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What Does GS Mean Sneakers?

What Does GS Mean Sneakers

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It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when shoe shopping. With so many styles, brands, sizes, and more to consider, finding the perfect pair can be tricky. As you’re browsing sneakers, you may notice the letters “GS” on certain models and wonder – what does GS mean when it comes to sneakers?

Understanding key shoe terminology like GS is important, especially if you’re shopping for kids’ sneakers. This abbreviation actually refers to specific youth sizing that was originally created by Nike.

In this blog post, we’ll break down exactly what GS means, how it compares to standard adult sneaker sizing, tips for buying optimal GS sneakers, and more. Consider this your complete guide to understanding GS sneaker terminology!

What Does GS Stand For?

The term GS stands for “Grade School” and refers to sneaker sizes made specifically for older kids, approximately ages 8 to 12 years old.

GS as a sneaker size originated with Nike’s famous Air Jordan shoe line. Nike introduced it as a way to categorize the smaller youth sizes of the iconic Jordan models.

After seeing its usefulness, other major sneaker brands adopted GS as the standard abbreviation for their own kids’ sizing. Now it’s easy to find GS sizes across sneaker styles from brands like Nike, Adidas, New Balance, Converse, and more.

Having this shared GS terminology makes shopping simpler, allowing quick identification of youth versus standard adult sneaker sizes.

What Does Gs Mean Sneakers

Credit: wearablyweird.com

How GS Sizing Works?

At first glance, GS sneaker sizes may seem no different than standard men’s and women’s sizing. After all, the size numbers themselves look the same, normally ranging from 1 to 7 on GS sneakers.

However, it’s crucial to note that a size 6 GS does NOT correspond to a size 6 in men’s or women’s sizing.

This is where the distinction lies. The same numerical size means very different actual shoe and foot measurements between GS, men’s, and women’s sizing charts.

GS sizes are specifically proportioned for growing feet around ages 8 to 12. The size range captures younger kids who have outgrown toddler sizes but haven’t yet reached full adult sneaker sizes.

To demonstrate, here is a size conversion chart for GS, men’s, and women’s:

GS SizeMen’s SizeWomen’s Size
3.556.5
45.57
4.567.5
56.58
5.578.5
67.59
6.589.5
78.510

As you can see, a GS size 6 equates most closely to a men’s size 7.5 or women’s size 9, quite different from an adult size 6!

This highlights why you can’t rely solely on the size number itself. Pay close attention to the actual fit and measurements recommended by sneaker brands to choose the right GS size.

Learn more here: What does c stand for in shoes

Benefits of GS Sizing

Using differentiated GS sizing for youth sneakers has several helpful benefits:

  • Simplifies identifying youth vs. standard sizes – No more guessing if a size 6 is meant for adults vs kids!
  • Ensures proper fit for growing feet – GS proportions suit growing feet better than scaled-down adult sizes.
  • Caters to youth style – Fun, bright colors and patterns appeal to kids.
  • Highlights school/casual shoes – Distinguishes casual youth styles from performance shoes.
  • Allows small adults to wear well-fitting youth sizes – Petite women or men with small feet can opt for larger GS sizes.

Bottom line – having a separate GS designation takes the confusion out of shopping for kids’ sneakers.

Tips for Buying GS Sneakers

Follow this expert guidance when shopping for great GS sneakers:

1. Measure Feet Properly

Start by measuring your child’s feet at the end of the day when they are largest. Have them wear the type of socks they’ll wear with the sneakers.

Use a brannock device or simple ruler to capture both length and width. Size up if your measurements fall between two sizes to allow for growth.

2. Consult Size Charts

Don’t assume all GS sizes are exactly the same across sneaker brands. Check the size chart for each specific shoe model to see recommended measurements for each whole and half GS size.

Match your child’s measurements to the appropriate GS size based on that sneaker’s sizing scale.

3. Prioritize Fit and Comfort

The labelled size itself is less important than how the sneaker actually fits. Try them on and make sure there is wiggle room for toes and growing feet.

Cushioning and support features are also key for growing feet. Breathable fabrics help keep active feet comfortable.

