Shoe-shopping for your baby’s teeny weeny feet can be an exciting experience. There are so many styles, patterns, and colors you can pick from these days. However, your primary focus should be on getting the fit right and ensuring that the pair offers ample support and comfort. This means you need to know how to measure an infant’s shoe size. While the process is not too hard, accuracy is the key to finding shoes that promote your child’s development and enhance their balance, coordination, and posture.  

Keep reading to find out how to take measurements before buying baby girl or baby boy shoes. This write-up covers other helpful tips as well.

How to Measure an Infant’s Shoe Size?

Here are some simple steps to follow to measure your munchkin’s feet:

• Get your child to stand barefoot on a large and blank piece of paper (ideally white).
• Make sure they are putting their entire weight on those adorable tootsies and not curling their toes.
• Then use a measuring tape or ruler to assess the distance between the back of the heel and the tip of the longest toe for both feet.
• Mark it on the paper for future reference.
• Or you can use a pencil to trace the outline of the feet first, ask the little one to step aside, and then measure the tracing.

Ideally, get the measurements in both cm and inches, as different brands use different units in their sizing guides. Remember to add about half an inch or 1.3 cm to the measurements you have taken before zeroing in on the corresponding shoe size. This will allow adequate room for your child’s feet to grow.

At Jack & Lily, sizes for T-straps, boots, and sneakers start from 0-6 months, for baby feet measuring 3.75 inches or 9.5 cm in length. Canvas kicks and slip-ons are available for children between 6 and 12 months and above, and the smallest size is 4. It corresponds to 4.5 inches or 11.5 cm.  

Other Factors to Consider Before Buying Baby Shoes

While you now know how to measure an infant’s shoe size, it is not enough to get your hands on a pair that is comfortable, protective, and supportive enough. You must consider the following as well:

• Buy for the Bigger Foot: Baby feet aren’t exactly the same in size, whether you consider the length or the width. So, choose a pair that is right for the bigger foot, otherwise it will be too tight and uncomfortable.
• Check If the Toes Have Enough Room: Go for shoes with a wide and spacious toe box, so your infant’s feet can grow easily. Stay away from pointy or tapered shoes even if they seem fashionable. Make sure there is a gap of 1.3 to 1.5 cm between the longest toe tip and the shoe’s front.
• Opt for Flexible Shoes: The shoes should match your child’s natural movements, and hence, should be flexible enough. Ideally, you should be able to bend them almost halfway.
• Examine the Backs of Heels: Sufficiently firm backs are essential so your infant gets the support they need to grow strong heels and ankles. Pinch the back of the heels to see if they collapse or stay solid. If they don’t give in at all, the shoes are too rigid. And if they collapse completely, they are too soft.
• Choose Anti-Skid Outer Soles: Whether you are picking up baby girl or baby boy shoes, make sure the outer soles are made of top-grade rubber and offer ample traction or grip on smooth or wet surfaces. This will prevent accidental slips and injuries, especially during monsoons.
• Shoes Should Not be Too Tight or Loose: While shopping for infant shoes, make sure there is a bit of space around toes, heels, and the sides. However, the pair shouldn’t be extra tight or loose. If you see the shoes digging into your baby’s skin or they seem to be wincing while walking, the pair is too tight and can cause blisters, calluses, pain, and redness down the line. If your child seems to be dragging their feet around, the shoes are too loose.
• Avoid Heavy Shoes: Lightweight shoes will allow your infant to move around comfortably without feeling encumbered. Heavy ones can not only cause pain but also interfere with development.
• Pick Shoes with Closures: Since your infant’s feet are likely to change over time, it is advisable to shop for shoes that can be adjusted to achieve the best fit. You can go for pairs with buttons, Velcro straps, or laces for that. In fact, with Velcro straps or buttons, your baby will soon learn to put on and take off their shoes on their own.
• Avoid Trying on the Shoes in the Morning: Feet usually swell and grow bigger over the day after your child has been active for hours. So, to truly judge the fit of a pair, get your child to try them on later in the day instead of in the morning.
• Pick Shoes that Fit Well Right Away: If a pair of shoes doesn’t fit your infant’s feet right the first time, return them. Your child shouldn’t have to walk around uncomfortably, waiting to break into the shoes. It can hamper their growth and development.

Make an Informed Decision When Buying Infant Shoes

By now, you know how to measure an infant’s shoe size and also the things to be mindful of when selecting a pair. You can also consult a podiatrist to be doubly sure of the shoe size and get suggestions on the best type of footwear for your child. Remember that every child is different and can have different needs. Also make sure the materials used are durable yet breathable and cozy while shoe-shopping. Most importantly, avoid making decisions based solely on the price, since quality is of utmost importance when it comes to infant shoes.

Can’t wait to get started? Go online and explore the adorable collection available from Jack & Lily. If you feel you need more guidance or advice, feel free to get in touch with the professionals here.