Perfect Fit for Kids' Shoes

Foot Notes: Finding the Perfect Fit for Kids' Shoes

Did you know that one quarter of the bones in the human body are found in the feet? Because these bones continue to grow for the first 18 years of a child's life, achieving a good fit is essential for proper development. It's important to invest in quality, supportive footwear. Garnet Hill chooses only the best children's shoes, boots and sandals, using strict standards for comfort — and fit is a big component of comfort.

Measuring Your Child's Feet

Before you select a size, print our Foot-Measuring Tool. Lay the printout on the ground and have your child stand on it with weight evenly distributed on the feet. Measure both feet to determine the best size.

Don't get too hung up on the numbers — brands and styles vary. Garnet Hill performs fit trials on all footwear, so refer to any recommendations and sizing translations posted within the product's details.

How to Be Sure the Shoes Fit

When the new shoes arrive, remove them from the package and have your child try them on. Check the following criteria to ensure a great fit.

• LENGTH
Make sure there is a thumb's width (about 1/2") between the end of the longest toe and the end of the shoe. You can also use this quick method to determine when your child's shoes are getting too small.

• WIDTH
While the shoes are on, feel the widest part of the foot across the vamp of the shoe. It should be snug, yet comfy on the foot.

• ANKLES AND BACK HEIGHT
Make sure the shoe falls at the right spot on the ankle. There may be a small gap between the back of the shoe and the heel. This space allows freedom of movement and does not mean that the shoe is too large.

• HEEL SLIP
Have your child sit down. Grasp the heel of the shoe and try to move it up and down. If the heel slips, adjust the buckle, lace or Velcro® to make it more secure.

• TRY THEM OUT
Have your child take a walk to make sure the shoes feel comfortable. Tugging at the shoes, stumbling or complaints of discomfort are signs that you need to adjust the fit. If this doesn't improve the feel and fit, consider a different size or style.

Shop our entire collection of Quality Footwear for Kids — and remember, Exchanges Are Always Free.