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Infant and toddler shoes: Finding the right fit

In this article, we will focus on the how’s, when’s, and why’s of shopping for shoes for your child. While most children don’t enjoy shopping for clothing or shoes (well, unless they are anything like my pre-Madonna daughter ), purchasing shoes on a regular basis is important for these growing feet. I will try to remove any un-certain thoughts from your mind, and aid you in the selection process.


The most common question that is asked, even by myself was when should you purchase new shoes? Well, until your child is able to vocalize the fact that those old shoes are uncomfortable, it may not be easy to tell when your infant, toddler, or big kid may need new shoes. Since this is the case, it is imperative that you periodically check the fit of your child’s shoes, and whether or not they are still working the way they should. A good way to do this, is by checking for worn areas and stressed seams. If the sides bulge outward, or wearing more quickly than the rest of the shoe this may be a sign that they aren’t wide enough for your child’s foot (When shopping for shoes, the length and the width of the foot should be measured). If your child’s shoes have an upward bend in the toe, that is also another tale-tale sign that the shoes no longer fit properly. Excess wear and tear is also another sign that it is time to go shopping for some new shoes.

While shopping for your child’s shoes, keep in mind that the hours of shopping may be important to getting a proper fit. Generally speaking, this type of shopping should be done in the afternoon or evening hours, as the feet swell over the course of the day. It is important that your child’s shoes fit even at the largest of the swelling.

Once more, getting the right fit for your child’s shoes is important. Your child’s foot should be measured during the process of shopping for shoes. Both the length, and the width should be taken. The feet should be measured while the child stands, and should both be measured since one foot is generally larger than the other, and the shoes should be purchased to accommodate the larger of the two feet.

You have now found that adorable pair of shoes, the next step is to thoroughly check them out. While your child is wearing the shoes, you will need to watch for any signs that the largest toe may be scrunched within the confines. Keep in mind that there should be quite a bit of room between the rim of the shoe, and the top of your child’s biggest toe (about a half of an inch at least). Although it might be tempting to purchase shoes that are a size too large for your child, don’t! These practices often times lead in serious trip hazards, and foot problems while they are trying to walk in shoes that are too large.
you should never buy shoes that are more than one size too large for your child. Shoes that are too big can cause a child to trip and develop foot problems while trying to walk in shoes that are too large. Keep these tips in mind on your next visit to the shoe store, and keep those tootsies happy.

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