back to school - clarks shoe fitting
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Check the fit: step-by-step guide

It’s better to have your kids' shoes fitted by our in-store experts – but you can check their fit from home using this helpful guide

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Step 1 – length

Feel for the end of their longest toe to check how much space there is. They’ll need 14mm for shoes and 10mm for open-toed sandals and pre-walking styles.

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Step 2 – width

Feel along each side of the shoe to make sure there isn’t any pressure or pinching. They should be able to move their little toe, too.

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Step 3 – depth

Gently press the top of the shoe down to check the toes have room – you should feel enough space between the toes and the shoe upper for comfort

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Step 4 – top edge

Feel around the top edge of the shoe to check there aren’t any gaps. Check that the shoe isn’t resting against the ankle bone (unless it’s soft or has plenty of padding).

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Step 5 – heel grip

Lift one foot and pull down gently on the back of the shoe. Make sure it's gripping the heel well – no slipping. Repeat for both feet.

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Step 6 – walking

Do the walking test – can they move easily and naturally? Make sure both shoes grip the heels when walking. Check that there isn’t too much gaping at the sides.