Shoe Fit Tips

So how important is fit? Its EVERYTHING! Medical statistics show that 85% of America is wearing the WRONG SIZE! That means you. This page has tips and hints to use when selecting a new shoe. The tips are by brand to make it easiest to shop. You might want to get some more info before you read the tips below on fit and lasts to help you.

Watch for these symbols as you read through the tips. These icons can help serve as shortcuts for you.

When you see this symbol, this indicates that the brand traditionally fits very close to the size and width listed or in other words - true. So a D width fits like a D width and so on.

When you see this symbol, this indicates that the brand fits a little full and is bets for wider or higher volume feet. So a D width fits more like an E and so on.

When you see this symbol, this indicates that the brand usually has a more narrow last and fits a little slim and is best for narrow or lower volume feet. So a D width fits more like a C and so on.

Enjoy!

Kenneth Cole  This brand is what we call pedestrian style. That means they try to appeal to the masses with their fit. These styles will fit full. The widths tend to be a D/E size and the lengths are full as well. These are not for the narrow foot. If you have a narrow foot, to get you in the right length will give you too much width.

Mezlan  This brand is imported from Spain. Great quality, but they use a European last which is a bit shorter than domestic. So, if you normally wear a size 11, then you would most likely need a 11 1/2 in a Mezlan. Also, the widths fit like a D/E.

New Balance  Like all athletic brands, the New Balance shoes fit about 1/2 size short. This means that if you are a 9 1/2, the you would wear a 10 in New Balance. Their widths, however, fit true.

Nike  One of the worst fitting shoes made despite its great popularity, this one is tough. In many cases, the Nike shoes are up to 1 full size short. This would mean that if you wear a 10 dress shoe, then you would probably wear a 11 Nike. Like Kenneth Cole, these shoes also fit a little full, so narrow feet stay away.

Spira  Unlike other athletic brands, this line fits a little narrow. The width will tend to the C/D scale. If you have a narrow or low volume foot, this is a good shoe for you. Also, you can probably stay true to your width. 

Want more? Choose from the links below to get your degree in Fit!

The Curriculum

• Fit 101 - Get Measured!     Part 1 - Understand the importance of measurement.
• Fit 101 - How to Measure Your Feet    Part 2 - Learn the three ways to measure your foot and what the info means 
• Fit 201 - Understanding Shoe Sizes      What do all those numbers and letters mean?
• Fit 301 - Tips for Best Fit     The Top 10 List for Proper Fit
• Fit 401 - The Stories Shoes Tell    See if your current shoes think you have the right fit.