I have small feet. Can I wear kid’s shoes?
Yes!
If you’re a smaller adult, it might be tempting to buy clothes in the kid’s section to save money. They have brighter colors, fun styles, and it’s usually half the price. If you can find shoe styles that work for you in a kid’s size, go ahead and get them! Most of the time, kid’s shoes are the same as adult shoes, just smaller.
But if you’re considering shopping in the kid’s shoe section, here are a few things to consider.
Check the Brand
For big name brands that make both adult and kid’s shoes, most likely the shoes will be exactly the same whether it’s an adult or kid’s size. In this case, you’re good to go. Think Nike, New Balance, Adidas, Keen, etc.
But if you’re looking at a brand in the kid’s section that just makes kid’s shoes, use caution. Kids grow out of shoes quickly so they might not be made to last. They may be made with lower quality materials and not put together as well. Just make sure you know what you’re paying for!
Check the Support
Even if they are the same shoe, just make sure the kid’s version of the shoe is going to offer the same support as the adult version. Because they are smaller, and kid’s haven’t put as much wear and tear on their bodies yet, their shoes might not need as much cushion and support. This is particularly true for athletic shoes.
If you are getting a kid’s shoe that doesn’t have as much support as you’d like, add an insole to make sure you’re getting enough shock absorption and weight distribution. We are a fan of Orange Insoles.
Double Check the Fit
And, of course, you’ll want to make sure the shoe fits the way it should. Make sure it ties securely, that it fits snugly around your foot but that you have a little wiggle room in the toes. You don’t want them so tight they’ll impact circulation or so loose they will rub.
So if you have small enough feet to wear children’s shoes, go for it! Just make sure to pick out a nice, bright orange pair in our honor!
