Buying shoes for kids sounds simple until sizes start changing every few months. Children’s feet grow quickly, and choosing the right shoe size helps with comfort, walking development, and everyday movement.
This kids’ shoe size chart by age gives you a general guide to help match age ranges with approximate shoe sizes. Since every child grows differently, foot measurement should always be the final step before buying.
Kids’ Shoe Conversion Size Chart by AgeKids’
Kid’s US Shoe size by Age and foot length
| Kids’ Age | US Kids Size | Foot length |
|---|---|---|
| 1 year | 3C | 4 3/8″ |
| 2 years | 6C | 5 1/4″ |
| 3 years | 9C | 6 1/4″ |
| 4 years | 10-11C | 6 7/8″ |
| 5 years | 11-12.5C | 7 1/4″ |
| 6 years | 12.5-13.5C | 7 1/2″ |
| 7 years | 1Y | 7 5/8″ |
| 8 years | 2Y | 8″ |
| 9 years | 3Y | 8 3/8″ |
| 10 years | 4Y | 8 5/8″ |
| 11 years | 5Y | 9″ |
| 12 years | 6Y | 9 3/4″ |
Note: This chart is a general reference. Different brands may size slightly differently.
Toddler Shoe Size by Age
| Toddler’s Age | US Shoe Size | Foot Length |
| 1 year | 3C | 4 3/8″ |
| 2 years | 6C | 5 1/4″ |
| 3 years | 9C | 6 1/4″ |
| 4 years | 10-11C | 6 7/8″ |
Note: This chart is a general reference. Different brands may size slightly differently.
Average kids’ shoe size by age
| Kid’s Age | Foot length in (In) | US Shoe Size | EU Shoe Size | Foot Length in (cm) |
| 0-3 mo | 4.03 | Baby 1 | 16 | 10.2 |
| 3-6 mo | 4.36 | Baby 2 | 17 | 11.07 |
| 6-9 mo | 4.6 | Baby 3 | 18 | 11.6 |
| 9-12 mo | 5.05 | Baby 4 | 19 | 12.8 |
| 1-1.5 yrs | 5.34 | Toddler 5 | 21 | 13.5 |
| 2-3 yrs | 5.6 | Toddler 6 | 22 | 14.2 |
| 2-3 yrs | 5.97 | Toddler 7 | 23 | 15.1 |
| 2-3 yrs | 6.32 | Toddler 8 | 25 | 16 |
| 3-4 yrs | 6.67 | Toddler 9 | 26 | 16.9 |
| 4-5 yrs | 6.91 | Toddler 10 | 27 | 17.5 |
| 4-5 yrs | 7.33 | Youth 11 | 29 | 18.6 |
| 5-6 yrs | 7.6 | Youth 12 | 30 | 19.3 |
| 5-6 yrs | 8 | Youth 13 | 31 | 20.3 |
| 7-8 yrs | 8.27 | Youth 1 | 32 | 21 |
| 7-8 yrs | 8.63 | Youth 2 | 33 | 21.9 |
| 7-8 yrs | 8.97 | Youth 3 | 34 | 22.8 |
| 7-8 yrs | 9.27 | Youth 4 | 35 | 23.5 |
| 7-8 yrs | 9.65 | Youth 5 | 36 | 24.5 |
| 9-10 yrs | 9.87 | Tween 6 | 37 | 25 |
| 10-12 yrs | 10.23 | Tween 7 | 38 | 25.9 |
Note: This chart is a general reference. Different brands may size slightly differently.
