How to choose the right shoes. How to choose the right shoe size Instructions for purchasing shoes

When buying new shoes or boots, it is important to know how to choose the right shoe size. A new pair should not chafe feet, cause swelling or severe discomfort when wearing. Many people mistakenly determine only the length of the foot, but it is equally important to take into account the width of the leg.

Taking measurements is quite simple, you can do it yourself at home. It is necessary to determine the size in the evening, measure the length and width in a standing position. It is recommended to measure both feet and select the highest value to ensure that the shoe fits perfectly to the shape of the foot. Even normally, the size of the right and left legs may differ by a few millimeters, but this is important for determining the exact size.

Foot length measurements

To correctly measure the length of the foot, the following recommendations must be observed:

• both legs must be put on a sheet of paper, then circle them with a simple pencil, holding it perpendicular to the sheet of paper;
• along the resulting contour, you need to measure the length from the point of the thumb to the heel, this must be done diagonally, which shows the most accurate value;
• when obtaining the size, one of the values ​​will be large, it is on it that you need to focus on when choosing the size of shoes according to the table.

When choosing shoes or boots, it should be borne in mind that manufacturers from different countries use different sizing systems:

• international standard ISO 3355-77 assumes the definition of foot length in millimeters rounded to half a centimeter;
• according to the European system, the measurement is carried out in strokes (1 stroke = 2/3 cm or 6.7 mm) along the length of the insole, while the insole should be 10-15 mm larger than the value obtained for the foot, which is called the "functional allowance";
• in the English system, inches are used, the interval is 8.5 mm = 1/3 inch, the shoe size is determined by the insole;
• the American system is almost the same as the English one, but has a smaller size and gender division.

For winter and summer shoes, the size is one, but in the first case, measurements are recommended to be carried out in a sock. Some manufacturers recommend taking boots and insulated boots one size larger, but in no case should you buy tight ones - the leg in them will be very cold.

Measurements of the fullness of the foot

When choosing your size, one must take into account not only the length of the foot, but also the fullness. Many people mistakenly miss this point, as a result of which the purchased pair, strictly in size, turns out to be too narrow and uncomfortable. It is recommended to measure fullness in the area of ​​the bones, determining the width of the foot from the little finger to the big toe. It is quite simple to carry out such measurements:

• the size of the leg should be determined in the evening, it is at this time that the foot increases slightly, that is, the resulting value will be as accurate as possible;
• measurements are taken for both legs, the largest is chosen (the difference can be from a few millimeters, this is a completely normal situation;
• for winter shoes, sizing should be carried out in a thin sock;
• the leg in a standing position is placed on a sheet of paper, after which two values ​​are determined with the help of a measuring tape - the length of the foot and the width along the bones.

With the help of tables, the obtained value of the width shows the completeness. But footwear manufacturers, depending on the region, label their products differently. For Russia, according to GOST 3927-88, the completeness is indicated within 1-12, the interval is 4 mm. European manufacturers use a similar pattern, but the spacing is larger and is 5 mm. In the United States and England, letter designations are adopted with an interval of 5 mm - A, B, C, D, E, F. There is also a marking for non-standard completeness, which is indicated by doubling and tripling the letter code - AA, AAA, FF, FFF and others.

For the Russian system, the completeness is calculated using the formula W = 0.25 * B - 0.15 * C. W is the parameter of the fullness of the foot, which will be indicated on the shoe or box. B is the girth of the foot, that is, the value obtained during measurements with the tape is indicated in millimeters. C is the length of the foot, A is a constant factor, which is 17 for women and 16 for men.

A "6" is normal for the foot, a narrow foot is indicated by the numbers "2-5", a "7" and above indicates shoes for very full, wide legs. For children, American and European manufacturers have adopted a different labeling:

• narrow leg - Narrow (denoted by the letter "N", means 1 size);
• middle leg - Medium (denoted by the letter "M", means 2 sizes);
• wide leg - Wide (denoted by the letter "W" means size 3);
• very wide leg - X-Wide (denoted by "XW" means 4 sizes);
• very, very wide leg - XX-Wide (denoted by the letter "XXW", means 5 size).

