When it comes to buying shoes for kids, many parents wonder: are boys and girls shoe sizes the same? The short answer is yes, but some distinctions emerge as children grow older. In this blog, we’ll break down the differences, offer helpful tips on measuring your child’s foot, and provide a shoe-buying guide to make your shopping experience easier.

Understanding the Basics of Kids’ Shoe Sizes

When children are young, particularly between the ages of 0 and 7, shoe sizes for boys and girls are essentially the same. Foot size is determined by length and width, not gender. During early childhood, both boys and girls grow at similar rates, and manufacturers don’t differentiate between genders in size charts for toddlers and young kids. However, as children reach their pre-teen years, some differences may begin to appear. Girls often experience growth spurts earlier than boys, so their feet might grow a bit faster at first, but boys tend to catch up and continue growing for a longer period.

Typically, by the time children reach sizes equivalent to youth size 7 (around ages 10 to 13), boys’ feet may start to grow larger than girls’. However, before this stage, shoe sizes are generally interchangeable.

When Differences Begin to Appear

During the toddler years and up to around age 8, it’s common to ask, "Are boys and girls shoe sizes the same?" but this usually isn’t an issue. They are unisex in size, and there is no need to differentiate between boys’ and girls’ shoes based on size. However, as kids enter the pre-teen stage, you’ll start noticing manufacturers producing gender-specific shoes.

These differences aren’t just in sizing but also in style and design—though functionally, they remain similar. Some parents opt for gender-neutral shoes during the younger years, allowing siblings of similar ages and sizes to share footwear. This can be a useful way to save money while giving kids more options for style and color choices. But, as we’ll cover in the next section, getting the correct fit is what matters most.

Shoe Buying Guide for Parents

Shopping for kids’ shoes can be tricky, especially as their feet grow rapidly. Here’s a quick guide to make things easier:

1. Measure Regularly: Kids' feet grow fast, so it’s recommended to measure them every three to four months, especially for toddlers and pre-teens. Growth spurts happen quickly, and you don’t want to end up buying shoes that your child will outgrow in a few weeks.​
2. Comfort: Comfort is the top priority when purchasing shoes for your child. Whether boys and girls shoe sizes are the same at a young age or not, the right shoe should provide ample cushioning, be lightweight, and allow natural movement.
3. Safety: Safety should never be overlooked. Choose shoes with non-slip soles to prevent falls, especially for toddlers still mastering their balance. Shoes should provide good arch support and proper ankle stability to avoid injuries during play. Avoid shoes that are too loose, as they can cause tripping.
4. Style:  While safety and comfort are important, kids often care about how their shoes look. Choose a style that suits your child’s personality, whether it’s bright colors, fun patterns, or a favorite character. Many brands offer gender-neutral designs so boys and girls can express themselves freely.​
5. Wiggle Room: It’s essential to leave some wiggle room for growth. Too tight shoes can cause blisters and other foot problems, while shoes with extra space allow the toes to move freely. However, don’t buy shoes that are too large, as they can affect walking comfort and cause tripping.

By focusing on these four key areas, you can ensure that your child’s shoes offer the best balance of comfort, safety, and style while giving their feet room to grow!

Measuring Your Child’s Feet

Measuring your child’s feet at home can be simple with these steps:

1. Place a piece of paper on a flat surface: Have your child stand on it, ensuring their weight is evenly distributed.
2. Mark the longest points: Draw a line at the tip of their longest toe and the back of their heel.
3. Measure the distance: Use a ruler or measuring tape to measure the distance between these two points in either inches or centimetres. Then, refer to a kids’ shoe size chart to find the right size​.

You can also instead download a printable size finder, which can be a perfect tool for younger children who have a hard time keeping still for long.

You can also visit a shoe store where professionals use a tool or device to measure both length and width accurately.​ 

When Should You Buy Gender-Specific Shoes?

As your child approaches sizes 7Y (youth) and beyond, boys’ and girls’ feet may start to differ more significantly. At this point, it's common for brands to separate their shoe offerings by gender. Boys' shoes may begin to be slightly wider, while girls' shoes are often designed to be narrower. However, this isn't always a strict rule—some boys might need narrower shoes, and some girls might require wider ones. Always prioritize fit over size or label. 

Conclusion

So, are boys and girls shoe sizes the same? Yes, especially during the early years. However, as your child grows older, it’s important to pay attention to their individual needs, including width and comfort. Keep measuring their feet every few months, and don’t hesitate to choose the best fit, regardless of whether the shoes are labeled for boys or girls.

Looking for comfortable, stylish, and durable shoes for your little ones? Check out our collection at Jack and Lily! From baby boy and baby girl shoes to trendy canvas kicks and stylish slip-ons, we offer a wide variety of sizes and styles perfect for growing feet, ensuring your child gets the best fit. Shop now to find the perfect pair for your child today!

