When do children's shoes still fit properly? Here's how to easily check.
Children's feet grow faster than you think. Sometimes it feels like you just bought new shoes and they're already too small. But how do you know exactly when children's shoes still fit properly? And how much room should children's shoes actually have?
In this blog, we explain it step by step – so you can be sure that your child can continue to walk comfortably and healthily.
How much growing room should children's shoes have?
When buying new shoes, it's important to ensure there's enough room for growth. The ideal growth space for children's shoes is:
➡️ 12 to 15 mm (1.2 to 1.5 cm) between the big toe and the front of the shoe.
This extra space is necessary so that the foot can roll off properly and continue to grow without the shoes immediately becoming too small.
How do you know if children's shoes still fit?
Because children's feet can grow suddenly, it's wise to check their shoes for proper fit every 2 to 3 months . Here's how:
1. Insole test
Remove the insole from the shoe and let your child stand on it with bare feet.
✔️ Is there still 1 cm of room left at the toes? Then they'll still fit.
❌ Is your big toe touching the edge? Then they're too small.
2. Thumb on top of the shoe
Have your child put on the shoe and stand upright.
✔️ Feel the top of your big toe with your thumb: is there about 1 cm of space left? Then it's good.
❌ Can you feel your toe right away? Time for a new size.
3. Finger behind the heel
Have your child stand upright and slide the toes forward in the shoe.
✔️ Can you fit a finger behind your heel? Then there's still plenty of room.
No more room? Then the shoe is too small.
4. Check the width
Check if the foot bulges out of the sides of the shoe or if the shoe is very tight.
✔️ Is the shoe secure but not constricting? Perfect.
❌ Feels too tight? You might need a wider fit or size.
📌 Tip: Always check after walking. Feet expand slightly with movement and heat.
When are new children's shoes needed?
Wondering if it's time for new shoes? Look for these signs:
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✅ Less than 5mm of space at the toes
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✅ Your child curls his toes in the shoe
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✅ Complaining about foot pain
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✅ Shoes are difficult to put on or take off
These signs indicate that the shoes have become too small or too tight.
Why timely replacement is important
Children's shoes that are too small can cause a lot of damage without them even realizing it. That's why checking and replacing them promptly is essential for healthy feet.
Shoes that are too small can:
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Hindering the natural growth of the foot
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Cause deformities such as blisters, calluses or even deformities
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Causes poor posture and disturbed balance
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Making walking uncomfortable or painful
In short: what looks good on the outside is sometimes too small on the inside.
Small effort, big difference
Checking the fit of children's shoes every few months can prevent discomfort, foot problems, and walking difficulties for your child. A quick check is often enough to be sure.
👣 At Maxime Schoenen, we're happy to help. Feel free to visit our store for professional sizing advice, or browse our extensive collection of children's shoes online – always with attention to fit, room to grow, and comfort.
📍 Not sure about the size? Come by or contact us – we're here to help!
