How To Choose Toddler Shoes

Tiny feet take big steps—and the right shoes can make all the difference. As your toddler begins to walk, run and explore the world, choosing supportive, well-fitting footwear isn’t just about comfort or style, it’s about laying the foundation for healthy growth and movement.

But with so many brands, features and sizes to navigate, how do you know what’s best for your little one? We spoke with pediatric experts and footwear pros to simplify the process. From understanding shoe sizes to spotting must-have features (and what to avoid), here’s everything you need to know before you hit “add to cart” or head to the store.

Why proper footwear matters for toddlers

Lisa Will is the founder and CEO of Stonz, a Canadian brand of "smartly designed" footwear, outerwear and accessories for babies, toddlers and kids. She explains, "Choosing the right shoes for toddlers is vital. This is because their feet are still soft, flexible and rapidly developing. During this stage, the wrong footwear can impact how their bones form and how their muscles strengthen. Shoes that don’t fit properly (or lack support) can affect not just foot health but also posture and walking habits."

Understanding toddler shoe sizes

Unlike kids' shoe sizes, toddler shoe sizes can be confusing. This is because they often overlap with infant or baby shoe sizes and can vary significantly between brands.

In Canada, toddler shoe sizes are typically labelled with a “C” for “Child” or a “K” for “Kid.” These sizes usually cover children from about nine months to four years old, ranging from size 3.5 to size 10.

Because toddlers grow so quickly, Will recommends that parents measure their child’s feet every three to four months.

Toddlers’ feet grow rapidly, often changing size every two to three months,” she explains. “Wearing shoes that are too small can restrict natural foot growth, affect balance and even cause permanent structural issues. That’s why regular measurement is so important. It ensures your child’s footwear continues to support healthy development.”

Ways to measure toddler shoe sizes

Keeping up with your toddler’s growing feet doesn’t have to be complicated. The simplest method is to use a ruler or measuring tape to check the length and width of both feet while your child is standing. This helps ensure you're capturing their full weight-bearing foot size.

Don’t have a measuring tape? No problem. Printable shoe size charts and sizing apps can do the trick. Tools like the Start-Rite 3D Measure App let you print a measurement grid and use your phone to take guided photos of your child’s feet. Other options, like the Shoe Size Meter and Converter app, walk you through capturing foot dimensions using your device’s camera, making it easy to find the right size without leaving home.

How to check for proper fit

In addition to measuring your toddler’s feet regularly, it’s important to check the fit of their shoes often.

To do this, make sure there’s about a thumb’s width of space between the longest toe and the end of the shoe and ensure that the heel stays securely in place without slipping when your child walks. The shoes should also be wide enough to fit comfortably, without squeezing the foot.

Types of toddler shoes and when to use them

Here’s an overview of the most common types of toddler shoes you’ll find on the market and where your little one should wear them.

• Pre-walking shoes are soft, flexible shoes for indoor use to protect the feet.
• First walking shoes have a firm sole, good support and flexibility.
• Sneakers are versatile shoes for everyday wear and active play.
• Sandals are open shoes for warm weather, ensuring proper support and protection.
• Boots are shoes for colder weather, providing warmth and protection from the elements.
• Dress shoes are for special occasions, ensuring comfort and a proper fit.

What to look for when buying toddler shoes

When shopping for toddler shoes, parents should keep an eye out for key features that make all the difference. Here’s a closer look at why each of these features matters.

• Flexibility: The sole should bend easily at the ball of the foot.
• Support: The shoe should provide adequate support for the arch and ankle.
• Air-flow: The material should allow air to circulate to prevent sweaty feet.
• Durability: The shoe should be made of high-quality materials that can withstand wear and tear.
• Adjustable features: Shoes with adjustable straps or laces provide a better fit.
• Lightweight: Heavy or bulky shoes can be uncomfortable and hinder movement.
• Non-slip sole: The sole should have good traction to prevent falls.
• Materials: Leather, canvas and mesh are great materials because they are lightweight, flexible and comfortable.

What to avoid when buying toddler shoes

There are, however, features to avoid when looking for toddler shoes. Here are a few to watch out for:

Stiff, heavy, or big shoes

Even if they look adorable, it’s best to avoid shoes that are stiff, heavy, or too big for your child.

“Buying shoes with the idea that your child will grow into them is a common mistake,” says TK, a representative from Stonz. "Shoes that don’t fit properly can cause discomfort and even lead to problems with the way your child walks."

Narrow toe boxes

Brittney Steindl, PT, DPT, a pediatric physical therapist, recommends steering clear of shoes with narrow toe boxes.

“Shoes that squeeze the toes together can put pressure on the bones in the front of the foot,” she explains. "Over time, this can affect the joints and may even lead to bunions."

Rigid soles

Shoes with stiff soles are also not ideal for toddlers. According to Steindl, rigid soles can weaken the small muscles in your child’s feet, making it harder for them to develop natural stability.

Non-breathable materials

While plastic shoes might seem convenient, especially in summertime, they often don’t let your child’s feet breathe. “Too much moisture inside the shoe can cause blisters and create a warm, damp environment where fungal infections can thrive,” Steindl warns.

How to find the right socks

What size sock is a Toddler size 11 shoe? "Toddler sock sizes are usually labelled by both age and shoe size, but shoe size is often more accurate," explains Steindl. "I recommend parents focus on shoe size rather than age, since kids’ feet grow at different rates."

Having said that, for a toddler wearing a size 11 shoe, Steindl recommends looking for socks labelled for shoe sizes 10-13 or medium toddler socks. But of course, sizing can vary brand to brand.

"The ideal sock should provide complete coverage of the foot without excess material bunching at the toes or heel, which could create pressure points or friction during walking," says Steindl. She recommends choosing breathable materials such as cotton and bamboo.

And make sure socks aren't too tight. "Tight elastic bands can leave indentations on a child's skin, potentially restricting circulation and causing discomfort that alters movement patterns," she adds.

Best toddler shoes on the market

The choices for toddler shoes nowadays are endless. However, here is an overview of the best pairs every little one should have:

• Lightweight Sneakers: Great for everyday activities. Look for features like breathable mesh uppers, flexible soles, and easy-to-use closures.
• Supportive Sandals: Great for the summer months. Choose pairs with features like adjustable straps, contoured footbeds, and non-slip soles.
• Durable Boots: Keeps feet shielded from hazards. Opt for boots with waterproof materials, warm linings, and sturdy construction.
• Flexible Dress Shoes: Suitable for dressier occasions. Select shoes made from soft leather or canvas uppers, lightweight soles, and comfortable linings.

The bottom line

Toddlers need shoes that support their overall foot health. That's why Steindl says it's important to choose shoes with care.

"The right shoes help feet grow in a healthy way," she explains. "They let the foot’s sensory nerves get the feedback they need when a child stands or walks. This feedback is important for learning how to move and for good coordination."

Experts

• Brittany Steindl, PT, DPT, is a pediatric physical therapist.
• Lisa Will is the founder and CEO of Stonz, a Vancouver-based company specializing in children's outdoor footwear and apparel.