Shoe Sizing / Fit

• Most people do not wear the correct size shoe for their feet.
• If you wear orthotics and/or toe splints, bring them with you when trying on a new pair of shoes. This will help ensure your foot will fit in your chosen shoe with the orthotic and/or toe splints. This also applies to the socks you will be wearing with the new shoes. Toe socks take up extra room in the forefoot.
• Shoe sizes are NOT standardized. They are a suggested starting point when trying on a new pair of shoes. The size and width of shoe which fit you best will vary from brand to brand, from shoe model to shoe model, and from one design cycle to another. Focus on what fits and feels the best for your feet, not the number on the box.
• Our feet are not symmetrical. One foot will generally be larger / smaller than the other. Try new shoes on both feet to ensure the best fit.
• Feet often start swelling in the morning once we start walking on them and can be larger in the evening than in the morning.
• As a general rule the only significant difference between men’s and women’s shoes (apart from styling and color) is width. For the same length of shoe (usually a 1.5 size difference) a men’s shoe will be wider than a women’s shoe. If you are a woman in need of a wider shoe than what you are finding on the women’s side, check out the men’s shoes. Conversely, if you are a man needing a narrower shoe than what you are finding on the men’s side, check out the women’s shoes. Neutral color options are often available.
• Aim for a thumbnail’s width of space in the toe box, between your toes and the end of the shoe. You should be able to wiggle and spread out all of your toes.
• The width should be snug but allow a bit of room for your foot to move without rubbing, including the pinky toe. The sides of your foot should not overhang the sides of the shoe.
• Avoid slippage of your feet within the shoes, particularly when going downhill. Pay attention to the midfoot fit and heel fit as well as the lacing. Laces should be snug but not tight.
• It is difficult to ensure the best shoe size and comfort when buying shoes online. Nothing can replace trying a shoe on in real life. We recommend supporting local businesses whenever possible.