Children’s feet grow quickly, making it imperative that shoes are properly fitted. Shoe sizes are often based on the measurement of the foot while standing, but shoe styles, materials and lasts can affect fit.

Look for adequate width and depth in the front of the shoe to ensure that your child’s toes do not feel squished. Also, make sure that your child can wiggle their toes freely up and down and side to side.

Length

Shoes that are too short can exert undue pressure on the front of a child’s foot which may result in the development of hallux valgus deformity.1 This is particularly a risk during sudden growth spurts. This is a great reason why it is important to regularly verify the correct shoe size on children and change their shoes as necessary.

While many parents use the thumb width test to check the fit of a child’s shoes, the length of the shoe is equally important. It is recommended to allow a thumb width of space between your child’s longest toe and the tip of the shoe. This ensures that there is sufficient volume in the shoes to prevent them from squeezing the toes and creating painful pressure points.

To measure a child’s feet, have them stand upright with their weight evenly distributed on both feet. Then, trace their feet on a piece of paper and record the measurement. Children’s feet swell throughout the day, so it is best to fit them at the end of the day when they are at their largest.

Width

As children’s feet grow quickly, the width of shoes is crucial to their comfort and fit. Leaving about a thumb’s width of space between the longest toe and the end of the shoe allows room for growth while still providing adequate support.

When checking the width of a shoe, be sure to examine both sides and the top for pressure or bulging. It’s also a good idea to check depth by putting your thumb inside the shoe and ensuring there is enough space for a little finger to firmly pass through.

If a child’s shoes are too tight, their toes may curl inward as they walk, and their heels can rub against the outside edge of the shoe. This can cause discomfort, rubbing, blisters and sore feet. On the other hand, shoes that are too large can create a trip hazard and cause a child to scrunch up their foot as they walk. A sloppy fit can also lead to blisters. An expert shoe fitter will use a flexible measuring tape to determine the length and width of a child’s foot.

Depth

A shoe that is too deep can restrict a child’s foot motion while walking and lead to discomfort, blisters, and poor posture. This may even cause long-term issues in adulthood such as hammer toes, bunions, and improper gait. Preteens and teenagers typically need new shoes every 6 to 12 months depending on their growth rate, so keeping track of proper sizing is key.

Make sure there is about a thumb’s width of space between your child’s longest toe and the front of the shoe when they are sitting down. Also, feel along the sides of the shoe to ensure there is no pinching or pressure. Finally, have your child walk in the shoes to see how they feel. Check for any slipping of the heel, heeving, or if they are limping or toe curling which are all signs that the shoes do not fit correctly. It is also a good idea to shop for shoes in the afternoon as feet expand throughout the day. This helps to get the most accurate fit. Also, many children have one foot that is larger than the other so be sure to fit them with the largest shoe.

Heel Counter

The heel counter is the back part of the shoe that cradles and protects the heel and ankle. It should be firm enough to support the heel but not so hard that it causes pain in the ankle or shin when walking. This can also prevent a foot and ankle curvature such as valgus and varus which can lead to many problems, including a flat foot.

To test a shoe’s heel counter, gently press with your thumb against the inside of the shoe. If you can compress the heel counter, it is not firm enough to provide your child with adequate support.

The heel cup should have a firm, thick heel counter that cradles the foot and arch of the shoe to prevent over-pronation. It should also have a stable sole to reduce excessive motion in the shoe and help keep the heel in place. The sole should be made from a breathable material as children’s feet tend to sweat quickly. The shoes should have a fastening mechanism such as laces, buckles or velcro as this will ensure the shoe stays securely on the foot.

Closure

Children’s shoes should have a closure that fits the foot, without pinching or compressing the toes. Suitable shoe sizes are also important to avoid developing deformities such as bunions or hammer toes.

Velcro and buckles are easy to put on and take off for wiggly toddler feet and help develop motor skills. However, they can collect dirt and debris and may not provide as precise a fit as laces. Elastic laces with Velcro straps offer a transitional option, but they can stretch and reduce stability for active toddlers or children with pronation issues.

Ill-fitting shoes can cause children to trip often and fall down, which leads to low self-esteem and affects their quality of life. They can also increase the risk of foot pain and arthritic conditions in hips, knees and ankles. Respectful children’s shoes are made with soft materials and flexible soles to allow for proper walking development. They should be light in weight, with a comfortable fit and no sharp edges that can irritate or damage young feet. Footwear should also be free of toxic substances and produced under ethical conditions.