October 15, 2024
How to tell if shoes fit properly
Written by: Chris Fry
Ever walked in shoes that don't feel right? We've all been there, and it's no fun. At Kizik, we believe a proper fit is everything.
Chasing the bus, sprinting through the airport, or strolling around—your shoes should support every step, not slow you down. Here’s how to tell if they fit just right.
Why does fit matter?
Your shoes are the foundation of your day. Just like a house needs a solid base to stay strong, your feet need the proper support to carry you through everyday life.
Here’s how to nail the perfect fit.
Prevent pain and injury
Shoes that fit well help you avoid common foot ailments, like blisters, bunions, and calluses. They can also help prevent long-term damage to foot structure and joint pain in your knees and hips. (Don’t cut corners on this.)
Elevate performance
Whether you’re hitting the gym, walking in the park, or running errands, the right fit provides the stability and support necessary for your body to move efficiently without fatigue.
Support posture and gait
Properly fitting shoes contribute to the alignment of your feet, which directly impacts your posture and walking pattern. Good posture leads to less muscle fatigue and can help manage back pain.
Encourage comfort and endurance
Shoes that fit correctly are inherently more comfortable. They reduce discomfort and allow you to focus on your daily activities without frequent breaks or adjustments.
Extend shoe lifespan
When shoes fit right, they wear down evenly and last longer. That means you won’t have to replace them as frequently, saving you time and money—and the hassle of breaking in new shoes all the time.
Needless to say, well-fitting shoes are an investment in your health and well-being. Proper fitting shoes from the get-go sets the stage for healthier, happier feet, and a happier you.
What are the signs of a well-fitted shoe?
Finding that sweet spot where comfort meets functionality requires every part of your shoe to perfectly serve its purpose. Here’s how you can tell if you’ve got a well-fitted pair:
Comfort over time
A well-fitted shoe shouldn’t need breaking in—it should feel comfortable from the start and keep supporting you all day. That’s the mark of a great fit.
Heel placement
The heel of your shoe should fit snugly against the back of your foot. If your heel slips out easily when you walk, your shoes are a little too big. On the other hand, if your shoe pinches or rubs your heel, it’s a little too tight.
Toe room
Your toes should have enough room to wiggle slightly within the shoe. There should also be about a thumb’s width of space between the front of the shoe and your longest toe. This space ensures your toes aren’t cramped, which helps prevent hammer toes and ingrown toenails.
Arch support
Proper arch support is crucial, especially if you spend a lot of time standing. Your shoe should contour to the natural arches of your feet, providing support without causing discomfort. This distributes weight evenly and maintains balance.
Overall fit
Your shoe should feel secure around your foot but not tight. It should hold your foot firmly in place so it doesn’t slide forward, which can often lead to unnecessary pressure on the toes or ankle.
How do different types of shoes vary in fit?
Shoes aren’t a one-size-fits-all affair; each type has its own unique fit. Whether it's athletic shoes, formal wear, or casual slip-ons, understanding these nuances can make a big difference in your comfort and performance.
Athletic shoes
Athletic shoes are built for activity, needing a fit that supports quick moves and adds cushioning. Runners need enough room for foot expansion yet a snug fit to prevent sliding.
Formal shoes
Formal shoes tends to be narrower to achieve a sleek, polished look. These shoes might not have the forgiving stretch of an athletic pair, so ensuring a precise fit is key to avoiding discomfort during long hours of use.
Slip-ons
Kizik’s slip-on shoes redefine what it means to have a pair that fits right out of the box. Engineered for ultimate convenience, our hands-free slip-on technology provides a secure fit without the fuss of laces. It stays comfy all day long and walks the balance between roomy and snug for an active lifestyle.
Specialty shoes
Specialty shoes like hiking boots and ballet flats have unique fit needs. Hiking boots need ankle support and sole cushioning, while ballet flats should hug the foot for stability without squeezing.
How can you keep your shoes looking and feeling new?
Caring for your shoes is essential for maintaining their appearance and extending their lifespan. Here are the best ways to keep your footwear in tip-top shape:
Regular cleaning
Dirt and grime quickly degrade the quality of your shoes. Use a soft brush or a damp cloth for routine cleaning. For tougher stains, a gentle, specialized foam can restore their appearance without damaging delicate materials.
Use a shoe brush
A good shoe brush is a must, especially for textured materials like suede or nubuck. Regular brushing can remove dust and prevent dirt from becoming embedded in the fibers, keeping your shoes looking newer—for longer.
Moisture management
If your shoes get wet, let them air dry away from direct heat. This prevents the materials from warping or the adhesives from weakening. Stuffing shoes with newspaper can also help absorb moisture from the inside and maintain the shoe's shape.
Protective sprays
Applying a water and stain repellent can protect your shoes from the elements. Our Rain & Stain Guard provides a breathable barrier that keeps moisture and stains out. It can help your shoes withstand weather and the test of time.
Proper storage
Store your shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Extreme temperatures and moisture can accelerate the deterioration of materials and cause your shoes to lose their shape.
Rotate your shoes
Wearing the same pair of shoes every day can cause them to wear out faster. Rotating between different pairs allows each set to rest and reduces the stress on any single pair.
Check for wear
Regularly check your shoes for signs of wear, such as thinning soles, loose seams, or damaged uppers. Catching these issues early allows the problem to be fixed ahead of time.
Conditioning leather
If you have leather shoes, use a leather conditioner every few months to keep the material supple and prevent cracking. This is particularly important for shoes that are frequently used or exposed to harsh conditions.
When should you replace your shoes?
Let's face it: Parting ways with your go-to shoes can feel like saying goodbye to an old friend. They’re just shoes. Let them go.
Here's how to spot the signs that your shoes are through.
Sole story
When the bottoms are as smooth as your kitchen floor, or you can see through to the inside, they’re done. Uneven wear on the sole can throw off your stride. Not good for your joints.
Inside out
If the inside of your shoe looks like it’s been through a battle—with flattened insoles or exposed padding—it’s time to move on.
External evidence
Cracks, splits, or holes on your shoes are clear indicators that they’ve done their duty. These flaws can let in water and cause discomfort, leaving your feet (and you) unhappy.
Smell test
Sometimes, shoes hang onto odors. If a good clean doesn’t banish the stench, it’s time for them to go.
After you’ve tossed your tired-no-go-shoes in the trash, step into something new, like a pair of hands-free Kizik shoes.
The bottom line
Proper fit keeps your shoes comfortable and supportive all day, encouraging healthy movement and lasting longer.
Kizik makes it easy to find your perfect fit with hands-free, slip-on shoes that blend style and comfort—no fuss, just slip in and go. Ready to experience ultimate convenience? Step into Kiziks and feel the difference.
Sources:
Common Foot Problems, Pain & Causes | Penn Medicine
Why Good Footwear is So Important for Your Health | CHP