how do children's shoe sizes work

 

Many parents find it difficult to figure out how to get their children's shoe sizes. Here is a basic guide on how children’s shoe sizes work, and where to put your child for the best fit.Children's shoe size chart:

4 = 12-18

5 = 13-19

6 = 1-2

7 = 3-21/2

8 = 3½ - 4 ½

9= 5 - 8 (If they have another foot measurement, use that one. For example, if the left foot is larger than the right, use that.)Finding the best fit for your child:Athletic shoes are designed to provide children with the most comfort and foot protection possible. The correct fit for athletic shoes helps your child to stay in optimal alignment while playing sports, giving them a better chance of injury-free participation. Use these tips to help you determine what type of shoe will be best for your child’s foot health and performance.Measure your young athlete's feet when they're dry and when they have been sitting out of socks or barefoot for 30 minutes at room temperature. Mark these measurements on the sidewall of a size chart. Ideally, take the measurements from the big toe to heel along the inside of the foot. If that's not possible, measure from the tip of your child's toe to his heel.

 

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Don't rely on shoe size alone when buyingshoes. The best judge of whether a shoe fits is how it feels. A good fit will be snug across the instep and well-cushioned in both the forefoot and heel areas. A poor fit will be too loose and may cause blisters, redness or swelling around toes, feet or ankles. Shoes without laces should be fastened with Velcro straps so your child can get them on and off easily.Begin by purchasing the guidelines size shoe. It should fit snugly, but not too tight, and allow your child to walk comfortably in it.If the shoe is very long or narrow, go a size larger. The foot should be able to move freely within the shoe. You may have to get a shoe about 1/2 inch wider than the chart suggests for your child's foot. To correct this, you can buy padded insoles that will insert into the shoe and reduce space in the toe box. Another possible way to make a fit better is to try out new shoes with different insoles (from athletic stores) before buying new ones.If the toes are too long, go a size smaller. The shoe should fit well by the heel. Generally, you can get away with 1/2 to 1 inch of room in the toe box. A short foot will require a snug fitting shoe and a longer foot will need room for growth in the toe box area.

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If there is too much room in the toe box area, try putting an insulating sock inside that may be worn both under the shoe and overtop when playing sports or for transporting your child to school or daycare. If there is too much space in front of the big toe then put insulating padding material between your child's foot and shoe (from athletic stores).