Buying the perfect pair of shoes for your little one must be a thoughtful and informed process. And knowing the different parts of shoe is essential for that. That is because there are so many little components that go into making a shoe what it is (or should be) – functional, comfortable, and visually appealing. While the exact parts might vary a little based on the style you want, like kids’ slip on shoes, sneakers, boots, T-straps, etc., having a basic idea of the anatomy can help you pick a high-quality and supportive pair that promotes your baby’s proper development.

Listed below are the 31 key parts of shoe.

1. Upper

The term literally refers to a shoe’s entire upper part that conceals and protects your munchkin’s foot.

2. Counter

Constituting the back of a shoe, the counter lends shape to the heel region and offers support. This part also makes the back of a shoe robust.

3. Backstay

This refers to a material strip on the counter of a shoe. It usually runs in a vertical manner from the counter to the center, and at times, up to the topline.

4. Topline

Topline indicates the upper’s top edge and is usually detectable by the stitch that connects the outer upper, padding, and lining in the region.

5. Breast

Situated under the sole arch, breast indicates that part of the heel which is forward-facing. It is also a part of the shoe’s upper.

6. Collar

Generally padded, the collar is one of those parts of shoe that lends comfort and support to your child’s ankle. It surrounds the upper back and top of the quarter like an edge.  

7. Vamp

Vamp refers to a shoe’s front panel and is a part of the upper side. It extends from the toe tip to the quarter’s end just before reaching the heel.

8. Quarter

It is composed of the rear as well as the upper’s sides, right where the vamp begins.

9. Feather Edge

Edged or rounded, this component indicates the part where the upper’s edge meets the sole.

10. Toe Cap

This material protects your kid’s cute toes by covering the front upper area of the shoe. The toe cap helps the toe region to withstand everyday wear and tear.

11. Toe Box

Located at the vamp area, the toe box accommodates and protects your child’s toes. It can be square, rounded, almond-shaped, or pointed depending on the shoe style. For instance, kids’ slip-on shoes usually have a rounded toe box. In any case, a roomy toe box is ideal for the smooth growth of your child’s tootsies.

12. Throat

Next to the toe cap, the throat is positioned at the vamp section. In shoes with quarter panels and one-piece vamp, the throat is often at the eyestay.

13. Tongue

A shoe’s tongue lies on your little one’s foot and right under the shoelaces in case the style comes with laces.

14. Eyestay

At the top of the vamp, the eyestay is where the laces are threaded. Generally reinforced or padded, this part is also called lace stay.

15. Eyelet

These are the holes that allow laces to pass through. Circular plastics or metals add strength to eyelets and prevent them from damage.

16. Waist

You will find this in a shoe’s middle part, near the arch. Usually shoes with narrow waists offer enhanced arch support.

17. Heel

Among the different parts of shoe, this is the one that is in the back and usually elevated to ensure an aesthetic appearance and balance. However, make sure the heel isn’t too high in kids’ shoes.

18. Heel Seat

Commonly found in sneakers, the heel seat is the space where your little one’s heel will sit. This component is meant to support the heel’s shape.

19. Outsole

This is that part of the shoe which directly touches the ground. This external component should be durable, water-resistant, and must provide ample grip so that your child doesn’t skid, slip, or fall accidentally.

20. Midsole

The midsole, as the name suggests, is a layer that lies between the insole and outsole. It absorbs shocks and provides cushioning and is usually made of padded, durable materials.

21. Insole

Inside a shoe, the insole acts as a supportive and cozy layer between the sole and your baby’s foot. Also called inner sole, this part might be removable in some pairs.

22. Lining

Among the different parts of shoe, the lining is the one that directly touches your kiddo’s feet on the inside and is soft. It enhances comfort and breathability.

23. Counter Lining

This material lines a shoe’s back part or the counter.

24. Vamp Lining

As the term indicates, the vamp lining protects the front part of a shoe and is often made of the same material as the tongue lining.

25. Tongue Lining

This material lines the inner part of a shoe’s tongue.

26. Tongue Padding

Soft in nature, tongue padding fills a shoe’s tongue and offers comfort and cushioning to the top part of your baby’s feet.

27. Filler

In some shoes, there is a hollow space between the insole and midsole, which is packed with filler materials like cork or felt.

28. Collar Padding

It is a soft filling that lies between a shoe’s lining and upper. It lends support and comfort to your munchkin’s feet.

29. Stiffener

This is a sturdy yet light material that helps maintain the structure and shape of the counter. Placed between the counter and upper lining, the stiffener supports your little one’s heels.

30. Shank

Made of wood, plastic, or metal, the shank is placed between the insole and outsole and supports the foot arch as well as the heel counter.

31. Toe Puff

A soft and lightweight material, you will find the toe puff between the shoe lining and upper. It lends shape to the toe region and prevents unnecessary stretching of the shoe.

Get Ready to Shop for Kids’ Shoes Smartly

Now that you know about the different components or parts of a standard shoe, shopping for kids’ slip on shoes, sneakers, T-straps, or boots will surely become an easy task. Even if it doesn’t have all the 31 parts listed above (it doesn’t need to either), you can quickly check important overall aspects like the heel, toe box, soles, lining, etc. Also make sure the materials used are of top-quality and the fit is just right.

