Quick Answer

For INUIKII Curly Kids boots, choose a size that leaves about a thumb's width (roughly 0.5–1 cm) of room at the toe. If your child is between sizes, size up for winter socks and growth spurts, but avoid going more than one size larger to prevent blisters and tripping.

Why Shearling Boots Fit Differently

Shearling-lined boots like the Curly Kids have a plush interior that molds to the foot over time. This means they may feel snug at first but will stretch slightly with wear. A fit that's too tight can reduce insulation, while too loose a fit lets cold air in and increases the risk of slips.

Because shearling adds bulk, you should measure your child's foot while they're standing (feet spread slightly) and always try boots on with the socks they'll actually wear in winter.

Measuring Your Child's Feet at Home

Place a piece of paper against a wall, have your child stand on it with their heel touching the wall, and mark the longest toe. Measure from the edge of the paper to the mark in centimeters or inches. Repeat for both feet and use the longer measurement.

If you're ordering online and can't try on in-store, trace the foot and compare the length to the brand's size chart. When in doubt, contact customer support with the foot measurement—they can recommend the best size.

Decision Rules for Sizing Curly Kids Boots

  • Measure both feet: Measure your child's feet at the end of the day (feet are slightly swollen) and while standing. Use the longer foot as your reference. Always measure both feet—asymmetry is common.
  • Check the thumb-width rule: After slipping the boot on, press your thumb at the toe area. You should feel about a thumb's width (0.5–1 cm) of space between the longest toe and the boot's end. This allows for growth and wiggle room without being too loose. If you can pinch more than a thumb's width, the boot is too big.
  • Size up only if between sizes: If the foot lands between sizes, choose the larger size—especially if you plan to wear thick wool socks. However, avoid going more than one size up, as an oversized boot can cause blisters and make walking unsafe. A half-size up is fine; a full size up may be too much.
  • Consider socks and growth spurts: Always try the boots with the socks your child will wear in winter. If you're buying ahead, allow a little extra room for growth, but remember that shearling compresses over time, so a too-big boot may not provide enough support. Buy for the current season, not a year ahead.

Product Spotlight

  • Curly Kids: The Curly Kids features premium leather and curly shearling with a warm shearling lining designed for everyday winter wear. The shearling lining means the boot should fit snugly at first—it will mold to your child's foot, so avoid sizing up too much or the boot may feel loose after break-in.

    Curly Kids

    Curly Kids

Who Should Size Up or Down

Best for

  • Parents buying for a child between sizes who will wear thick winter socks
  • Children with wider feet who need a bit more room in the toe box

Not for

  • Toddlers just learning to walk—oversized boots can cause tripping; choose a snugger fit
  • Parents planning to use the boots for two full seasons—a too-large boot will be unsafe and uncomfortable