Practical guide to measuring children's feet at home: tips to find the right size
Measuring children’s feet might seem simple, but doing it correctly requires attention to a few details. Children’s feet grow quickly, especially during their early years, and choosing the right footwear heavily depends on knowing their exact size. This article provides a practical guide to measuring your child’s feet at home, ensuring comfort and health with every step.
The first step is to choose the right time of day. Feet tend to swell slightly after a day of activity, so measuring them in the evening provides a more accurate size. Then, follow these steps:
- Place your child’s bare foot on a sheet of paper, ensuring it is fully rested and relaxed.
- Carefully trace the outline of their foot with a pencil, paying close attention to the heel and the longest toe.
- Measure the distance between the heel and the longest toe using a ruler or measuring tape. Repeat the process with the other foot, as one is often slightly larger than the other.
Once you have the measurements, compare them with the size chart of the brand you plan to purchase. Remember that each brand has its own sizing standards, so don’t assume they are all the same. If your child’s feet fall between two sizes, choose the larger one to allow room for growth.
Additionally, consider using removable insoles, which are excellent tools for checking if a shoe still fits your child. Remove the insole, place it on the floor, and ask your child to stand on it. There should be approximately 0.4 to 1,2 cm of space between the longest toe and the edge of the insole.
Finally, avoid buying shoes that are too large in the hope they will “last longer.” Ill-fitting shoes can cause tripping, blisters, and issues in foot development.
Regularly measuring your child’s feet (every 3 to 4 months), especially during rapid growth periods, ensures they always wear the right footwear for their developmental stage. By following this guide, you can ensure their feet are well cared for and ready for any adventure.