Shoe Sizes for Teenagers

The teen years are a time of change and rapid growth. Growth spurts are normal and it can be difficult to predict what clothing or shoe sizes your teenager will need year-to-year. Most teens who have active social and athletic lives need several pairs of shoes -- one for school, another for sports, and pairs for a day at the beach and other extracurricular activities.

  1. U.S. Shoe Sizes

    • Most teenagers wear men's and women's size shoes. In the United States, shoes are designated by whole and half sizes. Women's sizes typically range from 4 to 12 and men's sizes typically range from 6 to 16. To convert a women's shoe size to a men's shoe size, add 1 1/2 to two sizes. For example, a men's size 6 shoe is about the same size as a women's size 7 1/2 or 8. However, numeric size does not only refer to shoe length; men's shoes are sometimes wider than shoes made for women.

    European Shoe Sizes

    • There isn't an easily formula for converting European shoe sizes to U.S. sizes. European shoe sizes range from 35 to more than 48. There is not a designation between children and adult shoes nor male and female shoe sizes. Shoes designated with European shoe sizes might not be fabricated in Europe; the sizing system is so named because it originated in Europe.

    Shoe Size Changes

    • Just when you think you might have your teen's shoe size figured out, it just might change. Shoe sizes can vary slightly from one brand or designer to another. Also, your teenager's feet will swell throughout the day. The ballet flat or loafer that fits perfectly at 9 a.m. might feel uncomfortably snug that evening. And socks matter -- your teenager should bring the right kind of socks when trying on shoes.

    Athletic Shoe Considerations

    • Select shoes that feel comfortable right away -- don't assume your teenager will break them in and that a stiff or unforgiving shoe will feel better with time. There should be about 3/8 to 1/2 inch between the front of the big toe and the end of the shoe. And though you might be tempted to save time and money by buying one pair of shoes for several purposes, it's better to purchase and wear shoes that are designated for specific tasks (e.g., cleats for football or soccer, flat sneakers for court sports, running shoes for running and supportive hiking boots for hiking.)

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