HOW TO MEASURE YOUR FOOT TO FIND THE RIGHT SHOE SIZE

Forget shoe-size woes! Forget bunions and body aches from ill-fitting kicks. It’s time to conquer shoe sizing once and for all!

Wearing the wrong size shoes isn’t just a minor annoyance. It can lead to bunions, foot deformity, and even back and hip pain. Scary, right? But fear not! This guide unveils the secrets to accurate foot measurement and finding your perfect shoe fit, regardless of brand inconsistencies.

No more size chart roulette! We’ll ditch the confusion and equip you with a step-by-step process for measuring your feet, both in inches and using men’s and women’s sizing. Get ready to step into a world of comfortable, supportive shoes that actually make your feet happy!

HOW TO MEASURE YOUR FEET

While some brands may not readily provide size charts, resorting to strongly worded letters or public complaints is rarely productive. Instead, a universally acclaimed method—employed by both brands and stylists alike—is the simple technique of foot measurement.

It’s crucial to remember that proper fit extends beyond mere length; foot width plays a crucial role in achieving optimal comfort. Unfortunately, not all brands explicitly indicate width using standardized letters like “N” or “W.” Nevertheless, acknowledging the importance of both dimensions unlocks the door to true shoe bliss.

Fortunately, with readily available school supplies like a ruler, paper, and pencil, determining both length and width is a straightforward process. By investing a few minutes in accurate measurement, you empower yourself to make informed footwear choices that prioritize comfort and well-being, leaving frustration and ill-fitting shoes behind.

This revision maintains the key points while removing informal language and replacing it with more professional alternatives. It also emphasizes the positive outcome of accurate measurement, making the process feel more appealing.

GATHER YOUR SUPPLIES

  • A sheet of paper. White paper works best, but any flat surface will do.
  • A pencil or pen.
  • A ruler or measuring tape.

STEP ONTO THE SCENE

  1. Trace your foot: Place your bare foot flat on the paper, heel against the wall. With your pencil held upright, carefully trace the outline of your entire foot. Repeat for the other foot.
  2. Measure the length: Locate the two farthest points on your tracing: the tip of your longest toe (usually the big toe) and the back of your heel. Use your ruler or tape to measure the distance between these points. This is your foot length.
  3. Measure the width: Find the widest point across your tracing, perpendicular to your foot length. This is your foot width.

INTERPRETING YOUR RESULTS

  • Consult a size chart: Most brands provide size charts based on either length or length and width. Compare your measurements to the chart to find your corresponding shoe size in men’s, women’s, or youth sizing.
  • Consider additional factors: While size charts are a good starting point, remember that foot shape and personal preferences can come into play. If you have wider feet or prefer a looser fit, consider sizing up. Conversely, if you have narrow feet or like a snug fit, sizing down might be a better option.

BONUS TIPS

  • Measure your feet later in the day, as they tend to swell slightly throughout the day.
  • Wear socks if you typically wear them with the type of shoes you’re buying.
  • If one foot is slightly larger than the other, size your shoes based on the larger foot.
  • When trying on shoes, pay attention to how they feel overall, not just the length. There should be no pinching, rubbing, or excessive wiggle room.

INCHES TO WOMEN’S SHOE SIZE CONVERSION CHART

InchesCentimetersU.S. & CanadaEuropeUK
8-3/1620.84352
8-3/821.34.5352.5
8-1/221.6535–363
8-3/422.25.5363.5
8-7/822.5636–374
9-1/16236.5374.5
9-1/423.5737–385
9-3/823.87.5385.5
9-1/224.1838–396
9-11/1624.68.5396.5
9-7/825.1939-407
1025.49.5407.5
10-3/1625.91040–418
10-5/1626.210.5418.5
10-1/226.71141–429
10-11/1627.111.5429.5
10-7/827.61242–4310

WOMEN’S SHOE WIDTH CHART

U.S. Shoe SizeNarrow (AA)Average (B or M)Wide (D)Extra-Wide (EE)
52-13/16″3-3/16″3-9/16″3-15/16″
5.52-14/16″3-1/4″3-10/16″4″
62-15/16″3-5/16″3-11/16″4-1/16″
6.53″3-3/16″3-3/4″4-2/16″
73-1/16″3-7/16″3-13/16″4-3/16″
7.53-2/16″3-1/2″3-14/16″4-1/4″
83-3/16″3-9/16″3-15/16″4-5/16″
8.53-1/4″3-10/16″4″4-3/16″
93-5/16″3-11/16″4-1/16″4-7/16″
9.53-3/16″3-3/4″4-2/16″4.5
103-7/16″3-13/16″4-3/16″4-9/16″
10.53-1/2″3-14/16″4-1/4″4-10/16″
113-9/16″3-15/16″4-5/16″4-11/16″
11.53-10/16″4″4-3/16″4-3/4″
123-11/16″4-1/16″4-7/16″4-13/16″
12.53-3/4″4-2/16″4.54-14/16″
133-13/16″4-3/16″4-9/16″4-15/16″
13.53-14/16″4-1/4″4-10/16″5″
143-15/16″4-5/16″4-11/16″5-1/16″