Average Kids’ Shoe Size by Age Chart in UK and US Sizes
| Kids US Shoes Size | Euro | UK | Inches | CM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0.5 T | 16 | 0 | 3.25″ | 8.3 |
| 1 T | 16 | 0.5 | 3.5″ | 8.9 |
| 1.5 T | 17 | 1 | 3.625″ | 9.2 |
| 2 T | 17 | 1 | 3.75″ | 9.5 |
| 2.5 T | 18 | 1.5 | 4″ | 10.2 |
| 3 T | 18 | 2 | 4.125″ | 10.5 |
| 3.5 T | 19 | 2.5 | 4.25″ | 10.8 |
| 4 T | 19 | 3 | 4.5″ | 11.4 |
| 4.5 T | 20 | 3.5 | 4.625″ | 11.7 |
| 5 T | 20 | 4 | 4.75″ | 12.1 |
| 5.5 T | 21 | 4.5 | 5″ | 12.7 |
| 6 T | 22 | 5 | 5.125″ | 13 |
| 6.5 T | 22 | 5.5 | 5.25″ | 13.3 |
| 7 T | 23 | 6 | 5.5″ | 14 |
| 7.5 T | 23 | 6.5 | 5.625″ | 14.3 |
| US | Euro | UK | Inches | CM |
| 8 Kids | 24 | 7 | 5.75″ | 14.6 |
| 8.5 Kids | 25 | 7.5 | 6″ | 15.2 |
| 9 Kids | 25 | 8 | 6.125″ | 15.6 |
| 9.5 Kids | 26 | 8.5 | 6.25″ | 15.9 |
| 10 Kids | 27 | 9 | 6.5″ | 16.5 |
| 10.5 Kids | 27 | 9.5 | 6.625″ | 16.8 |
| 11 Kids | 28 | 10 | 6.75″ | 17.1 |
| 11.5 Kids | 29 | 10.5 | 7″ | 17.8 |
| 12 Kids | 30 | 11 | 7.125″ | 18.1 |
| 12.5 Kids | 30 | 11.5 | 7.25″ | 18.4 |
| 13 Kids | 31 | 12 | 7.5″ | 19.1 |
Note: This chart is a general reference. Different brands may size slightly differently.
Average Youth Shoe Size Chart converted to adults Shoe sizes
| US Shoe | Euro | UK | Inches | CM | Women’s Shoe |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 32 | 13 | 7.75″ | 19.7 | NA |
| 1.5 | 33 | 14 | 8″ | 20.3 | NA |
| 2 | 33 | 1 | 8.125″ | 20.6 | NA |
| 2.5 | 34 | 1.5 | 8.25″ | 21 | 4 |
| 3 | 34 | 2 | 8.5″ | 21.6 | 4.5 |
| 3.5 | 35 | 2.5 | 8.625″ | 21.9 | 5 |
| 4 | 36 | 3 | 8.75″ | 22.2 | 5.5 |
| 4.5 | 36 | 3.5 | 9″ | 22.9 | 6 |
| 5 | 37 | 4 | 9.125″ | 23.2 | 6.5 |
| 5.5 | 37 | 4.5 | 9.25″ | 23.5 | 7 |
| 6 | 38 | 5 | 9.5″ | 24.1 | 7.5 |
| 6.5 | 38 | 5.5 | 9.625″ | 24.4 | 8 |
| 7 | 39 | 6 | 9.75″ | 24.8 | 8.5 |
Note: This chart is a general reference. Different brands may size slightly differently.
Average Children’s Shoe Sizes By Age Chart UK
| UK Kids Shoe Size | Children’s Age | Foot length in mm |
| 0 | 0 – 2 mos. | 90 |
| 0.5 | 0 – 2 mos. | 93 |
| 1 | 0 – 2 mos. | 97 |
| 1.5 | 1 – 3 mos. | 100 |
| 2 | 3 – 6 mos. | 103 |
| 2.5 | 6 – 9 mos. | 110 |
| 3 | 9 – 11 mos. | 116 |
| 3.5 | 10 – 12 mos. | 120 |
| 4 | 12 – 15 mos. | 123 |
| 4.5 | 13 – 15 mos. | 127 |
| 5 | 15 – 18 mos. | 130 |
| 5.5 | 16 – 18 mos. | 133 |
| 6 | 19 – 21 mos. | 138 |
| 6.5 | 21 – 24 mos. | 142 |
| 7 | 2 yrs. | 146 |
| 7.5 | 2 yrs. | 150 |
| 8 | 2 yrs. | 154 |
| 8.5 | 3 yrs. | 157 |
| 9 | 3 yrs. | 160 |
| 9.5 | 4 yrs. | 166 |
| 10 | 4 yrs. | 169 |
| 10.5 | 4 yrs. | 173 |
| 11 | 4 yrs. | 176 |
| 11.5 | 5 yrs. | 179 |
| 12 | 5 yrs. | 185 |
| 12.5 | 6 yrs. | 188 |
| 13 | 6 yrs. | 192 |
| 13.5 | 7 yrs. | 195 |
| 1 | 7 yrs. | 200 |
| 1.5 | 8 yrs. | 204 |
| 2 | 8 yrs. | 210 |
| 2.5 | 9 yrs. | 213 |
| 3 | 9 yrs. | 217 |
| 3.5 | 10 yrs. | 220 |
| 4 | 10 yrs. | 226 |
| 4.5 | 11 yrs. | 230 |
| 5 | 11 yrs. | 236 |
| 5.5 | 12 yrs. | 247 |
Note: This chart is a general reference. Different brands may size slightly differently.
