How Fast Do Kids’ Feet Grow? – Learn About When You Should Replace Your Kids’ Shoes

As a dedicated shoe fitter, I’ve spent years helping parents navigate the complexities of children’s footwear. One of the most common questions I encounter is, “How fast do kids’ feet grow?” I am going to show you when your child might be ready for new shoes based on your child’s age. I am always shocked when parents come to the store where I work telling me how their kids’ shoes lasted a whole year, or how their kids outgrew their shoes in two months. It doesn’t matter how old your children are, they should never outgrow their shoes as quickly as in two months, and the shoes should never last as long as a whole year.

How Fast Do Kids’ Feet Grow? – Age-Based Foot Development

The rate at which children’s feet grow can vary significantly based on age so these guidelines should be taken as an estimate since every child grows at a different rate.

Infants (0-1 Year)

During the first year of life, a baby’s foot undergoes rapid growth. On average, a baby’s foot will grow about half a size every two months. Most infants don’t require shoes, but some do, mostly to keep their feet warm. At this stage I recommend crochet booties that won’t constrict your baby’s toe movement.

Toddlers (1-3 Years)

Between the ages of one and three, a child’s foot will typically grow a full shoe size every three to four months. This is a period where the arch begins to develop, and the foot starts taking shape. Shoes should offer a stable base of support but still allow for natural movement.

Preschoolers (3-5 Years)

Foot growth slows down a bit during the preschool years. Expect a size increase every four to five months. During this time, the structure of the foot becomes more defined, and it’s essential to ensure that shoes fit well to support healthy development.

School-Age Children (5-12 Years)

As children enter school, their feet continue to grow steadily. On average, expect a size increase every six months. However, growth spurts are common, and some children may need new shoes more frequently. At this stage, supportive shoes become increasingly important to accommodate the active lifestyle of school-aged children.

Adolescents (12-18 Years)

Foot growth generally slows during adolescence but doesn’t stop. Teens can still experience growth spurts that affect their shoe size. It’s important to keep monitoring their shoe fit to ensure comfort and prevent foot issues.

This should give you an idea of when to visit your kids’ shoe store. You must remember that children grow in spurts and they don’t all hit them at the same time. You should not be concerned if your children’s feet are not growing as fast as they should be. Children grow in spurts so they might catch up at any time!

Shoe Recommendations from a Shoe Fitter

As a shoe fitter, I’m here to help guide you through this process and answer any questions you may have. For personalized shoe recommendations based on your child’s foot shape and condition, feel free to contact me via email. Properly fitted shoes can make a significant difference in your child’s comfort and foot health.

How Much Growing Room is Too Much Growing Room?

It’s crucial to leave enough room for growth, but not so much that the shoes become a tripping hazard. A good rule of thumb is to leave about 3/8 of an inch between the child’s longest toe and the end of the shoe. This allows for natural foot movement and growth. I created a different resource that will help you visualize exactly how much growing room you should leave for your kids’ feet to grow.

How to Identify If Your Child Is Ready for a New Shoe Size

Signs Your Child Needs New Shoes

  • Toes Touching the End: If your child’s toes are pressing against the front of the shoe, it’s time for a new pair.
  • Red Marks or Blisters: These can indicate the shoes are too tight.
  • Frequent Complaints: If your child often complains about foot pain or discomfort, it’s worth checking their shoe size.

When Will Your Kids’ Feet Stop Growing?!

Most girls’ feet stop growing at age 14, while boys’ feet stop growing between the ages of 18 to 20. At the ages mentioned, growth plates have closed and the growth in length of the feet has stopped. Keep in mind that even though feet stop growing at certain ages, shoe sizes can change due to several other factors.

For example, the older we get, the weaker the muscles that support the bones get, which may cause our bones to move, making the foot bigger. Arches, for example, may collapse with age which might lead to the feet getting wider. By the way, even though your child might not be ready for a new shoe size, if the shoe has taken a beating from being worn for a long time, you should strongly consider purchasing new shoes for your child, even if it means getting the same shoe size.

Children’s feet grow quickly, and staying on top of their shoe size is essential for ensuring comfort and healthy development. By understanding how fast kids’ feet grow based on age, knowing how much growing room they need, and recognizing when it’s time for a new shoe size, you can help your child step confidently into each new stage of growth.