Soccer cleats are different from regular shoes, both in fit and in shape. Generally, soccer cleats are narrower along the mid-section, and they are usually made of a different sort of leather than other shoes--leather that is more pliable. When sizing soccer cleats for kids, you are not only dealing with the constantly growing feet of youngsters, but also a different kind of shoe. By following a few easy steps, however, sizing up kids' soccer cleats shouldn't present too much of a challenge.
Step 1
Determine your child's shoe size with a measurement. Avoid assuming that your child's shoe size is the same as it was a month ago; kids' feet grow fairly constantly.
Step 2
Try soccer cleats that measure both in the kid's size as well as soccer cleats that are half a size smaller than this measurement.
Step 3
Be sure that the soccer cleats fit snugly from toe to heel. Unlike regular shoes, in which you probably prefer a little wiggle room, soccer cleats are meant to be worn snugly. The leather then shapes itself around the foot (as long as the shoe is made of good leather, like kangaroo leather). You don't want the shoe to fit too tightly, however.
Step 4
Test the soccer cleats' snugness in terms of width by feeling with your fingers and "rocking" the soccer cleats back and forth with your hand while on your child's feet. You don't want wiggle room between the sides of your child's feet and the inner sides of the soccer cleats.
Step 5
Feel the front of the soccer cleats while your child is wearing them. If the toes are touching the front of the shoe, they are too small. There should be about a quarter-inch of space between the front of the shoe and the toes.
Step 6
Allow the child to walk around wearing the soccer cleats. If they feel excessively tight, select the next size up. If they feel comfortable and snug, chances are you've found the proper size.
Tips and Warnings
- Since children are always growing, you may want to purchase soccer cleats that are a half-size too large, then compensate with several layers of soccer socks. This way, the soccer cleats last quite a bit longer.
- Avoid confusing "snug" with "tight"; soccer cleats that are too tight can lead to foot pain.
Things You'll Need
- Socks
Member Comments