The default fullness of the shoe can be considered normal, not all manufacturers indicate it on their models. In some lines of brands with increased completeness, it can be indicated, but if you are not sure about the model, we recommend that you always try it on before buying. When ordering online, you can choose 2-3 adjacent sizes to choose the appropriate size and completeness.

It is very important to get the right size before buying shoes. Without this, the pair will not be comfortable or comfortable to wear, especially for legs with a non-standard width or in the presence of foot diseases, for example, flat feet.

Shoe Size Chart

Shoes are capable of anything: increase height, give a slim figure, visually make legs longer, slimmer, or vice versa, shorten. With the wrong shoes, you can emphasize the excessive fullness of your legs, and in general, spoil the harmony of your style, even if you are wearing the most chic suit. Our following tips will help you avoid such mistakes, and with the help of shoes you will emphasize the dignity of your figure and harmoniously complement your image.

Choosing shoes for your figure

Women with short stature it is better to choose thin heels up to 8 centimeters high. It is better not to wear shoes with very high heels, as when walking, the center of gravity of the body shifts and you will bend forward.

Women with a curvaceous figure ... If you cannot boast of a slim figure, when creating a harmonious style, you should avoid very tall and thin hairpins. An elegant thick heel 5-8 centimeters in height will help to give a proportional look to your figure.

Women with full calves and you need to choose shoes of simpler styles with ankles, both too open and too closed shoes are not suitable for you. In order not to be mistaken with the choice, be sure to try on new shoes in front of the mirror to see them from all angles. Shoes should be as comfortable as possible.

Any fashionable detail in the ankle area will interrupt the leg line, making it appear shorter and thicker. To visually lengthen your legs and make them slimmer, pumps and sandals with a deep cut in the front, shoes with an open last will suit you. Remember, the longer the profile of the shoe, the sleeker your foot and ankle will appear.

In cold weather, the best option for you is elastic knee-length boots that fit neatly around the leg, which should be worn with skirts. For the summer season, platform sandals are perfect for you, they will create the effect of a slimmer calf.

Note for everyone: shoes on very thick black rubber platforms are not suitable for any woman.

How to choose the right heel

The shape and height of the heel depends on the shape and length of your garment, as well as the type of fabric. To achieve harmony in style, do not wear tight, heavy clothes with pointed stiletto heels.

Follow a simple rule: the denser and heavier the fabric of your clothes, the thicker and more powerful the heel of your shoes should be. Conversely, the sleeker the dress, the thinner the heel.

Shoes without heels determine the length of the garment. Shortened models of clothing are suitable for such shoes: the trousers should end at or above the ankle, and skirts and dresses - above the knee. If you are wearing flat shoes, keep your clothes elegant, otherwise you will look casually dressed.

Low heel ... Low-heeled shoes can be of two types: the first is moccasins with a heel of about 0.5 cm and the second is shoes with a heel higher, up to 1.5-2 cm. Most women like the second type. Shoes of this type are very comfortable, in addition, they look good both with trousers and with a skirt.

High heel. Many women prefer to wear high-heeled shoes not only in the evening, but also during the day, to work. In this case, you need to have a change of shoes at work. If you spend most of the day in very high shoes, you cannot avoid health problems - pain in the legs, deformity of the foot. Winter shoes with high heels increase the risk of slipping. Therefore, everything is good in moderation.

As for the style of dress, shoes with very high heels require a certain length of the dress: it should not be above the knee, or a couple of centimeters above the knee. If you want to wear a short skirt or mini dress, choose shoes with low heels.

Thin heel. Thin heels come into fashion periodically. Fashion connoisseurs attribute it to high style, so stiletto heels are best worn with the most fashionable clothes. The classic style of dressing does not go well with these shoe models. However, in combination with stylish dresses and suits, as well as wide trousers and capri pants, a thin heel can bring harmony to your image as a whole.

Wide heel. If you can't brag about the slimness of your legs, a wide or tapered heel is your salvation. In contrast to this heel, the leg appears slimmer. These shoes, combined with a rich tan, will give your feet a slender, harmonious silhouette.

Precautionary measures: buy a model with straps, as the leg without fixation on such a heel can turn up, and you get a dislocated or sprained ankle.

Choosing a color and material

When buying shoes made of suede or woven materials, remember that, despite its beauty and practicality, it will quickly lose its freshness and in a month or two will look worn. Shoes made of genuine high-quality leather last much longer with proper regular care. Note that the colder the season, the thicker the leather of your shoes should be.

