How do you size your shoes? Finding your true shoe size can be tricky, but it’s essential for comfort and foot health. This guide provides a step-by-step foot measuring guide and shoe size chart to help you determine shoe size accurately every time. It also tackles kids shoe sizing, men’s shoe sizes, women’s shoe sizes and shoe size conversion along with providing a shoe width guide.
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Why Accurate Shoe Fitting Matters
Wearing the wrong shoe size can lead to a host of problems. Shoes that are too small can cause blisters, bunions, and hammertoes. Shoes that are too big can lead to instability and increase your risk of falls. Accurate shoe fitting ensures:
- Comfort: Properly sized shoes feel good on your feet, allowing you to move freely and comfortably.
- Foot Health: Wearing the right size helps prevent foot problems and promotes healthy foot development, especially in children.
- Performance: Whether you’re running a marathon or just running errands, well-fitting shoes can improve your performance and reduce fatigue.
- Injury Prevention: Correct shoe size reduces the risk of trips, slips and other foot injuries
Tools You’ll Need To Measure Your Feet
Before you start, gather these simple tools:
- Paper: A piece of paper larger than your foot.
- Pencil or Pen: For tracing your foot.
- Ruler or Measuring Tape: For accurate measurements.
- Socks: Wear the type of socks you would normally wear with the shoes you’re planning to buy.
Step-by-Step Foot Measuring Guide
Follow these steps to accurately measure your foot length and width:
- Prepare the Paper: Place the paper on a hard, flat surface, like a wood or tile floor. Tape the paper down to prevent it from moving.
- Trace Your Foot: Stand with your foot firmly on the paper. Make sure your weight is evenly distributed. Have someone else trace your foot with the pencil or pen held perpendicular to the paper. Trace carefully, keeping the pencil as close to your foot as possible.
- Measure Foot Length: Use the ruler or measuring tape to measure the longest distance of the tracing, from the heel to the tip of your longest toe. Record this measurement in inches or centimeters.
- Measure Foot Width: Measure the widest part of the tracing. Record this measurement.
- Repeat for the Other Foot: Feet are often slightly different sizes. Measure both feet and use the larger measurement when determining your shoe size.
- Measure at the End of the Day: Your feet tend to swell throughout the day. Measuring in the evening will give you the most accurate measurement.
Tips for Accurate Measurements
- Wear the socks you plan to wear with the shoes.
- Measure both feet, as they may be slightly different sizes.
- Trace your foot carefully, keeping the pencil perpendicular to the paper.
- Measure at the end of the day when your feet are at their largest.
Deciphering Shoe Size Charts
Once you have your foot measurements, you can use a shoe size chart to find your corresponding shoe size. Keep in mind that shoe sizes can vary slightly between brands, so it’s always a good idea to consult the specific brand’s shoe size chart when possible.
Women’s Shoe Sizes
| Foot Length (inches) | US Women’s Size | UK Women’s Size | EU Women’s Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 1/8 | 5 | 3 | 35-36 |
| 8 3/8 | 5.5 | 3.5 | 36 |
| 8 5/8 | 6 | 4 | 36-37 |
| 8 7/8 | 6.5 | 4.5 | 37 |
| 9 | 7 | 5 | 37-38 |
| 9 3/8 | 7.5 | 5.5 | 38 |
| 9 5/8 | 8 | 6 | 38-39 |
| 9 7/8 | 8.5 | 6.5 | 39 |
| 10 | 9 | 7 | 39-40 |
| 10 3/8 | 9.5 | 7.5 | 40 |
| 10 5/8 | 10 | 8 | 40-41 |
| 10 7/8 | 10.5 | 8.5 | 41 |
| 11 | 11 | 9 | 41-42 |
| 11 3/8 | 11.5 | 9.5 | 42 |
| 11 5/8 | 12 | 10 | 42-43 |
Men’s Shoe Sizes
| Foot Length (inches) | US Men’s Size | UK Men’s Size | EU Men’s Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 3/8 | 6 | 5.5 | 39 |
| 9 5/8 | 6.5 | 6 | 39-40 |
| 9 7/8 | 7 | 6.5 | 40 |
| 10 | 7.5 | 7 | 40-41 |
| 10 3/8 | 8 | 7.5 | 41 |
| 10 5/8 | 8.5 | 8 | 41-42 |
| 10 7/8 | 9 | 8.5 | 42 |
| 11 | 9.5 | 9 | 42-43 |
| 11 3/8 | 10 | 9.5 | 43 |
| 11 5/8 | 10.5 | 10 | 43-44 |
| 11 7/8 | 11 | 10.5 | 44 |
| 12 1/8 | 11.5 | 11 | 44-45 |
| 12 3/8 | 12 | 11.5 | 45 |
| 12 5/8 | 12.5 | 12 | 45-46 |
| 12 7/8 | 13 | 12.5 | 46 |
Kids Shoe Sizing
Kids’ feet grow quickly, so it’s important to measure their feet regularly, every few months, especially if they are young. Use the same foot measuring guide as above, then consult a kids shoe sizing chart.
| Foot Length (inches) | US Kids’ Size | UK Kids’ Size | EU Kids’ Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 7/8 | 4 | 3.5 | 19-20 |
| 5 1/8 | 5 | 4.5 | 21 |
| 5 3/8 | 6 | 5.5 | 22-23 |
| 5 5/8 | 7 | 6.5 | 23-24 |
| 5 7/8 | 8 | 7.5 | 24-25 |
| 6 1/8 | 9 | 8.5 | 25-26 |
| 6 3/8 | 10 | 9.5 | 27 |
| 6 5/8 | 11 | 10.5 | 28 |
| 7 | 12 | 11.5 | 29-30 |
| 7 3/8 | 13 | 12.5 | 31 |
| 7 5/8 | 1 | 13.5 | 32-33 |
| 7 7/8 | 2 | 1.5 | 33-34 |
| 8 1/8 | 3 | 2.5 | 34-35 |
Important Note for Kids Shoe Sizing: Always allow for growth room, about half an inch, especially in closed-toe shoes.
