Please see the guide below to assist with selecting the correct size and ensuring a proper fit. We aim to offer the best advice based on our experience but please understand these are just guidelines as sizing varies from shoe to shoe and person to person.

Shoe Conversion Chart

There is no definitive translation between North American and European sizing. Many brands have their own conversion charts but we recommend using the one below. We have found it to be most accurate when converting sizes.

1. Trace the outline of each foot on a piece of paper
2. Measure the lengths from the heel to the longest toe (not always the big toe)
3. Measure the widths across the widest part of your foot
4. Compare your foot length measurements to the Shoe Length Chart
5. Compare your shoe length and foot width measurements to the Shoe Width Chart

• Measure feet on a hard surface and ensure weight is evenly distributed amongst your feet
• Ensure measurements are precise as the difference in size measurements is as small as 3mm
• Always measure both feet and size for your larger foot. Adjustments can be made to fit the smaller foot.
• Measure feet at the end of the day when your feet have fully expanded
• Wear socks you would typically wear in the shoes you are buying
• If you fall between sizes, always move up to the larger size.
• Measure your feet regularly. Despite common wisdom, your feet never stop changing. Aging, weight loss, pregnancy are a few factors that can change your foot size.
• When selecting shoes, try to match them with the general shape of your foot

Note: While this method is commonly used to determine shoe size other characteristics impact how a shoe fits, including arch length, instep and foot proportions.

Determining Fit

Although it sounds unbelievable, many North American’s wear the wrong shoe size (typically too small). Some consciously purchase the wrong size because of vanity, habit or denial, but many do because they are unaware of how shoes are supposed to fit.

It is important to understand every manufacturer uses a different ‘last’ or foot form to make their footwear. This causes sizes to vary from brand to brand and even between styles within the same brand. When determining fit, it’s not the size on the box but how the shoe fits your foot which is key. Here are some tips when trying on shoes and considering fit:

Try on shoes inside on a clear surface. For enclosed shoes make sure to use a shoe horn to avoid heel damage. That way you can return them if they don’t work out. Try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet have fully expanded Wear socks you would normally wear in the shoes Make sure your feet feel comfortable. Shoes should feel snug, but not tight. They should not pinch or rub your foot. You should be able to wiggle your toes with about ½” space from the end of your toe to the end of the shoe The ball of your foot should sit at the widest part of the shoe. This ensures that where your foot bends is, is where the shoe flexes. The heel should feel cradled, not bound. There should be about 1/8” space at the back of your shoe and ¼”- ½” heel movement is often acceptable.

Why Fit Matters

There is no reason a shoe shouldn’t feel as good as they look. It does not matter if you spend $25 or $250 on a pair, if they don’t fit, they will cost you pain. Poor fitting shoes can cause blisters, corns, calluses, ingrown toenails, feet cramps, bruising, tingling or numbness, pain in arches, bunions, hammer toes, plantar fasciitis, and circulatory problems. Not only are your feet affected, but problems in your ankles, knees and back can also arise.

Also, wearing the wrong size of shoes will end up damaging your footwear, which decreases the performance and longevity of the shoe.

Fit Aids

Sometimes a closely fitting shoe needs a bit of adjusting, similar to garment alterations. We recommend using a fitting aid if you are in love with a shoe but are in between sizes or if you need to make adjustments for your smaller foot. Here are a few types of products to consider:

Insoles – An insole can take up the necessary room in a shoe that is too big. There are many kinds of insoles offering different benefits such as cushioning, support, odor control, and/or climate control.

Halters – Halters are designed to stop feet from slipping forward in shoes that are too loose. They also add additional cushioning.

Heel Grips – Heel grips fill gaps and prevent excess heel slippage. They also giving extra heel padding and prevent rubbing and blisters.