UNDERSTANDING NON-STANDARD SIZING

While most brands stick to a standard width alphabet (N, M, W, etc.), some adventurous shoemakers venture into non-standard territory. These codes, often a mix of numbers and letters like “11EE,” might seem daunting, but they simply represent widths that fall outside the regular lineup. Think of “EE” as an extra-wide friend of “W,” and “11EE” as that friend who brought an even bigger appetite to the picnic. It’s all about finding the width that snuggles your foot just right, not too loose, not too tight. So, keep both length and width in mind when deciphering these codes, and remember, a little help from a shoe expert or a professional foot measurement can be your map through the width wilderness.

PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER

Now, let’s put our measuring skills to the test! Imagine you measure your foot length at 9-1/2 inches, corresponding to a US women’s size 8 in most brands. Next, you measure the width at 3-15/16 inches, indicating a wider “D” width. So, your ideal shoe size for this particular brand would be 8D!

INCHES TO MEN’S SHOE SIZE CONVERSION CHART

InchesU.S. Men’s Shoe Size
9 5/166
9 1/26.5
9 11/167
9 13/167.5
108
10 3/168.5
10 5/169
10 1/29.5
10 11/1610
10 13/1610.5
1111
11 3/1611.5
11 5/1612
11 1/212.5
11 11/1613
11 13/1613.5
1214
12 3/1614.5
12 5/1615

MEN’S SHOE WIDTH CHART

US Shoe SizeNarrow (B)Medium (D)Wide (EE)X-Wide (4E)XX-Wide (6E)
63 5/16″3 1/2″3 11/16″3 7/8″4 1/16″
6.53 3/8″3 9/16″3 3/4″3 15/16″4 1/8″
73 7/16″3 5/8″3 13/16″4″4 3/16″
7.53 1/2″3 11/16″3 7/8″4 1/16″4 1/4″
83 9/16″3 3/4″3 15/16″4 1/8″4 5/16″
8.53 5/8″3 13/16″4″4 3/16″4 3/8″
93 11/16″3 7/8″4 1/16″4 1/4″4 7/16″
9.53 3/4″3 15/16″4 1/8″4 5/16″4 1/2″
103 13/16″4″4 3/16″4 3/8″4 9/16″
10.53 7/8″4 1/16″4 1/4″4 7/16″4 5/8″
113 15/16″4 1/8″4 5/16″4 1/2″4 11/16″
11.54″4 3/16″4 3/8″4 9/16″4 3/4″
124 1/16″4 1/4″4 7/16″4 5/8″4 13/16″
12.54 1/8″4 5/16″4 1/2″4 11/16″4 7/8″
134 3/16″4 3/8″4 9/16″4 3/4″4 15/16″
13.54 1/4″4 7/16″4 5/8″4 13/16″5″
144 5/16″4 1/2″4 11/16″4 7/8″5 1/16″
14.54 3/8″4 9/16″4 3/4″4 15/16″5 1/8″
154 7/16″4 5/8″4 13/16″5″5 3/16″

TRYING IT OUT

Let’s imagine you’ve meticulously measured your feet, revealing a length of 10.5 inches and a width of 4 inches. Armed with these numbers, it’s time to decipher the shoe-size code!

First, consult a men’s size conversion chart. Your impressive 10.5 inches translate to a size 9.5 in most men’s footwear. Excellent!

But the journey doesn’t end there. Remember your 4-inch width? Locate your size (9.5) on a shoe width chart and trace your finger across the corresponding row. Look for the measurement closest to your 4-inch width – you’ll likely find it at 3 15/16 inches under the “Medium (D)” column.

This means your ideal shoe size is… 9.5D! In some cases, “Medium” is considered the standard and simply denoted as 9.5. Now, you’re equipped with the precise knowledge to confidently navigate the shoe aisles, ensuring a perfect fit for your perfectly measured feet!

NOTHING BEATS A FITTING

While our handy measuring guide and size charts are trusty companions, especially for online shopping, there’s no substitute for slipping on a pair in person – if possible! Why? Because, just like friends, shoes come in all sorts of personalities. A chunky boot, a sleek loafer, a sky-high heel – each has its own fit and feel that materials like leather or synthetic fabrics can further tweak.