4. Compare Styles

Consider different sneaker styles in the same GS size depending on your child’s needs. Court shoes work well for school recess while running shoes are better for track.

Ask your child for input on style preferences too. They’ll be more likely to wear kicks they’ve picked out in fun colors.

When to Upgrade to the Next Size?

Kids’ feet grow rapidly, so you’ll need to check fit more frequently. Here are signs it’s time to upgrade their GS size:

  • Toes pressing against the front of the shoe
  • Sides of feet spilling over the shoe edges
  • Difficulty putting on the shoes
  • Complaints of shoes feeling too tight

Have your child try on shoes every 2-3 months to ensure the proper size as their feet grow. Continue sizing up in GS sizes until they reach standard men’s or women’s adult sizing.

Frequently Asked Questions For What Does GS Mean Sneakers

Can Adults Wear GS Sizes?

Adults with small feet can often wear larger GS sizes well, especially petite women. However, GS sneakers are proportioned for kids so the fit may not be ideal.

What’s The Difference Between GS and Women’s Sizing?

As the size chart shows, GS sizes equate most closely to 1.5 sizes larger in women’s sizing. So a GS 5 is sized similarly to a women’s size 8. But GS is shaped specifically for kids’ feet.

Do All Sneaker Brands Use GS Sizing?

Most major sneaker brands now include GS sizing but some smaller brands may follow their own youth size scales. Check each brand’s size charts.

What If My Child’s Feet Are Two Different Sizes?

Fit the larger foot and then add an insert to take up space if needed on the smaller foot. This helps avoid tightness and discomfort.

How Can I Find Good Deals on GS Sneakers?

Shop sales and clearance at major retailers. Also browse resale sites like GOAT and StockX which carry many GS sizes often at discounted pricing.

What Are The Best GS Sneakers For School Sports?

Court style sneakers like the Nike Air Force 1 GS provide the ankle support needed for activities like basketball on the playground or in gym class.

When Should My Child Switch From GS to Adult Sizes?

Around ages 12-14 for girls and 14-16 for boys, kids’ feet typically reach full adult size. If regular GS sizes start feeling too small, try scaling up to larger unisex adult sizes.

What Sneaker Styles Are Most Versatile For Kids?

Low-top sneakers with neutral color schemes pair well with most casual kid and school outfits. Clean white leather shoes or canvas sneakers are always a versatile option.

How Often Should Kids Get New Sneakers?

Aim to get new sneakers for your kids every 4-6 months minimum since their feet grow so fast. More athletic kids may need new pairs even more frequently from wear and tear.

How Can I Make GS Sneakers Last Longer?

Add protective treatments like crease preventers and waterproofing sprays. Have your child rotate multiple pairs of sneakers to reduce wear on any one pair. Teach them to unlace and loosen sneakers between wears to maintain shape.

Conclusion

Understanding the meaning of “GS” in sneakers simplifies shopping for school-age kids. Grade School sizing properly fits growing feet between toddler and adult sizes. Follow size charts, measure feet carefully, and prioritize fit/comfort over the labeled size number. Keep assessing fit as your child’s feet grow to provide the right sneakers at every stage!

Writer’s Opinion

In my experience both shopping for my kids’ sneakers and talking to other parents, the GS grade school sizing system has been a game changer. Before it was introduced, trying to discern whether a shoe was meant for kids or adults was incredibly frustrating. I can’t tell you how many times I bought a pair only to find the fit was all wrong once I got them home.

Having that clear GS labelling and segmented sizing has taken so much guesswork out of the process. I can quickly flip to the size chart, measure my daughter’s feet, and order her shoes confidently online in the right GS size. Plus, the fun color options in GS sizes make her way more excited to wear sneakers. Now, shoe shopping is breezy, and I don’t dread it like I used to!

I hope this breakdown of what GS means in the sneaker world helps other parents and shoppers find the perfect kicks for their kids. Understanding how shoe sizing works is empowering. So next time you see GS on a pair of sneakers, you’ll know exactly what it signifies and how to find the ideal size.

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