Baby shoes are so tiny and adorable, right? Available in an exciting array of colors, patterns, and styles, they make you want to go on a no-holds-barred shopping spree. But when your tiny tot just starts walking, there are multiple factors to keep in mind before you buy the perfect pair for their tootsies. Size is especially a crucial one. But are you wondering what size shoes do babies wear when they start walking? Then you are in the right place. This handy guide covers how to measure your child’s feet right and what other things to consider when buying shoes that support growth and development, build coordination and balance skills, and are comfy too.    

Measuring Your Baby’s Feet for the First Pair

Babies usually take their first steps between 9 and 18 months. And depending on the footwear brand, they might need a size between 2 and 5. However, accurate measurements are necessary. Now, before buying baby first walking shoes, you might be tempted to just trace your little one’s feet on a piece of paper and measure the same to find the right size. This might not be precise though. So, take your child to a podiatrist for correct measurements of both feet.

Interested to know what size shoes do babies wear when they start walking and you are shopping from Jack & Lily’s collection? When it comes to slip-ons and canvas kicks, size 4 is ideal for children up to 12 months and corresponds to 11.5 cm or 4.5 inches. For babies between 12 and 18 months, size 5 is appropriate and corresponds to 12 cm or 4.7 inches. You can also check the sizing guide for more clarity. If you are shopping for T-straps, boots, or sneakers, sizes are mentioned in terms of age range.

Things to Consider Besides Shoe Size

While it is best for babies to walk barefoot till they are 2 years, this is safe when they are indoors. Outside, you need the right shoes to protect their gentle feet against dust, stones, sticks, sharp edges, and bumps. So, ensure the pair you pick is not just the right size, but also has the following features:

• Roomy Toe Box: The toe box needs to be wide and not pointy or tapered in kids’ walking shoes. Make sure there is a 1 to 1.5 cm gap between the longest toe and the front of the shoe, so that your child can wiggle those tiny toes easily. A spacious toe box will encourage the proper growth of those cute feet too.
• Supportive Heel Cup: The heel cup of those first walking shoes should be flexible yet adequately firm. This is because it will determine how your child positions their feet and develops the correct gait. So, pinch the shoe’s back to see if it is collapsing (too flimsy) or isn’t moving at all (too rigid). If the heel is somewhat compressible but offers resistance, it is just right.
• Flexible and Safe Soles: The best toddler first walking shoes come with flexible soles that allow natural movement and the development of those little bones and muscles. Usually, if you can bend the shoes halfway, they are apt for your child’s feet. Walking in such shoes can help your baby understand how the surface beneath feels and changes with every step. They will learn to balance and coordinate movements easily. At the same time, make sure the soles are thick enough so that sharp objects can’t injure your munchkin’s tootsies. They should be made of rubber and have a grooved design to prevent slips.
• Lightweight: Always go for lightweight shoes that motivate your child to walk around freely and explore their surroundings. You don’t want them to feel uncomfortable, weighed down, or be forced to drag their feet around.
• Healthy Materials: Baby shoes made of soft leather, canvas, or cloth bend and stretch with ease, enabling natural movement and instilling important motor skills. Plus, they allow your little one’s feet to breathe and stay fresh for hours. Stay away from synthetic or plastic shoes that make those cute feet sweaty in no time.
• Velcro Closures: Though you now have an idea about what size shoes do babies wear when they start walking, remember that the shape of their feet will change over time. Hence, opting for shoes with Velcro straps can be a good idea as they are easy to adjust and adapt to change quickly. Moreover, putting the shoes on or taking them off will be a breeze. Even your baby will learn how to do it themselves in no time. When it comes to the first pair, Velcro might be safer than laces, as in the latter case, your toddler might trip and fall if the laces come undone.
• Pull Loop: Simple loops in the back of your baby’s shoes can make it easy to get those chubby feet into the pair.
• Quality: Make sure the first walking shoes are of top-quality, so they are durable, comfortable, and supportive enough. Even if you have to shell out a bit more than expected, it will be worth it.

Also remember that since a baby’s feet are rarely of the same size, you must get shoes that are comfy and supportive enough for the bigger foot.

Make Your Baby’s First Steps Memorable with the Right Shoes

If you thought it is enough to know what size shoes do babies wear when they start walking, this guide must have changed your assumption for good. From soles, heel cups, and materials, to toe box, closures, and weight, there are many factors to be mindful of before buying a pair. Also note that while extra loose shoes can lead to accidents, extra tight ones can hurt your baby’s feet, cause calluses and blisters, and even impact development. So, take your time to decide in an informed manner.  

If you can’t wait to start shopping, explore the charming collection at Jack & Lily for both boys and girls, go through the sizing chart, and take your pick. You can also get in touch with the professionals here for more guidance.

