Choosing the right size for barefoot shoes is key to a comfortable and natural experience. Barefoot shoes require finding a precise fit that allows the foot to move freely and adopt its natural shape. Below, we explain how to measure your foot at home and answer the most common questions to help you choose the ideal size.
Why is it important to measure your foot accurately?
Barefoot shoes allow the foot to move freely, without restrictions. Therefore, a well-fitting size ensures that the shoe is neither too wide nor too tight, but just enough so that the toes can spread out and the foot is stable with every step. Accurate sizing ensures that you get the most out of the benefits of barefoot.
How to measure feet?
There are two simple methods to measure your feet at home.
Option 1: with the heel resting on a wall
- Prepare the paper and wall: Place a sheet of paper on the floor, taped to a wall.
- Place your foot on the paper: Place your heel against the wall to make sure it is fully supported and well positioned.
- Mark the longest finger: Using a pencil or marker, make a mark on the paper where your longest finger reaches.
- Measure the distance: Using a ruler, measure from the edge of the sheet (aligned with the wall) to the mark. This measurement is the exact length of your foot.
Option 2: Tracing the outline of the entire foot
- Place your foot on the paper: Place a sheet of paper on the floor and place your foot on it.
- Trace the outline of the foot: With a pencil in a vertical position (perpendicular to the ground), draw the outline of the foot. This prevents the line from being wider than necessary.
- Measure the length and width of your foot: Use a ruler to measure the distance from your heel to the longest toe on the drawing, then measure the widest part of your foot, usually at the metatarsals.
Additional tips for accurate measurement
- Measure both feet: Some people have a slight difference in the size of each foot. Use the measurement of the larger foot to choose the size.
- Measure at the end of the day: Feet tend to swell a bit during the day. Measuring them at the end of the day ensures a comfortable fit in all circumstances.
- Consider sock thickness: If you plan on wearing toe socks or socks with a specific thickness, measure your foot with them on to ensure the shoe will have adequate room.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it important to measure both feet?
It is common to have slight differences in size between both feet. By measuring both and using the size of the larger foot as a reference, you ensure that both feet will have enough room and avoid discomfort in the larger foot.
What to do if one foot is longer than the other?
Choose the size based on the largest foot. This will ensure that the larger foot is not compressed, and the barefoot shoe will allow for a comfortable, unrestricted posture.
When is the best time to measure your feet?
Measuring your feet at the end of the day is ideal, as they tend to expand a bit after the day's activities. This ensures that the size is comfortable even during times of greatest swelling.
How often should I measure my feet?
Although adult foot size is usually stable, wearing barefoot shoes can help the foot expand naturally as muscles strengthen and the foot adapts to more natural movement. For this reason, it is recommended to measure your feet every 6 months to ensure that your shoes continue to offer the perfect fit.
Why do barefoot shoes need extra space?
Unlike traditional shoes, barefoot footwear should allow the toes to expand and the foot to move freely, replicating the experience of walking barefoot. Leaving extra space (around 1 cm, but it will depend on each brand and model) helps achieve this freedom.
How does foot width affect shoe selection?
Barefoot shoes are designed to allow for more room in the toe box. If you have wide feet, look for barefoot shoe models that offer a roomy fit in the toe box. If you have narrow feet, make sure the shoe has adjustments to keep your foot in place.
Is it necessary to measure the foot with socks?
If you plan to wear socks with barefoot shoes, it is recommended to measure your foot with socks on. This prevents the foot from being too tight and ensures an accurate measurement.
By following these steps and tips, you can choose the right barefoot shoe for your feet and take advantage of all its benefits. Measuring your foot accurately helps you find a comfortable fit that respects the natural anatomy of the foot, allowing you to enjoy the barefoot experience to the fullest.
At ROOTS we have models to suit all foot types. Take a look.