How to choose your baby's shoe size: a complete guide

Buying shoes for a baby is exciting… and also a little stressful. Their feet grow fast, you can’t ask them to try the shoes on, and sizes vary from one brand to another. The good news is that with a simple method, you can choose the right size from home.

In this guide, we explain step-by-step how to measure their foot, how much room to leave, and what mistakes to avoid so their shoes fit perfectly.

First, the golden rule: size is chosen by foot measurement

Age serves as a reference, but it is not the most reliable. There are 12-month-old babies with feet larger or smaller than average. That is why the sure way to get it right is to measure the foot and compare it to a size chart in centimeters.

How to measure your baby's foot in 4 steps

1. Prepare a sheet of paper and a pencil. Place it on the floor, against a wall.
2. Place their little foot on the paper with the heel against the wall. If they are too small to stand, you can hold them carefully, making sure they press their entire foot down.
3. Mark the tip of their longest toe with the pencil. Note: it is not always the big toe.
4. Measure the distance between the wall and the mark with a ruler, in centimeters.

A tip: if your baby moves a lot, do it when they are asleep or busy with a toy. And always measure both feet, because they are almost never exactly the same. Keep the measurement of the larger one.

How much space to leave for growth

You should add between 0.5 and 1 centimeter of extra room to their foot measurement. That space allows their toes to move and ensures the shoe lasts a little longer before becoming too small.

For example, if their foot measures 11.5 cm, look for a 12 cm size. No more: a shoe that is too big slips off, causes them to trip, and isn't comfortable either.

Reference size chart (Mexico)

This is our reference chart. Remember that age is just a guide:

• 0 to 3 months: 10 cm (USA Baby 1)
• 3 to 9 months: 11 cm (USA Baby 3)
• 9 to 15 months: 12 cm (USA Baby 4)
• 15 to 21 months: 13 cm (USA Baby 5)
• 2 years: 14 cm (USA Baby 6)
• 2 and a half years: 15 cm (USA Baby 7)
• 3 years: 16 cm (USA Baby 8)
• 3 and a half years: 17 cm (USA Baby 9)

You can see the full table, with the step-by-step instructions, in our Size Guide.

The most common mistakes when choosing a size

Buying too big "so it lasts"

It’s tempting, but a shoe that is too big slips off, rubs, and can cause them to trip. It is better to buy the correct size and change it when it gets tight.

Relying only on age

Two babies of the same age can wear different sizes. Always measure.

Measuring only once and forgetting

In the first few years, feet grow very quickly. Measure again every 2 or 3 months, and before every purchase.

Forgetting that each model has its own size range

Not all models are manufactured in all sizes. Check the page for each product to see which ones are available.

Choosing between two sizes without a clear rule

If their foot measurement falls right between two sizes, choose the larger one. It is better to have a little bit of extra space than shoes that pinch.

How to know if the shoe fits well

Once you have the pair at home, do this check:

• There is a small space between their longest toe and the tip of the shoe.
• The heel stays in place while walking.
• It leaves no red marks and doesn't squeeze the sides.
• The closure holds the foot well without cutting off circulation.
• Your baby walks or moves naturally.

If any of these conditions are not met, it is probably time to change the size.

If you have questions, we are here to help

Measuring a little foot doesn't always go right the first time, and that's okay. If you are not sure which size to choose, message us on WhatsApp with their foot measurement and we will guide you. When you are ready, you can explore our little shoes, our booties, or all models.

Because a well-chosen shoe makes every step more comfortable, and that shows in their smile. 🤍