How to Pick the Correct Shoe Size Before Buying Online?

Are you worried about the shoe size when buying online? You may have believed that you could only buy a lovely dress, a high-end watch, or an exquisite handbag online, yet now you can buy shoes online without leaving your home. However, finding the right shoe size while shopping online is a valid fear. When you see a pair of stunning shoes online, you might be afraid of ordering the wrong size. After all, we’ve all experienced the misery of getting a shoe that doesn’t fit or is uncomfortable. For many people, finding the right shoe online is still a game of luck. Some people can just find the right shoe size, while others seem completely confused and puzzled about the shoe size when buying online. And when user reviews fail to help, there are a few things you can do.

So, are you ready to reduce the chance of picking the wrong size rather than the correct one? We’d like to share our expertise with you and provide some of the most relevant insights that will certainly assist you in choosing the proper shoe size before shopping online.

Consequences of Wearing the Wrong Size Shoe

According to the American Orthopaedic Association and The Wall Street Journal, a study conducted in the United Kingdom found that up to half of all women wear the incorrect shoe size. Wait, what?  What exactly does this imply? You may be puzzled as to how anyone might wear the incorrect shoe size, as it is incredibly painful and inconvenient.

When you first put on a pair of shoes (whether you buy it from the shoe shop or on Amazon), they may appear to be comfortable and there is no pressure. However, after wearing them for a while, you will find an uncomfortable tension in your foot. In short, this shows that your footwear is too small.

As a result of wearing ill-fitting shoes can cause neuropathy, which is a condition that causes numbness in the feet. This ailment is terribly painful and, in certain instances, permanent. Foot deformities are another side effect of wearing ill-fitting shoes. Hammer toes, corns, calluses, bunion formation, and chronic foot pain are inevitable while ill-fitting shoes can also cause headaches and back pain. Finally, not wearing the correct shoe size can lead to falls and decreased mobility.

So, in order to stop this, take a measurement of your foot first. In addition, put on a pair of shoes at home after buying them to ensure that they are suitable for you and that they are genuinely comfortable.

How Do I Know What Size Shoe to Buy Online?

Since you can’t physically touch or inspect a shoe from a digital/ online store, try to teach yourself how to determine shoe size when buying online. Firstly, you can examine your own feet to see if they’re the right length, width, and arch for you. As a result, you can choose a shoe size that will provide a more comfortable fit for you once you have a better understanding of the actual size and shape of your foot!

How to Measure Your Foot Correctly?

First of all, there is no such thing as a universal size that will suit you for the rest of your life. Because of a number of factors such as age, pregnancy, weight gain, fluid retention, and other factors, a person’s foot size changes over time. As a result, it’s necessary to measure your foot and know the correct shoe size when buying online. It’s also worth remembering that no standardized shoe size norm exists. Since shoe sizes vary from one manufacturer to another, knowing the length of your foot in centimeters (or inches) and consulting the trademark’s size chart before purchasing shoes is a good idea.

Measure Shoe Size When Buying Online Using Brannock Foot-Measuring Device

The Brannock System is the global footwear industry’s standard foot measurement tool. However, few people can name the device, let alone identify its creator, Charles Brannock. This device belongs in every home, particularly now that physical shoe stores are rapidly becoming extinct. It comes in unisex versions and contains measurements from heel to toe as well as heel to ball (arch).

The Brannock system calculates shoe sizes as follows:

((Foot length (cm) / 2.54) x 3) – 22

You can be sure of the right shoe size as a starting point for online shopping with this device. So, if you are interested, you can purchase one of these devices on Amazon to easily calculate your true size.

Steps to Measure Foot Size Using Brannock Device

1. Prepare the Brannock Device

Firstly, the width bar should be set to its widest position and the arch length indicator should be slid back to allow the foot to be easily placed on the Brannock Device.

2. Position the Foot

Remove your shoes and stand with your right heel in the right heel cup. Secondly, to ensure that the foot being weighed has elongated and stretched to its full height, stand with equal weight on both feet. By gripping the ankle and system together (you may ask for help), make sure the heel is correctly aligned against the back of the heel cup.

3. Measure Lengths

After that, you have to measure the lengths from Heel-to-Toe and Arch Length (Heel-to-Ball) as follows,

• Heel-to-Toe Length – So, to measure toe length, press the toes flat against the device’s base and look straight down over the longest toe (not necessarily the first toe). To get an accurate measurement, make sure your socks are snug against your toes (without pulling them back).
• Arch Length (Heel-to-Ball) – Place your thumb on the foot’s ball joint. Slide the pointer forward until the inside curve matches the ball joint of your foot and the two high ribs make contact with your thumb. The lower middle rib would be against the ball joint on the side of the foot when the pointer is correctly positioned.

