Ever tried to figure out what “extra small youth” really means? You’re not alone! Youth sizing can be a total headache. Kids grow at different rates, and what fits one brand might be totally off in another. As a parent or caregiver, knowing how to accurately size clothes is essential to helping your kids feel comfy and confident in their clothes.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide. We’ll break down everything you need to know about extra small youth sizes, including measurements, age and weight guidelines, and how sizing can vary from brand to brand.
General size guidelines for extra small youth
Sizing in children’s clothing can be all over the map. Here are some general guidelines for extra small youth sizing.
Age and weight estimates
Generally, an extra small youth size will fit a child between the ages of 4 and 6. But keep in mind that this is just a rough estimate. Kids grow at different rates, so age isn’t the most reliable way to choose the right size.
Weight is another factor to consider. An extra small youth size often fits a child between 35 and 45 pounds. But again, this is just a guideline. A child’s body build is just as important as their weight when choosing clothes.
Key measurements to consider
When you’re shopping for clothes, it’s always a good idea to take your child’s measurements.
- Chest/bust measurement: To measure the chest or bust, have your child stand with their arms at their sides. Then, measure around the fullest part of their chest, keeping the measuring tape level. For an extra small youth size, the chest/bust measurement is usually between 22 and 24 inches.
- Waist measurement: To measure the waist, have your child stand with their arms at their sides. Then, measure around their natural waistline, which is usually the narrowest part of their torso. For an extra small youth size, the waist measurement is usually between 20 and 22 inches.
- Height: To measure height, have your child stand against a wall with their shoes off. Then, use a measuring tape to measure from the top of their head to the floor. For an extra small youth size, the height is usually between 40 and 44 inches.
Detailed measurement charts for extra small youth
Because sizing can vary so widely from brand to brand, it’s always a good idea to check the manufacturer’s sizing chart before you buy. But if you’re just looking for a general idea of what to look for, these tables should help.
Clothing size chart
Here are some typical measurements for extra small youth clothing. Keep in mind that these are general guidelines, and actual sizes can vary quite a bit from one manufacturer to the next.
| Measurement | Inches | Centimeters |
|---|---|---|
| Chest | 26-28 | 66-71 |
| Waist | 23-24 | 58-61 |
| Height | 48-52 | 122-132 |
| Sleeve Length | 20-22 | 51-56 |
| Inseam | 22-24 | 56-61 |
Disclaimer: These are general guidelines only. Always check the brand’s specific size chart before purchasing.
Shoe size chart
Here’s a table showing typical shoe sizes for extra small youth, correlated with foot length. Again, remember that sizes can vary between brands.
| Foot Length (Inches) | Foot Length (Centimeters) | US Shoe Size | European Shoe Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7.5 | 19.1 | 13 | 31 |
| 7.75 | 19.7 | 1 | 32 |
| 8 | 20.3 | 1.5 | 33 |
To measure foot length accurately, have the child stand on a piece of paper and trace their foot. Then, measure the distance from the heel to the longest toe. It’s best to measure both feet, as they may be slightly different sizes.
Brand-specific sizing variations
Here’s where things get tricky: sizing can vary a lot between brands. An extra-small at Gap Kids might be a small at Old Navy Kids, or maybe even a medium at Nike Kids. It really depends.
You’ll probably find that some brands tend to run small or large. For example, some European brands may run smaller than American brands. And some athletic wear brands may run larger, to accommodate more movement.
The best way to get a sense of a specific brand’s sizing is to check online reviews. Other customers will often comment on whether an item runs true to size, or whether you should size up or down. But keep in mind that everyone’s body is different, so what works for one person may not work for you.
For the most accurate sizing, always consult the brand’s size chart. You can usually find this on the brand’s website or in the product description.
How to find brand-specific size charts
Most brands will have a link to their size chart somewhere on their website. Look for links labeled “Size Chart,” “Sizing Guide,” or “Fit Guide.” These are often located in the product description or in the website’s footer.
If you can’t find a size chart on the brand’s website, try using a search engine. Just type in the brand name followed by “size chart youth.” For example, you could search for “Nike size chart youth.” This should bring up a size chart from the brand or from a retailer that sells the brand.
How to get the right fit
Here are some tips to help you measure your child and choose the right size:
- Dress light. Measure your child while they’re wearing light clothing. Bulky clothes will throw off your measurements.
- Use a flexible tape. Cloth or vinyl measuring tapes work best.
- Measure more than once. Take each measurement a few times to be sure you’re getting consistent results.
- When in doubt, size up. Kids grow fast! It’s usually best to go with a slightly larger size.
Troubleshooting Common Sizing Issues
Sometimes, even when you think you’ve found the right size, clothes just don’t fit right. Here are some common problems and how to solve them:
- Clothes that are too tight or restrictive: Try going up a size. You might also try looking for a different style that’s designed to be looser.
- Clothes that are too long or baggy: Hemming pants is an easy fix. Rolling up sleeves works well too, especially on growing kids.
- Shoes that are too tight or cause blisters: Make sure there’s enough room for your child to wiggle their toes. If the length is right but the shoes still feel tight, try a wider size.
Conclusion
Finding just the right fit for kids’ clothing can be a challenge, so remember to measure your child carefully and check the sizing charts for each brand.
Youth sizes can vary quite a bit, so patience and flexibility are essential. Hopefully, this guide has given you a clearer idea of what to expect when shopping for an extra small youth size.