What is the difference between toddler and youth shoe sizes

You're not in a department store so you can't try them on until you buy them. Here at HealthyFeetStore. In the hopes of making it easier for parents shopping for children's shoes at our online store to get the right kids' shoe size the first time around we've created this helpful kids' shoe sizing chart. Scroll beyond the chart and you'll find helpful instructions on how to use the chart and how to measure your child's foot with greater ease.

Everyone knows that children's feet grow fast, but infant feet grow the fastest of all. In the first year of a child's life their feet will grow to be almost half their adult shoe size.

Other than taking your child to see a podiatrist if foot development seems to be abnormal, the best thing a parent can do for their infant's foot health is to interfere as little as possible. Before a child has started walking, shoes are unnecessary.

During the winter months your child can wear soft booties to stay warm, but all foot coverings should be as non-restricting as possible. After your toddler has begun to walk usually between 10 and 18 months old , you can introduce him or her to a sneaker with a flexible outsole with good traction.

This should be worn outdoors only. Inside the house barefoot is still best for toddlers. Children's feet are shaped like a triangle, with narrow heels and the widest part at the toes. The widest point of an adult foot is at the ball of the foot.

Until a child starts wearing youth-sized shoes, the shape of the shoe should accommodate the shape of the foot with a wider width. The shoe should fit snugly at the heel with plenty of wiggle room for the toes, which spread even wider while the child walks. Youth shoes are more similar to adult shoes, and they have many of the same problems, such as pointed toes or high heels, particularly on girls' shoes. With the unnatural position of the foot when wearing high heels, these shoes can create damage to leg tendons and nerve damage to toes, according to the American Osteopathic Association.

Because a child's foot is still developing, the shoe should not be constrictive in any way, and it should accommodate the changing shape of the child's foot.

Youth shoes are generally slightly narrower than child shoes and they should be flat and lightweight. They shouldn't fit too snugly around the heel and sides, and there should be enough room from front to back to allow the foot to move as the child walks. How to Measure a Toddler for a Bike.

The Number of Bones in a Child's Body. Britax Marathon vs. Will my kids wear the same size shoe in every brand? In-store youth shoe sizing mats can help you find a starting point. However, all brands have different size specs. How often do kids need new shoes? When kids are young, their feet grow quickly.

This is especially true for children under three. Expect to buy new shoes at least three or four times a year for toddlers. Watch out for scuffs to the toes, limping and blisters. For this age group, needing a new pair times a year is common. The best way to know for sure is to measure often and check in on their comfort.

Still have questions? Check out our sizing chart below. Keep in mind that conversions may vary by brand. Kids grow quickly and so do their feet.