So don’t be shy! Give them a test run. Walk, strut, even do a little happy dance in those shoes. And to get the ultimate picture of fit, wear the socks you’d normally pair with them. Bonus tip: since feet tend to puff up as the day wears on, shoe shopping in the afternoon is ideal. Same goes for if you’re feeling puffy from heat, travel, or that extra slice of cake (no judgment!).

FINAL TAKEAWAY

Understanding how to measure your shoe size is essential for ensuring comfort, support, and overall foot health. The process may seem simple, but its impact on your well-being cannot be overstated. By following the recommended steps and considering factors such as foot width and arch length, individuals can confidently select footwear that not only fits properly but also promotes a healthy and comfortable walking experience.

Shoe sizes may vary across brands and styles, emphasizing the importance of measuring your feet regularly and consulting size charts provided by manufacturers. Additionally, seeking professional assistance, such as visiting a shoe store and getting measured by trained staff, can further enhance the accuracy of your measurements.

No More Achy Feet with 20 Best Flats for Work 

If you have not considered wearing flats in years, you are about to. It appears that more and more individuals are ditching their heels in favor of a pair of elegant flats, and it is easy to understand why. Flats are simple to put on, go with almost any outfit, and may be worn all day without needing to be removed. You work best when you are comfortable, which is why we have compiled a list of the 20 best flats for work to help you in finding your new office footwear.

Hash Bubbie Casual Dress Shoes

These work shoes were created with your convenience in mind. They include a non-slip sole, a thicker PU insole, a foot-friendly heel, and a pointed toe with the ideal angle to help your feet “feel more comfortable” and “won’t squeeze,” according to the company. They’re also quite cheap so it’s understandable that they won’t get with you long.

Semwiss Women’s Comfortable Ballet Flats

These inexpensive ballerina flats are constructed of knit material, but the maker claims they are far from stuffy. The pointed toe and lined shape also provide your feet with a pleasing and smaller appearance. If you have larger feet, get a size larger than your casual size since the forms are rather little.

Funky Monkey Classic Ballet Flats

If knit flats aren’t your thing, try these traditional ballet choices with a faux leather top for an office-appropriate look. They’re literally made for work days as they’re flexible, easy to walk in. If you have narrow feet, it is recommended to buy half a size smaller than usual. Feet are normal or wide, it is recommended to buy in normal size.

Dream Pairs Low Wedge Ankle Strap Flats

This pair of shoes has a beautiful ankle strap and a cushioned footbed to keep your feet comfy all day. You may wear them for hours and your feet will not be sore at the end of the day. They run on the small side, according to the company, so purchase a half-size bigger.

Slocyclub Classic Pointed Toe Slip On Shoe

These soft knit flats are foldable and can be tossed into your handbag for on-the-go wear, making them ideal for the average commuter. The pair is also available in a variety of colors and designs, so there’s certain to be a hue to match practically every outfit in your closet. Those with large feet will enjoy this pair, however, if you have little feet, these shoes may be too big or even floppy for you.

Frank Mully Knit Ballet Flats

If your feet sweat while walking, the company claims that the knit top on these flats provides some ventilation. They are not only functional but also fashionable: You’ll have over 40 hues to select from when choosing a pair, whether you like a basic nude to match with pants or a vivid burst of pink or red to spice up your outfit. Socks are required when wearing these shoes to avoid making your feet sweaty and stinky.

Vionic Minna Ballet Flat

A podiatrist devised these flats to assist maintain the body’s natural alignment from the ground up. Vionic recommends wearing your new footwear for only a few hours for a  first few days to allow your feet to acclimatize to the new degree of orthotic comfort and support. With regular usage, the rubber heel may wear out so you might wanna be careful with these.

Anne Klein Women’s Uplift Ballet Flat

Women who are looking for both comfort and flair will appreciate the stylish and functional Anne Klein Women’s Uplift Ballet Flat. These flats, which were carefully crafted, have a traditional ballet-inspired form with a rounded toe and a low heel. These flats effortlessly spice up any outfit, whether they are worn with jeans for a more laid-back trip or with a dress for a more formal occasion, making them an essential part of every woman’s collection.

Trotters Estee Woven Flats

These shoes have a cushioned footbed that makes them ideal for walking—often without the need for a break-in period. In addition to broad and extra-wide flats, ordinary and narrow flats are available for those who require them. Best of all, Trotters is recognized for standing behind its shoes—with high-quality materials and workmanship, as well as amazing customer service. When walking, the shoe creates a squeaking sound, but these shoes are fantastic overall.

Naturalizer Soul Gift Flat

Look for shoes with a large toe box when searching for shoes for broad feet, since wide-width shoes can help with a range of foot ailments. The Naturalizer Soul Gift Flat is a versatile shoe that can be worn to the workplace or to brunch on the weekends. They contain foam lining, memory foam arch support, and antibacterial sock lining, making them ideal for people who have foot problems. They are, however, only available in broad sizes 6 to 10, which is somewhat restricted when compared to other options.

