How to measure your foot
Reading time: 5 minutes | Last updated: April 17, 2026
Many of us have been guessing our shoe size for years. We pick what we’ve always worn, hope for the best, and deal with the consequences later – even though those consequences might include sore feet at the end of the day.
Here’s the thing: if you want to walk comfortably from morning to evening, it all starts with knowing your feet and wearing the correct shoe size. So, let’s get you measured.
How to measure your foot length
Step 1: Grab a piece of paper, a pen, and a ruler.
Step 2: Place the paper flat on the ground, with one side against a wall.
Step 3: Step on the paper with your heel lightly touching the wall.
Step 4: Make a mark on the paper at the tip of your longest toe.
Step 5: Measure the distance from the wall to that mark.
That’s your foot length. Now check our size chart to see what shoe size fits your foot length.
Pro tip: Measure both feet. One is usually slightly bigger. Always go with the larger one!
Should you think about the width of your feet?
Simple answer: yes. The width of your feet has an impact on how shoes should fit. If you have wider feet, you’ll need a wider-fit shoe. If you’ve got smaller feet, you might benefit from shoes that can be adjusted (think laces or Velcro straps).
Bonus tip on how to measure your foot
Feet swell throughout the day. And while that’s perfectly normal, it influences the way your shoes fit.
If you want to make sure new shoes fit comfortably at 8am as well as 8pm, you need to measure your feet at the end of the day. Also, wear the type of socks you’d normally wear with your new shoes.
Some tips on the fit of shoes
If you have:
- Wider feet: Look for adjustable styles or naturally roomier fits.
- Narrow feet: Choose styles with a narrower fit or with adjustable straps or laces.
- High arches: Go for strong arch support and cushioning.
- Flat feet: Stability is your friend. If you’re wearing your own orthotics, look for shoes with a removable footbed. They will make your life easier.
Why wearing the right shoe size is a big deal
We’ll keep it simple: the wrong size feels bad on your feet and is bad for your feet.
Wearing shoes that don’t fit properly can lead to the following foot-related issues:
- Foot pain
- Blisters, bunions, and pressure points
- Knee, hip, and even back issues
- Fatigue
And another disadvantage of wearing the wrong shoe size: it makes you want to move less. And that, in turn, can be bad for your overall health. We believe more walking starts with better shoes.
Do you need online advice about shoe choice?
Contact us through the options below, and we’ll be happy to assist you.
