests checking your child’s shoe size every month.
If your toddler doesn’t outgrow their shoes, they might wear them out. Toddlers love walking and can walk a lot each day. They also like to explore, which means their shoes might get dirty or wet easily.
Because of this, it’s smart to pick shoes that are comfy, supportive, and fit well, but don’t spend too much money on them.
A Word From Verywell
Finding the right shoes is important for toddlers as they start walking and exploring. To find their shoe size, measure their foot, add a little extra for growth, and look at a size chart.
The best way to measure a toddler’s foot is to trace it on paper and measure the tracing. Shoe sizes can differ, even in the same brand, so it’s best to try shoes on before buying.
Don’t spend too much on shoes since toddlers grow fast and need new ones every few months. Check your child’s shoe size often, about once a month, and plan for new shoes every two to three months.
If you’re unsure about how the shoes fit, it’s a good idea to talk to your pediatrician.
FAQ
How Can I Measure My Kid’s Shoe Size?
To measure your kid’s shoe size, have them stand on a sheet of paper wearing socks. Trace around both feet, then measure the longest part from heel to toe. Use these measurements with a shoe size chart to find the correct size.
How Does Kids’ Shoe Sizing Work?
Kids’ shoe sizing is based on the length of the foot in inches or centimeters. Sizes start from 0 for newborns and go up to size 13 for toddlers, then transition to youth sizes starting at 1, with each size representing a specific length.
How Can I Measure My Child’s Shoe Size at Home?
At home, measure your child’s shoe size by having them stand on a piece of paper with socks. Trace around their feet, measure from heel to toe and compare with a shoe size chart to find the best fit. Measure both feet for accuracy.
How Do You Measure Kids’ Feet in Inches?
To measure kids’ feet in inches, place their feet on a piece of paper and draw around it. Use a ruler to measure the distance from the heel to the longest toe. Do this for both feet, as one might be larger.
How Do You Measure Shoe Size Manually?
To measure shoe size manually, place a foot on a piece of paper and trace around it. Measure the length from the heel to the longest toe and the width at the widest part. Use these measurements with a shoe size chart to determine the size.
Where is the Best Place to Measure a Child’s Feet?
The best place to measure a child’s feet is on a flat, hard surface to ensure accuracy. Use a piece of paper, a pen for tracing, and a ruler or measuring tape. This setup helps in getting precise measurements for both length and width.
How Do I Know My Toddler’s Shoe Size?
Simply follow the steps below.
- Place a piece of paper on a flat surface. Have your child stand barefoot on the paper. …
- Place a mark at the longest toe and back of the heel.
- Measure the distance between the marks and use the conversion chart to find their shoe size.
- Measure both feet.
What Age is Size 1 Toddler Shoes?
Infant Socks
| AGE | FOOT LENGTH | FITS US SHOE SIZE |
| 0 – 6 months | up to 3 1/2″ / 8.9 cm | 1 – 2 |
| 6 – 12 months | up to 5″ / 12.7 cm | 3 – 4 |
| 12 – 24 months | up to 6 ” / 15.3 cm | 5 – 7 |
| 2 – 4 Years | up to 7 ” / 17.8 cm | 7 – 10 |
Is 1 Little Kid the Same as 11 Toddlers?
Sometimes there is a difference in naming that can also be confusing. For example, a shoe size might say Little Kid 11, Youth 11, or Toddler 11. The size is the same regardless of the age range attached to it. In other words, they are all the same size 11.
Is Size 13 the Same as Size 1?
No, size 13 and size 1 are not the same. Size 13 is classed as a little kids’ size, while size 1 is the next step up – or the first ‘big kids” size. These bigger sizes then go up to a size 6.
