Picking The Right Shoe Size

When shopping online -- or even in store -- many people worry about whether or not they are buying the right size shoe for their foot. While sizing may seem simple, many factors go into the fit of a shoe. Your shoe size can vary between manufacturers, and even between different styles of the same brand. At The Shoe Mart, we carry shoes ranging from sizes 5 to 20 and widths AAA-EEEEEE. What does this mean? Widths from 2A - 6E can be broken down like this :

Very Narrow	Narrow	Medium	Wide	Extra Wide
AAA, AA, A	B, C	D	E, EE	3E, 4E, 5E, 6E

To determine size and width, you can be measured by a professional like the ones in our Norwalk Store or you can have a friend help you measure your foot at home using this printable. Recommended sizes are often based on a foot length measurement from a Brannock Device.

Once you have been measured and have a reference size, you must keep in mind that not every shoe will perfectly fit your Brannock measurement size. You may be an 8.5 in some shoes and a 9 in others. The way a shoe fits varies depending on the last (essentially a mold of a foot) that a manufacturer uses to form the shoe. Brands like Alden or Inov-8 have multiple lasts that will fit differently on the foot. You can learn more about the different kinds of Alden lasts on our YouTube Channel.

The best way to determine the right size of shoe for you is to try shoes on. Because your feet swell more as the day goes on, it is best to try shoes on at the end of the day. Wear socks that you would normally wear with the shoes. Always try shoes on inside on a carpeted area in order to allow for returns.

How should they fit?

First of all, we think it's important to mention that a shoe that doesn't fit properly when you first try it on still won't fit properly after it has been "broken in". Poorly fitting shoes can lead to pain or injury, so you should take care in selecting the right size.

There should be just enough room in the heel for you to slip your index finger in and out between your heel and the shoe. When walking uphill, your heel should not rise up and down in the shoe. If walking downhill, your toes should not hit the front of the toe-box. There should be plenty of wiggle room for your toes, and no pressure spots when walking. It is normal for one foot to be larger than the other (even by a full size!). You should always buy shoes that fit the larger foot. When purchasing a pair of shoes, you should also take pronation and the arches of your foot into consideration. Read last week's blog for more info!

We would love to assist you in choosing the right size. You can reach customer service at (800) 85-7463 or by emailing Shoemart@theshoemart.com. You are also welcome to visit our Norwalk Store to be fitted or to ask questions!