Kids Running Shoes Fit Guide
Fuel their confidence on and off the field, by giving the kids well-fitted running shoes. Use our quick tips and fit guide to dive deep into innovations to keep up with their active days.
Quick Fit Tips
Tip 01
A Roomy, Comfortable Fit
Unleash their inner athlete in shoes that give them room to grow for longer lasting wear. As a general rule, leave about 1 cm from the big toe to the tip of the shoe.
Tip 02
Try the Evening Thumb Test
Check for fit with your thumb, late in the day when feet are most swollen. Press your thumb sideways at the tip of the shoe—it should fit between the tip of the shoe and the big toe. Check the heels, too. If feet are sliding up and out, the shoes are too big.
Tip 03
No Break-in Period
Running shoes should feel comfy from the first step. Let kids run and play in their shoes and ask if they feel right before you settle on them. Non-verbal kids will show you if the fit’s not good by limiting their movement in them, sitting down, or even trying to remove the shoes completely.
Tip 01
A Roomy, Comfortable Fit
Unleash their inner athlete in shoes that give them room to grow for longer lasting wear. As a general rule, leave about 1 cm from the big toe to the tip of the shoe.
Tip 02
Try the Evening Thumb Test
Check for fit with your thumb, late in the day when feet are most swollen. Press your thumb sideways at the tip of the shoe—it should fit between the tip of the shoe and the big toe. Check the heels, too. If feet are sliding up and out, the shoes are too big.
Tip 03
No Break-in Period
Running shoes should feel comfy from the first step. Let kids run and play in their shoes and ask if they feel right before you settle on them. Non-verbal kids will show you if the fit’s not good by limiting their movement in them, sitting down, or even trying to remove the shoes completely.
Discover Their Ideal Running Shoe
Nike Pegasus
Nike Pegasus are designed to feel soft and bouncy for kids who love running, skipping and jumping. Midfoot webbing offers a snug fit once laces are tightened and the breathable upper mesh keeps feet cool. So they can stay comfy, fresh and active all day long.
Nike Free RN
Some kids just love the feeling of running barefoot. If that’s their thing, the Nike Free RN is their shoe—flexible, with deep grooves in the sole to give feet a natural-feeling on the ground.
Nike Flex Runner
These slip-on shoes are great for kids’ independence. An instant hit for running every which way with friends and keeping active. The super-flexible foam sole makes every step, stride, and jump comfortable and carefree.
Nike Pegasus
Nike Pegasus are designed to feel soft and bouncy for kids who love running, skipping and jumping. Midfoot webbing offers a snug fit once laces are tightened and the breathable upper mesh keeps feet cool. So they can stay comfy, fresh and active all day long.
Nike Free RN
Some kids just love the feeling of running barefoot. If that’s their thing, the Nike Free RN is their shoe—flexible, with deep grooves in the sole to give feet a natural-feeling on the ground.
Nike Flex Runner
These slip-on shoes are great for kids’ independence. An instant hit for running every which way with friends and keeping active. The super-flexible foam sole makes every step, stride, and jump comfortable and carefree.
Measure Up With Our Size Chart
We’ve made it easy for you to keep up with your kids’ growing feet.
FAQs
How do I check the running shoe has the right fit?
- Try on both shoes, stand up and check:
Heel: feels secure and doesn’t slip
Midfoot: feels comfortable and flexible but locked in
Toes: there’s space for the toes to wiggle and to spread out during motion (approximately 1 centimetre)
- Next, check the fit while moving:
Move up and down on the spot.
How often should I replace a kids’ running shoes?
In general, running shoes should be replaced every 300 to 500 miles of wear, as the cushioning and support mechanisms break down over time. For growing kids, shoes should be replaced more often, as their feet can grow about half a size in three to four months. Once the fit gets tight, it’s time to move up a size.
What shoes should I try if my kid’s almost in adult sizes?
Pegasus and Revolution extend into adult sizing. So they can keep wearing those favourites as they grow, with the same benefits and comfort — just tuned to the needs of a growing runner.
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