Foot Types and Foot Width: How They Affect the Choice of Barefoot Footwear

When choosing barefoot footwear, it is crucial to understand the shape and width of your foot. The essence of barefoot is to respect the natural anatomy of the foot, allowing freedom of movement and a comfortable fit. Knowing the shape and width of your feet will help you find a model suitable for your needs.

Why is it important to know your foot type?

The foot type and width influence how the footwear fits and the level of comfort you can experience. Barefoot footwear allows the toes to spread and move freely, but this is only possible if you choose a model that respects the shape of your foot. A proper fit reduces pressure, prevents discomfort, and helps maintain a natural posture.

 

Foot Types: 

1. Greek Foot

Characteristic: The second toe is longer than the first (big toe).

Recommendation: This foot type requires a wide toe box with enough space in the toe area, avoiding compression on the second toe. The ideal barefoot footwear will allow proper extension without discomfort.

 

2. Egyptian Foot

Characteristic: The first toe (big toe) is the longest, and the other toes decrease in length.
Recommendation: Look for footwear with a toe box that follows this shape, avoiding pressure on the big toe. Barefoot footwear should allow the toes to align without being forced.

3. Square or Roman Foot

Characteristic: All toes have a similar length, creating a straighter shape at the front of the foot.

Recommendation: You will need a particularly wide toe box so that all toes have enough space and can settle without restrictions. This is essential in barefoot footwear to allow the natural spreading of the foot.

 

Foot Width

1. Wide Foot
   Characteristic: The area of the metatarsals and toes is wider than usual.
   Recommendation: Look for barefoot footwear with additional width options, or models specially designed for wide feet. Footwear that is tight on the sides could cause discomfort and problems such as chafing or corns.

2. Narrow Foot
   Characteristic: The area of the metatarsals and toes is narrower than usual.
   Recommendation: Make sure the barefoot footwear has adjustments or a design adapted to provide a good fit without too much empty space. This ensures the foot stays stable inside the footwear, avoiding slipping.

 

How to measure your foot type and width

1. Measuring Foot Type: Place your foot on a sheet of paper, trace the outline, and observe the shape of the toes to identify if you have a Greek, Egyptian, or square foot.
2. Measuring Width: Use a tape measure to measure the widest part of your foot (usually at the metatarsal area). This measurement will help you identify if you need barefoot footwear with more space on the sides or if a normal fit would be suitable.

 

How does barefoot footwear adapt to different foot types?

Barefoot footwear is designed to provide a wider fit in the toe area, adapting to different foot shapes and widths. We at ROOTS BAREFOOT have several types of toe boxes and lasts to fit any foot type. Take a look at our collection of barefoot footwear.