Understanding Children’s Shoe Sizes in the UK & EU

Ever ordered an EU 28 thinking it was a UK 10, only to find out it’s closer to a UK 9? You’re not the only one. Navigating children’s shoe sizes can feel like solving a puzzle with no picture on the box.

Here’s what actually matters when shopping for the right fit.

UK vs EU Children’s Shoe Sizes: What’s the Difference?

The UK system starts at a tiny size 0 for infants and climbs in half sizes. Once you reach UK 13, it flips to adult-style numbering (UK 1, 2, 3…).

EU sizing, on the other hand, runs on a continuous numerical scale from around EU 16 to EU 40 — no separate labels for toddlers or juniors.

Important: A UK size 6 is not an EU size 6. It’s closer to an EU 23.

What Do “Toddler”, “Junior” and “Children’s” Sizes Actually Mean?

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Toddler’s shoe sizes: UK 4–9 / EU 20–27 (ages 1–4)
  
• Junior shoe sizes: UK 10–6.5 / EU 28–40 (ages 4–teen)
  
• Children’s shoe sizes: Umbrella term for both

There’s no hard rule. A particularly speedy 3-year-old might already need junior sizing.

How to Convert Between UK and EU Shoe Sizes

Although every brand varies slightly, here’s a rough guide:

• UK 4 ≈ EU 20
  
• UK 5 ≈ EU 21
  
• UK 6 ≈ EU 23
  
• UK 7 ≈ EU 24
  
• UK 8 ≈ EU 25
  
• UK 9 ≈ EU 27
  
• UK 10 ≈ EU 28
  
• UK 11 ≈ EU 29
  
• UK 12 ≈ EU 30–31
  
• UK 13 ≈ EU 32
  
• UK 1 (Junior) ≈ EU 33
• UK 2 ≈ EU 34
  
• UK 3 ≈ EU 36
  
• UK 4 ≈ EU 37
  
• UK 5 ≈ EU 38
  
• UK 6 ≈ EU 39–40

Tip: Always check the brand’s own size chart before buying.

Shoe Size ≠ Shoe Fit: Here’s What Really Counts

Size gets you close. Fit gets it right.

Children’s feet are still forming: with soft cartilage, rapid growth spurts, and plenty of wiggles. A poor fit can affect balance, posture, and play.

Look for shoes that offer:

• Wiggle room at the toes (thumb width)
  
• Soft but structured heel hold (no slipping)
  
• Flexible soles that move naturally
  
• Fastenings that stay put (think buckles or Velcro)

The Rosie T-Bar is a great example: soft leather and easy-on design for growing independence.

Don’t “Size Up” Too Much — Even if They Grow Fast

We get it, buying a size up feels sensible. But too much room can cause tripping, blisters, and weird walking patterns. The best fit? One that’s right for right now with just a little space to grow.

Let Them Move Freely

Getting shoe sizes is about comfort, confidence, and the freedom to run, jump, explore and play.

At Young Soles, our shoes are built on child-specific lasts, with EU sizing from 20 to 40 (UK 4 to 6.5) — so whether you’re buying for a toddler, a tween or somewhere in between, the fit stays consistent and the comfort lasts.