As a woman, shopping for boys’ shoes to fit your feminine feet might seem a little strange at first, but it has multiple perks. Whether you are keen on boots, slip-ons, sneakers, or casual sandals, as long as they fit you well and look stylish, exploring the boys’ department can boost your options manifold. Since big kids’ shoes are usually less expensive than their adult counterparts, you might be able to save quite a bit as well. However, you need to know how to convert boys’ shoe size to women’s size before you get started. So, let’s learn more about it and go through the things to remember before making a decision.

How to Convert Boys’ Shoe Size to Women?

The math involved is simple actually. Usually, you have to add 1.5 or 2 to the shoe size for boys to arrive at the corresponding women’s size. For instance, if the boys’ shoe size is 6, it will likely fit a woman whose size is 7.5 or 8. Or take it the other way round, which is making the transition from women’s to boys’ shoe size. If you wear a size 9, a boys’ shoe size 7 or 7.5 will fit you fine.

Remember though that sizing varies from one brand to another. So, it is important to measure your feet accurately in cm or inches and then find a boys’ shoe size that matches the same. You might also find big kids to women conversion shoe size charts for easy decision-making. 

Questions to Ask Before Buying Boys’ Shoes

Now that you have an idea about how to figure out the shoe size in the kids’ department based on your shoe size as a woman, ask the following questions to make an informed choice:  

• What’s the purpose? If you are looking for casual shoes that you can wear to the supermarket or mall or a friend’s place, sandals and slip-ons can do the trick. For jogging, running, or working out, sneakers are naturally a better choice. They are also more apt if you love to go hiking, trekking, or camping often. If you are heading to a formal event or an upscale lunch, boots can elevate your ensemble easily. So, consider your purpose before buying boys’ shoes.
• Is the foundation adequately firm? Shoes with a squishy, soft, or wobbly base can make you lose balance and hamper coordination. So, make sure the foundation is firm enough by bending it a little at the toes. If the foundation almost folds halfway, it is too mushy. If it bends slightly and maintains a rigid stance mostly, you can expect decent support.
• Is the fit comfortable? Is it enough to just convert from boys to women’s shoe size when picking up a pair? No. You must ensure they fit you just right and are neither too loose nor too tight. If the shoes are extra big, you will stumble and fall, and if they are too small, your feet will hurt and you might end up with blisters, calluses, or bunions. Also make sure there is ample room around your toes and the pair is not too heavy. The soles should offer good grip and your arches should be well supported. This way, you will have more stability and balance while moving around.
• Are the materials suitable? Top-quality boys’ shoes are usually crafted with materials like leather, canvas, and mesh. These allow your feet to breathe and stay fresh throughout the day, which is especially important for an active lifestyle. Make sure these materials feel gentle on your skin too and there is no chafing. Stay away from pairs made of plastic.
• Are the shoes adjustable? Converting boys’ shoe size to women is not enough to ensure that the pair will fit you exactly right at all times. After all, feet can change in size or shape even in adults. Hence, it might be wise to go for something that features Velcro straps or laces. These can not only help you get a better fit, but also keep your feet in place more stably.
• Are the shoes right for the weather? Take the season into account while picking up boys’ shoes for your use. For instance, if it’s hot and sunny, open-toed designs might be more comfy and breezy. During winter months, you will do well with thick boots or sneakers with insulation. If it’s raining in your area, get shoes that repel water and dry off easily. Make sure they provide ample friction on wet or slippery roads as well.
• Will they last long? Look into the durability of the shoes before paying for them. Go for reputed brands and pick pairs that won’t become stiff or change shape with time. Check reviews online or ask friends who have tried the same.
• Are the patterns and colors right for me? The answer to this question is not a very straight one. However, you can keep your lifestyle, personality, age, and attitude in mind before choosing shoes that complement you perfectly. So, besides converting boys’ shoe size to women, take your time to explore different options in colors and patterns. For instance, if you want something subtle and yet versatile, you can go for neutral hues like black, gray, brown, tan, beige, cream, or white. If you want something exciting or peppy enough to contrast a neutral ensemble, then opt for pairs in red, blue, green, yellow, or orange. You can even try neon colors if you are feeling bold. Look for minimalistic patterns if you want it to keep simple or try out funky ones for a cool, casual look.

Shop for Boys’ Shoes Confidently and Look Your Best

Now that you know how to convert boys’ shoe size to women and the things to keep in mind before zeroing in on a pair, get ready to shop. Just make sure the shoes fit you well from the get-go and don’t need breaking in. This way, you will end up with a pair that hugs your feet for years to come.  

And if you are looking to buy shoes for your little boy too, check out the trendy options available at Jack & Lily. If you need advice on shopping for kids’ footwear, feel free to contact the professionals here.