4. Find the Correct Shoe Size

The arch length should be compared to the heel-to-toe length. In most cases, the greater of the two measurements would be used to assess the correct shoe size. This is the shoe size if the arch length and heel-to-toe length are the same. Fit to the heel-to-toe size if the heel-to-toe length is longer than the arch length. Fit to arch length if arch length is greater than heel-to-toe length. Both measurements must be taken and compared to determine the correct shoe size. Using the heel-to-toe length alone can result in an uncomfortable fit.

For example:

5. Measure the Width

As the final step, slide the width bar all the way to the foot’s edge. View the width measurement indicated by the properly defined shoe size on the movable width bar (as determined in the earlier step (4)). Meanwhile, choose a broader width for a thick foot and a narrower width for a thin foot if the shoe size falls between widths.

Measure Shoe Size Before Buying Online – Without A Special Device

Now let’s see how to get an idea about measuring your shoe size without using a device. So, read on for seven easy DIY steps for how to measure your shoe size for online shopping.

• Firstly, take an A4 sheet or a lined notebook sheet.
• Secondly, place your bare or socked foot on the piece of paper, depending on how you normally wear shoes. Instead of standing, we suggest sitting in a chair or crouching. Meanwhile, make sure you’re on a completely flat surface.
• Then draw the outline of your foot. To avoid leaving any significant marks on your foot and/or sock, we suggest using a pen or pencil for this step. You can do this on your own or with the assistance of someone else.
• On the traced layout, make a point for the longest toe and a similar point for the middle on the heel.
• Trace parallel vertical lines from these two points to the left or right, connect them, and measure the measurement in centimeters using a ruler or measuring tape.
• After that repeat the procedure with the other foot to see which one has the larger measurement. When shopping for new shoes online, if your feet are uneven, use the measurement of your longer foot.

For example, if your left foot is a size 10.5 and your right foot is a size 11, then buy size 11 shoes.

• When you have your heel to toe measurement, use the sizing chart to decide the right shoe size.

Foot Arch

Even if two feet are the same length, sometimes they will need different shoe sizes. Why? Because short-toed feet and long-toed feet have different fittings. Not only does proper shoe fitting take into account total length (heel-to-toe measurement), but it also takes into account arch length (heel-to-ball measurement). The ball of the foot is built to flex in shoes. The ball joint should be correctly placed in the foot, and there should be enough space for the toes to move around.

While arches have no direct effect on the size of your foot, they do have an impact on the types of shoes you can wear comfortably. If you have a flat arch, you can look for shoes with thick midsoles. If you have a high arch, you can look for shoes with more cushioning.

Determining Your Foot Arch

Make sure you know what arch form you have (high arch, neutral arch, low arch) when buying shoes in  athletic footwear market.

Note: Athletic shoes include  running shoes ( long-distance running shoes, beginners’ running shoes etc.),  basketball shoes, and tennis shoes among other sports, but they do not include football (soccer) shoes, hockey shoes, skate boots, baseball shoes, and rugby shoes, which are referred to as “boots.”

Now you already know how to measure arch length using Brannock Device (if not, please refer to the second point of the third step in steps to measure foot size using the Brannock Device section). So, let’s see how to get an idea of your foot arch without using a device.

If you are unsure of your foot type, just dip your foot in water, then stand on a piece of cardboard to see what remains of the print. Yes, it’s simple as that.

Flat Arch (Low)

You have a flat arch if your footprint looks like a complete foot, in other words if you can see most of your foot.  When you walk or run, your foot most likely rolls in (pronates).

Flat-footed and heavy runners who overpronate will benefit from motion control shoes. The rigid components in these shoes are generally made of plastic, fiberglass, or high-density foam. Moreover, for added stability, the arch region of motion control shoes is filled in, which is why the midsole is a different color. These shoes have extra rigidity to keep the heel from turning out and the foot from overpronating.

Normal Arch (Medium)

You have a normal arch if the middle portion of your arch is about half filled or if you can see about ⅔ of your foot in the imprint. Under normal load, your arch normally supports your bodyweight and pronates (rolls in). Firm midsoles, straight to semi-curved lasts (last refers to the form of the sole and the footprint on which the shoe is built), and moderate rear-foot stability are all things to look for.

So, runners with normal arches and only slight control issues should wear stability shoes. Extra arch-side supports and high-density foam provide additional stability in these shoes. Stability shoes have a gentle arch from front to back, which offers rear-foot stability and forefoot versatility.

High Arch

You most likely have high arches if you see very little of your footprint or half of your foot isn’t visible in the imprint. High arches can put a lot of strain on your joints and muscles because your feet don’t absorb shock as well as they should, especially if you do a lot of impact or jumping activities.

To accommodate for your lack of natural shock absorption, look for cushioning. This curved shoe is made of lightweight materials that provide minimum rigidity while providing optimum cushioning.

