Trace your foot on paper while standing, in the socks you'll wear, then measure from heel to longest toe and across the widest part. Measure both feet and use the larger. Use the brand's size chart to convert length to a shoe size, since sizes vary between brands and countries. Leave about a thumb's width of space in front of your longest toe.
Shoe sizes vary between brands, so measuring your feet is the most reliable way to buy online.
Measure at home
- Tape paper to the floor against a wall.
- Stand with your heel against the wall, wearing the socks you’ll wear with the shoes.
- Mark the tip of your longest toe and the widest points on each side.
- Measure length (heel to toe mark) and width (widest part).
- Repeat for the other foot and use the larger measurement.
Measure later in the day, when feet are slightly larger.
Converting sizes
Use the brand’s chart to convert foot length to US, UK or EU sizes. As a rough guide for women’s and men’s US sizing, there are about 1.5 sizes between them: a women’s 9 is roughly a men’s 7.5.
Width
| US width | Men’s | Women’s |
|---|---|---|
| Narrow | B | 2A (AA) |
| Standard | D | B |
| Wide | 2E (EE) | D |
| Extra wide | 4E | 2E |
Fit check when shoes arrive
- About a thumb’s width of space in front of the longest toe
- No pinching at the widest part
- Heel stays put when walking
- Try them on indoors first to keep returns easy
Different shoes, different fits
- Running shoes: often a half size up for foot swelling.
- Dress shoes: snug at first; leather relaxes slightly.
- Boots: account for thicker socks.
Common questions
How much room should be at the toe?
About a thumb's width (roughly 1 cm or 3/8 to 1/2 inch) between your longest toe and the end of the shoe.
When is the best time to measure my feet?
Later in the day, when feet are slightly larger after walking and standing.
What do shoe width letters mean?
US widths use letters. For men, D is standard and 2E or EE is wide; for women, B is standard and D is wide. Brands vary, so check their charts.