Buying Kids' Shoes Online: 8 Tips for a Better Fit
How to buy children's shoes online with confidence, from measuring at home to checking the fit when they arrive.
Online shopping saves a trip, but you can’t try the shoes first. These 8 tips help you order the right pair the first time.
1. Measure the same day
Feet grow fast. Measure on the day you order. Our foot gauge guide shows you how.
2. Use both numbers
Enter the length and the width into the size calculator. A wrong width sends back more online orders than a wrong length.
3. Check the widths on offer
Shops stock some styles in one width only. Filter by width where the shop lets you.
4. Read the size notes
Look for notes like “comes up small” in the product description and reviews.
5. Check the returns policy
Confirm you can return or exchange unworn shoes, and keep the box.
6. Try them on indoors
Try the new shoes on a clean floor, with the socks your child wears most days.
7. Do the fit checks
- About a thumb’s width beyond the longest toe
- No heel slip as your child walks
- Fastenings close without strain
- No red marks after 15 minutes
8. Get them fitted if in doubt
A trained fitter can check the size and width in person when something feels wrong.