Shopping for your toddler’s shoes can be a challenge. Toddlers’ feet grow quickly, and keeping up with the right sizes is important. What makes it even trickier is that toddlers’ feet grow at different rates, so what fits certain toddlers of an age group may not suit others of the same age.

Choosing the correct shoe size ensures comfort and supports your child’s natural foot development. Shoes that are too tight can lead to foot pain and even restrict movement, while oversized shoes can make it difficult for your toddler to walk confidently.

In this guide, we will walk you through how to measure your child’s feet and what to look for when buying shoes. Whether it’s their first pair or their fifth, this toddler shoe size chart by age will help you make the best choice for their growing feet.

We’ll cover everything from measuring at home to picking the right shoes for your little one. Having the right information can relieve the stress of shopping for toddler shoes. Let’s dive in!

Why Proper Fit is Important

Finding the right size isn’t just about comfort—it’s essential for healthy foot development. Shoes that are too small can cause foot problems like blisters or pinched toes, while shoes that are too big may make walking uncomfortable and even lead to falls. Proper sizing helps your child move freely and supports their growing feet.

Jack & Lily Toddler Shoe Size Chart by Age

At Jack & Lily, we design a range of shoes for both style and comfort. Here's a quick reference to our size chart based on age and foot length. This toddler shoe size chart provides a simple guide to help you understand what size your child may need.

Keep in mind that toddlers’ feet grow quickly, so it’s a good idea to check their size every three months.

Age Group	Foot Length (inches)	Jack & Lily's Size
6-12 months	4.5-4.75 inches	18-20
12-18 months	4.75-5.25 inches	20-22
18-24 months	5.25-5.5 inches	22-23
2-3 years	5.5-6.0 inches	23-24

 

How to Measure Your Toddler's Feet

Measuring your child’s feet at home is easy, and it ensures you’ll buy the correct size. Here’s how to do it:

1. Place a piece of paper on the floor. Let your toddler stand on it with their weight evenly distributed.
2. Mark the heel and longest toe. Make sure you mark the spot at the tip of their longest toe and the back of the heel. Download a printable size finder online.
3. Measure the length. Measure the distance between both points in inches or centimeters.

After you’ve measured, use the size chart above to find the right size. Remember that different brands might size their shoes differently, so always double-check the brand-specific chart.

However, understanding the toddler shoe size chart by age is only one part of the selection process. There are a few other things to bear in mind. 

What to Look for In Toddler Shoes

When shopping for toddler shoes, it's not just about the right size. Here are other key  factors to consider:

• Comfort: Soft, flexible materials are key. At Jack & Lily, we make sure our shoes are cozy and gentle on tiny feet.
• Room to Wiggle: There should be about a half-inch of space between the toe and the front of the shoe to allow for growth.
• Safety: Anti-slip soles help prevent falls, especially for toddlers who are still mastering walking.
• Breathability: Look for shoes made from breathable materials like canvas to avoid sweaty feet, which can lead to skin irritation.

When to Buy New Shoes

Toddlers outgrow their shoes quickly, and it’s important to check their fit often. Signs that your child might need a new pair include:

• They struggle to put their shoes on.
• They complain of discomfort.
• You notice wear and tear on the soles or straps.

Why Regular Shoe Size Checks Matter

Toddlers grow quickly, and their feet can increase by half a size every few months. This rapid growth means that shoes which fit perfectly in spring could be too small by summer. Wearing shoes that are too tight can cause problems like blisters and ingrown toenails or even affect foot development. On the other hand, oversized shoes can cause discomfort and increase the risk of falls. Regularly measuring your toddler's feet ensures their shoes offer the right support and comfort. It’s a good habit to check their shoe size every three months to keep up with their growth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when buying shoes:

• Sizing Up: Parents sometimes buy shoes a size up, thinking their toddler will grow into them. This can cause problems with walking and stability. Consult a toddler shoe size chart by age to make the best choice.
• Ignoring Width: Some toddlers may need wide or narrow shoes, so don’t just focus on length.

Make Shoe Shopping Easy

You can easily find the right fit for your child by using a toddler shoe size chart by age. Measure their feet regularly, look for flexible and safe shoes, and make sure there’s enough room for growth.

From toddler canvas shoes to stylish boots, Jack & Lily provides a diverse range of footwear designed with both comfort and durability in mind. Each pair is crafted to support your child's growing feet, ensuring they can explore the world with ease and confidence. Additionally, whether you're looking for lightweight options for playtime or sturdy boots for outdoor adventures, we have something for every occasion.

Explore our collection today to find the perfect pair that suits your little one's style and needs!

Shop now at Jack & Lily for shoes that prioritize your child's comfort while being fashionable. Your little one deserves the best as they take their first steps and beyond!