Colour. Black shoes are suitable for any outfit. So if your budget only allows you to buy one pair of shoes, go for black ones. If you prefer to go to work in a business style, neutral colors should prevail in your wardrobe. Refined, bright colors are appropriate to wear in the summer season.

Bright shoes can liven up any stylish outfit. Wear colored shoes with white, khaki, and pastel colors.

You can focus on only one detail in your look. If you want to surprise everyone with a chic, trendy dress, your shoes shouldn't be too conspicuous. Conversely, for soothing, neutral tones, you can spice up the outfit with eye-catching, stylish shoes.

Shoes. Defining the style

A nice pair of stylish shoes will add flavor to the rest of your outfit. Stylish shoes can add charm, boldness and sexy to clothes. Do not skimp on quality and fashionable shoes. Remember, lots of cheap shoes won't replace one pair of high quality stylish shoes.

Classic shoes. Classic shoes are always in high demand. Classic black shoes in your wardrobe play the same role as a "little black dress" or a starched white chemise among all other fashionable clothes. Their main advantage is their combination with most of the most popular clothing styles. Moreover, they are also very comfortable, as they have a heel height of up to 3-4 cm. The shape of classic models can change in accordance with fashion. For example, the sharpest toe can quickly change to the dumbest.

If you choose shoes that match your trousers, choose models with a high tongue. With trousers, shoes look more stylish if the foot is closed.

Evening shoes. Many women match evening shoes to specific fashion outfits and events. However, it is convenient if you have one pair of closed toe evening shoes (made of black satin, for example) on hand, which will be in harmony with any of your evening dresses.

For fine shoes, there is only one time of day: evening. But if you just need to look gorgeous during the day, wear high-heeled pumps with closed or open toe.

Open heel shoes. These shoes are perfect for you if you can showcase your beautiful legs, especially your calves and ankles. Since the heels will be exposed, do not forget to take care of their appearance. Such models of shoes with open or pointed toes and thin heels look especially stylish.

Straps and buckles. If you are not happy with the silhouette of your feet, choose the most revealing shoes, without additional trims and straps that attract attention.

The pronounced horizontal line of the strap makes the leg visually shorter. However, there are models with an oblique ankle strap that can look great on you. So try it on and experiment!

Sport shoes. If you love jeans and sporty style, this does not stop you from looking stylish. Choose something that is flat or low, wide heels, like "old school" tennis slippers.

Sandals

"Metallic" sandals. Stylish leather sandals in golden or silver shades are always in fashion. Choose an elegant 5-8 cm heel and a rounded toe for a stylish look that never goes out of style.

Brown sandals. Buy a pair of light brown sandals for the summer - it's very convenient. They will match most of your wardrobe items and are much more practical to wear than white or cream ones. The most popular models are with a 3 cm heel. However, it all depends on your taste, style, figure.

When buying sandals, do not forget about style, they should be combined with your clothes. Open-heel sandals will look too defiant in combination with a classic suit.

Be careful with sandals with very high heels - they look eminently sexy.

Choosing stylish boots

Tall black boots. Such boots made of high-quality, elastic leather are versatile and play the same role in the wardrobe as black pumps. They always look expensive and will always be in fashion. Boots should fit your feet like gloves, otherwise your style will be ruined. Knee high boots can only be worn with skirts that slightly overlap the top edge of the boot. Women of Balzac age should not wear long boots with short skirts.

High boots made of satin. These boots look very elegant and stylish in cold weather. A pair with a classic pointed toe and a thin, graceful heel with a height of 5.5-8 centimeters will look especially elegant.

Ankle boots. These ankle-length shoes work well with a pair of stylish pants to create a continuous leg line. Both shoes and trousers must be selected in the same color scheme or tone.

Boots and short boots. Boots and short boots always go well with trousers. It is better not to wear skirts with them, except that you can try elongated models.

How do we buy shoes? How do we choose shoes?

Well, with women everything is clear. They go to buy ballerinas and leave with boots. Or vice versa, they go for boots, and buy pumps with red polka dots for their scarf ...

