How to Find the Right Kids' Shoe Size

Understanding Kids' Shoe Sizes by Age Group

To start, it’s important to know that kids’ shoe sizes are divided into categories based on factors like foot length and approximate age. 

Baby shoes

• Range in size from 0–4.

• Shoes for infants are designed for feet between 3.5 and 4.75 inches.

• Children ages 2–12 months typically fall in the baby or infant age range.

• Easy to slip on and are typically softer and more flexible for growth and movement.

Toddler Shoes

• Range in size from 4.5–10.

• Designed for children typically between the ages of 1–3 years old.

• More versatile and functional to support the developmental walking and running stages.

Kids’ Shoes

• Designed for ages 4–12.

• Range in size from 10.5–3Y (Little Kids) to 3.5Y—7Y (Big Kids).

• Boys’ and girls’ sizing is still interchangeable in this age group.

• Boys’ and girls’ shoes accommodate children who are too small for adult shoes.

• If your child’s foot length is between 6.63 and 9.69 inches, kids’ shoes are ideal.

Kids' Shoes Size Chart

Kids' Shoe Sizing Guide

If you’re planning on buying shoes online or don’t have time to stop into a store, our at-home kids’ shoe sizing guide is a great alternative! Simply print off the size chart and follow the instructions to properly size your child’s feet.

Finding the Right Fit

Getting an infant, toddler, or young child through the shoe-buying process can be quite a challenge. SCHEELS Footwear Experts are trained in finding the perfect shoe size and style for your child. Following the steps below can help you get through the process in the most efficient way possible.

1. Predetermine the shoe style: When shopping online or heading into the store with your child, it’s helpful to know the style you’re looking for. Whether it’s kids’ boots, sneakers, sandals, or shoes, if you go directly to the appropriate section, you’ll eliminate the overwhelming choices and colors that may distract your child or cause a tantrum.

2. Get their feet measured: Having your child’s feet measured is one of the most important steps to ensure you get the right-sized shoe the first time. Our SCHEELS Experts are trained to help measure your child’s feet and determine the appropriate size for each style or brand of kids’ shoes.

3. Try on: The final step is to have your child try on the shoes. This is important because shoes of the same size will fit differently depending on their style and brand. Once your child has the shoes on, you can test the fit by pressing on the toe. There should be room at the toe about the width of your thumb. This allows room for them to move comfortably and space for fast-growing feet.

Additional Kids' Shoe Sizing Tips

• Measure later in the day: After moving around throughout the day, your child’s feet will begin to swell by the afternoon and evening. It’s important to measure your child’s feet and have them try on shoes during this time to find the most accurate sizing. 

• Measure both feet: It’s common for one foot to be bigger than the other. Measure both of your child’s feet and size according to the bigger foot to avoid an uncomfortable fit.

• Have them move around in the shoes: Have your child do more than stand or walk around when they try on a pair of shoes. Encourage them to jog in place or do some jumping jacks to get their feet moving. Is the higher impact causing them to wince in pain or making their heel slip from the shoe? These are signs that a size adjustment is needed.

• Talk to an Expert: Look for a second opinion to make sure your child is getting the best fit. Our Shoe Experts are trained to accurately choose the correct pair of shoes for your child. Plus, most of our SCHEELS locations feature the Aetrex machine, a scanning device that analyzes your feet and offers personal recommendations.