Step-by-Step Guide: How to Buy Shoes That Fit Perfectly and Last Long

Buying shoes might seem like a straightforward task, but anyone who’s suffered through a day in ill-fitting footwear knows the importance of making informed decisions. Whether you’re looking for athletic sneakers, elegant heels, sturdy boots, or comfortable everyday shoes, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the shoe-buying process. From understanding your feet to caring for your new purchases, let’s ensure you find shoes that not only look good but feel amazing too.

Step 1: Understanding Your Feet

Before you even think about styles or brands, it’s crucial to understand your own feet. This foundational knowledge will significantly impact your shoe choices and overall comfort.

1.1 Measure Your Feet Accurately

It’s not enough to just guess your shoe size. Foot size can change over time due to various factors like age, weight gain/loss, pregnancy, and foot conditions. Therefore, measuring your feet regularly is key.

How to Measure Your Feet:

1. Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need a piece of paper larger than your foot, a pencil or pen, and a ruler or measuring tape.
2. Prepare the Paper: Place the paper on a hard, flat surface, like a floor.
3. Position Your Foot: Stand on the paper with your full weight distributed evenly. Make sure you are wearing the type of socks you’d typically wear with the shoes you are intending to purchase (e.g. thin socks for dress shoes or thick socks for hiking boots).
4. Trace Your Foot: Carefully trace the outline of your foot using the pencil or pen, keeping the writing instrument upright. You may want to have someone help you with this to ensure accuracy.
5. Measure the Length: Use a ruler or measuring tape to measure the distance from the heel to the longest toe. Do this for both feet, as they may differ slightly. Record both measurements.
6. Measure the Width: Find the widest part of your foot and measure across this area. Again, do this for both feet and record.
7. Compare Measurements to Size Charts: Shoe sizes vary between brands and even different styles within the same brand. Consult the manufacturer’s size chart which can usually be found online. If you are buying in person ask for assistance from staff. Always choose a size based on the larger foot, when there is a size difference.

Tips for Accurate Measurement:

• Measure in the Afternoon or Evening: Feet tend to swell throughout the day, so measuring later in the day will give you a more accurate size for your maximum foot size.
• Measure Both Feet: As stated above, foot sizes may differ so measure both and base the fit on the larger foot.
• Take measurements at least once a year: It is worth rechecking your measurements annually to keep up with any foot changes that may have occurred.

1.2 Identify Your Arch Type

Your arch type significantly affects the type of support and cushioning you need in your shoes.

How to Identify Your Arch Type:

1. The Wet Test: Wet the sole of your foot and then step onto a piece of dark paper or cardboard. Observe the imprint.
2. Analyze the Imprint:
   • Normal Arch: You’ll see a distinct curve along the inside of your foot, with a band about half the width of the full foot connecting the heel and ball.
   • High Arch: You’ll see a very thin or nearly nonexistent connection between the heel and ball of your foot.
   • Flat Arch: You’ll see a nearly complete imprint of your entire foot, with little to no curve along the inside.

Arch Type and Shoe Selection:

• Normal Arch: You typically have good pronation (the natural inward rolling of the foot) and can wear most types of shoes.
• High Arch: You need shoes with good cushioning to absorb impact and potentially arch support. Look for shoes with stability and curved last (the shape of the sole).
• Flat Arch: You need shoes that offer good stability and support to control pronation. Look for shoes with straight last and motion control features. Orthotic inserts can also be helpful.

1.3 Consider Any Foot Conditions

Existing foot conditions may require special shoe features or even prescription footwear. If you have concerns, it’s best to seek advice from a podiatrist.

Common Foot Conditions to Consider:

• Bunions: Choose shoes with a wide toe box to avoid pressure on the bunion area. Soft, flexible materials are also recommended.
• Hammertoes: Avoid shoes with a narrow toe box or high heels. Opt for shoes with plenty of room in the toe area to prevent irritation and discomfort.
• Plantar Fasciitis: Look for shoes with good arch support, cushioning, and heel support. Consider orthotic inserts.
• Neuroma: Choose shoes with a wide toe box and a cushioned sole to minimize pressure on the nerve.
• Diabetic Neuropathy: Seek shoes with good cushioning, support, and a seamless interior to prevent rubbing and irritation.