Shoe Size Conversion
Different countries use different shoe sizing systems. If you’re buying shoes from a country that uses a different system than your own, you’ll need to convert the shoe size. The tables above can assist in converting shoe sizes. Many online tools and apps can also help with shoe size conversion.
Shoe Width Guide
Foot width is just as important as foot length when it comes to finding the right shoe size. Shoes that are too narrow can pinch your feet, while shoes that are too wide can cause your feet to slide around.
Shoe widths are typically indicated by letters, such as:
- AAAA: Extra Narrow
- AAA: Very Narrow
- AA: Narrow
- A: Slightly Narrow
- B: Narrow (Women’s), Medium (Men’s)
- C: Medium (Women’s), Wide (Men’s)
- D: Wide (Women’s), Extra Wide (Men’s)
- E: Extra Wide (Women’s), Extra Extra Wide (Men’s)
- EE: Extra Extra Wide
- EEE: Extra Extra Extra Wide
- EEEE: Extra Extra Extra Extra Wide
To determine your shoe width, refer to the measurement you took earlier of the width of your foot. Most shoe brands will have a width chart similar to their length charts that match width measurements to the letters above. If a shoe brand doesn’t offer width sizes, it is safe to assume they are a B (Medium) width shoe.
When to Consider Wider or Narrower Widths
- If you often experience pinching or discomfort on the sides of your feet: You may need a wider width.
- If your feet slide around inside your shoes: You may need a narrower width.
Tips for Achieving Accurate Shoe Fitting
- Shop in the Afternoon or Evening: As mentioned earlier, feet swell throughout the day, so it’s best to shop for shoes in the afternoon or evening.
- Wear the Right Socks: Wear the type of socks you would normally wear with the shoes you’re planning to buy.
- Try Shoes On: Always try shoes on before you buy them, and walk around in them to make sure they feel comfortable.
- Check the Fit: Make sure there’s about a thumb’s width of space between the end of your longest toe and the end of the shoe. You should be able to wiggle your toes freely.
- Pay Attention to Width: Make sure the shoe isn’t too tight or too loose on the sides of your feet.
- Don’t Rely on Size Alone: Shoe sizes can vary between brands, so don’t rely solely on the size number. Pay attention to how the shoe feels on your foot.
- Trust Your Instincts: If a shoe doesn’t feel comfortable, don’t buy it, even if it’s the “right” size.
- Consider Specialty Stores: Stores that specialize in shoe fitting can offer expert advice and help you find the perfect fit.
Online Shoe Shopping Tips
Online shoe shopping can be convenient, but it can also be challenging to find the right size. Here are some tips for buying shoes online:
- Measure Your Feet Accurately: Use the foot measuring guide above to measure your feet accurately.
- Consult the Brand’s Shoe Size Chart: Always check the brand’s shoe size chart before ordering.
- Read Reviews: See what other customers have to say about the shoe’s fit.
- Look for Free Returns: Choose retailers that offer free returns so you can easily return the shoes if they don’t fit.
- Consider Ordering Multiple Sizes: If you’re unsure about your size, consider ordering multiple sizes and returning the ones that don’t fit.
Fathoming Foot Changes Over Time
Our feet can change size and shape over time due to factors such as:
- Age: As we age, our feet can flatten and widen.
- Pregnancy: Pregnancy can cause feet to swell and permanently increase in size.
- Weight Gain: Weight gain can put extra pressure on our feet, causing them to flatten and widen.
- Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and arthritis, can affect foot size and shape.
It’s important to remeasure your feet periodically, especially if you experience any of these factors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
-
How often should I measure my feet?
You should measure your feet at least once a year, or more often if you experience any changes in foot size or shape. Children should have their feet measured every few months.
* What if my feet are two different sizes?It’s common for feet to be slightly different sizes. Choose the shoe size that fits the larger foot. You can use shoe inserts or padding to improve the fit of the shoe on the smaller foot.
* Can I stretch my shoes if they’re too tight?You can try stretching your shoes slightly, but it’s best to buy shoes that fit properly in the first place. Shoe stretchers and professional shoe stretching services can help.
* How do I know if my shoes are too narrow?If your shoes feel tight on the sides of your feet, or if you experience pinching or discomfort, they may be too narrow.
* How do I know if my shoes are too wide?If your feet slide around inside your shoes, or if you have to tighten the laces or straps excessively to keep your shoes on, they may be too wide.
* What is the best time of day to measure my feet?The best time to measure your feet is at the end of the day, when they are at their largest.
* Should I measure my feet with or without socks?Measure your feet with the type of socks you would normally wear with the shoes you’re planning to buy.
* Can I use a mobile app to measure my feet?Some mobile apps claim to measure foot size, but their accuracy may vary. It’s best to use a traditional foot measuring guide for the most accurate results.
Finding your true shoe size can take a little effort, but it’s well worth it for the comfort and health of your feet. Use this guide as your foot measuring guide, consult shoe size charts, and remember to prioritize fit over size. By following these tips, you can find the perfect pair of shoes every time.
David Ruperto is a Footwear Engineer with expertise in 3D printing, design, and pattern making. With a background in Fine Arts from CUNY and training from SLEM and Cordwainer’s Savannah, he blends creativity with innovation. Based in New York, he shares his knowledge on BestForShoes.com, helping others explore the world of footwear.