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Children's feet change quickly and brands size differently. The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) and the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) publish simple fitting advice. For foot problems, see a podiatrist.
This guide is based on the public sources listed at the end. We have not tested the products or services mentioned.
This is a short reference page. The full guide is Shoes, Leather and Fabric Labels: Sizing, Fibre Content, Care Labels and What a Listing Should Show.
Children's shoes (APMA)
- Leave about 10 to 15 mm of toe room beyond the longest toe.
- The toe box should be at least as wide as the widest part of the foot. Avoid narrow, tapered shoes.
- If feet differ, size to the larger foot.
- Check sizing every 4 to 6 months, because feet grow and sizes vary by brand.
- Choose breathable materials such as mesh or leather, and laces or Velcro to keep the shoe secure. Flexible, light shoes suit young children.
- The APMA Seal exists and APMA has a product database. We have not checked any product.
The APMA page does not say how to measure a child's foot or what time of day to do it. Other health-service leaflets give different re-check intervals (6 to 8 weeks in some), so we do not give one number.
Adult shoes (AAOS)
- Try shoes on in a shop first if you can. Once a model fits, buying it online is more reasonable.
- Have both feet measured for length and width, since feet can differ.
- No toe should be pinched, crowded or pushed over a neighbour.
- The AAOS says there is "no such thing as a break-in period", so do not count on shoes stretching.
- Check construction: the shoe should flex at the ball of the foot, a firm midsole, a heel that does not collapse, and a toe box with enough width and depth.
When ordering online
Use the brand's own size chart, check returns and who pays postage. See our guides to buying shoes online and reading size charts.
Last checked: 15 October 2026. Sources: APMA, buying children's footwear; AAOS OrthoInfo, tight shoes and foot problems.