And if you are interested in stress-free shopping, simply explore the collection from Jack & Lily. Every part of every shoe is crafted with perfection and to suit your child’s evolving needs. You can also get in touch with the professionals here to understand shoe parts better and get extra guidance.

No two children are the same – whether it involves their interests, dreams, growth pattern, or foot size. Even if two kids are of the same age, height, and weight, the width of one’s feet can be quite different from another’s. This is the reason why most footwear brands cater to varying shoe width sizes, including narrow, medium, wide, and extra wide. Or they mention the corresponding width for every shoe size in cm and inches. So, whether you are shopping for girls’ or boys’ shoes, it is important to measure both the length and width of each foot. 

Continue reading to find out how to do that and what other factors to keep in mind.  

Measuring the Width and Length of Your Child’s Feet

Ask your little one to stand up straight and put equal pressure on both their feet. Then measure each foot at its widest part with a measuring tape. This will help you to pick from different shoe width sizes later. Don’t forget that length is super important too. So, measure the distance from the tip of the longest toe to the back of the heel for each foot.

Another idea is to ask your child to stand on a blank white sheet of paper and trace the outlines of their feet. You can then measure the length and width of the same before shopping for shoes. Remember to add about 1.3 cm to the length of the foot before picking a shoe size. And buy a pair that is right for the bigger foot (yes, feet are usually of slightly different sizes in all kids).

What Else to Consider Before Buying Kids’ Shoes?

Whether you are looking for girls’ or boys’ shoes, it is not enough to get the width and length of the feet right. Here are a few other things you need to be mindful about:

• Opt for a Roomy Toe Box: A wide toe box will allow your munchkin to wiggle their toes comfortably and develop properly. A round or square toe box is usually ideal for the same. Pointy or tapered ones can squeeze those cute toes painfully, leaving no room for growth.
• Avoid Too Big or Too Small Sizes: Being accurate about shoe length and shoe width sizes is important as you don’t want your child to wince in pain while walking or lug around the shoes, scared to trip and fall. While extra small shoes can pinch their delicate skin, cause blisters, redness, and bruises, extra big ones can lead to accidents. Get a pair that fits snugly but don’t wait for your child’s feet to grow into them.
• Choose Lightweight Shoes: Heavy shoes can impede your munchkin’s natural movement, gait, and posture. They won’t be able to run around easily or play without pain. So, go for something lightweight yet robust.
• Make Sure the Shoes are Flexible: Try to bend the shoes, and if they fold almost halfway, they are flexible enough. Rigid shoes can interfere with your kid’s podiatric development, cause discomfort, and fail to support natural movement.
• Pick Shoes with Safe Outer Soles: Both girls’ and boys’ shoes should ideally come with durable soles that offer adequate traction on all surfaces, especially wet or extra smooth ones. So, make sure they have grooves and a decent grip. This way, your little one won’t slip, fall, and injure themselves.
• Go for Firm Backs: The pair you pick must offer your child’s ankles and heels ample support. This means that the back of its heels shouldn’t be too soft or hard. So, how to test the right amount of firmness? Just pinch the back of the heel, and if it collapses entirely, it is extra soft or flimsy. If the back doesn’t budge at all, it is extra hard or tough. So, try and zero in on shoes where the backs of the heels give in slightly but don’t lose form.   
• Settle for Premium Materials: Leather, canvas, suede, and knit are the most popular materials when it comes to kids’ shoes. They are breathable, cozy, and gentle on the skin when you pick high-quality options. Moreover, your child’s feet won’t smell or encourage bacterial infections this way.
• Consider Shoes Featuring Closures: Buying adjustable shoes can help you save money in the long run, as your child’s feet are bound to change gradually. Pairs that feature buttons, laces, or Velcro straps can also ensure extra safety by perfecting the fit. In case of Velcro or buttons, your munchkin will also learn how to put on and take off the shoes easily and on their own.
• Let Them Try the Shoes Later in the Day: Feet in children tend to swell after a few hours of activity. So, avoid asking them to try out new shoes in the morning. Late afternoon or evening is more apt for try-outs.
• Consider the Season: The type of shoes you buy for your little one depends on the season too. For instance, during summer, open-toed styles, simple slip-ons, and sandals are ideal as they allow easy air circulation. When the temperature dips, boots, sneakers, and shoes with thick or warm linings can feel more comfy and supportive. While rubber shoes aren’t breathable, during the rainy months, they can protect those tiny tootsies against dirty water and mud. Kids can wear these for a few hours.

Shop for Girls’ or Boys’ Shoes in an Informed Way

By now, you have a fair idea about how to get shoe length and shoe width sizes right when it comes to footwear shopping for kids. You also know what other things to keep in mind before picking a pair, such as weight, toe box size, flexibility, sole safety, closures, materials, and even seasons. While shoes for children come in a wide array of exciting designs and colors, keeping this guide handy can help you choose something that is aesthetic, functional, and comfortable too.

To get started, you can explore the variety of boots, T-straps, sneakers, and slip-ons from Jack & Lily. If you still need more advice or cannot make up your mind about a pair, feel free to contact the professionals here.