Expert Advice

Everything You Need to Know About the New Nike Kids’ Shoe Sizing

Apr 9, 2024

The Swoosh is officially changing things up — at least when it comes to Nike kids’ shoe sizing. According to the brand, Nike kids’ footwear sizing causes some confusion in terms of fit, so they’ve updated their sizing model to give kids more consistency and a better fit. 

What does that mean for anyone buying Nike kids’ shoes? The biggest changes are that preschool sizes 1Y through 3Y now move into the grade school size category, and toddler sizes 8C through 10C join the preschool category. TLDR: Smaller kids move into bigger kids’ sizes earlier.

In addition to the updated size chart, we’ve also got a list of some of the best trending Nike shoes for kids.

New Nike Kids' Size Charts

Not sure which shoes belong in which category now? Here’s the breakdown:

 

Toddler Sizes Preschool Sizes Grade School Sizes
 2C  8C  1Y
 3C 9C  1.5Y 
 4C 10C  2Y 
 5C 10.5C  2.5Y 
 6C  11C 3Y 
 7C 11.5C  3.5Y 
  12C  4Y 
  12.5C  4.5Y 
  13C  5Y 
  13.5C  5.5Y 
    6Y 
    6.5Y 
    7Y 

Bestselling Kids’ Sneaker Styles from the Swoosh

Bestselling Kids’ Sneaker Styles from the Swoosh

From its very beginnings, Nike has been an innovator, with an eye toward top-quality materials, foot mechanics and comfort. That’s why many of your favorite Nike kids’ shoe silhouettes have been around for generations. Here are a few styles that kids, young and old, tiny and tall, continue to turn to again and again: 

  • Perfect for at-home playtime, preschool or the park, a pair of all-white Air Force 1 LEs will never not be iconic. Pair them with denim pants or cargo shorts, a comfy tee and white Nike socks. 
  • Even the tiniest toddlers can slay their fits with kids’ Nike Dunk Lows. Easy closures and Fuchsia overlays will keep kids exploring in style. Match these bright pink and white shoes with a colorful graphic tee and leggings. 
  • Grade school kids love the effortless performance of an Air Max shoe, and the Air Max 1 doesn’t disappoint. The retro silhouette, mixed with fresh colorways and a visible Air-Sole unit, adds an easy finish to any look. Joggers or athletic pants, a hoodie and a Nike hat contribute to the comfortable, laid-back vibe. 
  • A shock of blue and jolts of neon pink and green electrify this fresh pair of Nike Blazer kids’ Mid ’77s. She can sport them with airy athletic shorts and a tank, a sporty T-shirt dress or a pair of jeans and a cropped tee. 
  • A convenient midfoot strap means no untied laces and the tonal white Nike Court Borough Low toddler’s shoe signifies steady strides and all-day comfort. These shoes can be worn with a onesie and diaper around the house or with their Sunday best for special occasions. 
  • Another longtime favorite, the Nike Air Uptempo, is a shoe made for turning heads. With its large bubble-letter “Air” composing the sides and its chunky ’90s style, the Nike kids’ shoe is for little ones who want to stand out. Black sweatpants with a coordinating graphic sweatshirt will give your preschooler plenty of swagger.

As a longtime Nike retailer, Hibbett gives you access to classic Nike kids’ shoes, along with newer silhouettes, the hottest colorways, and the most cutting-edge tech. Browse our current online inventory and upcoming sneaker launches, shop trending kids’ shoe brands, or stop into your nearest location to have our shoe pros help your kid find their best fit.

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