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Back-to-school season can get expensive fast. Between backpacks, school supplies, clothes, lunch boxes, and shoes, it’s easy to spend hundreds of dollars before the first bell even rings.
But if your child (or you!) happens to wear a smaller shoe size, I have one of my favorite money-saving hacks.
I wear a women’s size 5, but I almost never start my shoe shopping in the women’s department. Instead, I head straight to the kids’ section.
Why?
Because kids’ shoes are often significantly cheaper for nearly identical styles.
My Shoe Size Formula
After years of shopping, I’ve figured out exactly what works for me.
- Kids: Size 2.5 – 3.5 (or 3 at Converse)
- Women’s: Size 5 – 5.5
- Men’s: Size 4 (when all else fails!)
How do I know?
Because these are the sizes I personally buy all the time.
Not every brand fits exactly the same, but this has become my go-to conversion guide whenever I’m shopping online or in stores.
Why Kids’ Shoes Are Such a Great Deal
Here’s the funny part.
Many brands use almost identical materials, soles, and designs for both kids’ and adult shoes. Yet the kids’ version can cost $20–$50 less.
For parents shopping on a budget, those savings really add up—especially if you have multiple kids heading back to school.
Think about buying:
- Everyday sneakers
- Running shoes
- Slip-ons
- Canvas shoes
- Casual boots
- Sandals
Before adding the women’s version to your cart, check the kids’ section first.
You might find the exact same shoe sitting right next to it for a much lower price.
The Style Is Usually the Same
Gone are the days when every children’s shoe had glitter, flashing lights, or cartoon characters.
Today you’ll find minimalist sneakers, classic white shoes, retro runners, loafers, and trendy styles that look almost identical to the adult collection.
Read More: PacSun Casey Low Rise Jeans Review: Sizing for Petite Girls (I’m 4’11” and 95 Pounds)
That means you don’t have to sacrifice style just because you’re shopping in the kids’ department.
It’s Perfect for Petite Adults Too
This isn’t just a tip for parents.
If you’re a petite adult like me, don’t overlook kids’ sizing.
I’m under five feet tall, and wearing a women’s size 5 means I can save money year-round by checking youth sizes first.
I’ve purchased everything from athletic shoes to casual sneakers this way.
Sometimes I even forget I’m technically wearing “kids’” shoes because they look exactly the same as the women’s version.
Don’t Forget Men’s Shoes
Occasionally I’ll find a sneaker or limited-edition release that’s sold out in women’s sizing.
That’s when I check the men’s section.
A men’s size 4 usually works for me if I can’t find my usual size elsewhere.
It’s another great trick for expanding your options, especially if you’re shopping for popular releases that sell out quickly.
Tips Before You Buy
A few things I’ve learned over the years:
- Read reviews to see if the shoes run large or small.
- Check the brand’s size chart since sizing isn’t always identical.
- Compare the kids’ and women’s prices before purchasing.
- Look at width options if your child has wider feet.
- Try shoes on in-store if you’re unsure of sizing.
Spending a few extra minutes comparing sizes can save you a surprising amount of money.
The Bottom Line
Back-to-school shopping doesn’t have to mean overspending.
If your child wears a kids’ size 2.5 – 3.5—or if you’re a fellow women’s size 5 like me—start your search in the kids’ department before heading to the women’s section.
You might end up with the exact same pair of shoes for a much better price.
And if neither section has what you’re looking for? Don’t forget to check men’s size 4, too.
A little size-hopping has saved me money for years, and it’s one of my favorite shopping hacks that I recommend every back-to-school season.