How Shoe Sizes Vary by Age and Foot Growth
Shoe sizes generally follow an age-based guideline, but every child’s foot growth is unique. Some kids may outgrow their shoes faster than others, while some might stay in the same size for months.
It’s important to keep an eye on their foot development, as tight shoes can cause discomfort, and loose shoes may hinder their walking. Balancing proper size and comfort is key, so regularly checking your child’s foot size can prevent issues and ensure a better fit as they grow.
Why Age Alone Is Not Enough for Shoe Sizing
Age charts are helpful, but children of the same age often wear different sizes. Foot width, growth speed, and brand sizing all affect fit.
For the best result:
- Measure both feet while standing
- Use the larger foot measurement
- Leave about 0.3–0.5 inches of growing room
- Check each brand’s size chart before ordering
Kids’ Shoe Size Chart by Age: A Detailed Breakdown
Infants (0-12 months)
At this stage, babies’ feet are still growing, and shoe sizes are determined by foot length, not age. It’s crucial to focus on finding shoes that are soft, flexible, and allow for natural foot movement. Too tight or stiff shoes can hinder proper foot development.
Toddlers (1-3 years old)
Toddlers experience rapid growth, so shoes need to offer enough room for their feet to move freely while still providing support. Choosing shoes with a slightly larger size can ensure they’re comfortable, but they should not be too loose, as that can lead to tripping.
Preschoolers (3-5 years old)
At this age, kids are becoming more active, often running, jumping, and playing. A well-fitted shoe can encourage physical development by offering stability and comfort. Keep in mind that foot growth can still vary, so periodically check for signs of discomfort or tightness.
Elementary Age (5-9 years old)
As children transition into school, their feet continue to grow, but at a slower pace. Regular measurements are key during this period to ensure the shoes aren’t too tight or too loose. Finding shoes that offer support for increased daily activity is important for long-term comfort.
Pre-teens (9-12 years old)
During the pre-teen years, feet start to take on more adult-like shapes, often requiring larger shoe sizes. Regular shoe size updates are essential to avoid discomfort and foot issues. Be mindful of growth spurts, as these can quickly change their shoe size and foot width.
Each age group comes with its own challenges when choosing the right shoe size. By staying vigilant and regularly measuring their feet, you’ll ensure your child’s shoes support healthy development and provide lasting comfort.
How to Measure Your Child’s Feet at Home
Measuring at home takes only a few minutes.
Step 1: Place Paper on a Flat Surface
Have your child stand naturally on the paper.
Step 2: Trace Around the Foot
Keep the pencil straight for accuracy.
Step 3: Measure Heel to Longest Toe
Measure in inches or centimeters.
Step 4: Compare With the Brand Chart
Match the measurement—not the age.
Common Mistakes Parents Make When Buying Shoes for Kids
Many parents unknowingly make mistakes when buying shoes for their kids. A common error is relying solely on age-based size charts, which may not account for foot growth variations. Neglecting foot width is another pitfall, as shoes that are too narrow can cause discomfort.
Additionally, prioritizing style over comfort can lead to foot problems. Lastly, buying shoes too big or too small can affect foot development. Measuring feet regularly and focusing on comfort will ensure a better fit for your child’s growing feet.
Signs Your Child Needs a Bigger Shoe Size
Children may not always say their shoes feel tight. Watch for:
- Red marks after removing shoes
- Complaints about discomfort
- Frequent tripping
- Toes pressing against the front
- Shoes becoming difficult to put on
Checking every 2–3 months for toddlers and every 4–6 months for older children can help maintain a comfortable fit.
Tips for Buying Kids’ Shoes Online
When shopping online:
- Measure feet in the evening
- Read customer sizing reviews
- Check width options
- Compare foot length instead of size numbers
- Buy based on current measurements, not expected growth
Conclusion
A kid’s shoe size chart by age provides a useful starting point, but measuring your child’s feet gives the best fit. Since sizing can vary between brands, use age only as a guide and rely on actual foot measurements whenever possible.
FAQs
Should I buy bigger shoes for my child to grow into?
A little extra room is fine, but oversized shoes may affect comfort and walking. Aim for a small amount of space rather than sizing up too much.
How often do kids need new shoe sizes?
Toddlers may need new sizes every 2–4 months, while school-age children often move up every 6–12 months.
Is a kid’s shoe size based more on age or foot length?
Foot length is usually more accurate than age because children grow at different rates.
What size comes after kids’ size 13?
After size 13, most sizing systems move into youth sizes starting at 1Y.
Are boys’ and girls’ kids’ shoe sizes different?
Most children’s shoe sizes are unisex until youth sizing begins to vary by brand.