Seriously, rarely does anyone think about why it often happens that the shoes that we seemed to be trying on in the store and which seemed to fit us, and which, as it were, are not cheap, are eventually put in the closet or remain in the hallway , and the desire to wear it disappears.

Sometimes we spontaneously buy the shoes we like (they are so beautiful!), Or there was a sale (it’s a sin not to buy at such a price!), a stiff sole, the burning of the feet begins ...

If this is a weekend with high-heeled pumps, which we do not wear often, "on the way out", then some pain can be tolerated ... when shopping ... Then I would like to figure out how to choose the right shoes, so that later you do not suffer, then do not use specialized shoe care products to stretch the shoes and shoes, but to feel comfortable.

How to choose a shoe size?

Many people think that the most important thing is to choose the right size.

The most common are French (35-47) and English (2-12) sizes.

When choosing a size, most people know that shoes should not be small. Wearing small shoes for a long time can lead to severe deformity of the foot, painful Hallux Valgus bone and hammer toes. Severely clenched toes can interfere with blood circulation in the feet.

However, not everyone knows what happens if the shoe is large. In this case, the rolling movement of the foot is disturbed, there is still a little space in front of the toes in the toe of the shoe, which the fingers cannot control, and when walking, the foot hits the floor more rigidly than it should occur with a smooth rolling movement. The load on the joints increases and over time the metatarsus will "reduce".

So, first choose the right size. Many people have different feet in length, so when buying, focus on the one that is longer. If the model you like does not have half sizes and you have to take shoes a little longer than necessary, you can use an insole or half insole to make it fit.

According to modern statistics, men often buy shoes one size, or even two more than necessary. The point is that larger shoes are automatically wider, so with a wider foot, it seems that the shoes are larger and fit better.

If the shoe fits you in size, but nevertheless is too tight - in no case take one size larger. Look for another model better.

In fact, our foot is three-dimensional, the indicated size only speaks about the length of the shoe.

The next thing to look out for is completeness.

The concept of "fullness" in footwear should not be confused with the width of the footwear. The fullness of the shoe is determined by the girth in the bunches, i.e. the volume of the foot in its widest part. The so-called beam line runs around the foot along the protruding bones of the big toe and little toe. In addition, you must also take into account the rise of the foot. Based on these parameters, the fullness of the shoe is calculated. Internationally recognized fullness from E to I. The most common are F, G and H. F - for fairly thin legs, F1 / 2, G - for medium, from G1 / 2, H and more - for full legs. In stores with a wide range of shoes, shoes are usually presented in all sizes, ask the seller!

Already in childhood, the feet differ in completeness.

If you have correctly chosen the fullness, then the shoes fit snugly along the bundle line, but do not press. With too much fullness, the foot slips forward, and the heel "slides" out of the heel of the shoe. With too little weight, the shoes quickly "trample". In addition, it is bad for the joints of the fingers. they are in a "compressed" state.

Why is it important to choose the right completeness?

If the fullness is too great, the foot "dangles" inside, with each step the toes involuntarily try to "hold" inside, which leads to their overstrain and, as a result, spasms. If the fullness is too small - the toes and metatarsals are compressed with each step, the increased load causes not only characteristic pains, but also the deformity of the foot already described above.

• In the morning, a person's foot, as a rule, is smaller in size, and in the evening it increases. Therefore, ideally, shoes should be purchased around the time of the day when you intend to wear them in the future.
• For example, it is better to buy shoes for parties in the late afternoon, and shoes that you will wear all day - in the afternoon.
• Never try on shoes while sitting! When we walk, our feet lengthen. Therefore, be sure to walk in your shoes.
• Take some time to shop for shoes! Never buy shoes in a hurry. Put on your shoes and walk around the store for a few minutes.
• A good shoe store has experienced and attentive sales assistants. A good salesperson will first (imperceptibly) look at your feet. The store will be able to measure your foot length and choose the right size. A good salesperson knows the store's assortment and models that are narrower or fuller.

The materials of the upper and lining of the shoe are of great importance for the comfort of the feet. Natural leather has the property of "adjusting" to the foot during wear. The legs swell in the evening, the leather of the shoe stretches naturally during the day, repeating the contour of the leg, thus maintaining the necessary fullness of the shoe.

The leather lining relieves the burning sensation of the feet, maintains a good climate in the shoe.

