Save on Women's Shoe Sizes with the Kids' to Women Shoe Size Conversion Chart

Discover how to save on stylish footwear by converting kids' shoe sizes to women's with our handy chart and tips. Learn why shopping in the kids' section can be cost-effective and fun, and how to ensure a perfect fit.

kids to women shoe size
 

No need to worry about cramping your style. Many brands craft the very same designs for both kids and adults. So whether you're looking for casual slip-ons or outdoor-ready sneakers, get ready to learn my nifty trick to grab that chic look for less. Believe it or not, converting kids to women shoe size is a breeze.

How to Convert Shoe Sizes

To convert a kid to a women's shoe and get the equivalent shoe size, subtract 1.5 from the woman’s size. For example, a woman’s size 8 becomes a kid’s 6.5. This rule of thumb generally works, but slight variations can occur between brands. Here's a reference chart that can be helpful for the conversion. 

 
Women's Sizes Kid's Sizes Foot Length
4.5 3 8 3/8"
5 3.5 8 1/2"
5.5 4 8 5/8"
6 4.5 8 7/8"
6.5 5 9"
7 5.5 9 1/4"
7.5 6 9 1/2"
8 6.5 9 2/3"
8.5 7 9 5/6"
9 7.5 10"
9.5 8 10 1/6"
10 8.5 10 1/3"

Shoes You Can Get For Less in Youth Sizes Than a Women's Shoe Size

 

Keds Women's Kickstart Lace-Up Sneaker


Price for women's shoe sizes: $35.83

Price for kids' size: $29.34 

That's a savings of about $6!
 

Classic Crocs


Price for women's shoe sizes: $49.95 

Price for kids size: $39.95 

That's a savings of about $10!
 

Adidas Run Sneakers


Price for women's shoe sizes: $79.99 

Price for kids size: $45.32 

That's a savings of about $35!
 

Women's Wendy Basic Hey Dudes


Price for women's shoe sizes: $53.49 

Price for kids size: $47.95 

That's a savings of about $5!
 

Womens' TOMS Slip-Ons


Price for women's shoe sizes: $59.95

Price for kids size: $24.09 

That's a savings of about $36!
 

Women's New Balance Sneakers


Price for women's shoe sizes: $74.99 

Price for kids size: $59.99 

That's a savings of about $15
 

Women's Slip-On Sketchers


Price for women's shoe sizes: $79.99 

Price for kids size: $58.21 

That's a savings of about $22!

Reasons to Buy Kid's Shoe Sizes Over Women's Shoe Sizes

  • Cost-Effective: The price for a youth-size shoe is often less than that for women's shoe sizes, which means you can enjoy stylish footwear without breaking the bank.
  • More Fun Designs: With vibrant colors and playful patterns, kids' shoe designs can add a whimsical touch to your wardrobe.
  • Better Fit for Small Feet: If you have petite feet, kids' sizes might provide a snugger, more comfortable fit.
  • Exclusive Releases: Sometimes, certain sneaker models or limited editions are only released in kids' sizes.
  • Less Tax: In some regions, children's footwear is tax-exempt, offering an additional saving on your purchases.

Tips for Shopping a Youth Size as an Adult

  • Know Your Size Conversion: Familiarize yourself with the size conversion chart to accurately translate women's sizes to kids'. Remember that a woman's size 8 is roughly equivalent to a kid's 6.5.
  • Check for Quality and Support: Just because they're kids' shoes, doesn't mean you should compromise on quality. Look for shoes that provide proper arch support and are made from durable materials.
  • Look for Adjustable Features: Shoes with adjustable straps or laces can accommodate the width of an adult's foot better, providing a more comfortable fit.
  • Consider the Occasion: Kids' shoes may not always offer the support needed for adult activities. Be mindful of where and how you'll be wearing them.
  • Read Reviews: Adult buyers often leave reviews on kids' shoes they've purchased for themselves. These can provide valuable insights into the fit and durability of the shoes.
  • Shop End-of-Season Sales: Kids outgrow shoes quickly, so end-of-season sales can be a goldmine for adults looking for a bargain.
  • Try Before You Buy: If possible, try the shoes in-store to ensure comfort and fit. Remember that the shape of a child's foot can differ from an adult's, affecting the fit.
  • Online Shopping Tips: When shopping online, check the return policy. Since you can't try shoes on beforehand, it's important to be able to return them if they don't fit.
  • Mind the Width: Kids' shoes may be narrower than women's. If you have wide feet, look for brands that offer wider options, or consider going up a half size for a better fit.
  • Stay Trendy: Kids' shoes often feature the latest trends and bold designs. Have fun with fashion and enjoy the playful styles available in kids' sizes.

Unsure of Your shoe Size? Here’s How to Measure Your Foot

If you're unsure about your shoe size or if it has changed over time, you can measure your foot at home with ease. Here's a simple step-by-step guide:

  1. Gather Materials: You'll need a piece of paper larger than your foot, a pencil, and a ruler or measuring tape.
  2. Prepare the Paper: Place the paper on a hard, flat surface and tape it down to prevent it from moving.
  3. Draw Your Footprint: Step onto the paper with a bare foot or a sock, and carefully trace around your foot with the pencil held perpendicular to the paper. Ensure you trace as close to the foot as possible to get an accurate measurement.
  4. Measure Length: Use the ruler to measure the distance from the bottom of the heel to the top of the longest toe. This is your foot length.
  5. Measure Width: For width, measure the distance between the widest points of your foot tracing.
  6. Find Your Size: Compare these measurements to a shoe size chart to find your corresponding shoe size. Remember to measure both feet, as they could be different sizes, and use the larger measurement to determine your shoe size.

 

Kids to Women Shoe Size: FAQs

What's the basic conversion formula from women's to kids' shoe sizes?
Converting from women’s to kids’ shoe sizes is simple: just reduce your usual adult shoe size by 1.5 to 2 sizes. So, if your go-to is a size 8 in women’s, you’ll be looking for a 6.5 or 6 in the kids’ section.

Are kids' shoe sizes the same as men's?
No, kids' sizes labeled "Y" (Youth) are not the same as men's sizes. However, they do align more closely with men's sizing, typically 1.5 to 2 sizes smaller than men's. For example, a 6.5Y in kids' shoes would be approximately a men's size 5.

Will I save money by buying kids' shoes instead of women's?
Yes, kids' shoe sizes are often less expensive than adult sizes due to lower production costs and the absence of certain taxes. Shopping in the kids' section can be cost-effective, especially for trendy or athletic styles.

How can I tell if a kids' shoe will fit me comfortably?
Examine the shoe size conversion chart closely and peruse feedback from other grown-ups who've snagged these kiddie kicks. Heed their insights about sizing, how they hug the foot, and overall coziness. Plus, keep an eye out for shoes that offer a customizable fit through laces or hook-and-loop fasteners, for that just-right feel.

Are there any style limitations when buying kids' shoes as an adult?
While kids' shoes are fun and trendy, they may lack adult sophistication and support for adult activities.

 

- Vanessa