Step 2: Identifying Your Needs

Once you understand your feet, you need to figure out what you’ll be using the shoes for. This step will help narrow down your options and ensure that you purchase shoes appropriate for your lifestyle.

2.1 Determine the Purpose

Consider the primary activity for which you’ll use the shoes:

• Everyday Wear: Comfort, versatility, and durability are key.
• Exercise/Athletics: Support, cushioning, and breathability are essential.
• Work/Professional: Style, comfort, and safety (depending on the profession).
• Formal Occasions: Style, elegance, and fit are paramount.
• Outdoor Activities: Durability, weather resistance, and traction are necessary.

2.2 Consider the Weather and Environment

Think about the typical weather conditions where you’ll be wearing the shoes. This will affect the materials and design features you need.

• Hot Weather: Choose breathable materials like canvas, mesh, or leather. Look for sandals or open-toe options.
• Cold Weather: Opt for insulated and waterproof materials like leather, suede, or synthetic materials. Choose boots with good traction.
• Rainy/Wet Weather: Look for water-resistant or waterproof materials like rubber or treated leather. Choose shoes with good grip.
• Dry/Dusty Environments: Avoid materials that can easily absorb dust, such as suede. Look for shoes with durable, easy-to-clean materials.

2.3 Consider your Style Preferences

While comfort is paramount, you should also consider shoes that align with your personal style. You need to feel good as well as look good! Think about:

• Colors: Do you prefer neutral colors or bold shades?
• Styles: Do you like classic, trendy, or sporty styles?
• Materials: Do you prefer leather, suede, fabric, or synthetic materials?
• Heel Heights: Do you prefer flat, low-heeled, or high-heeled shoes?

Step 3: Choosing the Right Shoes

Now that you know your feet and your needs, you can start selecting specific shoes.

3.1 Understanding Shoe Terminology

Familiarizing yourself with shoe terminology is essential for making informed decisions.

• Toe Box: The front part of the shoe that encloses the toes. It should be wide enough to allow your toes to wiggle freely and should not cause any pressure.
• Heel Counter: The rear part of the shoe that supports the heel. A firm heel counter provides better stability.
• Upper: The top part of the shoe, made from various materials like leather, mesh, or synthetic.
• Midsole: The part of the shoe between the insole and the outsole. It provides cushioning and support.
• Outsole: The bottom part of the shoe that makes contact with the ground. It provides traction and durability.
• Insole: The removable padding inside the shoe that adds comfort.
• Last: The foot-shaped mold used to construct the shoe. It determines the fit and shape.
• Pronation: The natural inward rolling motion of the foot during walking or running.
• Neutral Pronation: The foot rolls inward to a normal degree.
• Overpronation: The foot rolls inward excessively, requiring shoes with added stability.
• Supination (Underpronation): The foot rolls outward, requiring shoes with extra cushioning.

3.2 Selecting the Right Type of Shoe

Here are some of the main types of shoes and when you might consider them:

• Sneakers: Versatile for everyday wear, exercise, and casual outings. Choose running shoes for running, walking shoes for walking, and cross-training shoes for general workouts.
• Dress Shoes: Formal shoes for professional and special occasions. Consider loafers, oxfords, brogues, or heels depending on your style and the occasion.
• Boots: Suitable for various purposes, including cold weather, hiking, and fashion. Choose hiking boots for trails, work boots for manual labor, and fashion boots for style.
• Sandals: Ideal for warm weather and casual activities. Choose flip-flops for the beach, slides for lounging, and supportive sandals for walking.
• Heels: Formal shoes for special occasions or work. Choose the heel height according to comfort and event suitability.
• Flats: Comfortable and versatile shoes for everyday wear. Choose ballet flats, loafers, or oxfords depending on your style and needs.

3.3 Assessing Shoe Quality and Materials

Pay close attention to the quality of materials and construction of the shoes you choose.

