Make sure that you wait until early afternoon/evening before measuring your feet, as they only attain full length at this time. Feet swell over the course of the day due to increased circulation, which explains the difference in size. As most people exhibit minimum size differences between their feet, it is important to always base the measurement on the larger foot.
- To measure your feet, stand on a blank sheet of paper. Attempt to spread your weight evenly across both feet, as the foot bearing more weight will otherwise be longer. Ideally, get another person to help you, and use a few strips of adhesive tape to fix the paper to the floor and prevent it from slipping.
- Draw the outline of your foot on the paper. It is important to hold the pencil at a 90-degree angle and measure directly along the side of the foot.
- Now measure your drawing from the heel to the big toe. To make sure that your foot does not push up against the shoe during the rolling motion and to ensure that it has enough breathing space, we recommend adding 1.5 cm to the length measured. You can enter your figure (in cm) in the formula below.
German shoe size (Paris point) =
(“Your result + 1.5 cm”) / 0.667
UK shoe size =
((“Your result” + 1.5 cm“) x 3) / 2.54 – 25
Sample calculations:
If you want to know your German shoe size:
Your measured foot length + 1.5 cm is 29 cm. According to the formula, this gives you a figure of 43.47. Round this up to the next highest size, resulting in a German shoe size of 43.5.
If you want to know your UK shoe size:
Your measured foot length + 1.5 cm is 29 cm. According to the formula, this gives you a result of 9.25. Round up to the next highest size, resulting in a UK shoe size of 9.5.
Here, at Sioux, we state our sizes in UK half sizes. Using our shoe size conversion chart, you can easily convert your shoe size into the other system.
For an optimum fit, however, the length of the shoe is not the only factor. The shoe width also plays a crucial role. Find out here how to measure your shoe width.
FAQs
The shoe should be deep enough to fit your toes, especially if you have hammertoes or other conditions. If the shoe's toe box is too small, your toes will rub against the top of the shoe and you will get calluses or sores. Check the space at the end of the shoe.
How do I know my perfect shoe size? ›
You only need to take two measurements when determining your shoe size: foot length and foot width. To do this, you'll need a flat ruler and a wall. We recommend measuring both feet since one may be larger than the other; if there's a notable difference, buy the larger size.
What is the rule for shoe fit? ›
Generally speaking, there should be about one finger's width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. Another way to check this is to slip a finger between the heel of your foot and the heel of your shoe. There should be just enough space for your finger to fit nice and snugly.
How do I make my shoes fit perfectly? ›
Thick socks will add extra bulk to your feet and provide a tighter fit inside your shoe. This option works well for boots and walking shoes, too. Use a padded heel grip. Padding out the back of your shoe with a small heel cushion or piece of foam can close the gap between the shoe and your foot.
Is it better to size up or down in shoes? ›
A loose fit could put you at risk for injury. If you are between sizes, sizing down is a better option in this situation. It is always better to go half a size up for running shoes or trainers. Vigorous exercise will increase the blood supply to the feet and cause them to swell.
Is it OK to wear shoes 1 size too big? ›
The only time that you could wear a shoe in a bigger size is when purchasing a sneaker but you should only go up about half a size. The reason for this is that our feet tend to swell because fluid accumulates due to gravity with prolonged standing and weight baring activities.
Should shoes be tight or loose? ›
There's always a major test your shoes should pass: Slide your index finger between your heel and the heel of your shoes. - Your finger should fit snugly, but not too tight or loose. If it is tight, chances are you need a bigger size. If it is too loose, go one size down.
What size shoe is 10 inches? ›
| US Sizes | Euro Sizes | Inches |
|---|
| 8 | 38-39 | 9.5" |
| 8.5 | 39 | 9.6875" |
| 9 | 39-40 | 9.875" |
| 9.5 | 40 | 10" |
13 more rowsShoes that are too big may likewise give you blisters caused by the friction of your foot moving around. If your shoes are too big in length, you might notice your foot sliding backwards and forwards, while shoes that are too wide will cause your feet to slide from side to side.
How can you tell if a shoe is too big? ›
Putting shoes on
Another tip when you first put dress shoes on is to try a finger test. If you can fit more than one finger behind your heel with your toes touching the top of the shoe, the shoes are too long for you. When it comes to heels, you should have less room to spare.
A half size in shoes is only 1/8 of an inch in added length. Shoes size can vary for many reasons, from sports injuries to weight gain and age. It's not uncommon to go up a half size if your feet or arch height begins to become more flat overtime.
Can a size 10.5 fit a 10? ›
Yes, there is a noticeable difference in fit between US shoe sizes 10 and 10.5. The difference between a half size is about a sixth of an inch, which may not sound like a lot, but it could be the difference between toes rubbing against a safety toe or fitting comfortably [1].
