The Right Size

Choosing the perfect fit

Most people know their shoe size, just as they know the size of their waist or bust. And it has the added advantage that, unlike your weight, it won’t change as you grow older! 

But do you really wear the right size? Just because that’s what you always wear, you might be causing yourself problems.

You also have to take care if you’re pregnant. The increase in body weight and the 'waddling' that comes with accommodating the ‘bump’ sometimes causes foot problems, such as the build up of hard skin, corns and calluses. And the extra weight, together with hormonal changes which relax the veins in your leg, may also cause tired, aching legs and swollen ankles

So ask yourself these simple questions – and see if you really are wearing the perfect shoe.

Can you feet move freely? 

Make sure you can wriggle your toes, the uppers aren’t too tight and restrictive, and there’s no rubbing or pinching at the sides or around the heel.

How much room have you at the front of your toes?

Fashion dictates shoe shape, but even with a pointed shoe, there should be at least 1cm between your longest toe (not your biggest toe) and the front of the shoe. If your toes hurt or your toenails catch inside you shoe, there could be a problem.

Do your feet move about too much inside your shoe?

Whilst your feet should feel unconfined, there is such a thing as too much freedom! Make sure your shoes’ fastening, laces and elastic insets hold the foot firm without rubbing or restricting movement.

Is walking on hard surfaces painful?

A cushioned insole can help ensure that  walking on any surface remains a comfortable experience.

Your at-a-glance guide to the perfect fitting shoe

Length - Approximately 1cm additional length from the end of your longest toe (which isn’t always your big toe)

Width - You shouldn’t be able to feel the outline of the little toe bulging through your shoe

Depth - It should not be too deep (which will lead to creasing) or too shallow (which will be too tight)

Instep – If you have a very high instep certain styles of shoe will not be comfortable e.g. a high fronted slip-on

Arch – The contours of the shoe arch should suit the natural contours of your foot arch 

Top lines - Make sure the edges of your shoe and the straps don’t catch the skin around the ankle bones, heel and top of the foot

Back of shoe - There should be no gap

Heel grip – Your heel shouldn’t slip up and down when you walk

Walking – Quite simply you should find walking comfortable and easy

Your feet go everywhere with you, so make sure they’re as comfortable as possible!