Does the Shoe Really Fit? Why You’re Probably Wearing the Wrong Shoe Size and Don’t Even Know It
When was the last time you had your foot measured?
If the answer is never, there is a good chance you're wearing the wrong shoe size. Over time, wearing shoes that are too small will cause you pain or discomfort, from pinched toes to annoying corns and calluses. Foot shape, size, and widths can change in small but impactful ways throughout one’s lifetime, yet modern shoppers are increasingly ordering more shoes online and forgoing proper professional sizing. According to The Wall Street Journal, a study out of the UK reveals that as many as half of all women are wearing the wrong shoe size.
According to the study conducted by the College of Podiatry, of 2000 adults surveyed, one-third of men and nearly half of women admitted to purchasing shoes that didn't exactly fit. Although it may not seem like a significant issue, research shows that improperly fitting shoes can have several negative health effects. Hammertoes, deformities, bunion growth, and consistent foot pain are common, but ill-fitting shoes can also contribute to conditions such as headaches and back pain.
For many women, beauty is pain, but it doesn't always have to be.
There is a solution to this common problem. Ensuring the proper measurement of your foot will lessen the risk of returns when online shopping. While online shopping has decreased the likelihood of people opting to professionally measure their feet regularly, luckily, there’s a way to do this yourself in the comfort of your own home. Getting a really solid measurement of your feet to determine the size you should be wearing is a must.
HOW TO MEASURE YOUR SHOE SIZE
Take out a piece of plain paper (or two). If you don't have plain printer paper, a piece of lined notebook paper will do.
Grab tape. If you’re using two sheets of paper, you will need to tape them together for extra length.
Place your naked foot onto the piece of paper. We recommend standing on a truly flat surface, such as a hardwood floor in your house. However, if you feel safer sitting, please sit.
Trace your foot. We recommend using a pen or pencil for this part to avoid leaving any permanent markings on your foot.
Measure the Length and Width:
Length: Measure from the tip of your longest toe to the back of your heel. Record this measurement.
Width: Measure the widest part of your foot. This will help determine the width size you need.
Consult a Shoe Size Chart:
Use the measurements you recorded to find your shoe size on a sizing chart. Different brands may have slight variations, so it’s best to check the specific brand’s chart.
