Caring For Feet

Here you'll find hints and tips for fitting and caring for your children's feet, and also a guide to foot sizes.

Foot chart

UK, European and US sizes are different and we stock shoes from all over the world! Click here for our foot chart.

This is a length guide only. UK brands such as Startrite offer a width fitting as well, but most continental and European brands don't so it's always worth remembering whether your children's feet are wide or narrow. If you're uncertain and can't pop in store, please give us a call and we'll be happy to help.

Hints and tips

We want to make sure your children's feet are healthy and happy, so here are some useful tips and thoughts which might help.

How old should my child be before I buy their first pair of shoes?

Most children start to walk between 10 and 15 months. The bones in the feet of babies and children are particularly vulnerable. They're soft and easily compressed, so badly fitting shoes could restrict proper growth. We recommend your child has been walking unaided for a minimum of six weeks before you buy their first pair of shoes.

What type of shoes should I buy?

Soft leather provides maximum flexibility, durability and breathability. Leather shoes also mould naturally to your child's foot. The shoe should be naturally shaped to ensure the toes work freely and should provide proper support for the foot and ankle with no build up in either heel or sole. The outer sole should have sufficient flexibility to follow the movement of the foot.

How important is fitting?

Crucial! Avoid the temptation to buy too large there's no predicting the growth of children's feet. Allow growing room of around 15mm surplus length (about a thumbnail length). 3mm for the rounding at the toes, 5mm for sliding movement and 7mm for growth.

Get your children's feet checked regularly. They grow at different sizes, so it's always good to keep an eye on the fit, especially for young children.

How should I care for my shoes?

Regular polishing and protection keeps them looking good and helps with water proofing and the natural softening of the leather. It is a fact of life that feet sweat, so allow shoes to dry out properly to help improve durability and comfort.

Check regularly for signs of wear and avoid handing down shoes to other children. It may sound odd but, especially for young children, take their shoes and socks off as soon as they're home to give feet maximum freedom around the house.