What Size Are Your Feet?

I was reading an article by the California Podiatric Medical Association where a podiatrist made an interesting statement. Daniel Altchuler, a board certified podiatrist, was talking about how when winter comes many people go from sandals to an enclosed shoe. His next sentence was, “And the biggest problem people face is that their shoes do not always fit properly.” He went on to say, “Feet change and it is amazing how many people are wearing the wrong-sized shoes.”  I agree wholeheartedly.

     Many of us buy shoes at the local store where shoes line the shelves and you help yourself. Row after row of different shoes, and based on the stores I have seen, no one to help make sure the shoes fit. So the general action is to grab a box off the shelf based on what you think your size is. Put the shoes on and, either they fit or they don’t.

     I suspect in most cases, whether they fit is strictly dependent on the wearer’s sense of comfort. Fit can be simple – it seems comfortable; or complex – length, width, toe box height, arch, heel control, instep lacing, insole firmness/softness, etc. How many times have you bought a pair of shoes only to get home and discover they really don’t fit? Have you ever bought shoes only to find that in the first or fifth time, tenth time running in them, that they hurt or pinch somewhere on your foot.

     So, my point is, take the time to have your feet sized whenever you buy shoes. The instrument you see pictured here is called the Bannock Device. This simple tool will tell you your shoe size.

     It’s worth it to keep your feet happy and healthy.