Shoe sizing--most clerks do it wrong!!

Joined
Jul 12, 1999
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A few days ago I found out that I was sized wrong for years (in shoes) and that's why I always needed hard-to-find wide sizes.

Those foot-measuring things that you step on in shoe stores are called Brannock devices. The Brannock company has perfectly clear instructions online. They emphasize how important it is to measure the arch length as well as heel-to-toe.
For some reason, although I've been buying my own shoes for years now, no one ever noticed that my arch length indicates a larger size than my heel-to-toe length.

If you've ever had trouble with shoes fitting, get the arch length! You may not even need a wide if you get the right size.
 
I don't rely on those Brannock devices. I just go with what fits my feet. I know the general size my shoes should be, but I find that all shoes fit different, even sometimes within the same model and brand. I start with a size and width that I know I should fit into and then try on different sizes until I find a pair that fit.
 
You should always try on shoes, and try different sizes, before buying.
What really bothered me was that no one measuring my feet had ever said "you know, your arch length is bigger than your heel-to-toe size--you really need to go up a full size and you'll be alright." I had tried going up a size or so on my own initiative, but only in a few shoes which didn't work for me.
I will probably always have to be a bit picky with shoes, but for many years I've been going on bad information because I was misinformed by the people who sold me shoes.
That's why I posted the link, so other people will be better-informed when going in to buy.
 
Almost all sho clerks will sell you shoes that are too small. If your toes almost touch the front the shoes are not one but two sizes to small. When you try on shoes always go up to the next size and see if they are still holding your foot securely. If they do, get the larger size.
 
This is helpful(and for me quite timely) info. My problem is probably similar; high arches mean I have a hard timing squeezing into most quality lace up boots, regardless of the foot bed length.
 
Ya, it was a revelation when a clerk finally measured the ball of my foot, and told me I should move up a size

Joe
 
In doing research for my invention, I attended a seminar called 'FitSytems' by Phil Oren. Man, you could have built a whole seminar around just what this guy knows about socks.

Many shoe stores send reprentitives to his seminars and they get training in the proper fit for customers. In Madison, Wisconsin, this service is provided by Morgan Shoes.

If left on my own, I start wearing cowboy boots or clunky engineer boots. After what I know now, I bought a pair of Teva Wraptors. Even my gym shoes get the once over.

It is a worthy endeavor.
 
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