Know the Difference Between UK, US and European Shoe Size Before Buying Online

There are many shoe-sizing systems in use around the world. Look for a sizing chart for the company on the website before shopping for a particular style of shoe.

UK shoe sizes are surprisingly similar to US shoe sizes, with a size difference of just around 0.5 size for men and 2 for women. That is to say, a US women’s shoe size 10 is equal to a UK size 8, whereas a US men’s shoe size 8 is equivalent to a UK men’s shoe size 7.5. On the other hand, to get your US size equivalents, add 0.5 to your existing men’s UK size and 2 to your existing women’s UK size. For example, a US men’s size 7 corresponds to a UK .5, whereas a US women’s size 8 corresponds to a UK women’s size 10.

EU Sizes, also known as European Sizes or Euro Sizes, are used in Europe, including in France, Germany, Sweden and Italy. European shoe sizes are measured in centimeters. However, bear in mind that, just as US shoe sizes aren’t strictly proportional to your foot’s length in inches, European shoe sizes aren’t proportional to your foot’s length in centimeters. An EU size 35 (women), for example, would be around 20.8 centimeters or 8.2 inches long, rather than 35 centimeters.

When you look for a sizing chart for the company on the website, the majority of charts would be identical, certain brands may have different sizing recommendations.

We’ve included six separate shoe size charts for to help you decide true shoe size based on foot length for,

1. Men
2. Women
3. Big kids
4. Little kids
5. Toddlers
6. Infants

We’ve also provided the length of each measurement in inches and centimeters, so you can convert any shoe size quickly and easily by simply measuring the length of your foot.

Men’s Shoe Size Chart to Know Your Shoe Size When Buying Online

Women’s Shoe Size Chart to Know Your Shoe Size When Buying Online

There are a few things to keep in mind before diving into the women’s shoe size list. This is particularly important in the case of high heels like party pumps, stilettos. When you wear high heels with a height difference of more than 1 to 2 inches, your feet will be pulled forward in your shoes. If you’re unsure about your true scale, of course take the time and effort to get an accurate measurement. Then, to prevent conflict between the bony projection and the shoe, pick a size larger than you usually wear. You can follow the following sizes:

• For high heels between 2 to 3 1/2 inches — opt for 1/2 size larger.
• For high heels between 4 to 6 inches — opt for 1 full size larger.
• And of course, the daredevils who prefer high heels 6 1/2 inches and above — opt for 1-1/2 sizes larger.

Big Kids’ Shoe Size Chart

Little Kids’ Shoe Size Chart

Toddlers’ Shoe Size Chart

Infants’ Shoe Size Chart

Based on international size measurement conventions, these charts include a guide to shoe size conversion. However, even from the same manufacturer, the shoe size needed for any specific user will differ from one type of shoe to the next. Therefore, bear in mind that this chart is just a guidance and not a guarantee of shoe size conversion.

Evaluating the Shoe Listing When Shopping Shoes Online

Search for sizing chart

Before buying a specific type of shoe, search the company’s website for a sizing chart. So that you can find your own shoe measurements on the chart to get an idea of what shoe size would suit you best.

Check for special instructions

Likewise, don’t forget to check the manufacturer’s comments or instructions (most of the time you can find this at the bottom of the page) for essential details. Some shoes can run consistently small, narrow, or wide, depending on the shoe model or brand.

For example, if a listing for hiking shoes indicates that the shoes run big, buy a half or whole size smaller than your normal size.

Be careful when ordering seasonal footwear!

It’s also worth remembering that in hotter weather, several feet swell, making your usual shoe size feel small and uncomfortable. Tight shoes make your feet feel colder in cold weather. With this in mind, order your seasonal footwear a size or two larger than you normally would.

For example, if you’re a size 11, get a pair of winter boots in a size 11½ or 12.

Buy pointed shoes in a larger size

If you’re looking for pointed shoes, such as flats, dress shoes, or heels, look at the size chart to see what’s available. When purchasing shoes in your exact size may seem easy, you may be setting yourself up for cramping and pinching. Instead, order a size 12 or a whole size bigger.

For example, if you want to buy a pair of pointed heels but have a size 6 foot, go for a size 7½ or 8.

Check customer reviews

Before purchasing a product online, we usually read customer feedback. Why not apply the same logic to shoes? Therefore, try to see if other customers liked wearing the shoes you ordered, aside from the company’s personal reviews. You would be able to learn a lot about how well the shoe fits and whether you need to order a larger or smaller model.

Conclusion

According to the College of Podiatry’s survey of 2000 people, one-third of men and almost half of women confessed to buying shoes that didn’t match perfectly. But, with these tips, we hope you won’t be mystified when choosing a pair of shoes in your next online shopping adventure. We wish you the best of luck in building your own path with each step, while wearing the right size shoes and feeling relaxed!