How To Measure Your Shoe Size? 4 Proven Methods

So, the big question today is - How to measure your shoe size?

The good news is that you can measure your feet accurately at home using simple tools like paper, a ruler, and a pen.

Here’s what to do:

To measure your shoe size, wear socks and stand on a piece of paper. Trace around your foot, then use a ruler to measure from the heel to the longest toe. Do the same for the other foot and use the larger measurement. Compare it with a shoe size chart to find your size.

In this guide, you'll find all the steps, plus some extra proven methods. We’re also sharing size charts for men, women, and kids. Stick with this till the end to never guess your shoe size again.

Key Takeaways

• You can measure your shoe size at home with just paper, a ruler, and a pen.

• Always trace both feet, then use the larger one for your final size.

• Measuring in the afternoon gives you a more accurate fit.

• Use socks you usually wear to avoid sizing mistakes.

• The wall method and Brannock device are also great for better accuracy.

• Don’t forget to measure your foot width for total comfort.

• Match your results with the correct size chart for your region.

• Recheck your foot size every few months since feet can change over time.

How To Measure Your Shoe Size? (3 Steps)

To measure your shoe size at home, stand on a sheet of paper and trace the shape of your foot. Use a ruler to measure the distance from your heel to your longest toe. Then do the same for your other foot. Always stand while measuring, because your feet spread out more when you put weight on them.

Step 1: Get Everything Ready First

Start by finding a clean sheet of paper that is big enough to fit your whole foot. You will also need a pencil or pen and a ruler. Put on the type of socks you usually wear with your shoes. That makes the measurement more accurate.

Now place the paper on a hard floor like wood or tile. Avoid using carpet because it is soft and might affect your tracing. If the paper moves too much, you can gently tape the corners to keep it in place.

It is best to measure your feet in the afternoon or evening. Your feet usually get a little bigger during the day as you walk and move around. Measuring at the end of the day helps you get the size your feet really need.

Step 2: Trace Your Foot Carefully

Stand up and place one foot flat on the paper. Make sure your weight is on that foot. Try to keep your body still while you trace. If there is a wall behind you, lightly touch your heel to it. That helps you keep your foot steady.

Hold your pencil straight up and trace all the way around your foot. Go slowly. Follow the shape of each toe and the curve of your foot. Keep the line close to your skin so it matches your real size. Do not rush.

Now do the same thing with your other foot. Both feet are not always the same size. One might be a little longer or wider. That is normal. Always use the bigger foot when you are picking your shoe size. That way your shoes will feel comfortable on both feet.

Step 3: Measure the Length and Width

Take your ruler and measure from the back of your heel to the tip of your longest toe. This gives you your foot length. Write it down in either inches or centimeters.

Next, find the widest part of your foot. This is usually near the ball of your foot. Measure across that part from one side to the other. This is your foot width. It helps you know if you need regular shoes or wide-fit ones.

Now you can use your length and width to check a shoe size chart. Make sure the chart matches your country. Sizes are different in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Europe.

Important Note: If your foot is between two sizes, it is better to go with the larger one. A little extra space is more comfortable than shoes that feel tight.

3 Extra Proven Methods to Measure Your Shoe Size

There are several easy and accurate ways to measure your shoe size. You can use tools like a ruler or measuring tape at home. Standing against a wall also helps you get the exact length. Checking both the feet and comparing your results with a size chart all improve accuracy. These methods work well for adults and kids.

Use a Ruler or Measuring Tape

Using a ruler or a measuring tape is one of the simplest ways to measure your shoe size at home. You just need a flat surface, a piece of paper, and something to measure with. It works well if you take your time and follow each step carefully. You do not need any special tools.

To begin the steps, place the paper on the floor and stand on it with your full weight. Then, do the following:

1. Place the paper on a hard floor, not on carpet.

2. Stand on the paper with your heel close to the edge.

3. Mark the back of your heel and the tip of your longest toe.

4. Step off and use the ruler to measure the distance between the two marks.

5. Write down the length in either inches or centimeters.

Try the Wall Method

This method helps you get an accurate length by using the wall as a fixed point. It works well because your heel stays steady, which gives a better measurement. It is especially helpful if you are measuring by yourself without help.

