August 8, 2025
How to Measure Shoe Size at Home to Find the Perfect Fit
We’ve all been there: you order a pair of shoes that look perfect online, only to find your toes crammed in like sardines or your heels slipping out with every step. Sound familiar? As most people find out the hard way, ill-fitting shoes lead to discomfort, wasted time on returns and even long-term foot issues.
In this guide, we’re explaining how to measure shoe size at home using simple tools you already have. As you’ll see, measuring your shoe size can be quick, simple and help you shop with confidence, helping you find the perfect fit so every step feels just right.
Why Is It Important to Measure Shoe Size Accurately?
Getting your shoe size measurement right does more than just help you avoid blisters. It’s actually one of those smaller parts of life that can make a massive difference for your health, comfort and daily routine.
Here’s why accurate shoe sizing matters:
- Promotes long-term foot health by ensuring proper support and weight distribution.
- Reduces blisters, bunions and misalignment caused by shoes that rub or squeeze.
- Supports better posture and alignment which impacts everything from back health to balance.
- Lowers return rates when shopping online saving you time and stress.
How Do You Measure Shoe Size at Home?
There’s no need for fancy gadgets. Measuring your shoe size at home just takes a few everyday tools and a couple of minutes. Follow these simple steps and tips to get an accurate read.
What Tools Do You Need to Measure Feet for Shoes?
To get started, gather:
- A sheet of paper and a pencil
- A ruler or measuring tape
- A wall or flat surface
- The socks you plan to wear with the shoes
These basics will help you get precise shoe size measurements for both length and width.
How Do You Measure the Length and Width of Your Foot?
Now that you have the supplies you need, here's how to measure foot length and width in just a few simple steps—using the tried-and-true wall method for best results:
- Place a sheet of paper on the floor with one edge flush against a wall
- Stand on the paper with your heel gently touching the wall
- Mark the tip of your longest toe while keeping the pencil upright
- Mark the back of your heel if desired for extra precision
- Use a ruler to measure from the wall edge to your toe mark to determine foot length
- Then, measure across the widest part of your foot to get the width
- Be sure to use the measurements from your larger foot when choosing a size
Pro Tip: Not sure how to measure the width of your foot? Just stand naturally and measure straight across the ball of your foot at its widest point to get the most accurate result.
Pretty easy, right? And you didn’t even have to leave your house. Now that you know how to measure shoe width and length, you're ready to find shoes that actually fit—no more guessing games or crossing your fingers when you hit "add to cart."
Ready to find kicks in your perfect fit and style? Explore our full women’s shoe collection for options that combine comfort, confidence and timeless style.
How to Determine Shoe Size From Your Measurements?
Now that you've got the numbers, it's time to turn those measurements into the perfect fit. Different brands and countries use different sizing systems, so here are some tips for finding your actual size across any brand.
How Do You Convert Foot Measurements Into Shoe Size?
Once you have your foot length and width, the hard part is over. From there, use a U.S., UK or EU shoe size chart to match your heel-to-toe length, then check the size chart on each brand's product page for any style-specific guidance.
At TOMS, we make things simple. Our shoes run true to size and come in both medium and wide widths, so you won't have to guess whether we run big or small. If you're stuck between sizes, we recommend going smaller since most of our styles stretch slightly and mold to your feet over time. Our FAQ has a few other fit recommendations if you need a little extra help deciding.
What If Your Feet Are Different Sizes or Widths?
If your feet aren't exactly the same size or width, you're not alone. This is actually very common—most people have one foot that's slightly larger than the other. The key is knowing how to work with it so you get a comfortable fit on both feet. Here are some tips to make sure you get it right every time:
- Always choose the size that fits your larger foot
- Look for width indicators like B (medium), D (wide) or E (extra wide) when available
- Understand that men’s and women’s sizing differs by about 1.5 sizes
- Leave room if you plan to add insoles or wear thicker socks
What Should a Properly Fitting Shoe Feel Like?
A good fit should feel supportive from the moment you step in. The shoes shouldn’t feel tight or pinched around the toes, but still be snug enough to keep your foot secure. If they’re even a little uncomfortable, it’s usually a sign that something’s off with the sizing or design.
So what does a proper fit actually feel like? First, the heel should rest comfortably without slipping or rubbing since too much movement can lead to blisters. Likewise, your toes need enough room to wiggle without hitting the front of the shoe—tight toe boxes can cause pressure or numbness.
For arch support, you should feel gentle support along the length of your arch. You’re looking for enough support to reduce strain, but stopping short of feeling rigid. If your arches are on the higher or lower side, look for shoes that complement your foot shape or add insoles that give you that perfect amount of support.
Explore our men’s shoes designed for quality, versatility and impact.
How Do Professionals Measure Shoe Size in Stores?
While knowing how to measure feet for shoes at home is great for most cases, sometimes it's worth getting a professional fitting. If you have tricky or cranky feet, ongoing discomfort, or just want that extra level of precision, shoe stores have specialized tools that can dial in your size more accurately than a DIY approach.
What Does the Brannock Device Measure?
You've probably seen this silver contraption at a shoe store. What looks a bit like a medieval torture device is actually one of the most accurate ways to measure your feet. In fact, the Brannock Device has been the gold standard for shoe fitting since the 1920s.
So, while your at-home method is great for the basics, this tool digs deeper into your foot shape specifics to precisely measure foot length, width, and arch length. Just remember, this extra level of detail is great for fine-tuning your fit when necessary, but usually isn’t needed for everyday comfort shoes.
How Often Should You Take Your Shoe Size Measurements?
Believe it or not, feet can change, sometimes just a bit, but other times by entire sizes. That’s why updated measurements are so important, ensuring your shoes always feel as good as they look.
For adults, it's best to remeasure every six to twelve months, or after any major changes like pregnancy, weight fluctuation, or injury. Kids should check in more frequently, every two to three months or so. This is especially important during growth spurts when their feet can seemingly change overnight.
Check out our kids’ shoes designed to keep up with every leap, climb and cartwheel.
When Is the Best Time to Take Your Shoe Size Measurement?
But timing matters just as much as frequency. Since feet tend to swell slightly throughout the day, you'll want to measure when they're at their biggest to get the most accurate reading. That usually means when you get home from work after being on your feet for most of the day.
When you measure, make sure you’re standing straight to get full weight-bearing accuracy. And don't forget to measure both feet since, once again, most people have one foot that's slightly larger than the other.
Better Tomorrows Start with TOMS
Learning how to measure shoe size at home is simple, but the benefits go far beyond just convenience. The right fit helps support better posture, boost all-day comfort and cut down on those time-consuming returns. And let’s face it—when your shoes both fit well and look good, you’re a force to be reckoned with.
At TOMS, we believe your comfort should also create an impact. As a Certified B Corp, we give 1/3 of our profits to support grassroots organizations focused on mental health and equity. Every purchase helps fund Better Tomorrows, because what feels good should also do good.
Ready to find your next favorite pair? Explore our men’s, women’s and kids’ collections and step into comfort with purpose.