How to size kids' walking boots

How to measure a child's feet

Measure at the end of the day, with your child standing and wearing the socks they will walk in. Place the heel against a wall on a sheet of paper, mark the tip of the longest toe and measure from the wall to the mark. Do both feet, as they often differ slightly, and use the longer one.

Many shoe shops offer free children's foot measuring, including width, which is worth using for a first pair of walking boots.

1. 1

   Put on walking socks and stand with the heel against a wall.

2. 2

   Mark the tip of the longest toe on paper.

3. 3

   Measure from the wall to the mark in millimetres.

4. 4

   Repeat for the other foot and use the longer measurement.

5. 5

   Compare with the brand's size chart, not just the usual shoe size.

UK children's sizes

UK children's sizes run up to 13 and 13.5, then restart at adult size 1. Brands vary, so the same size number can fit differently. EU sizes run continuously, which some parents find easier to follow. Always check the brand's chart against your child's measured foot length.

Our walking boot size chart and the boot size converter cover adult sizing, which applies once your child reaches adult sizes.

Why not buy a size or two up?

A boot that is too long lets the foot slide forward on descents and the heel lift on climbs. That rubs, causes blisters and makes tripping more likely, especially as children tend to drag their toes when tired. A modest allowance for growth is sensible; several sizes is not.

Thick socks to fill an oversized boot do not solve the problem, because the heel and flex point still sit in the wrong place.

Note:If your child complains of persistent foot pain or walks unusually, stop using the boots and get their feet checked by a health professional.

What to look for in a child's boot

Children do not need stiff mountain boots. Look for a light, flexible mid boot with a grippy lugged sole, a waterproof lining for muddy British paths and a padded collar. Hook-and-loop fastenings suit younger children; laces give older children a more secure fit on rougher ground.

Teenagers who walk in the hills regularly can move to small adult sizes, which opens up the full range of adult boots. Our guide to the best lightweight walking boots includes models that come down to small sizes, and our best waterproof walking boots for women covers lower-volume lasts that often suit teenagers' narrower feet.

• Light and flexible rather than stiff.
• Waterproof lining for wet grass and puddles.
• Grippy, lugged sole.
• Easy fastening the child can manage.
• Toe bumper for scuffs.

See lightweight walking boots →

When to re-check the fit

Young children's feet can grow a size in a few months, older children's more slowly. Check boot fit every few months and before any big walk or holiday. Signs that boots are too small include toes touching the end, red marks after walks, reluctance to put the boots on and complaints of sore toes on downhills.

Hand-me-down boots can work if they are in good condition, fit properly and the insoles are not moulded to the previous wearer's feet. Replace the insoles if they are worn.

Socks and comfort

Children's hiking socks in wool blends or synthetic fibres are more comfortable than cotton on long or wet walks. Make sure they are the right size; socks that are too big bunch up and rub. Carry spare socks for wet days. Our merino vs synthetic hiking socks guide applies to children too.

Frequently asked questions

How much room should kids' walking boots have? Roughly a thumb's width beyond the longest toe, with the heel held firmly.

Should I buy kids' walking boots a size bigger? Half a size of growing room at most, if the heel still holds. Several sizes too big causes rubbing and trips.

Do children need waterproof walking boots? For most UK walking, waterproof boots keep feet drier and warmer on wet grass and muddy paths.

At what age do kids need walking boots? When they start doing regular walks on rough or muddy paths. Many children walk happily in trainers on easy routes.