What size shoes do 1 year olds wear?

Finding the Perfect Fit: What size shoes do 1 year olds wear

So what size shoes do 1 year olds wear? We know how challenging it can be to find the right pair of shoes for your little one, especially when they’re just starting to explore the world on their own two feet. In this guide, we’ll dive into the nitty-gritty of one-year-old shoe sizes, offering practical advice to make your shoe-shopping journey a breeze for baby’s feet.

Understanding One-Year-Old Shoe Sizes:  As parents, we’ve all been there – standing in the shoe aisle, wondering, “What size does my one-year-old wear?” nowadays, where can you even go to get a professional fitting for the right fit and do you need one when they are so young? 

Do One-Year-Olds Need Shoes?

So what size shoes do 1 year olds wear and do they need them? The simple answer is only sometimes. In the early stages of walking and those first steps, it’s perfectly fine for your one-year-old to go with bare feet indoors. This allows a child’s foot to develop healthily, which naturally strengthens those cute little muscles for foot development in your kid’s feet.

The Benefits of Barefoot Exploration:

• Muscle Development: Going barefoot improves muscle development, balance, and coordination.
• Sensory Stimulation: Tiny toes experience different textures, enhancing sensory development.
• Natural Gait: Walking without shoes helps develop a natural, proper gait.

When to Introduce Shoes

As your little one ventures outside, introducing shoes becomes practical. Here are a few scenarios where shoes can be beneficial:

Special Occasions:  

A pair of adorable, comfortable shoes can add that extra touch of style for special occasions or family outings.

Types of Shoes for One-Year-Olds

When choosing shoes for your little one, comfort and flexibility are key. Here are some types to consider:

Soft-Soled Shoes

Soft-soled shoes allow natural movement and flexibility for early walkers. Look for breathable materials, like leather, in infant shoes.

Crib Shoes 

Crib shoes offer a soft and cosy option for the tiniest toes, protecting delicate feet while allowing easy movement. 

First-Walker Shoes

As your little one gains confidence in walking, consider little kid shoes with a bit more structure and support, still maintaining flexibility.

Velcro or Elastic Closures

Opt for shoes with adjustable closures for a secure fit. Velcro or elastic makes the on-and-off process a breeze with a child’s shoes.

Cost 

The average price of one-year-old shoes can vary based on brand, material, style, and where you purchase them. Generally, baby shoes for one-year-olds range from around £10 to £30 or more.

Essential, every day or soft-soled shoes might be on the lower end of the price range, while more specialised or branded shoes could be on the higher end. Remember that infants and toddlers grow quickly, so prioritising comfort and fit is often practical over spending a significant amount on shoes they may outgrow soon.

Additionally, sales, discounts, and clearance events can significantly impact your price for baby shoes. It’s always a good idea to shop around, compare prices, and take advantage of any promotions or deals to ensure you get the best value for your money.

Where To Go To Get Kids’ Shoes Measured

Several reputable shoe shops in the UK specialise in children’s footwear and offer professional measuring services. Here are some popular choices for getting your one-year-old’s feet measured:

Clarks

• Clarks is a well-known shoe brand that offers a specialised fitting service for children. They have trained staff to measure your child’s feet and help you find the right size and style. I still remmber my mum taking me and those shoes with the keys in the sole!

Start-Rite:

• Start-Rite is another established brand with a focus on children’s shoes. They provide a fitting service in their stores, ensuring your child gets the best fit for their growing feet.

Russell & Bromley:

• Russell & Bromley is known for its quality footwear and provides a fitting service for children. Their staff is trained to measure accurately and provide advice on choosing the right shoes.

John Lewis:

• John Lewis department stores often have a dedicated children’s shoe section where trained staff can measure your child’s feet. They carry a variety of brands and styles for different ages.

Startrite Outlet Stores:

• Startrite has outlet stores offering a range of discounted children’s shoes. These stores may also provide fitting services to ensure your child’s shoes are the correct size.

Mothercare:

• Mothercare, known for its comprehensive range of baby and children’s products, includes a selection of shoes. Some stores may offer a fitting service to assist in finding the correct size.

Remember that the availability of fitting services may vary by location, so it’s a good idea to check with the specific store beforehand or visit their website for information on fitting services and store locations. Additionally, always prioritise the comfort and proper fit of the shoes for your little one.

How to Measure Tiny Feet:

Before you hit the stores:

Now, let’s delve into the nitty-gritty of sizing for those tiny toes. Our comprehensive size guide ensures you know various shoe types and popular brands. Whether it’s adorable sneakers or comfy sandals, consider this your go-to resource for what size shoes do 1 year olds wear.

We’re all familiar with the worries accompanying the quest for the perfect shoes. From concerns about discomfort to questions about the importance of what size shoes do 1 year olds wear, we’ve got you covered with expert tips. Let’s restate those concerns and make the process enjoyable for you and your little explorer.

Choosing Comfort Over Style:

As tempting as those miniature shoes are, we know that comfort takes precedence over style regarding tiny feet. Our guidance in what size shoes do 1 year olds wear, extends beyond aesthetics to help you select shoes that look adorable and, more importantly, support the natural growth of your little one’s feet.

Tips for Measuring and Shopping: Navigating the maze of baby shoe shopping can be overwhelming, but fear not! Here are some crucial tips to ensure you make the best choices:

1. Measure Both Foot Length and Foot Width :

• Unlike adults, children’s feet are still developing; width is as important as length. Ensure you measure both accurately to guarantee a proper fit for the right shoes.

2. Use a Brannock Device or Printable Sizing Chart:

• Invest in a Brannock device for precise measurements, or use printable sizing charts from reputable brands. This eliminates guesswork and ensures accuracy.

3. Measure During the Afternoon:

• Children’s feet can swell slightly throughout the day. Measure in the afternoon when their feet are likely to be at their largest, ensuring a comfortable fit all day long with new shoes.

4. Allow a Thumb’s Width:

• It’s a good idea to leave about a thumb’s width between the longest toe and the front of the shoe to accommodate growth without sacrificing comfort for little feet.

5. Consider the Width:

• Pay attention to the width of the shoe. If your child has wider feet, opt for styles that offer a bit more room for your child’s feet.

6. Opt for Flexible Soles:

• Look for soft shoes with flexible soles that allow natural movement. This is crucial for developing balance and coordination in children’s shoes.

Quick Round-Up

Measure your baby’s foot length from the back of the heel to the big toe, and use the width ruler to determine the correct size for those little feet. Remember the thumb width rule for growth. Check for general guides on the appropriate shoe size for your child’s age, and consider half sizes if needed. Remember to ask or look for non-skid soles for those early walkers and be vigilant about width, especially if your child has wider feet. 

By following these steps in our what size shoes do 1 year olds wear, you’ll ensure that the first pair of shoes is the right size and the best fit for your little one’s growing feet.

Armed with this guide, you’re ready to conquer the world of one-year-old shoe sizes for the perfect pair of shoes. Remember, each little step is a significant milestone, and we’re here to make those steps as comfy and stylish as possible. Happy shoe shopping!

# What size shoes do 1 year olds wear