Pay attention to the presence of an instep support. It's not just a high heel that can harm your health. Flat ballerinas can equally cause deformity of the foot and severe pain if they do not have an instep support or the sole is too stiff.

And once again about heels: of course, you don't need to give them up at all. The woman looks taller, more attractive, sexier in them. In any business, you just need to know when to stop and not wear high-heeled shoes all the time. The foot needs time to regenerate. It is recommended to walk in high heels no more than 3-4 hours a day. High heels interfere with the normal distribution of the load on the foot. Usually, the main weight falls on the heel, and with a high heel, it moves forward, on the metatarsus, which is not physiologically designed for this. As a result, a transverse flatfoot and / or Hallux Valgus "bone" develops.

When shopping for high-heeled shoes, it is especially important that they fit well. We recommend that you purchase special pads that relieve stress on the metatarsus along with the shoes. They come in leather or gel (see our recommendations for summer insoles).

We hope that these small tips will help you choose shoes that will fit perfectly and will not give you pain and frustration.

We also found information in a book published by the German Shoe Institute “Wie finde ich meinen passenden Schuh?” (How can I choose a shoe that will fit?)

Shoes play a huge role in the development and prevention of foot and toe problems such as bunion, callus, callus, and hammer toe. Inappropriate shoes make these conditions worse and more painful.

Key points

Comfortable, well-fitting shoes provide you with:

• Relief of pain in feet or toes caused by deformity and joint problems.

  Preventing problems with your feet or toes from developing or worsening.

  Preventing the recurrence of toe joint problems after corrective surgery.

Before you go shopping for shoes designed to correct your foot problems, ask your doctor for the advice you need.

What are the most common foot problems?

Bumps on the outside of the big toe, calluses, calluses, and hammer toes are the most common problems that can develop over time. These problems can range from simple discomfort to painful sensations. In severe cases, they can lead to the inability to wear shoes.

See images of the bump on the outside of the big toe; hammer toe; callousness; and corns.

Why are good shoes so important?

Well-fitting shoes are key to both preventing and treating foot problems. You may develop calluses, calluses, bursitis, or a hammer toe from a wide variety of causes, such as joint problems, genetic predisposition, or stroke. But shoes play a huge role in how severe the condition of the feet will be.

If you have undergone surgery to correct your foot problems, wearing the right shoes will reduce the chances of these problems recurring.

Although you can wear tight shoes or high heels after surgery without pain, these types of shoes increase the likelihood of recurrence of foot problems.

How do I find the right shoes?

For some people, the only acceptable option is sandals or athletic shoes that do not chafe on existing bumps, calluses, calluses, or hammer toes. But most people can choose shoes that will not hurt and allow them to lead a normal life. Before you go shopping for new shoes, ask your doctor for specific recommendations that reflect your needs.

When you go shopping for shoes, keep the following points in mind:

Measure shoes at the end of the day when your feet are at their largest due to normal swelling.

If you have shoe inlays or orthopedic insoles, take them with you to try them with a variety of shoes.

Shoe size, especially width, can change with age. By measuring the size of both feet, you can choose your shoes well and determine which foot is larger. Choose shoes according to how her foot feels, which is larger.

During the fitting, you need to stand and carefully listen to what you feel.

Shop around to make sure the shoes really fit you.

If you think that the shoe is right for you, but it is not your normal size, use your feelings as a guide. Never mind the size.

If your shoes fit well, you don't have to wear them out.

If one shoe is tight, the salesperson may be able to stretch it.

When choosing the right shoes, look for:

Low heel. Avoid tight, pointed shoes and high heels. High heels increase pressure on the forefoot and toe joints. If you cannot avoid wearing pumps or high-heeled shoes, choose heels no higher than 5 cm.

Shoes that are wide and deep at the level of the foot, especially in the toes. The distance between your longest toe and the end of the shoe should be at least 1.3 cm. You should be able to wiggle your toes in the shoe.

Shoes with a hard back (reinforced heel) that will prevent your foot from slipping out of the shoe.

Flexible outsole that allows your toes to flex as you walk.

A shoe that will fit tightly on the instep of your foot, at its widest point.

Closed shoes that are better than lace-ups. Athletic shoes can be a good choice.

Shoes that breathe when your foot sweats. Avoid plastic or vinyl shoes.

