Finding shoes that fit sounds like it should be one of the easiest things in the world. After all, you know your shoe size, right?
Well…maybe.
I’ve bought plenty of shoes based on the size printed inside the box, only to discover that the shoes and my feet apparently had very different ideas about what “size 8” meant. One pair pinched my toes, another slipped at the heel, and another seemed perfectly comfortable in the store but became a completely different creature after an hour of walking.
The truth is that finding shoes that fit properly is about much more than knowing your usual shoe size. Different brands fit differently, your feet can change over time, and the shape of your foot matters just as much as the number on the shoe.
If you’re tired of shoes that pinch, rub, slide around, or leave your feet begging for mercy by the end of the day, here’s how to find a better fit.
Your Shoe Size Isn’t the Whole Story
We tend to think of shoe shopping as simple math. Measure your foot, find your number, buy the shoes.
Unfortunately, feet didn’t get that memo.
Your feet have length, width, arch height, heel shape, and individual characteristics that make them different from everyone else’s. Even your own two feet may not be exactly the same size.
The American Podiatric Medical Association recommends measuring both feet and buying shoes based on the larger foot. The APMA also points out that shoe sizes can vary between brands, which is why comfort and fit are more important than becoming overly attached to a particular number. Their guide to choosing the right shoe is a helpful resource when you’re shopping for footwear.
In other words, don’t fall in love with the number.
Fall in love with the fit.
Have Your Feet Measured
If it’s been years since you’ve had your feet measured, it’s worth doing again.
Feet can change as we age, and changes in weight, activity level, pregnancy, and other factors can affect how shoes fit. The APMA recommends having your feet professionally measured when shopping for shoes, measuring both feet, and shopping for the larger foot.
It’s also a good idea to have your feet measured later in the day. Feet can swell throughout the day, so the shoes that feel perfect first thing in the morning may feel considerably less perfect after you’ve been walking around for several hours.
If you’re shopping for athletic shoes, consider visiting a store where employees are experienced with fitting footwear. A knowledgeable salesperson may be able to help you identify whether you need a different width, more room in the toe box, or a different type of support.
Measure Both Feet
This sounds like a tiny detail, but it can make a surprisingly big difference.
Many people have one foot that’s slightly larger than the other. That’s completely normal.
The problem happens when you fit both feet to the smaller one.
Your larger foot shouldn’t be squeezed into a shoe simply because the other foot fits comfortably. When you’re trying on shoes, make sure the larger foot has enough room and that your toes aren’t being pushed together.
If the shoe fits your larger foot well and the other shoe feels slightly loose on your smaller foot, an appropriate insert or heel adjustment may sometimes help. But don’t buy a shoe that’s too small for your larger foot and hope you can somehow convince your feet to cooperate.
They won’t.
Pay Attention to Shoe Width
Length gets most of the attention when we’re talking about shoe size, but width is just as important.
A shoe can technically be the correct length and still be completely wrong for your foot because it’s too narrow.
If your toes feel cramped, the sides of your feet feel squeezed, or you notice pressure along the widest part of your foot, you may need a wider shoe rather than a longer shoe.
This is particularly important because many people simply go up a size when a shoe feels too narrow. That may give your toes more room from front to back, but it doesn’t necessarily solve the width problem.
Instead of automatically buying a longer shoe, look for a shoe offered in a wider width.
Your toes will probably appreciate the distinction.
Make Sure Your Toes Can Move
Your toes shouldn’t be smashed together inside your shoes.
When you’re trying on footwear, wiggle your toes. You should have enough room for them to move naturally without hitting the front of the shoe.
The toe box should provide enough space without allowing your foot to slide around excessively.
This is especially important when you’re buying walking or running shoes. Your feet move and swell during activity, so a shoe that feels snug while standing still may become uncomfortable once you start moving.
The APMA recommends trying shoes on and walking around in them before purchasing. Shoes should feel comfortable and supportive when you try them on rather than requiring a painful “break-in period.”
Don’t Ignore Your Heel
While we’re busy worrying about our toes, the heel sometimes gets completely ignored.
Your heel should feel secure without being squeezed.
If your heel repeatedly slips out of the shoe when you walk, the shoe may not have the right shape for your foot. A little movement can happen with some styles, but excessive slipping can create friction and blisters.
On the other hand, if the back of the shoe digs into your heel or rubs every time you take a step, that’s another sign that the shoe isn’t the right fit.
Don’t assume you need to “break in” a shoe that’s causing obvious discomfort.
A shoe should be comfortable when you buy it.
Try on Both Shoes
This sounds obvious, but it’s surprisingly easy to try on one shoe and decide it’s a winner.
Put both shoes on.
Walk around.
Stand up.
Sit down.
Take a few steps.
Pay attention to how your feet feel rather than simply looking in the mirror.
The left shoe may feel completely different from the right one if your feet aren’t identical in size or shape.
And if you’re buying shoes for walking or exercise, don’t just stand there. Walk the way you normally would.
Wear the Socks You’ll Actually Use
If you’re buying sneakers that you’ll wear with athletic socks, try them on with athletic socks.
If you’re shopping for winter boots that you’ll wear with thick socks, bring those socks with you.
It sounds simple, but the thickness of your socks can change the fit considerably.
The APMA specifically recommends bringing the type of socks you plan to wear with the shoes when you’re shopping.
This is especially helpful with boots, hiking shoes, athletic shoes, and other footwear where a little extra bulk can make a noticeable difference.
