Shopping for shoes online has become more popular than ever. From the comfort of your home, you can browse thousands of styles, compare prices, and even grab exclusive deals that you may not find in stores. However, buying shoes online comes with one major challenge: getting the right size. Unlike shopping in a physical store, you cannot try the shoes on before purchasing. This often leads to issues such as shoes being too tight, too loose, or simply uncomfortable.
The good news is that with the right knowledge and preparation, you can choose the correct shoe size online and avoid disappointment. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know — from measuring your feet accurately to understanding size charts, considering brand variations, and checking return policies. By the end, you will have a foolproof strategy to ensure that your online shoe purchases fit perfectly and feel comfortable.
1. Measure Your Feet Accurately
The first and most important step to finding the right shoe size is measuring your feet correctly. Many people assume they know their size because they have been wearing the same one for years, but feet can change shape and size over time due to age, weight changes, pregnancy, or medical conditions.
Step-by-step method to measure your feet at home:
-
Gather tools – You will need a sheet of paper, a pencil, and a ruler or measuring tape.
-
Stand up while measuring – Standing allows your feet to expand naturally, giving a more accurate measurement.
-
Trace your feet – Place one foot on the paper and trace around it with the pencil.
-
Measure length and width – Use the ruler to measure from the heel to the longest toe and across the widest part of your foot.
-
Repeat for both feet – Most people have slight differences between their left and right foot, so always measure both and use the larger measurement.
Record the measurements in both inches and centimeters so you can easily compare them to different brand size charts.
2. Understand Shoe Size Charts
Every brand has its own sizing system, and these can vary significantly between regions. A size 8 in the US may not be the same as a size 8 in the UK or EU.
Common shoe size conversions:
-
US Sizes – Standard for North America.
-
UK Sizes – Often one size smaller than US for men, but women’s sizes differ.
-
EU Sizes – Based on centimeters; commonly used across Europe.
-
CM / JP Sizes – Exact foot length in centimeters, common in Japan.
When shopping online, always check the brand’s official size chart. Look for the foot length (in centimeters or inches) rather than relying solely on the number size.
3. Check Customer Reviews
Customer reviews are one of the most valuable tools for online shoe shopping. Real buyers often mention whether a shoe runs small, large, or true to size.
Things to look for in reviews:
-
Comments about sizing accuracy.
-
Notes on shoe width (narrow, regular, wide).
-
Break-in period or comfort level.
-
Any advice on ordering half a size up or down.
If multiple customers say the shoe runs small, it’s safer to size up.
4. Consider the Shoe Type
Different types of shoes fit differently, even within the same brand. For example:
-
Running shoes often require a half size larger for comfort and toe space.
-
Dress shoes may fit more snugly.
-
Sandals usually follow exact foot measurements.
-
Boots may need extra room for socks.
Understanding how the type of shoe affects sizing will help you choose wisely.
5. Pay Attention to Width
Shoe width is often overlooked, but it’s essential for comfort. Standard widths vary between brands:
-
Narrow (N)
-
Medium (M) / Standard
-
Wide (W)
-
Extra Wide (XW)
If you have wide or narrow feet, filter search results to show only options in your preferred width.
6. Learn About the Material
The shoe’s material affects how it fits and how it changes over time.
-
Leather stretches slightly with wear.
-
Synthetic materials maintain their shape but may not stretch.
-
Mesh fabrics are flexible and breathable, good for sports shoes.
Knowing the material can help you decide whether to size up or down.
7. Shop from Trusted Websites
Buying from reputable online stores or official brand websites ensures you get accurate sizing charts and authentic products. They also usually have better return and exchange policies in case the fit isn’t perfect.
8. Check Return and Exchange Policies
Before buying, read the store’s return policy carefully. Look for:
-
Free returns or exchanges.
-
Return time limits.
-
Condition requirements (unworn, tags attached).
A good return policy reduces the risk of buying the wrong size.
9. Order Two Sizes if Possible
If the store offers free returns, consider ordering your usual size and one size up or down to compare. This is especially helpful when buying from a new brand.
10. Time of Day Matters
Feet tend to swell slightly during the day. Measure your feet or try on shoes in the afternoon or evening for the most accurate fit.
11. Seasonal and Sock Considerations
-
In winter, you may wear thicker socks, so you might need extra space.
-
In summer, feet may swell slightly due to heat.
Plan your shoe purchase according to the season and the type of socks you’ll wear.
12. Avoid Guessing
Never guess your size based on another brand. Always check the brand-specific chart, as sizing can vary even within the same company depending on the shoe design.
13. Consider Half Sizes
If you fall between two sizes, check if the shoe comes in half sizes. Choosing the slightly larger size is generally better for comfort.
14. Use Online Fitting Tools
Some websites now offer virtual fit guides where you input your measurements, and the system recommends the best size for you based on similar buyers’ feedback.
15. Keep a Personal Size Record
Once you find your perfect size for a particular brand, write it down. Include width, length, and any notes about fit. This will save time for future purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Should I always size up for running shoes?
Yes, in most cases, running shoes should be about half a size larger than your regular shoes to allow room for toe movement.
Q2: What if I have one foot larger than the other?
Always buy shoes to fit the larger foot and adjust the smaller one with insoles or thicker socks.
Q3: How do I measure for wide shoes?
When tracing your foot, measure across the widest part and compare it to the brand’s width chart.
Q4: Do expensive shoes have more accurate sizing?
Not necessarily — even premium brands can vary in sizing. Always check the chart.
Q5: Can I stretch shoes that are too small?
Leather shoes can be stretched slightly using a shoe stretcher, but synthetic materials are harder to adjust.
Conclusion
Choosing the right shoe size when shopping online may seem challenging, but with accurate measurements, brand-specific size charts, and careful review reading, you can drastically reduce the risk of a poor fit. Always consider factors like width, material, and shoe type, and never hesitate to take advantage of return policies. With these tips, you’ll be able to shop online confidently and enjoy stylish, comfortable footwear without the hassle of ill-fitting shoes.
🎯 Related Articles
⚠️ Affiliate Disclaimer
This post includes Amazon affiliate links. We earn a small commission if you purchase through these links—at no extra cost to you. All product names and images are property of their respective owners.
0 Comments