Q: I was out buying new shoes recently, and the salesperson suggested I get a full size larger than the size I usually wear. The shoes felt ok in the store, but now that I’ve got them home, they definitely feel too big. What should I look for when buying shoes to be sure I’ve got the right size? Do you have tips to ensure a good shoe fit?
A: Your salesperson might have been erring on the side of caution when suggesting what size shoes to buy, especially if you were buying your new shoes in the morning. Most podiatrists and shoe manufacturers recommend buying shoes in the afternoon or late in the day, since your feet have a tendency to swell as the day goes on, and shoes may feel tight and uncomfortable after a day of walking or standing. If you were buying shoes in the morning, the salesperson may have known this tidbit of information, and may have made a suggestion to get a larger size based on the assumption your foot would eventually swell. But truth be told, there’s no need to play a guessing game when buying shoes. There are easy ways to find a good shoe fit.
Brannock Device
Measuring Feet is Critical to Get a Good Shoe Fit
As we get older, our feet change in shape and size, so one of the most important things you can do when buying new shoes is to get your feet measured. Start by finding a good shoe store where the salespeople know how to measure your foot using a Brannock Device. This device will measure: length from the heel to the longest toe, arch length from the back of the heel to the ball of the foot, and width of the foot. Be sure to wear the same type of socks you’ll be wearing with your new shoes, and be sure to stand for the measurements because your body weight will make your feet expand. Keep in mind that most people usually have one foot larger than the other, so measure both and buy shoes to fit the larger one.
The most critical measurement taken by the Brannock Device is the arch length, because this will determine where your foot bends when you walk, and where your chosen shoe should bend for a comfortable fit. If you have short toes and buy a shoe that merely matches the length of your foot, the shoe may be too short for your arch length. It’s critical for the ball of your foot to rest in the front of the shoe’s widest part. If the ball of your foot falls elsewhere, the shoe may cramp your toes and cause an unnatural (uncomfortable) motion when you walk.
According to the website of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, “Style is often a key consideration in choosing a pair of shoes, but it cannot be the only factor. To reduce the risks of developing a foot problem, a shoe should conform to the shape of your foot, and it should correspond with the activities you do, such as standing for long periods of time or walking long distances.”
Whether you’re looking to buy a loafer, a dress shoe, a flat, a running shoe, or a sandal, each will fit your foot differently. Shoe sizes may also vary from brand to brand and style to style, so try shoes on and buy the ones that fit best, regardless of size. In my opinion, a tie shoe is the perfect shoe. The laces keep it snug on your foot while allowing for a more accurate fit. Shoes are only measured in length and width, but your foot has another dimension: its girth. It’s the difference between a fat, thick foot and a boney foot, and a tie shoe will accommodate either type.
5 Tips for a Good Shoe Fit
Here are a few other things to keep in mind:
- Make sure there is about a half inch of space between your longest toe and the tip of your shoe. If a shoe is too long for your foot, your foot may slide forward with each step and lead to toe pain and blisters.
- Walk around in the shoes for about 10 minutes, on different surfaces if possible, to make sure they are comfortable. Not too big, not too small—just right. Better yet, buy shoes from a store that will allow returns if the shoes have not been damaged by outside use. Wear them at home in the evening for a few days. You’ll know then if they are comfortable.
- If a shoe feels too narrow to accommodate your feet, remember that a larger size may not translate into a better fit. There may be too much room in the toe box and your foot may slide back and forth in the shoe. If you have bunions or hammertoes, do look for shoes that have a wide toe box. This will provide more comfort because your toes will lie flat and will aid in proper walking motion.
- Shoes should fit properly from the moment you buy them. Do not buy shoes that need to be stretched or that need pads to keep your feet from slipping.
- When it comes to men’s shoes, all the fitting suggestions are the same. Again, trying on shoes to find the ones that are most comfortable will mean you’ve also found the shoes that have the best fit.
I know that not everyone will put foot health first and fashion last, but some shoes are worse than others and may wreak havoc with your feet as you age. Perhaps compromise is the solution? In other words, stay away from buying ultra-high, ultra-pointy heels and opt for heels that are no higher than two inches. You may save yourself from ankle sprains, bunions, heel pain, and other problems as well. If you love the look of ballet flats, be prepared for heel, knee, hip, and back pain down the road because these have no arch support at all. Consider orthotics to ease a lot of these pains and problems. And platform shoes? If the shoes have a rigid foot bed, your foot will fight against the motion of walking naturally. Flatter platforms put less pressure on the ball of your foot and may be an improvement.
I sometimes compare fashion to junk food: if it tastes really good, it’s probably not good for you. The same is true for shoes: if a shoe looks really good, it probably won’t be comfortable for anything other than sitting at a desk.
If you need more information or advice, please make an appointment to come and see me.
– Dr. Shier