Junior running in clearance

What shoe size for a running child

The right size is determined by the length of the foot, measured while standing, at the end of the day, from heel to the longest toe. Add about a centimetre of margin, the width of an adult thumb pressed at the end of the shoe: less, and the toes hit the front on descents; more, and the foot slips and rubs. Before the age of three, the foot gains half a size in just a few months; growth then slows down but doesn’t stop until adolescence. Half sizes and third sizes vary by brand: adidas, Saucony, and Reebok each publish their own size guide, to be checked model by model rather than relying on the size of the previous pair.

The other clearance items

The running clearance also includes:

• Men's Shoes.
• Women's Shoes.
• Men's Clothing.
• Women's Clothing.
• Equipment.

All clearance items are gathered on the running page.

Duramo, Runfalcon, Tensaur: everyday models

For school, playtime, and the first easy runs, the versatile models from adidas are more than enough. The Tensaur Run, designed for younger kids, combines elastic laces and a Velcro strap: the child can put it on alone, with no knots to redo. The Runfalcon, cushioned with soft Cloudfoam, and the Duramo SL, with a lightweight and responsive Lightmotion midsole, support older children in school sports and cross-country events. Their rubber sole grips equally well on asphalt and track. The Duramo also comes in a baby version, with a soft sole, to aid those first steps.

Adizero, Ultraboost, Saucony: for young enthusiasts

Children involved in athletics or who run a lot appreciate more technical models. The Adizero Adios Pro comes in children's sizes, echoing the name and design of the adidas marathon shoe, intended for fast paces. The Ultraboost, featuring Boost foam, offers generous and bouncy cushioning for longer outings. The Saucony Hurricane bears the signature of an American brand founded in 1898 in Pennsylvania, and the Reebok Rush provides a lightweight alternative. For kids, these models are reserved for sports: for everyday use, a versatile shoe better withstands playground slips.

Garmin Vívofit jr.: move every day while playing

The Garmin Vívofit jr. is an activity tracker designed for children: it counts steps, active minutes, and sleep, with a goal of one hour of activity per day. Its battery, which parents replace themselves, lasts about a year, with no recharging needed. Water-resistant, it can be worn at the pool. From the app installed on their phone, parents assign tasks and rewards, while the child unlocks adventures and mini-games by reaching their daily goals. The bracelet fits small wrists and can be worn day and night without discomfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you convert foot length to shoe size?

European shoe sizes are counted in Paris points, each being two-thirds of a centimetre: one shoe size up adds about seven millimetres in length. Compare the foot length, including the margin, to the size chart of the selected model.

Do you need special shoes for a school cross-country event?

For a few laps around the field, a versatile running shoe with a rubber sole is sufficient. On muddy grass or in competitive events, a model with a more grippy sole will provide better traction and prevent slips in turns.

At what age can a child start running regularly?

From primary school age, running in the form of games and short distances is beneficial. Athletics clubs offer sections for younger kids, and competitive distances are limited according to age categories.

How do you wash children's running shoes?

Remove insoles and laces, brush off dried mud, then clean with warm soapy water using a soft brush. Allow to air dry, away from radiators that can detach the sole and harden the foam.

Is a GPS watch useful for a young runner?

Before adolescence, a tracker that counts steps and active minutes is enough and motivates through play. A GPS watch, which measures pace and distance, becomes interesting when the child is training in a club and following a program.