Have your feet ever experienced long hours of pain, swelling or worse medical conditions like ingrown nails? The reason behind this is that you are not wearing the correct shoe size, no matter how well-made the footwear is.
Why Size Matters
Shoes are not just an essential part of your outfit, they also cushion your body weight, shield your feet and allow you to safely walk, run or jump. Not wearing proper fitting shoes may lead to foot injuries and other disorders from bunions, corns, and calluses to hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures and even back pain.
Since there is dissimilarity in the left and right foot size of each individual, different shoes fit people differently. Every individual has a different arch shape of their feet, that is, flat foot, normal arch or high arch. These arches also determine the kind of footwear individuals can wear comfortably.
Every individual also has a half or quarter size difference in their feet and cannot wear shoes that normally are available in the market in only whole sizes.
So proper measurement and examination of your feet will determine which shoe style and size is correct for you.
Making Sure your Shoes are the Right Fit
No matter how well-made or aesthetically pleasing a pair of shoes is, your investment in it will be in vain if it isn't the right size for you. Therefore, always check (and double-check) your shoe size by putting it on and walking around to assess the overall fitting and feel. If it doesn't feel loose or isn't hurting your feet, then it's the pair for you.
An unfortunate habit of people, especially women, is to buy a pair of shoes because they look "pretty" even if it ruins their feet in the end. This is something that should be avoided in order to protect your feet in the long run.
Footwear can be broadly categorized into two types, that is, closed shoes and open shoes. Open shoes are the most common type of footwear that can easily be adjusted to cater to different foot shapes and sizes.
Ladies' sandals and men's slides with closure straps allow the feet to move easily without feeling uncomfortable, while an open area allows air to pass making it easier for skin to breathe. Also, it helps prevent any bad odour from existing around your feet which is especially perfect for the summer, especially in countries that experience a humid climate.
Those who can afford to, prefer to buy bespoke leather shoes that fit them like a glove. Such a service is available at Craftpur for anyone who wishes to avail of it.
Foot Measurement
- You should place your foot on a level surface with the heel resting on a straight edge, such as the leg of a table or a wall.
- Measure your longest toe from the back of the heel to the tip using a ruler.
- Carefully measure both feet as both normally differ in size.
- Take note of your measurements and go to the fit guide of the shoe brand to determine your size.
Adjust Your Footwear to Fit your Larger Foot
Over time, changes may occur in the size and shape of your feet. The fact that you have consistently worn a particular size shouldn't be relied upon. Make sure to get measurements of both of your feet because most people have one foot that is larger than the other.
Ideal Time for Foot Measurement
The best time to measure your feet is towards the end of the day when they are at their largest. Your feet will swell and settle a little during the day when you are awake. You want to make sure you are comfortable throughout the day and not just when you head out of the house in the morning. Which is why loafers for men are preferred because they are neither too tight nor too loose during office hours.
Different Shoe Sizes in Different Styles
The type of shoe may impact the size. Some shoes fit true to size, while others are worn a size up or down. You may wear a closed shoe true to size but an open shoe a size down and sneakers a size up than your normal size. Therefore, choosing the appropriate shoe begins with knowing your shoe size.
Examining the Show's Form According to your Feet
Verify if the shoe fits your foot comfortably and has a shape that is similar to your foot's. The broadest area of your foot, which is where your toes start, is called the ball of your foot, and it should fit comfortably in the widest section of the shoe. Make sure your longest toe, which is normally the second toe, is 1/2" (about the width of a finger) from the end of the shoe as you stand up.
Select Your Footwear Based on Your Activity
Professional Settings:
Dress shoes are not the most comfortable form of footwear yet due of their requirement in professional settings, they now come with cushioning, padded inserts, and rubber outsoles to allow the wearer to keep them on for the whole day without tiring their feet.
Walking:
Majority of the population around the world commute on foot throughout the day and require footwear that is not just the right fit and size, but also provides them the ideal level of comfort so that their feet do not get injured or hurt by the end of the day. That is why the collection of slides for men at Craftpur are a popular choice amongst people not only for their craftsmanship but also their durability and utility.
Running:
Sneakers and other running shoes, another popular choice amongst individuals, are designed with flexible toes and cushioned heels for strenuous athletic activities.
Importance of Craftsmanship in Quality Footwear
Well-crafted footwear is made of breathable materials that not only hug your feet in the right places but allow them to expand and contract during the day, adjusting accordingly to give you a comfortable experience throughout the day. They also come with well-made, flexible soles that cushion every step and protect the feet from any added friction that may cause them discomfort.
The collection of mules for women include breathable uppers that allow you to wear them for a longer time without feeling any sort of irritation in your feet. Also, there is an increased curve at the ball girth in men’s loafers to provide ease and comfort in walking. Similarly, running shoes have laces or straps in the upper part to hold the foot in place when performing athletic activity.
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After reading through the above guide, the number one aspect to consider when buying any kind of leather shoes is the size and shape of one's feet. This will ultimately make or break your footwear experience, regardless of the brand you buy them from.