(A Parent-Friendly Guide to Fit, Comfort & Sustainable Choices)

Choosing kids' shoes shouldn’t feel like a full-time job, but when you’re shopping online, it often does. You can’t touch the shoe, can’t bend it, can’t check the inside… and yet you still need to ensure it’s supportive, comfortable, and actually good for their growing feet.

The good news? Once you know what to look for, understanding how to choose kids' shoes online becomes much simpler. A quick checklist can save you time, reduce returns, and help you pick better, more sustainable kids' shoes that keep little feet happy.

Let’s break it down.

 

1. Fit Is Everything

When it comes to how to choose kids' shoes, there’s one rule above all:
A good fit beats everything else.

Measure Their Feet Properly

Grab a plain sheet of paper, a pen, and your child.

Have them stand barefoot (an even weight on both feet).

Trace around both feet.

Measure the image from heel to longest toe.

Use the measurement from the larger foot, because almost nobody has two identical feet.

(A word of warning: this activity often becomes 80% measurement, 20% chaotic arts-and-crafts session. It’s part of the charm.)

Add Growing Room — But Not Too Much

Kids grow fast. Sometimes very fast. Add 1–2 cm (½ inch) to their measured length when selecting a size online. This gives enough room to grow without turning the shoe into a trip hazard.

Always Check the Size Chart

There is no such thing as a universal kids' shoe size. Brands vary wildly.
Make sure the website lists cm or inch measurements, and never rely on “my kid usually wears a 28.”

A proper size chart = fewer returns, less hassle, and less waste.

 

2. Shoe Structure & Support (Keep It Flexible)

When thinking about the best shoes for toddlers, parents often assume “more support” means “better.” But young children need flexibility so they can develop natural balance, strength, and gait.

Avoid Overly Structured Shoes

Adult-style running shoes can look cool, but their stiff structure can restrict developing feet. Unless a medical professional has recommended it, toddlers don’t need rigid arch support or heavy cushioning.

Look for a Shoe That Moves With Them

A good toddler or preschool shoe should have:

A flexible forefoot that bends easily

A flexible and not overly constructed upper that can bend and move as the kid plays

A protective but lightweight sole

City kids in particular need shoes that can handle playgrounds and pavements — without weighing them down.

 

3. Materials & Breathability Matter

For a daily-wear shoe to work across playgrounds, school runs, park trips, and everything in between, comfort and breathability are key.

Choose Natural, Breathable Materials

Kids are small… but somehow they can smell big.
Breathable materials help keep moisture and odour away.

Look for:

Canvas (durable, airy, easy to clean)

Soft cotton linings

Mesh (less sustainable but still breathable)

At Little Fierce, we choose a strong canvas upper paired with a breathable lining because it keeps little feet cool — even during long days of running, climbing, and general chaos.

Non-Slip, Flexible Soles

Rubber outsoles are ideal. They grip better than plastic, making slippery playground surfaces safer.

Soft, Cushioned Insoles

A gentle insole helps with all the jumping, hopping, and occasionally forgetting how to bend their knees when landing.

 

4. Shoes Designed for Little Hands (and Little Routines)

One small detail can make a huge difference:
Can your child put their shoes on themselves?

It builds independence, confidence, and (let’s be honest) helps everyone get out the door faster.

Look for:

Easy slip-on styles

Sturdy pull tabs

Soft, flexible tongues

Simple fastenings (velcro works well, though it’s less sustainable)

At Little Fierce, we added a monster character inside each shoe. When the monsters “high-five,” your child knows they’ve got their left and right correct. Easy, fun, and empowering.

 

5. Health & Safety: Skip Hand-Me-Downs

This one surprises people, especially parents who care about sustainability:

Avoid Second-Hand Shoes

Why?
Because shoes mould to the first wearer’s feet, preworn shoes can influence another child’s gait and development.

Second-hand shoes also carry risks of:

fungal infections

skin issues

internal wear that isn’t visible at first glance

When you want sustainable kids' shoes, the better route is to buy quality and use them daily — not share footwear moulded to someone else.

Replace Shoes Every 6 Months

Preschoolers' feet grow so quickly that most shoes need replacing twice a year. Keep an eye on:

Uneven heel wear

Worn-down toes

Rubbing inside the shoe

Signs your child is walking differently

These can all signal that it’s time for the next size up (or a different fit).

Final Thoughts: Choosing Kids' Shoes Online Doesn’t Have to Be Stressful

Once you know how to choose kids' shoes online, the whole process gets quicker, easier, and more sustainable. Measure well, choose flexible and breathable materials, and always prioritise comfort over trends.

And remember: the best shoes for toddlers are the ones that let them run, climb, stomp through puddles, and live their biggest little lives.

If you're looking for supportive, breathable, flexible, sustainable kids' shoes, you’re always welcome to explore the Little Fierce range — made specifically for everyday play and real city kids.