Beyond Length: Why Shoe Width Matters!
Most people focus solely on shoe length when buying footwear, but **shoe width is equally critical** for comfort, foot health, and overall fit. A shoe that is too narrow can cause pinching, bunions, and nerve damage, while one that is too wide can lead to instability and blisters. Understanding your foot's width and the various shoe width designations will revolutionize your shoe shopping experience.
What is Shoe Width?
Shoe width refers to the measurement across the widest part of your foot, typically the ball of your foot, where your toes begin to spread. Manufacturers use letters (like B, D, E) to denote these widths, but the actual measurements can vary by brand and even shoe style. It's important to remember that these letters are relative to the shoe's length – a wide width in a size 6 will be a different absolute measurement than a wide width in a size 12.
Common Shoe Width Designations:
While exact measurements differ, here's a general guide to common shoe width letters for men and women, usually associated with US and sometimes UK sizing:
| Designation | Women's (US) | Men's (US) | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| A, AA, AAA, AAAA | Narrow to Super Slim | N/A (Very Rare) | For very slender feet. Multiple 'A's indicate increasingly narrower widths. |
| B | Medium (Standard) | Narrow | The most common width for women. Considered a narrow fit for men. |
| C | Wide | Medium (Standard) | Often the first "wide" option for women. The most common width for men. |
| D | Extra Wide | Wide | A wider option for women, and the first "wide" option for men. |
| E, EE, EEE, EEEE | Extra Wide to Super Wide | Extra Wide to Super Wide | Multiple 'E's indicate increasingly wider widths for both men and women. |
How to Measure Your Foot Width:
The most accurate way to determine your shoe width is to measure your foot. You can find detailed instructions in our How to Measure Your Foot guide. Essentially:
- Trace your foot on a piece of paper.
- Measure across the widest part of your foot outline (typically across the ball of your foot).
- Record this measurement in centimeters or inches.
- Compare this measurement to brand-specific size charts, which often include width guides.
Remember to also save your foot width to your My Fit Profile for easy access when using our converters!
Tips for Finding the Right Width:
- Measure Both Feet: Always measure both feet and use the larger measurement.
- Measure in the Evening: Feet tend to swell throughout the day, so measure in the evening for the most accurate fit.
- Consider Shoe Style: Some shoe styles (e.g., pointed-toe heels) naturally have a narrower toe box, which might require you to go up a width.
- Read Reviews: Customer reviews often mention if a shoe "runs narrow" or "runs wide."
- Don't Force It: If a shoe feels tight across the ball of your foot, don't assume it will "stretch out" enough for comfort. Choose a wider size.
Finding the correct shoe width is a game-changer for foot comfort and health. Take the time to measure your feet properly, and you'll step out in confidence every time!