Shop for Shoes Later in the Day
Here’s one of the easiest shoe-shopping tips to remember: shop later in the day.
Your feet naturally swell as you go about your day, particularly if you’ve been standing or walking for several hours.
A shoe that feels wonderful at 9 a.m. may feel considerably tighter at 5 p.m.
Shopping later gives you a better idea of how the shoes will feel during everyday life.
Because unless you’re Cinderella, you’re probably going to wear your shoes during more than one hour of the day.
Think About What You’ll Be Doing in the Shoes
Not every shoe needs to do the same job.
The best shoes for running aren’t necessarily the best shoes for playing tennis. Your favorite casual sneakers may not be appropriate for a long hike. Dress shoes have different requirements than walking shoes.
Your activity matters.
Consider Your Arch
Your arch can also influence what type of shoe feels comfortable.
People generally have low, normal, or high arches, and different foot types may benefit from different levels of cushioning and support.
If you have low arches, you may find that supportive stability shoes work better. People with higher arches may benefit from shoes with more cushioning and flexibility.
This doesn’t mean you have to diagnose your feet based on a five-minute internet search and immediately order the most expensive pair of shoes you can find.
If you’re experiencing persistent discomfort or aren’t sure what type of support you need, a podiatrist can help you understand your individual foot structure and needs.
Look at the Shape of the Shoe
Put your foot next to the shoe and look at the overall shape.
Does the shoe resemble the shape of your foot?
A shoe that dramatically narrows at the toes may not be comfortable if you have naturally wide feet. A shoe with a very shallow toe box may not work well if your toes need more vertical room.
Don’t assume that because a shoe is fashionable, your feet are obligated to adapt to it.
Your shoes are supposed to accommodate your feet—not the other way around.
Don’t Buy Uncomfortable Shoes Hoping They’ll Stretch
We’ve all done it.
“These are a little tight, but they’ll probably stretch.”
Maybe.
But do you really want to spend your money on a shoe that needs a motivational speech before you can wear it?
The APMA advises that shoes should feel comfortable when you try them on and that you shouldn’t have to break in athletic shoes. If a shoe is painful, pinching, rubbing, or making your feet feel miserable in the store, consider trying a different size or style.
There are plenty of shoes in the world.
You don’t need to negotiate with one that hurts.
Check the Shoe’s Support
A comfortable shoe isn’t necessarily a supportive shoe.
Look at the sole and structure of the shoe. A quality shoe should provide appropriate support for the activity you’re doing and shouldn’t collapse or twist excessively.
The idea isn’t to find the stiffest shoe imaginable.
It’s to find a shoe that offers the right combination of support and flexibility for your feet and your activity.
Know When It’s Time to Replace Your Shoes
Sometimes the problem isn’t that your shoes don’t fit.
Sometimes they’re simply worn out.
Look at the soles. Is the tread worn unevenly? Has the cushioning flattened? Is the shoe leaning or collapsing? Does it feel completely different from when you first bought it?
Those are signs that it may be time for a new pair.
The lifespan of a shoe depends on the type of shoe, how often you wear it, and how much activity it gets. Running shoes, for example, generally need to be replaced more frequently than an occasional pair of dress shoes.
Don’t wait until your shoes are visibly falling apart before considering a replacement.
What If Your Feet Hurt?
Foot pain shouldn’t simply be considered the price of wearing shoes.
If your feet consistently hurt, if you develop recurring blisters or pressure points, or if you’re having trouble finding footwear that feels comfortable, it’s worth talking with a podiatrist.
The American Podiatric Medical Association notes that podiatrists can evaluate your feet and how you walk and help determine whether different footwear, inserts, or other options may be appropriate.
You can also use the APMA’s Find a Podiatrist resource if you need help finding foot-care information or a qualified professional.
Final Thoughts
Finding shoes that fit properly isn’t really about finding the perfect number on a size chart. It’s about finding shoes that work with your individual feet.
Measure both feet. Pay attention to width. Give your toes room. Make sure your heel feels secure. Try on both shoes. Wear the socks you actually plan to wear. Walk around before buying. And perhaps most importantly, don’t convince yourself that uncomfortable shoes will magically become comfortable because they’re cute.
Life is too short for shoes that make you dread walking across the parking lot.
The right shoes should support your feet, fit comfortably, and let you get on with your day without thinking about them. Once you find that kind of shoe, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for anything else.
People Also Ask
How do I know if a shoe fits properly?
A properly fitting shoe should feel comfortable immediately, provide enough room for your toes to move, keep your heel reasonably secure, and avoid pressure or pinching anywhere on your foot. Try on both shoes and walk around before purchasing.
Should your toes touch the end of your shoes?
Your toes should not be pressed against the end of the shoe. You need enough room for your toes to move comfortably, particularly in walking and athletic shoes.
Should I buy shoes a size bigger if they feel tight?
Not necessarily. If a shoe feels tight because it’s too narrow, simply buying a longer shoe may not solve the problem. Try a wider size or a different shoe shape instead.
Is it normal for one foot to be bigger than the other?
Yes. Feet are often slightly different sizes. When purchasing shoes, fit the larger foot rather than squeezing it into a shoe that fits only the smaller foot.
Should shoes hurt when you first wear them?
Shoes shouldn’t cause significant pain when you first try them on. If they’re pinching, rubbing, or causing discomfort in the store, look for another size or style rather than assuming you need to suffer through a long break-in period.
