Guessing your baby’s shoe size can be a fun game. Clothing stores offer all kinds of cute footwear for babies.
Parents often focus on buying trendy and good-looking shoes, often ignoring their baby’s shoe size.
But when you buy shoes, you must also consider your baby’s shoe size because they should feel comfortable.
After all, you don’t want your baby to cry because of some tight Nikes or Pumas. So, in the following paragraphs, we’ll show you how to find your baby’s shoe size.
Why Properly Fitting Shoes Matter for Babies
Choosing proper-fitting shoes for your baby is a must thing do. Babies grow fast, so you need to frequently check their shoe size.
Also, as babies grow, they start to walk and run. Tight shoes can hinder their development and make them avoid walking.
According to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, tight shoes negatively affect bone growth and the overall development of the baby’s feet.
Proper shoe size supports natural foot growth. Big shoes cause discomfort, while smaller shoes decrease blood circulation, causing blisters and ingrown toenails.
Shoe Size Chart by Age
Understanding Baby Foot Development
If you’ve ever had a baby, you know that their feet grow like crazy during the first year of life. That’s when you should really care about your baby’s shoe size. In this period, the feet grow in spurts.
So, it’s crucial to buy your babies comfortable shoes and socks. Pick a bigger shoe size than your baby’s actual shoe size since their feet grow fast.
Make sure to keep your baby’s feet active so they can grow normally. Experts advise that you can try tickling or playing with their feet regularly.
Measuring Your Baby’s Foot
Have you ever wondered how to measure shoe size? Me neither! But there is a simple way! Here it is:
- Choose a flat surface and extend your baby’s foot;
- Use a tape measure or a ruler and measure from the back of the heel to the longest toe;
- Also, measure your baby’s foot width;
- Measure both feet;
- Pick a shoe that’s about 1/2 inch bigger than your baby’s shoe length;
- Make sure that the shoe is wide enough for your baby’s foot;
You can also pick the perfect shoe size for your baby in the store! Just gently tap the front of the shoe when trying it on your baby.
If there’s space between the longest toe and the tip of the shoe, you’re good to go. It’s easy as that!
Factors to Consider When Choosing Baby Shoes
We shortly discussed how to measure your baby’s shoe size. But foot size isn’t the only factor when choosing baby shoes.
The material is also crucial when choosing baby shoes. Stiff materials can hinder your baby’s foot growth. Flexible rubber shoes are the best for babies because they are comfortable and easy to wear.
But even though rubber shoes are flexible, you still must make sure that your baby’s shoes are a comfortable size.
FAQ
When should I start buying shoes for my baby?
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the perfect time to get babies their first shoes is when they start to walk.
Can I rely on age recommendations for shoe sizes?
You can sometimes rely on age recommendations, but most of the time you can’t. So, to make sure, you can pick your baby’s shoe size more accurately by trying different sizes.
Are there specific materials to avoid for baby shoes?
Stiff materials such as leather, artificial leather, and suede are the ones you should avoid for baby shoes. Your baby needs comfortable shoes, such as rubber shoes.
Can my baby go barefoot at home for healthy foot development?
Yes, barefoot walking is beneficial for babies and develops foot strength. Just make sure to put on baby shoes when your baby is outdoors.
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