Toddler Shoe Size: Factors To Consider and How To Measure

Taking your child to the shoe store for the very first time can make for one of life’s hallmark moments. Seeing how the different shoe styles and designs engage your little one, and how excited they become when stepping into a new shoe is something to cherish.

But in today’s busy world, finding the time to visit the shoe store does not always fit into your schedule. However, before you go out—or online—to purchase your little one’s next pair of sneakers, you have to think about sizing and what to look for in that next pair of shoes. Our discussion below will break down toddler shoe size, key factors to consider , and how to measure when buying a fresh pair of kicks.

Top Factors To Consider

Before we dive into measuring, we’ll discuss some of the top factors to consider when you’re choosing the right shoe for your kids. There are many different types of kids’ shoes, from sneakers to active styles, dress shoes to waterproof/insulated boots; and the key to finding the perfect kid’s shoe, no matter the type, is to choose a shoe that promotes healthy foot development and delivers with fun aesthetics.

The most important thing to remember is that kids’ feet are different than adult feet. Kids develop their bones and arch over time, so shoes must encourage healthy foot development. See Kai Run shoes follow the foot shape of a changing foot, which is what is needed in a shoe to promote healthy growth.

Here are some of the things you’ll want to look for when shopping for kids’ shoes so that you can avoid making mistakes and focus on finding the perfect pair of shoes.

Toe Box Space

Having a roomy toe box is important when considering a kid’s shoe. Kids’ feet are more boxy than adult feet, which means kids’ shoes require a wider toe box than an adult shoe. Kids’ shoes should allow little toes to wiggle and flex, which are movements that build muscle and tendon strength. This is especially true for the big toe. The big toe is most important for balance, forward motion, and arch function. Misalignment of the big toe can push the whole body out of balance, which is why children’s shoes should follow the foot shape of a changing foot.

You’ll also want the shoe to allow for a little foot growth. However, you don’t want the shoe to be too spacious; kid’s feet should not be “swimming” inside the shoe.

Building foot strength in little ones is important in developing walking skills. As feet grow stronger, so does a little walker’s confidence. Another shoe feature that helps build foot strength and walking skills is flexibility.

Flexible Construction

Flexibility is important because it helps further develop walking skills—specifically, their balance, gait, and stride. However, do not mistake flexibility for lack of stability. For example, the little girls’ sneakers from See Kai Run combine flexibility with durability using an outsole that provides traction, and thus stability. It’s important that you dig into the details when shopping for children’s shoes, such as reviewing outsole design. Always take a detailed approach to kids’ shoe shopping. Online listing for kid’s shoes should never be vague, so be sure to review listings carefully to see if the shoe provides the features and benefits, such as flexibility and durability, that will promote healthy foot growth and development in your child.

How To Measure

When it comes to toddler shoe size, learning how to measure will always help you find a healthy and supportive footwear choice for children. So, how do you measure your toddler for their first pair of shoes and each pair after?

Taking the Measurements

The very best way to ensure proper sizing for your little one is to go to a shoe store that carries children’s shoes and get measured by a professional. That said, we know it’s not always convenient to do that, especially if you choose to order your shoes online.

Getting properly sized and fitted is the first step toward achieving healthy foot development in your child. To measure your child’s foot yourself, have your child stand straight with their back against a wall. Measure each foot separately. When measuring the foot, place the heel against the wall. Use a ruler or measuring tape to measure both of your child’s feet. Write down the measurement of the largest foot and find your child’s size by using the See Kai Run sizing guide found on our website.

The Fit Test

Once you have your shoes, you are now ready to do a fit test. As the name suggests, this test involves seeing whether the size you chose is the right fit for your little one’s feet. Put the shoes on your kiddo and make sure they are secure. (For example, if shoe is a lace up shoe, make sure laces are tied snugly. If the shoe as a hook and loop closure system, make sure it nice and snug too.) Press down on the toe of the shoe to feel where their toes sit. There should be about an eighth to a quarter of an inch between the tip of the toes and the tip of the shoe. You should also be able to feel their toes rise and wiggle with ease. Finally, let your child walk around to see how comfortably they can maneuver. If all goes well, you’ve found the right shoe.

Don’t Hesitate To Update

Once you find the perfect first pair, don’t forget to keep an eye on your child’s foot size. Toddlers tend to outgrow shoes every three or four months, though that typically changes after age 3. That said, always remember that kids are unique, and everyone develops in their own way. Simply put, there’s no better way to know when it’s time to update a child’s shoe than by looking at the fit yourself. If you can feel your child’s foot filling up that toe box after a few months, then it’s time for a new pair.

Luckily, allowing room for growth means you won’t have to swap shoes excessively in your child’s early years. Therefore, it’s important to find that perfect balance between a spacious fit and a snug feel.

Thanks to the excellent options available online, it’s not as hard as it sounds to locate your child’s ideal fit. Now it’s time to put your new skills to the test. Step into the wonderful world of children’s shoes online to see the diverse designs available to help your child walk comfortably.