Shoe Fitting Guide

The fit is based on the block which shoe upper is moulded around during manufacture; this is called a last. Each size has to have its own last created. The correct way to fit a shoe is to use a “Ball and Heel” fit where the wide part of the foot fits in the wide part of the shoe. Each shoe has a component inside called a shank that is usually made of metal or plastic. This helps retain the shape of the shoe thus creating a better fit.

Always remember that the length of a shoe has little bearing on the fit. The measurement across the foot is the key as this is what holds the foot in place inside the shoe.

Always feel where the ball of the foot is located in the shoe as this is the part of the forefoot that makes contact with the floor first and wearing a shoe that fits correctly will prolong the life of the shoe. A leather shoe will only stretch to the size of foot put inside the shoe; you never gain a size so always wear the correct size and never a size smaller.

Leather inner linings help create a moulded effect which shape to the wearers footprint creating a better fit. Leather soles help air circulate into the foot unlike rubber soled units.

Shoes that have a good anatomical last will give you better posture and will help to prevent lower back problems later on in life. Lace-up shoes are better at helping your foot to retain it’s shape.