Steps & Style Blog

How to Tell If Your Child’s Shoes Fit Properly

How to Tell If Your Child’s Shoes Fit Properly

Ensuring your child's shoes fit properly is crucial for their comfort and foot health. Ill-fitting shoes can lead to discomfort, blisters, and long-term foot problems. Here’s how to check the fit and spot the signs that it’s time for a new pair.

How to Check If Your Child's Shoes Fit

  • Toe Room: With your child standing, press down on the front of the shoe to find their longest toe. There should be about a thumb’s width (10–14mm) of space between the toe and the front of the shoe.
  • Width Check: Feel along the sides of the shoe. Your child should be able to wiggle their toes comfortably, without pinching or pressure.
  • Depth Assessment: Press gently on the top of the shoe. There should be enough space above the toes so the shoe isn’t pressing down tightly.
  • Heel Grip: With your child seated, lift their foot and gently pull at the back of the shoe. It should grip the heel without slipping off.
  • Walking Test: Have your child walk around. The shoes should stay in place, feel comfortable, and move naturally with their feet.

Signs That Shoes No Longer Fit

  • Difficulty Putting on Shoes: If shoes are hard to get on or your child avoids wearing them, they may be too small.
  • Complaints of Discomfort: Pay attention if your child mentions pain or pressure in their feet.
  • Visible Wear and Tear: Scuffed toes or worn-down areas can signal a poor fit.
  • Red Marks or Blisters: Check their feet after wearing shoes—rubbing or irritation usually means the shoes are too tight.

Tips for Ensuring Proper Fit

  • Measure Both Feet: Kids’ feet can differ in size. Always buy to fit the larger foot.
  • Check Regularly: Children’s feet grow fast. Measure them every few months to avoid surprise growth spurts.
  • Don’t Size Up Too Much: Shoes that are too big can cause tripping and discomfort. Stick to that thumb’s width of space.
  • Try Before You Buy: Fit can vary between brands and styles. Let your child walk around to make sure they’re happy.

Keeping an eye on shoe fit helps your child stay comfortable and avoid future foot issues. A well-fitting pair makes all the difference.

How to Tell If Your Child Has Wide or Narrow Feet (And What to Do About It)
Foot health

How to Tell If Your Child Has Wide or Narrow Feet (And What to Do About It)

Not all feet are built the same—and that includes kids’. Some children have wide feet that need extra room, while others may have narrow feet that slip out of regular shoes. Knowing your child’s foot...
First Shoes vs Pre-Walkers: What’s the Difference?
Foot health

First Shoes vs Pre-Walkers: What’s the Difference?

Choosing your baby’s first pair of shoes is an exciting moment—but it can also be confusing. What’s the difference between pre-walkers and first walkers? And when should your child move from one to the other?...