how to determine your shoe size

 

There are a few different ways to determine your shoe size, but we will focus on the easiest way: using a Brannock Device. To use this tool, place your heel against the black end, and bend your toe down towards the bronze end. The space between the two ends will give you a shoe size. It is important to measure both feet, as they may be of different sizes in length or width.

A person’s foot is measured in four parts: length, width at its broadest point (ball), width at its narrowest point (heel) and arch height.

The length of your foot is determined by your heel – the heel end of your foot is the longest part of your foot. The width of your foot at its widest point, called the ball, determines whether or not you’ll have a narrow- to wide- fitting shoe. The width of the space between the back of your heel and the front of your toes is called arch height, which can make a difference depending on how high- or low-heeled shoes are.

 

 Image source: https://www.nike.com/in

But what if you don’t have a Brannock Device? You can measure yourself on nonstandard measures. For example, you can use measuring tape and find out how long your foot is along its longest side. You can measure the length of your foot from the heel to the end of your longest toe. If you want to find out how wide or narrow your foot is, mark off its widest point, or measure the distance between two points on its sole.

Measurements are usually given in centimetres but you may prefer to use Imperial sizes like shoe size 10, meaning 10 inches (25.4 centimeters).

It is important that you find out a person’s shoe size for two reasons: firstly, this will help you choose your shoes; and secondly, it will help you maintain a proper posture when wearing them. Shoes with a too-large or too-small fit can cause back and leg problems. By choosing a shoe that fits comfortably, you will avoid back or leg pain.

Note: You should not use the Brannock Device to measure yourself for children’s shoes. If a child complains of pain in his or her feet, it is important that he or she is seen by a medical professional.

There is a system to measure your shoe size and it's called the Brannock device. The measurements are in centimeters. This device is a metal ruler that can be found on the inside of all shoe stores and shoe departments. All you need to do is stand with your back heel against the line at the top, grab hold of both ends of the measuring tool and stretch them out, then release one end from your finger and let it drop until it reaches to but not past, your longest toe. Once you have done this, you can choose the best shoe size.

 Image source: https://www.istockphoto.com/

If you are buying ready-made shoes, then the best way is to take along your own Brannock device with you to measure your feet. If you buy footwear online, then it is advisable to write down your shoe size as a cm and e.g. 40 as 40cm or 40 Italian (which means that the Italian size is larger than the English).