Is it OK to size up in kid's shoes?

[pastrygirl]

My son was an 8.5 last fall, but his winter boots were a 10 because anything smaller was too tight. He's also been wearing other shoes in a size 9 for the past few months because I figured he'd already grown. Nope! I had him measured at SR last week and he's still an 8.5. I want to buy him some spring shoes and sandals. Is it harmful to put him in a 9 now, if he's only an 8.5? His foot will probably grow soon, right?

[MNmomtobe]

I always buy DD's shoes 1/2 size larger so she has room to grow into them.
At Stride Rite, they always recommend buying 1/2 size up from what they measure.

Does your DS need a wide width?

[pastrygirl]

Thanks! He was measured as regular width. I plan to hit the outlet one of these days.

[WatchingThemGrow]

yeah, I'd go 1/2 size up - but a full-size is a little much, usually, except for the sock factor. slowing growth at this size is SO exciting, isn't it??? I was getting tired of not having shoes last through the season b/c DD's foot was growing so quickly.

[nupe]

When we go to the local shoe store they always size up at least 1/2 a size. Same at Nordstrom. At first I didn't know if it was because the local shoe store had a 3 month size guarantee! I guess not.

[DrSally]

I usually do 1/2 size up.