Over 30 billion pairs of shoes are sold in the US each year. However, many shoes get returned because they don’t fit or cause foot pain.
Do you know how to find the best shoe fit for your feet? Read on to learn about how to get fitted for a pair of shoes that are both comfortable and trendy.
How to Find the Right Shoe Fit for Your Feet
Shopping for shoes can be a tiring experience when you don’t know the proper shoe fit. Buying a pair of shoes, that’s too small or too big can cause major problems down the road. Here’s an easy guide on finding the best fitting shoes to help you with your next shoe shopping trip.
1. Measure Your Feet Properly
An important first step in finding the right shoe size is to get your feet measured by a professional. Because the soft tissue and ligaments in your feet will change shape as you get older, it’s important to measure your feet at least once a year.
2. Size Doesn’t Matter
Even if you know you wear a size eight for one shoe brand, it doesn’t mean you will fit into a size eight for another brand. This is because companies use different shoe molds to create their products.
3. Wear the Right Socks
When trying shoes on, make sure you bring the sock you’ll be wearing with the shoe on a normal day. If you’re shopping for running shoes like these Nike sneakers, you’ll want to test out a few sizes with your running socks on.
Don’t wear socks to try on a pair of flats you plan on wearing with nylons. You’ll end up buying a size that fits too loosely on your feet.
4. Walk Around
Another key trick to buying comfortable shoes is to walk around the store when you’re trying them on. Most shoe stores don’t mind if you take a lap around the aisle to test out how they feel on your feet. Remember: the shoes should feel good the first time you wear them.
5. Know the Best Fit
Remember to leave 1/2 inch at the front of the shoe and 1/8 inch at the back. This will give your toes and heel plenty of wiggle room and prevent painful blisters.
6. Pay Attention to Shoe Styles
Some shoe designs are made with pointed toes or narrow footbeds. If you know that you have wide feet or toes, it’s a good idea to pay attention to the style of the shoe. Only buy shoes that have a wide or “box” toe shape.
7. If in Doubt, Go Laced
Shoes with laces will be easier to adjust to a comfortable fit. You’ll be able to pull them tighter if the shoe feels loose or tie them loosely if your foot needs more room.
Have you been wondering, “How tight should shoes be?” An easy answer is that your shoes shouldn’t cause pain when you wear them. They should be loose enough to avoid blisters, but not so loose that they slip off of your heel.
Walk easier with shoes that don’t hurt your feet
Having a pair of shoes that fit your feet perfectly can reduce foot pain and make standing and walking easier. Instead of guessing, follow this shoe fit guide for a successful shoe-shopping experience.