Joybuy Insights

Choosing children's shoes without costly mistakes: check the size, fastening and intended use

Children grow quickly, but that does not mean you should automatically choose a larger size with every purchase. Children's shoes that are too roomy can make walking awkward, while a model that is too tight soon becomes uncomfortable. Looks can also be misleading: lights, glitter or a well-known brand name reveal little about the fit, fastening or care requirements.

In this guide, the Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer explains what to look out for when choosing children's shoes. You will find children's trainers, boys' shoes, girls' shoes, children's shoes with hook-and-loop fastenings, and models for school, play and outdoor activities.

Three common pitfalls when buying children's shoes

1. Choosing a size based on age

Age is only an indication. Children's feet do not all grow at the same rate, and size charts can vary between brands. A child who normally wears size 30 may need a different fit in a particular model.

Pay attention to:

  • the stated EU size;
  • the specified fit, such as regular or roomy;
  • the shoe width, for example D or G;
  • the manufacturer's sizing instructions;
  • the foot length when it is given in centimetres.

For children's shoes size 29, children's shoes size 30, children's shoes size 31 and children's shoes size 32, always check the product page itself. The same applies to children's shoes size 33, children's shoes size 34, children's shoes size 35 and children's shoes size 37.

2. Mistaking a striking design for practical performance

Light-up children's shoes and glitter shoes can be appealing, but also check the fastening and material. Built-in lights may mean that machine washing is not recommended, for example. According to the product information for the Skechers Meteor-Lights, cleaning with a damp cloth is advised because washing may damage the light and battery components.

For school and everyday use, a sturdy sole, easy cleaning and a reliable fastening are often more important than extra decoration.

3. Not considering whether your child can put them on independently

Toddlers and young schoolchildren benefit from a fastening they can operate themselves. Children's shoes with hook-and-loop fastenings are generally easier to put on than shoes with laces only. Elastic laces combined with a hook-and-loop fastening offer a similar practical advantage.

Laces can be a good choice for older children who can tie their shoes independently and want a precise fit. However, check that your child can use this fastening independently in the morning and after playing outside.

Important specifications to check

Fit and width

A model with a regular fit is not automatically suitable for every foot. The product information may provide additional details, such as shoe width D or G. According to the stated specifications, the Skechers Meteor-Lights Krendox in size 33 has a wider G width, while several other models have a D width.

When trying shoes on, check for:

  • enough room around the toes without the foot sliding;
  • a heel that does not continually slip out of the shoe;
  • a fastening that keeps the foot securely in place;
  • no pressure points across the instep or at the sides;
  • freedom of movement when walking, running and bending down.

A removable insole can be useful for checking foot length, but not every model has one. Several Skechers models in this selection have a non-removable insole.

Material and sole

The upper partly determines how the shoe feels and how much care it needs. Textile and mesh can offer greater breathability, while synthetic leather is easy to clean with a cloth. A rubber outsole is mentioned in the product information for several models and is designed to provide grip for everyday use.

Also check:

  • whether the sole is flexible enough for normal walking;
  • whether the tread is suitable for indoor and outdoor use;
  • whether the material can withstand rain;
  • which cleaning method is permitted;
  • whether the shoe is suitable for energetic play or mainly for casual wear.

Terms such as water-resistant, breathable or shock-absorbing should only be treated as confirmed product features when they appear in the product specifications. Claims about a brand's performance are not a guarantee for every user.

Care and lifespan

How long shoes last depends on how often they are worn, the surfaces they are used on and how they are cared for. Machine washing is not suitable for every model. Several Skechers shoes, for example, are specified as requiring cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap. The product information for the Skechers Go Run 400-Darvix, however, states that it is machine washable; always follow the official care label.

Allow wet shoes to dry at room temperature and avoid prolonged heat or direct sunlight. This is particularly relevant for Crocs children's shoes and light-up models, as high temperatures can cause deformation or shrinkage.

Recommendations by user type

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Skechers Gametronix 402260L BLMT 29

Skechers Gametronix 402260L BLMT 29

Why it suits this profile: This size 29 model is designed for everyday use and has a regular fit, hook-and-loop fastening and rubber sole. This makes it a straightforward choice for young children learning to put their shoes on independently.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page clearly states the size, regular fit, D width and fastening. You therefore do not have to rely on colour or brand name alone.

Main benefit & key features

Synthetic leather upper, rubber sole, size 29 and hook-and-loop fastening.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
New Balance U574RUS39.5

New Balance U574RUS39.5

Why it suits this profile: For older children or larger feet looking for a classic trainer style, the product description lists a combination of suede, mesh and a rubber outsole. However, check carefully that size 39.5 and the adult fit are suitable for the wearer.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The material construction and sole are specified. This means you can assess the choice based on use and care requirements, not just its retro appearance.

Main benefit & key features

Suede and breathable mesh according to the product description; rubber outsole; at least two years' statutory guarantee according to the stated product information.

Suitable for: Specific uses & active wearers
Skechers Meteor-Lights Krendox 401495L-BKBL 33

Skechers Meteor-Lights - Krendox 401495L-BKBL 33

Why it suits this profile: According to the product information, this high-top size 33 model has a regular fit, G width, rubber sole and hook-and-loop fastening. The light-up details are ideal for children who want a standout design for school and leisure time.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The fit, width and fastening are stated clearly. It is also specified that the model should not be cleaned in the washing machine.

Main benefit & key features

Hook-and-loop fastening, high-top trainer construction, G width and light-up components according to the product description.

Also worth considering: Crocs and children's clothing

For warm days, playing in the garden or a trip to the beach, Crocs children's shoes can be practical thanks to their lightweight material and easy-to-clean construction. However, pay attention to the sizing: Crocs uses other size notations alongside EU sizes. Compare the foot length in centimetres with the chart on the product page.

If you are looking for a complete outfit, you can pair children's shoes with Chicco baby clothes, a boys' clothing set, boys' shorts or a boys' shirt. For clothing, pay particular attention to the composition and care label. The Chicco models listed, for example, contain 100% cotton or a cotton-elastane blend. Sizes 056, 062, 092 and 098 refer to body lengths and age indications, so measure your baby or toddler if you are unsure.

Looking for more options?

We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about children's shoes

How much room should there be in children's shoes?

There should be enough room for the toes to move naturally, but the foot should not slide backwards and forwards. Use the brand's size chart and check both length and width. Buying a larger size to allow for growth is not always practical; a shoe that is too roomy can shift while walking and running.

How long do children's shoes typically last?

That varies according to the child, how the shoes are used and the surface they are worn on. Shoes for everyday school use wear differently from models worn indoors only. Check the sole, seams, fastening and inside regularly. If the toes touch the front, the heel slips or the sole is visibly worn, it is sensible to compare a new size.

Are children's shoes with hook-and-loop fastenings suitable for school?

Often, yes, especially for young children who want to put their shoes on themselves. Hook-and-loop fastenings are quick to open and secure. However, check that the strap is long enough for the foot and that the shoe has a suitable width. For older children who can tie laces confidently, laces may offer more precise adjustment.