Shopping for children’s shoes online just became significantly more convenient with the launch of SizeWise on the My First Steps website. As of March 31st, My First Steps becomes the first Irish retailer to introduce this cutting-edge technology to its eCommerce platform, joining prominent UK brands like StartRite in leveraging this innovation.
Founded in 2023 by County Clare native Alison McGrath, My First Steps specialises in children’s footwear, with two superstore locations in Ennis and Galway, as well as a digital flagship store at www.myfirststeps.ie.
The inspiration behind the business came from Alison’s personal experience as a mother. After the birth of her two children, she recognised a gap in the market for stylish, well-fitting, and foot-friendly children’s shoes—qualities she wanted for her own kids.
Alison explained, “Studies have shown that up to 83% of children are wearing shoes that do not fit their feet. By ensuring a well-fitting shoe for your child, you are protecting them from the risk of a lifetime of foot problems—from blisters, pressure sores, and ingrowing toenails in the short term, to foot deformities like hammer toe, knee issues, and posture problems in the long term.”
She added that My First Steps has built a reputation for expert fitting in store and is excited to bring that same level of precision to the online shopping experience with the help of SizeWise.
SizeWise (https://www.sizewise.ai) is an award-winning precision scanning technology that delivers convenience, accuracy, and trust to the online shoe-buying process. The tool allows customers to scan for size using a mobile device and receive precise size recommendations, ultimately reducing returns and promoting healthy foot development in children.
Announcing the partnership, Alan Power, CEO of SizeWise, said: “We’re delighted to partner with My First Steps, a leading footwear retailer in Ireland. It’s a natural fit for us. They truly care about helping parents find the right shoes for their little ones, and that’s exactly what we do at SizeWise. Together, we’re making it easier for families to get the perfect fit the first time—saving time, reducing waste, and ensuring kids are comfortable and supported as they grow.”
Key Facts About Buying Kids’ Shoes:
Research by Glasgow Caledonian University highlights the importance of proper shoe fitting for children:
- 83% of children starting school wear shoes that are too small
- Only 6% of parents check their child’s feet when buying new shoes
- 1 in 10 parents report their children continuing to wear shoes that are too small
- Half of parents only buy new shoes when their children complain of pain
- Only 40% of parents consider whether shoes are well-fitting and supportive
About SizeWise:
SizeWise is an award-winning technology company that uses AI, machine learning, and computer vision to transform how shoe sizes are determined online. It was recently honoured with the eCommerce Software Tool or App of the Year Award at the 2024 eComm Live Awards.
Thanks to the integration of SizeWise, parents can now enjoy a stress-free shoe shopping experience at www.myfirststeps.ie/pages/sizewise. Finding the perfect fit has never been easier.
Try SizeWise today and experience the future of online shoe shopping.
