Remember, in the post How Much is Enough Room for Toes we told you that there should be some space between the longest toe and the end of the toe box of the shoe.
Is there an exact measure for how much space is needed?🤔
👍Surely, yes. In different countries at different times, a number of studies were conducted on how shoe length affects feet and health in general. Scientists measured feet, insoles, soles, monitored the condition of the feet of the "guinea pigs" and based on this, they derived an average indicator of "additional shoe length" - 12 mm.
By the way, if you like to read more about the research, write to us and we'll give you some links
We'll reassure you: you don't have to go to a fitting with a super-precise ruler 😆
This figure is not strictly fixed and depends on the width and fit of the shoe, the characteristics of the foot (its shape, the degree of expansion when walking) and even on whether we have the correct step pattern. In general, scientists have agreed that the optimal gap is 10-17 mm.
In which cases you should get shoes with more space, and in which cases with less - we'll let you know below. In the meantime, please share: how do you determine if there is enough free space in the shoe? We'll be glad to read about your experience in the comments.
Continuing with the above ☝️
Scientists have deduced the "ideal indicator" of the gap in shoes - 12 mm
In which case can you choose a slightly smaller size:
🔸if the shape of the shoe last matches the shape of the foot very well;
🔸the shoe last itself is spacious, with plenty of room for the toes;
🔸the shoe is firmly fixed around the heel and does not "slip";
🔸the heel fits tightly to the back of the shoe and there is no extra space between them;
🔸there is enough free space above the toes.
You can take a slightly larger size if:
🔸you wear shoes with socks (in this case, be sure to put them on when trying them on!);
🔸wear with insoles that take up some of the space;
🔸you have a foot shape that requires more space (e.g., "square", etc.)
🔸these are hiking shoes (when descending from the mountains, the foot may move forward more).
☝️Children's feet have their own characteristics. We will tell you about them in the further posts.
In any case, we advise you to focus on how comfortable your foot is. Try on shoes not just sitting/standing, but walk around, squat in them, roll from your toes to your heels. When moving, your toes should not touch the edge, but there should also be no feeling that your foot is "sliding" in the shoe.
And if you still have doubts, contact experienced consultants. In our store you can buy shoes both online and with an on-site fitting. And in any case, we will help you choose the best model and the best size, and if something does not fit, there is an exchange and return.
Have a nice shopping!