Has your little one stepped into the second year of their exciting life on this planet? Then they must be toddling around in a curious mood and exploring everything around them, on those adorable little feet! And that means they need comfy, supportive, and protective shoes. But what size do 2 year olds wear in shoes? Well, it can vary from one brand to another. This means, you first need to take accurate measurements of their feet and then check brand-specific sizing guides to select the size that matches the length of those tootsies in inches or cm.

Read on to know how to measure your child’s feet and what other things to keep in mind before choosing shoes that promote proper growth and development.

How to Measure Your Little One’s Feet

You can simply take a large and white sheet of paper and ask your munchkin to stand on it straight before tracing the outline of their feet with a pencil. This way, you can fix mistakes even if the line goes awry. Then measure the length of the tracing with a measuring tape and jot down the numbers in inches and cm both. Another option is to take your child to a podiatrist as they will have the right equipment to take precise measurements. Remember to add around 1.3 cm or half an inch to the actual length of the feet before buying kids’ shoes, as those cute tootsies need room to grow.

Then consult the sizing chart of the footwear brand you like and see which size corresponds to the length of your child’s feet. Wondering what size do 2 year olds wear in shoes when it comes to the Jack & Lily range? The ideal size is 5.5 in canvas kicks or slip-ons. It complements the age range of 1.5 to 2.5 years and foot length of 12.5 cm or 4.9 inches. In case of T-straps, boots, or sneakers, you will find the size mentioned as the age range. So, you can go for 18-24 months or 24-30 months.

Things to Consider Before Buying the Perfect Kids’ Shoes

Knowing what size do 2 year olds wear in shoes is not enough to pick the right pair. You must also take the following pointers into account, so your child can move around easily, happily, and safely.  

• Buy with the Bigger Foot in Mind: Kids’ feet aren’t exactly the same in size, which means one is likely to be slightly bigger than the other. So, make sure the pair you purchase fits the bigger foot comfortably.
• Don’t Go Too Tight or Too Loose: The best way to ensure the shoes aren’t too tight or loose is to ask your child to put them on and walk around. If they are wincing with each step or the shoes are digging into their skin, they are extra tight. If they are dragging along their feet or seem scared of tripping, the shoes are too big.
• Ensure Ample Flexibility: Kids’ shoes should support their natural movement, so that those cute feet grow like they are meant to. So, try bending the pair to test their flexibility. If they bend almost halfway, they are flexible enough.
• Check for Space around Toes: Buy shoes that have a wide toe box and are not pointy or tapered towards the front. There should also be a gap of around 1.5 cm between the front of the shoe and your baby’s longest toe. This will allow your munchkin to wiggle those tiny toes and grow smoothly.
• Test the Backs of Shoes: Ideally, the back of the heels shouldn’t be too hard or soft. The right amount of firmness is necessary for your child’s ankles and heels to develop and become strong. To test the same, pinch the back of the shoes. If it doesn’t give in at all, the backs are too tough. If it collapses completely, the backs are too soft. Go for a pair where the backs don’t completely lose form but give in just a little.   
• Examine the Safety of Outer Soles: Kids’ shoes should ideally have outer soles that are firm and provide adequate friction. This will prevent accidents from slipping or skidding on wet streets or extra smooth surfaces.
• Avoid Heavy Shoes: Moving around in a heavy pair can be painful and uncomfortable for your little one, even if the size is right. So, select lightweight shoes that allow them to walk, hop, and run freely.
• Pick Shoes with Closures: Your baby’s feet will change constantly over the coming days, so it’s best to go for shoes that can be adjusted accordingly. Consider pairs that feature laces, buttons, or Velcro straps for this. Such shoes can also teach your child independence as they learn to take off the pair and put them back on without your help.
• Don’t Trust Morning Try-Outs: Your child’s feet usually swell later in the day after they have been active for hours. So, don’t let them try on the new shoes in the morning. It should be done later in the day, so you know for sure if the fit is perfect.
• Settle for Shoes that Fit Right Away: Kids’ shoes that don’t fit right the first time should be returned. Don’t wait for your child to break into them gradually over days or weeks, as it can be super uncomfortable, painful, and harm development.

Start Shopping for the Right Shoes for Your 2 Year Old

Now that you know what size do 2 year olds wear in shoes and how to ensure the perfect fit, go online and start shopping. You can also visit a podiatrist first, so they can recommend which styles might be apt for the proper development of your child’s feet. And remember that while it is easy to lose yourself in the vast array of colors and patterns available in kids’ shoes, your primary focus should be on support, functionality, comfort, and durability.

So, are you ready to explore adorable options for your toddler now? Take a look at what Jack & Lily has to offer. If you need specific guidance or advice, feel free to contact the professionals here too.