Sam Edelman Felicia Flat

Women with tiny feet must worry about their shoes coming off (we feel you, Cinderella) or strive to wear a certain sock thickness to help a shoe fit better and remain on. These flats come in a variety of colors, and a beautiful charm on the ribbon adds a nice finishing touch. Like Dream Pairs or Semwiss Women’s Comfortable flats, they run small, so go up a half size.

Tory Burch Minnie Travel Ballet Flat

These high-end slip-on flats are famed for their design, but committed admirers appreciate them for their comfort as well. They are available in a range of colors and styles. The footbed is gently cushioned and lined with silky leather. In addition, the heel offers an elastic fit for a subtle stretch as you walk. 

NINE WEST Women’s Saige Ballet Flat

The Saige is a perfect addition to any outfit! Nine West offers a quick edit of the runways pinpointing the must have looks of the season, and translating what is fun, hip, and of the moment. It is trend-right footwear that you will reach for in your closet again and again. Nine West is sure to be your trusted resource for everyday chic style. It’s also made of 100% leather with a slip-on silhouette, making it perfect for all-day wear. Make sure to go half-size up for the most comfortable fit.

M. Gemi The Danza

Handmade in Tuscany, Italy, these beautiful leather ballerina flats. While they are costly, they are manufactured from certified, sustainable leather. The concealed wedge structure supports and comforts the arches while maintaining the appearance of a ballet flat. A square toe with a beautiful bow adds a modern touch to the traditional ballet shoe.

Felice 366-6

Do you prefer preppy chic? Then you must have a pair of penny loafers, such as these Lucca Vudors. They have a pressure-relieving sole and supple leather for comfort. Complement the outfit with a French-tucked shirt and cigarette pants. They will always look beautiful whether you wear them with a work suit or a playsuit.

Birdies The Goldfinch

Birdies shoes provide exceptional comfort with a seven-layer footbed that adjusts to your foot shape. You will be suprised by the Goldfinch ballet flat’s stability and suppleness. It also comes in a variety of textures, ranging from suede and velvet to leather and raffia. The pointed toe creates a stylish profile without squeezing the toes. Remember to order a half size up for the best fit.

Italeau Trino Loafer

These loafers have soft leather and a high cushioning footbed for good arch support. It comes in eight professional-looking neutral colors, and its front tassel and pointy toe box are structured enough for work without becoming uncomfortable or unpleasant by the end of the day. A plus for commuters: the leather is waterproof and stain-resistant.

Everlane The Day Glove

Everlane’s The Day Glove has a nice fit at first. It is constructed of smooth leather that adapts to your foot over time for a more customized fit. While many ballet flats might become a little steamy, this one has subtle holes on the side to help keep things breezy, making it great for individuals who prefer to wear flats without socks or on hot summer days. 

Mansur Gavriel Square Toe Ballerina

Mansur Gavriel maintains his pointe position. In keeping with the “balletcore” fashion trend, this pair is wrapped in lovely pastels and embossed motifs and linked together with a ballerina ribbon and square shape. The shoe’s forgiving leather composition makes it more breathable and flexible. Just keep in mind that high-quality sneakers come at a comparable price. This also needs more care and attention, as the firm suggests storing in a dust bag and maintaining it with a leather conditioner. We also recommend going down a half-size.

Margaux The Demi

This ballet flat, made in Spain, is a wonderful ode to the timeless classic design. It also has a 5 mm thick layer of soft foam cushioning. The leather top is supple and contours to your foot, and the sole feels robust and supportive for a flat. One disadvantage is that it might be difficult to determine the correct fit because it can be too huge, too long, or too tight at times.

Franco Sarto Rina Loafer

Franco Sarto’s faux leather loafer allows you to jump into comfort right out of the box. Despite its pointed-toe box, it is wide, and the heels and sides are tall for a more secure fit. The insoles have molded cushioning to assist the natural curvature of the foot. Keep in mind that the inside is a bit warm, and choose a half-size smaller for the best fit.

Cole Haan Tali Bow Ballet

Cole Haan’s ballerina flats are tiny, comfy, and easy to pack, making them an excellent choice for travel. The unexpected aspect of these flats is how comfortable they are for such a basic shoe. They are dressy enough to wear to a wedding, the opera, or any other formal occasion. With soft leather, they create a wide range of feet, offering comfort.

A comfy flat is a wardrobe must-have. Classic ballerina flats, adaptable loafers, and stylish slingbacks are all flat styles. The traditional footwear provides a sense of professionalism to working days and is ideal for elegant nights out. With this list, you will be able to select the perfect pair for you.