Have you ever bought a pair of shoes only to find they don't fit at all? Welcome to the club. Maybe you saw a pair while shopping online and couldn't resist throwing it in your bag, or maybe you took a chance on the store and took the box home without a proper fitting. Don't worry, learning how to measure your shoe size at home can save you future disappointment and save you time on returns.
Knowing your foot size not only helps you determine your preferred shoe size, it also ensures you're getting a good fit among brands that may have sizing differences. It's even possible that you're wearing the wrong shoe size and not know it; studies show that up to 72% of people walk with something that doesn't fit properly. (1) If you experience any pain or discomfort from wearing shoes, the culprit may be the wrong shoe size.
How to measure your shoe size at home
When determining your shoe size, you only need to measure two measurements: foot length and foot width. To do this, you will need a square ruler and a wall. We recommend measuring both feet as one foot may be larger than the other; if the difference is significant, purchase the larger size. (Nordstrom also offers the option to purchase shoes in two different sizes through its shoe split service. Shoe sizes must be at least one and a half sizes different, at least one size and one width different, or two different widths.)
How to measure foot length
Let's start by measuring your foot length in inches.
Step 1: Place the ruler flat on the floor with the zero end against the wall.
Step 2: Place your heels against the wall and your toes forward. Your heels should rest gently and not press too much into the wall.
Step 3: Measure the distance from the wall/heel to the tip of your longest toe (for most people, this is the big or second toe). If your feet are larger than a standard 12-inch ruler, use a tensionable tape measure instead.
Step 4: Write the number.
How to measure foot width
After measuring your foot length, it's time to measure your foot width. You will need to measure the widest part of your foot to ensure a good fit.
Step 1: Place the ruler on the ground and hold it horizontally in front of you.
Step 2: Step on the ruler with the balls of your feet (the widest part).
Step 3: Measure the distance in inches from one side of your foot to the other.
Step 4: Write the number.
How to know your shoes fit
The most important factor to consider when buying new shoes is comfort. Some shoes are naturally less comfortable than others-high heels vs. walking shoes, for example-but they should never cause pain or ongoing discomfort.
Heels: The heels should fit snugly and not press or slide up or down. The former can cause poor blood circulation, and the latter can cause blisters. (2)
Arch Support: You should feel the shoe "hug" your arch, but not be too tight or too loose. You can find insoles that provide more arch support if needed.
Toes: There should be enough space in the toe box so that you can wiggle your toes slightly, but not so much space that you create a gap between the front of the shoe and your toes.
Width: Again, your shoes should feel comfortable, but not too tight. If they feel too narrow or too roomy on the sides, look for wider or narrower options respectively.
Please note that different types of shoes may require you to choose a larger or smaller size. For example, running shoes are best a half size larger to accommodate the forward momentum and force exerted on your toes while running-essentially, you want your toes to have more wiggle room. Some shoes may also stretch and mold to your feet over time, especially if they are made from materials like leather, so take that into account as well.
Another thing to keep in mind is that some shoe brands tend to deviate more or less than the average. Typically, you'll see instructions on whether and how much you should enlarge or reduce the size.