How to Measure and Fit Ballet Shoes for Kids

Well, your child seems like they’re all grown up. They go to ballet classes, and you see that they are thriving. You love that you had the opportunity to give them what they truly want, and they have enjoyed that so much! But now it is time to upgrade. You bought their first ballet shoes with someone’s help. But this time, things are different. You want to do it yourself. Well, you’ve come to the right place.

Let’s choose the right fit together and give your child the ease and freedom of movement. That’s why we created this kids’ shoe size chart guide for you today. 

Why Kids’ Shoe Sizes Can Be Confusing

If you’ve ever tried to buy shoes for a toddler, you know the struggle is real. There’s a reason so many parents search terms like kids' shoe sizes or toddler shoe size chart by age. The sizes always seem to vary between brands, and the same size in sneakers might not be the same size for ballet shoes.

How Kids’ Shoe Sizing Works

In the U.S., kids’ shoe sizes are usually split into a few groups:

• Babies (0-12 months) wear sizes 0-4T

• Toddlers (1-4 years) wear sizes 5T-10T

• Little children (4-8 years) wear sizes 11T-3Y

• Big children (8-12 years) wear sizes 3.5Y and up

Children’s feet grow fast, especially when aged 1-3. We recommend you measure their feet every few months before you buy shoes for their dance classes.

Tools to Help

If you don’t know where your child falls, use a kids' shoe size chart or a toddler shoe size chart, preferably one that aligns with your preferred brand. Look for charts that show:

• Inches or centimetres

• U.S., U.K., and European sizes

• Age-based suggestions

Remember that it’s okay to leave a tiny bit of room for growth. But try not to size too far up. This can be a tripping hazard or lead to incorrect form during dance class. Just follow the recommendations and you’ll be fine.

How to Measure Your Child’s Foot for Ballet Shoes

We are more than happy to give you a step-by-step guide on how to choose the proper ballet shoes for your child. Take a look at the simple guide below:

• Have your child stand upright on a flat surface, with their full weight on both feet.

• Use a ruler or a printable sizing guide. Measure from the heel to the tip of the longest toe.

• Measure both feet. It’s common for one foot to be slightly larger. Use the larger measurement.

• Compare it with a kids' shoe size chart. Find your child’s measurement and match it to the closest size. Be sure the chart is from the brand you want to buy from.

We recommend you try to measure their feet in the afternoon. That’s when their feet are slightly swollen. This way, you will get the most accurate fit.

Where Toddler, Little Kid, and Big Kid Shoe Charts Help

It can make a big difference when you’re shopping for your child, so we suggest you always refer to use shoe size chart based on the specific age group and size range:

• Use the Toddler shoe size chart (5T–10T) for young dancers between ages 1 and 4. These sizes are designed for smaller feet that are still growing quickly.

• Use the Little Kid shoe size chart (11T–3Y) for children around ages 4 to 8, who are transitioning out of toddler sizes but not yet in youth sizes.

• Use the Big Kid shoe size chart (4Y–6Y) for older children around ages 8 to 12, who typically wear stable youth sizes.

Stelle Ballet Shoe Sizing

At Stelle, we know how important the right fit is for tiny dancers. That’s why every product page includes a detailed size chart specific to that ballet shoe style.

• Each product has a true-to-fit length measurement chart

• We base our recommendations on real customer feedback

• We’re more than happy to help you find the perfect fit

Before you add the ballet shoes to your cart, always double-check the product’s sizing chart (even if you’ve bought from us before) as styles may vary.

What a Proper Ballet Shoe Fit Looks Like

• The shoes should hug the foot but not pinch or leave red marks.

• There should be no bulging or gaps (especially near the arch or heel).

• The entire sole should touch the ground when your child stands.

• The secure elastic should keep the shoe in place and not dig into the skin.

Common Misconceptions

• Room to grow isn’t always helpful. Ballet shoes that are too loose can cause tripping or poor form.

• Sizing up isn’t always needed: Ballet shoes stretch over time. What feels snug on day one often becomes perfect after a few wears.

Final Tips for Parents

• Check with your dance studio first. Some require specific ballet shoe styles or colours.

• Don’t buy too big. A snug fit ensures safety and proper form.

• Measure every 3-4 months. Kids grow fast, and shoes can become tight quickly.

• Look for adjustable elastic straps or drawstrings. These can help fine-tune the fit.

At Stelle, we’re here to support your child’s dance journey from first plié to full recital. We’ve helped thousands of parents find the right fit. We’re happy to help you, too. Give your little dancer the confidence to shine with ballet shoes that fit just right.

FAQs About Ballet Shoe Fitting

       1. Is ballet shoe size the same as regular shoe size?

Not always. Some brands may run small or large. Always refer to the brand’s kids' shoe size chart for the most accurate results.

      2. Should I size up or down in ballet shoes?

For new dancers, choose the size that corresponds to their foot length, with minimal extra space. Only size up slightly if your child’s foot is growing quickly.

      3. Can toddlers wear ballet shoes with socks?

Most ballet instructors prefer bare feet over socks in shoes for better contact and technique. However, toddlers may start with thin ballet socks if their feet are sensitive. Confirm with your dance studio.

      4. Is There a Difference Between Boys and Girl's Shoes? 

As a boy grows his feet become much wider and longer than a girl's. You won't have to worry about these differences for quite a while though. 

While they're still small children, it won't matter that much. Boy's ballet shoes usually come in black or white and most of the time they don't have ribbons or elastics.

Now that you’ve got the shoes covered, don’t forget the rest of the outfit! A well-fitting leotard or leggings can make just as much difference as the right shoes. Explore our Kids’ Clothing Size Guide to make sure every piece fits just right.