Are Extra Wide Shoes the Same in Kids and Adults?

As kids transition from children’s shoe sizes to adult ones, many parents wonder: Does “extra wide” mean the same in both categories? This is a common and important question I hear from families at the shoe store where I work and across online parenting forums. The short answer is—not always. While the term “extra wide” exists in both kids’ and adult shoes, the actual fit can vary due to differences in sizing systems, shoe structure, and foot proportions. To make things easier, I’ve created a simple shoe width translation chart that will help you understand how kids’ extra wide shoes compare to adult sizes and guide you in finding the best fit as your child grows.

Shoe Width	Kids	Adults
Medium	Medium	Standard (D) or Medium
Wide	Wide	Wide or 2E
Extra Wide	Extra Wide or X-Wide	X-Wide (4E) or XX-Wide (6E)

Be Aware: Different Online Retailers Have Different Labels for Shoe Widths

You will notice that if you shop at Amazon you might find width labels that are very different from those at Zappos. The same applies to websites such as New Balance or Saucony. For example, Amazon might categorize their men’s extra wide shoes as “X-Wide”, while Zappos might label them as “4E”.

I have noticed throughout the years that the length and overall fit can greatly differ from child to adult footwear. Please keep in mind that men’s shoe sizes don’t always mirror children’s in width designation and fit, so if you still have doubts about what shoe width you should choose for your child who is in adult shoe sizes don’t hesitate to contact me.

My Experience Fitting Children’s Shoes

As someone who’s been fitting children’s shoes since 2013, I’ve witnessed just how life-changing the right pair of shoes can be. Over the years, I’ve helped countless families navigate the challenges of finding footwear that truly fits their children’s unique feet. One story that stands out is about a young boy who constantly struggled with foot pain because his shoes were too narrow. The day we switched him into properly fitted extra wide shoes, everything changed—his pain vanished, and he was back on the field playing sports with a big smile. It’s moments like these that fuel my passion for helping kids walk, run, and play in comfort. If you have any questions about your child’s shoes, don’t hesitate to reach out—I’m always here to help!

Are You Unsure About What Shoe Size You Should Order Online?

I understand that your child’s comfort and foot health are non-negotiable, and getting it right with shoe sizes is a good place to start. Let’s not guess the correct size, especially when dealing with extra wide requirements. Most specialized children’s shoe stores have professional shoe fitters who can aid in choosing the perfect size. You can also take advantage of a virtual shoe fitting service I offer that helps families determine exactly what shoe size they should order online.

It’s not just about length and width; I consider your child’s entire foot shape (such as instep and arch shape) to recommend the best size and width.

It’s important to understand that while the designation of “extra wide” might sound the same across children’s and adult’s shoes, the actual fit and dimensions can differ significantly. For example, adults’ extra wide shoes are typically designed to cater to adult feet, taking into account the larger bone structure and the wider range of foot conditions that adults might experience. On the other hand, kids’ shoes have different proportions to provide the necessary support for growing feet.

Helpful Shoe Resources for Kids in Adult Shoe Sizes

For older kids who may need to transition to adult shoe sizes, finding the right fit can be a challenge. You should take a look at two additional resources I created. One describes the best shoes for boys in men’s shoe sizes and the other one the best shoes for girls in women’s shoe sizes.