Shoes that have no seams that chafe or irritate the skin over your skin problem.

Every girl and woman wants, and most importantly, strives to be elegant, attractive and irresistible. Shoes with beautiful legs are one of the most dangerous female weapons. Regardless of what a woman's foot size is, she can look spectacular and modern.

Women with large or non-standard foot sizes often face difficulties when choosing and buying shoes. Large footwear should be well balanced and stable in the last. Women strive for the comfort and beauty that they demand from even the most incredible shoes or boots. Such shoes are difficult not only to pick up, but also to find in stores or retail outlets, because many factories do not produce large-sized shoes. Therefore, some owners of large legs have to sew shoes to order or spend weeks looking for the right pair. At the same time, you should not go through the models, looking for a beautiful or unusual, because the assortment does not imply a choice. For owners of large sizes, there are special stores or retail outlets, however, at the same time, women must be ready to admit that they are large, which is sometimes very difficult.

A large selection of any footwear, including a very large one, is also offered by the Internet. In numerous online stores you will be offered to buy a variety of shoes of large and even very small sizes. Plus size women's shoes are the cause of excitement and anxiety. Many women perceive large foot size as a disadvantage and a problem that has no solution. That is why they mentally tune in to their unattractiveness, therefore they are ready to buy any shoes that fit in size. However, this is the wrong position.

You should buy only the pair that you want to wear, and in it you should look attractive and desirable. The factor of convenience and beauty should not be discounted either. After all, uncomfortable, ugly shoes will bring its owner a bad mood, and may even cause internal psychological complexes that have developed on this basis. Psychologists are sure that shoes make it possible to judge the inclinations and character of a woman. After all, shoes to some extent reflect the character and mood of the owner: comfortable sneakers - active rest, elegant evening shoes - playful mood, flirting; moccasins - a working way, a comfortable environment. In addition, shoes should match the woman's overall dressing style. Large women's shoes in such an assortment, according to all women's whims and desires, are almost not sold anywhere.

Women's shoes of non-standard or large sizes should be made taking into account all the anatomical features of a woman's leg; in sock they should be comfortable and durable. But in addition to the difficulties with the choice, there are further troubles with shoes for the owners of large feet - corns, corns, chafing, fatigue, swelling and much more.

Gone are the days of uniform shoe size and consistently high quality, now all shoes come off different conveyors and come to stores from all over the world. Therefore, footwear has its own "origin" and differs in size, height, fullness, height, quality and price. In such conditions, it is difficult to choose the right shoes, even of a standard size, not to mention non-standard ones.

How to choose the right shoes if you have already found a store with large shoes. Know that the width (aka fullness) of the shoe should match the width of the foot at its widest point. If this parameter is met, you will be provided with walking comfort. In order to choose the right one, wearing a half pair, you should run your fingers along the line to the little finger from the thumb bone. The skin in this area can wrinkle, if you apply force, you can collect a small fold on the crest of the toe. If you succeed, then you will not have problems with calluses, curved toes and chafing. However, all these problems are achieved if the relief of the bones of the toes protrudes easily and clearly on the leather of the shoe. This is an indicator of tight shoes. True, such methods are valid for leather or suede shoes; with leatherette, such procedures are unlikely to be successful. You should also not hope that genuine leather is carried and will be on your leg, because leather is not always of excellent quality.

When choosing a size, be aware that when walking and loading the legs, the foot lengthens up to 1.5 and expands by 1.7. In addition, when walking, the toes must move freely. Therefore, if you have an intermediate size, it is worth choosing the larger one to be sure of a comfortable fit. It is generally recommended to try on shoes in the second half of the day, so that by that time the leg will become a little poured and become more flat. You need to try on shoes while standing, and put on both feet.

We must not forget for aesthetic tricks. Women with short legs and wide feet are prescribed shoes with longitudinal cuts, straps or locks. Cross straps and cuts visually shorten the legs and make them wider, the same function is performed by the light (white) color - it makes the leg larger. For thin legs, long boots and high heels are suitable, thin ones will make the legs even thinner. Full hairpins and a pile of thin straps will not work either.

Neither beauty nor health should be sacrificed. Therefore, when choosing shoes, do not compromise with your wallet and choose only comfortable and high-quality shoes.