When shopping for children’s footwear, ensuring the perfect fit is just as important as finding the right style. At Awesome Shoes, we understand how crucial it is for parents to select shoes that support healthy foot development, especially during those precious early steps. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive Ricosta size guide, tailored to help you make confident and informed choices for your little ones.
Ricosta and its sub-brand Pepino have been crafting premium children’s shoes in Europe for over 50 years. With a focus on comfort, sustainability, and anatomical support, Ricosta kids' shoes are designed to meet the unique needs of growing feet. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything from measuring your child’s feet to selecting the right Ricosta shoe style and size.
Why Ricosta Shoes Are a Top Choice for Kids
Whether you're exploring Ricosta boys' shoes, Ricosta girls' shoes, or first-time walkers like the Ricosta Cory or Ricosta Chrisy, here’s why parents love this brand:
- Made in Europe: All Ricosta and Pepino shoes are manufactured in their own facilities in Germany, Romania, Hungary, and Poland.
- Anatomical Design: Built with a child-friendly fit that promotes natural development and prevents injury.
- Sustainable Materials: Ricosta uses eco-conscious materials like recycled rubber, cork, and German- and Italian-sourced leather.
- WMS System: Their shoes are made using the WMS (Width Measurement System), which ensures the right amount of space for growth and comfort.
- Barefoot Feel: Many models, such as the Ricosta barefoot shoes, are designed to simulate barefoot walking, perfect for early walkers and sensory development.
Ricosta vs. Pepino: Which One to Choose?
Understanding the difference between Ricosta and Pepino helps you select the right fit for your child's age:
- Pepino: Designed for babies and toddlers (EU sizes 18–28). Think super-soft, ultra-flexible soles like in the Ricosta Pepino Cory or Ricosta Nippy. Ideal for first steps.
- Ricosta: Suited for older children and teens (EU sizes 25–43), offering sturdy yet comfortable options like Ricosta boots, Ricosta ankle boots, and Ricosta trainers.
How to Measure Your Child’s Feet
Correct measurement is the foundation of a perfect fit. Follow these steps at home:
- Place a sheet of paper against a wall.
- Have your child stand on it barefoot, heels against the wall.
- Mark the longest toe on each foot.
- Measure the distance from the wall to the toe mark in centimetres.
- Use the larger of the two measurements and refer to the size chart below.
💡 Pro Tip: Measure in the evening when feet are slightly swollen. Always measure both feet, as it’s common for one to be larger.
Ricosta Size Chart
Here’s a handy reference chart to convert your child’s foot length into Ricosta shoe sizes, including UK and US equivalents:
| Foot Length (cm) | EU Size | UK Size | US Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10.8–11.4 | 18 | 2 UK Toddler | 3 US Toddler |
| 11.4–12.0 | 19 | 3 UK Toddler | 4 US Toddler |
| 12.0–12.6 | 20 | 4 UK Toddler | 5 US Toddler |
| 12.6–13.2 | 21 | 4.5 UK Toddler | 5.5 US Toddler |
| 13.2–13.8 | 22 | 5 UK Toddler | 6 US Toddler |
| 13.8–14.4 | 23 | 6 UK Toddler | 7 US Toddler |
| 14.4–15.0 | 24 | 7 UK Toddler | 8 US Toddler |
| 15.0–15.7 | 25 | 8 UK Toddler | 9 US Toddler |
| 15.7–16.3 | 26 | 8.5 UK Toddler | 9.5 US Toddler |
| 16.3–16.9 | 27 | 9 UK Toddler | 10 US Toddler |
| 16.9–17.6 | 28 | 10 UK Kid | 11.5 US Little Kid |
| 17.6–18.2 | 29 | 11 UK Kid | 12 US Little Kid |
| 18.2–18.8 | 30 | 11.5 UK Kid | 12.5 US Little Kid |
| 18.8–19.5 | 31 | 12 UK Kid | 13 US Little Kid |
| 19.5–20.2 | 32 | 13 UK Kid | 1 US Little Kid |
| 20.2–20.8 | 33 | 1 UK | 2 US Little Kid |
| 20.8–21.5 | 34 | 2 UK | 3 US Little Kid |
| 21.5–22.2 | 35 | 2.5 UK | 3.5 US Big Kid |
| 22.2–22.8 | 36 | 3 UK | 4 US Big Kid |
| 22.8–23.5 | 37 | 4 UK | 5 US Big Kid |
| 23.5–24.2 | 38 | 5 UK | 6 US Big Kid |
| 24.2–24.8 | 39 | 6 UK | 7 US Big Kid |
| 24.8–25.5 | 40 | 6.5 UK | 7.5 US Big Kid |
| 25.5–26.1 | 41 | 7 UK | 8 US Big Kid |
| 26.1–26.8 | 42 | 8 UK | 9 US Big Kid |
Signs That It’s Time for a New Pair
- Less than 6 mm of room in the toe box.
- Complaints of discomfort or blisters.
- Frequent tripping or clumsy walking.
- Harder to get the shoe on and off.
- Heel slipping or pressure marks.
💡 Did you know? Children’s feet can grow up to two sizes in one year. Check their shoes at least every three months.
Ricosta Shoe Features You’ll Love
- Ricosta Tex Boots: Perfect for rainy days, thanks to waterproof and breathable materials.
- Ricosta T-Bar Shoes: Stylish and supportive, great for formal and everyday wear.
- Ricosta Usky and Nippy: Fan favourites among parents for everyday durability and comfort.
- Ricosta Wide Fit Shoes: Ideal for children needing extra room, especially boys who often have wider feet.
Are Ricosta Shoes Barefoot-Friendly?
Yes! Ricosta barefoot shoes, like the Pepino range, are specially crafted to mimic the barefoot experience. Flexible soles and lightweight materials encourage natural movement—ideal for toddlers learning to walk.
Where Are Ricosta Shoes Made?
All Ricosta and Pepino shoes are made in their own production facilities in Germany and Europe. This allows strict quality control, ethical manufacturing, and a focus on environmentally conscious production.
Shop Ricosta Shoes at Awesome Shoes
Whether you're after Ricosta kids' boots for winter, Ricosta first-walker shoes for support, or the ever-popular Ricosta Pepino boots, we’ve got the perfect fit for your child. Use our online size chart or contact our team for personalised help.
👟 Shop our collection of Ricosta kids' shoes now at Awesome Shoes – and give your child’s feet the comfort, quality, and fit they deserve.
