Introduction

Finding the right shoe size for your toddler can sometimes be challenging. Did you know that there is no standard Australian kid's shoe sizing as different brands size their shoes differently?   The measurements below are for Atti & Anna's shoes.

This guide will simplify the process by teaching you how to accurately measure your child's feet and make sense of confusing size charts.

Understanding Toddler Shoe Sizes

Navigating the world of toddler shoe sizes can seem like a daunting task, but with a little knowledge, it becomes much easier. 

Importantly, there is no discernable difference between boys' and girls' shoe sizes in Australia or the EU—a fact that should make your shopping trip simpler! 

It's important to remember that toddlers grow quickly, and this includes their feet! These might increase by two full shoe sizes per year as they get more energetic and start exploring their world.

Therefore, always add about half size to a full size when considering what shoes to buy next; this "growth room" ensures your child won't outgrow his new causal boots or Mary Jane sandals too quickly while giving enough space for comfortable movement.

 

Steps to Choosing the Right Shoe Size for your Toddler

1. Begin by measuring your toddler's foot using the tracing method outlined below.
2. Refer to our toddler shoe size chart to choose the right size for your child.

Step 1 - How to Measure Your Toddler's Foot

To measure your toddler's foot accurately, place a piece of paper on the floor and have them stand on it. Trace around their heel and toes, making sure the lines are clear and straight.

Next, use a ruler or tape measure to determine the length from the end of their big toe to the back of their heel.

Tracing Method

Measuring your toddler's shoe size using the tracing method is straightforward and accurate. Here's how you do it:

1. Encourage your toddler to stand on a flat piece of paper.

2. Trace around their foot with a pencil, being sure to capture the shape of their heel and toes accurately.

3. Take the measurement in a straight line from the point at the end of the big toe, right to the back of the heel.

4. Make sure you measure both feet since one often tends to be larger than the other.

5. Choose a shoe size that fits the larger foot for optimal comfort.

6. To accommodate growth, add about 1cm to your toddler's foot measurement which provides ample space for feet development.

7. Use this total measurement (foot size plus growth room) to pick out shoes from 'Shop by Style' or 'Shop by Occasion'.

8. Looking at our size guide or conversion chart can also aid in understanding AU sizing versus EU/US/UK sizes.

Adding Growth Room

It's essential to ensure that your toddler's new shoes have room for growth. In fact, it's recommended that you add a half size to a full size when measuring for shoe sizes. Why? Because this additional 'growth room' accounts for the rapid pace at which little feet tend to expand - potentially two shoe sizes per year!

So next time you're shopping and making use of our AU Sizing Guide, remember to consider this rule of thumb: new shoes should provide at least 3/4 inch of space for foot movement.

Not only will this keep your child comfortable and allow natural growth, but also prevent potential foot damage from wearing overly tight footwear.

Step 2 - Toddler Shoe Size Guide

Please note that this Sizing Chart should be used as a guide. Exact insole measurements and width information can be located on individual product pages.

For children under 3 years, we recommend that you choose a shoe with an insole measurement of 1 to 1.2cm larger than your child’s actual foot measurement, depending on how much-growing room you would like.

For children over 3 years, we recommend that you choose a shoe with an insole measurement around 1.5cm larger than your child’s actual foot measurement.

i.e. If your child's foot measures 14cm then choose a shoe with an insole measurement of around 15.5cm

Australian/EU Toddler Shoe Size Conversion Chart

Understanding the difference between Australian and US toddler shoe sizes can be confusing. To help simplify this, we have developed a conversion chart to guide you. This chart matches the measurements of your child's foot with the appropriate shoe size. Remember that it's recommended to add a half size to a full size to allow for your child's foot growth.

 Here is a text version of the chart.

Australian Size (AU)	EU Size (EU)	Insole Cm
4	21	12.5cm
5	22	13.2cm
6	23	14cm
7	24	14.5cm
7.5	25	15cm
8	26	15.,5cm
9	27	16.4cm
10	28	17.2cm
11	29	18cm
12	30	18.6cm
13	31	19.2cm

 

This table is designed to assist you in selecting the correct size when purchasing shoes for your toddler. 

Comparison Between Boy's and Girl's Shoe Sizes

In the world of toddler shoes, there's one often overlooked fact: there is no difference in shoe sizes between boys and girls. The shoes are completely unisex in this age group, meaning the sizes are universal. Therefore, you can easily purchase a shoe for your little one, be it a girl or a boy, using the same size chart. 

Take note, the rapid growth of your toddler's feet can cause a hike of two shoe sizes per year. It's crucial to measure their feet regularly, ensuring their shoe size is accurate. 

Choosing the right shoe size is vital for the proper development of your toddler's feet. Over 65% of children wear shoes that are too small and this can lead to irreversible foot deformities. Always opt for shoes that provide the right support: a stiff heel, flexible toe, and rigid middle.

Tips for Choosing the Right Size

Consider adding growth room when choosing the right size for your toddler's shoes - around 0.5-1.0cm for babies and 1.0cm for toddlers and older kids.

Considering Growth Room

To ensure your toddler's shoes fit comfortably, it's important to consider growth room. Children's feet grow rapidly, and leaving some extra space in their shoes allows for natural development and prevents discomfort.

We suggest adding 1 to 1.5 cm to the foot length when choosing your child's shoe. This extra room accounts for the growth of their little feet over time, ensuring a perfect fit that lasts longer.

So when selecting those adorable shoes for your little one, don't forget to factor in growth room for happy and healthy feet!

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right shoe size for your toddler is crucial for their comfort and development. By following our simple measurement methods and using the conversion chart provided, you can ensure a perfect fit every time.

Remember to factor in growth room and consider different brands' sizing variations. With this knowledge, you can confidently find the best shoes to support your little one's adventures.

Frequently Asked Shoe Sizing Questions

1.What is the best way to measure my toddler's shoe size?

To measure your toddler's shoe size, use a ruler or tape measure to measure their foot from the heel to the longest toe. Make sure they are standing with their weight evenly distributed and that their feet are flat on the ground. Use this measurement to find the corresponding shoe size in a toddler shoe size chart.

2. What is the average shoe size for a toddler?

The average shoe size for toddlers can vary, but typically falls between sizes 4 and 13 in Australian sizing. It is important to note that each child may have different foot shapes and growth rates, so it is always recommended to measure their feet before purchasing shoes.

3. How much room should there be in my toddler's shoes?

There should be about half an inch (approximately one finger width) of space between your toddler's longest toe and the front of their shoe. This allows for proper growth and prevents discomfort or restriction as their feet continue to develop.

4. When should I replace my toddler's shoes?

It is time to replace your toddler's shoes when they start feeling tight or uncomfortable, no longer provide adequate support, or show visible signs of wear such as worn-out soles or loose stitching. It is also important to regularly check their shoes for fit as children's feet can grow quickly during certain stages of development.

Atti & Anna shoes are designed right here in Australia and are hand made using only the highest quality fabrics and leathers for your piece of mind.   

Remember, if you have any problems at all please just contact us at 

info@attiandanna.com.au, we're here to help :)