1. Only Fit the Shoes in The Afternoon or Evening
Although you might know this already, your feet (and the kids) will expand to their actual size several hours into the day. That said, it would be advisable to go shoe shopping in the afternoon or evening, and never in the morning. You might also want to let the kids walk around for some time before trying to fit in new shoes. This is the only way you will get an accurate foot size.
Shopping for and shoe fitting in the morning only increases the risk of buying the wrong size, or worse, too small a shoe. Wait until the afternoon before you can go shoe shopping. Make sure the kids (you included) fit in their shoes while on their feet. This ensures the foot is in its outstretched state.
2. Create A Shoelace Size Guide
Most shoe stores will make shoe fitting quite inconvenient. This is why some shoe brands will fit better than others, even when they are the same size. Creating an easy way to know the correct shoe size can, however, save you all the struggle and trouble. Take the kid’s foot measurements from toe to heel, then tie a knot on both ends of the toe and heel. You can then take the shoelace with you whenever you go shoe shopping.
3. Don’t Force Your Feet into The Shoe
Ladies are particularly notorious for this. They will force their way into the ankle-breaking high heels until it fits. This approach isn’t however recommended for your child’s growing feet. This means no breaking in the shoe, but rather letting the feet slide in effortlessly. You should, therefore, be careful to ensure the shoes aren’t too large, as this could affect how well they walk. Shoes that are too small could hinder their foot development, hence not recommended.
4. The Thumb Measurement Trick
According to OrthoticShop.com, nothing beats the thumb when it comes to shoe fitting. Always use your thumb to measure critical aspects of the shoe, such as ankle support, heel grip, and shoe width. Try fitting your thumb between the back of the shoe and the kid’s heel. This will enable you to know the length of the shoe. The ideal shoe should leave just enough space for your thumb to fit in. This reduces the risk of blisters and pain several days/weeks after buying the shoe
You also need to ensure there’s enough space (or a gap) between the shoe and the toes. To do this, press your thumb down on the front to see if your thumb fits. The gasp (space left) should be just enough for your thumb to fit in; anything too small or bigger means the shoe isn’t the right size for him/her.
5. Measure Both Feet
Most people have one of their feet larger than the other. Be sure to measure both feet before settling on a shoe. Experts also recommend using the ‘larger’ foot as the basis for shoe fitting.
6. Try the Shoes First
Be sure to let the kids walk around the store before making the final decision or purchase. Pay special attention to how they walk in their new shoes, and ensure they are comfortable enough. Watch to see if they are stepping gingerly or if the shoe slips at the heel. Asking for your child’s opinion might save you a lot too. Ask how their toes feel and if the shoe is slipping out. You could also make him/her hop or jump to see if the shoes come off. He/she won’t be able to jump properly if the shoes are too tight or loose.
7. Refit Old Shoes
Try refitting old shoes before heading out to buy new ones. With the kid’s feet growing fast, you don’t want to buy the same size as the old one. Doing this could save you lots of time and effort trying to identify which shoes will best fit him or her. Refitting the old shoe will give you an idea of where to start and what size to ask for. This ensures you get the right shoes for your foot development stage and age.