Shoe Fit

How to find properly fitting shoes

• Have your feet measured.  Our shoe size changes with age and after pregnancy.
• Most of us have one foot larger than the other.  Fit to the larger foot.  The size difference can be as much as 3/8 of an inch.
• Shop at the end of the day when your feet are swollen.  There can be as much as 8% difference.
• Find a shoe that is shaped like your foot.  The shape of the shoe is determined by the last.  If your foot is curved in try a C shaped last.  If the shape of your foot is straight try a straight last shoe.
• Make sure the shoe is long enough. You should have 3/8” to 1/2“ from the longest toe.  Not everyone’s big toe is the longest.  For 15% of the population the second toe is the longest.
• Make sure the width is adequate especially if you have a bunion deformity.
• The toe box should be deep enough to prevent rubbing on the top of your toes.  This is especially important if you have hammer toes.
• A round or square toe box is better than pointed.
• If you need more support stick with a thicker sole.
• Lace up or straps are more supportive to your arch than loafers.
• Don’t buy a shoe that doesn’t fit.  There should be no break-in period.  If the salesman wants to stretch it or put pads in the heels find another store.
• I prefer shoes with removable innersoles.  These can be removed and replaced with either a more supportive over the counter innersole or custom orthotic device.
• If you are not sure about the shoe, buy it and wear it around the house to make sure it fits.  If it doesn’t fit return it.  Make sure you check the return policy at the store.
• Just because a shoe is expensive it doesn’t mean that it is good.  Shop for fit and quality of construction, rather than brand name.