We all know how quickly kids grow, and their shoes are often the first items that need frequent replacements. Getting them checked regularly by experienced fitters will help guide you. However this may not always be possible.
Determining the right time to buy new shoes can be tricky. Too small, and they’re uncomfortable. Too large, and they could cause trips and falls. To help you navigate this challenge, we’ve created a comprehensive shoe fit checklist to know when it's time for your child’s next pair of shoes.
1. The Toe Test: Is There Enough Room?
One of the easiest ways to check if your child’s shoes still fit is by doing the toe test. Have your child stand up and feel the space between their longest toe and the end of the shoe. In a new shoe, there should be between 12mm and 17mm space between the longest toe and the shoe's front. This gives their toes enough room to move comfortably without being squished, while also ensuring that the shoe isn't too large. Note that toes should never reach the end of a shoe!
Signs it’s time for new shoes:
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Less than a half a cm of space in front of the toes.
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Your child complains that their toes feel cramped or are pressing against the front of the shoe.
2. Squeezing at the Sides: Are the Shoes Too Tight?
Kids’ feet aren’t just growing in length; they also grow in width. Sometimes shoes may fit in length but have become too tight around the sides. You can check this visually, do the shoes look stretched and the shape of your child's foot? You can also feel along the sides of the shoe when your child is wearing them and if they feel strained then they are too tight. The shoe should fit snugly and move along the foot but not pinch or press uncomfortably against the foot.
Signs it’s time for new shoes:
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The sides of the shoe bulge outward when worn.
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Your child complains of tightness around the width of the foot.
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Red marks or blisters appear on the sides of their feet after wearing the shoes.
3. Observe the Wear and Tear: Are They Worn Out?
Kids tend to put their shoes through a lot, from playground adventures to sports practices. Even if the shoes seem to fit well, worn-out soles or damaged material can affect comfort and support. Check the shoes for signs of wear and tear, such as thinning soles, frayed edges, or holes in the fabric.
Signs it’s time for new shoes:
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Soles are worn down and offer little to no traction.
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Visible holes or tears in the upper part of the shoe.
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The shoe has lost its shape or structure, no longer providing proper support.
4. Listen to Your Child: Are They Complaining About Comfort?
Kids may not always vocalize discomfort immediately, but if they start complaining that their feet hurt or their shoes are uncomfortable, it’s a sign to take action. Pay attention if your child starts to refuse wearing shoes or mentions soreness, tightness, or blisters. Even if the shoes seem fine on the outside, internal discomfort is a key indicator that it's time for new footwear.
5. Watch Their Gait: Are They Walking Differently?
Changes in the way your child walks or runs can be a subtle sign that their shoes no longer fit properly. If you notice them limping, walking awkwardly, or adjusting their steps to compensate for discomfort, it’s time to take a closer look at their footwear. Clumsiness also indicates growth and that the shoes are becoming too small.
Signs it’s time for new shoes:
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Your child’s gait has changed, and they appear to be walking stiffly or awkwardly.
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They drag their feet or shuffle when wearing their shoes.
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Complaints of pain in their knees, hips, or back, which could be due to poor shoe support.
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They start tripping or become more clumsy
Bonus Tip: How Often Should You Replace Kids' Shoes?
On average, children’s feet grow about half a size every 3-4 months for toddlers, and every 6-8 months for older children. While growth rates vary, it's important to check your child’s shoes regularly to ensure they’re still a good fit. If you're not sure when to size up, visit a shoe store for a professional fitting.