Follow these simple steps to measure your foot size:

1. Find a wall with a flat, hard floor next to it.

2. Stand with your heel touching the wall and your foot flat.

3. Place a book or box at the tip of your longest toe.

4. Step away and mark where the book touched your toe.

5. Measure the distance from the wall to the mark.

6. Write that number down as your foot length.

Use a Brannock Device

The Brannock device is the professional tool you often see in shoe stores to measure foot size. It measures both the length and width of your foot accurately. Here are the steps:

1. Remove your shoes and wear the socks you plan to use with your shoes.

2. Place your foot onto the device with your heel against the back.

3. Slide the width bar to the side of your foot gently.

4. Read the number next to your longest toe for length.

5. Look at the width scale to find your width size.

Tips for Accurate Shoe Size Measurement

To measure your shoe size correctly, follow these tips:

Measure Both Feet

Not everyone has two feet that are exactly the same. One foot is often slightly longer or wider than the other. Measuring both helps you avoid discomfort or a tight fit in one shoe. It only takes a minute to check both sides.

Here is how to do it the right way:

1. Use the ruler or wall method to measure your right foot.

2. Repeat the same steps for your left foot.

3. Compare both measurements carefully.

4. Use the larger measurement when choosing your shoe size.

Check Width Too

Foot length is only part of the picture. If your shoes feel tight at the sides, your width might be too small. Measuring the width helps you find shoes that feel better and last longer. It is often skipped, but it makes a big difference.

Here is how to measure your foot width at home:

1. Sit on a chair and place your foot flat on the floor.

2. Wrap a soft tape measure around the widest part of your foot.

3. Make sure the tape is snug but not tight.

4. Write down the number where the tape meets.

5. Repeat for the other foot.

6. Use the larger number when checking width charts.

Measure in the Afternoon

Your foot size changes during the day. Feet tend to swell after walking. Measuring in the afternoon gives you a better idea of your true size.

Once the time is right, use any of the methods above and follow the usual steps:

1. Wait until late afternoon or evening.

2. Stand up to measure while your feet are at their largest.

3. Use the ruler, wall, or Brannock method as usual.

4. Write down your results and compare them with a chart.

Wear Socks You Usually Use

The thickness of your socks affects your shoe size. If you measure barefoot, the result might feel too tight when you wear actual shoes.

Here is the correct way to do it:

1. Put on the same socks you normally wear with your shoes.

2. Keep them smooth so there are no folds under your feet.

3. Use any of the measurement methods.

4. Record your foot length and width while wearing the socks.

Compare with a Shoe Size Chart

1. Choose a size chart for your region, such as the US, UK, or EU.

2. Find your foot length on the chart.

3. Match it to the shoe size listed next to it.

4. Check if your width fits into regular, wide, or extra wide.

5. Choose the size that matches your longer or wider foot.

Recheck Every Few Months

Your foot size is not always the same forever. Rechecking helps you avoid bad fits and wasted money.

Set a reminder to measure your feet two to three times a year. Use the same method you used before.

Note: Write down the new size and compare it to your last one. If there is a change, update your shoe size before your next purchase.

Shoe Sizing Chart for Men, Women, and Kids

Shoe sizes are not the same across different countries or age groups. A size 8 in the US does not match the same size in the UK or Europe. Men’s, women’s, and kids’ sizes all follow different measurements.

Use the charts below to match your foot length:

Shoe Size Chart for Men

Shoe Size Chart for Women

Shoe Size Chart for Kids

Conclusion

Finding your correct shoe size doesn’t have to be confusing. With a few simple steps, you can measure your feet at home without hassle. From using a ruler to a Brannock device, you can try different methods.

So, measure your shoe size properly now and save time, money, and pain.