• Leather: Durable, breathable, and molds to your foot over time. High quality leather ages beautifully. Look for full grain or top grain leather.
• Suede: Soft and flexible but can be more difficult to clean and maintain. Suede should be water protected.
• Canvas: Lightweight, breathable, and affordable. A good choice for warmer weather.
• Mesh: Highly breathable, often used in athletic shoes.
• Synthetic Materials: Durable, water-resistant, and often more affordable than natural materials.
• Rubber: Durable, flexible, and water resistant. Often used for outsoles and rain boots.
• Construction: Check that seams and stitching are neat and secure, and that there are no signs of glue or uneven joins.

Step 4: Trying on Shoes and Assessing Fit

The most crucial step is trying on shoes and assessing their fit. Don’t rely solely on the indicated size; each shoe is different.

4.1 When to Try on Shoes

• Try on shoes in the afternoon or evening: as previously mentioned, feet tend to swell throughout the day, so fitting them later in the day will provide a more accurate measurement.
• Try on shoes after you have been active: if you are planning on wearing shoes for exercising or walking consider doing this before trying the shoes on, to ensure that they will fit while your feet are at their maximum size for that activity.

4.2 How to Properly Try on Shoes

1. Wear the Right Socks: Wear the type of socks you plan to wear with the shoes. As mentioned previously, thickness will affect how shoes fit.
2. Stand Up: Always try on shoes while standing and fully weighting the feet.
3. Check Toe Length: There should be about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. Your toes should not touch the end of the shoe.
4. Check Toe Width: Your toes should be able to move freely within the toe box. They should not be cramped or squeezed together.
5. Assess Heel Fit: Your heel should fit snugly in the heel counter and not slip out. It is crucial that there is not too much movement or ‘slippage’ in the heel area as it can cause issues while walking.
6. Check Instep Fit: The top of the shoe should feel snug but not tight across the instep. It should be comfortable.
7. Walk Around: Walk around the store or try out a similar action that you intend to do with the shoes. Pay attention to any areas of discomfort or pinching.
8. Don’t Assume They Will ‘Break In’: While some shoes will stretch or mold to your feet slightly, it is not safe to assume that shoes will stretch significantly over time. They should feel comfortable and supportive from the first try.

4.3 Fit Assessment Checklist

• Comfort: How do the shoes feel immediately when you put them on? Pay attention to any pressure points or areas of rubbing.
• Support: Do the shoes provide adequate support for your arch and heel?
• Flexibility: Do the shoes flex in the right places as you walk? The sole should bend in line with the ball of your foot.
• Breathability: If the shoes are for warm weather or exercise, how breathable are they?
• Fit with Inserts: If you use orthotic inserts, try the shoes on with the inserts in place.
• Overall Feeling: How do you feel when wearing the shoes? Do you feel confident and comfortable?

Step 5: Making the Purchase

Once you’ve found shoes that fit well and meet your needs, it’s time to make the purchase.

5.1 Choosing a Reputable Seller

Purchase shoes from reputable sellers who offer good customer service, returns, and guarantees. Consider both online and brick-and-mortar stores.

• Brick-and-Mortar Stores: Allow you to try on shoes in person and get personalized assistance from sales associates. Ensure there is a well-lit area and sufficient room to move around while trying on shoes.
• Online Retailers: Offer a wide selection and convenience, but be sure to check reviews and return policies before purchasing. Review size charts and product descriptions thoroughly.

5.2 Understanding Return Policies

Before making a purchase, review the seller’s return policy. Make sure you understand the terms and conditions in case the shoes don’t fit well or meet your expectations after you have purchased them.

5.3 Consider Special Deals and Discounts

Take advantage of sales, discounts, and loyalty programs. Sign up for newsletters to receive early information on discounts or promotions.

Step 6: Caring for Your New Shoes

Once you’ve invested in new shoes, proper care will ensure they last longer and look better.

6.1 Cleaning Your Shoes

• Regular Cleaning: Clean shoes regularly to remove dirt and debris. Use a soft brush or cloth and appropriate cleaning products for the shoe material.
• Leather Care: Condition leather shoes to prevent drying and cracking. Use a leather conditioner or polish.
• Suede Care: Clean suede shoes with a suede brush and cleaner. Avoid getting suede wet. Use a waterproofing spray.
• Fabric Care: Use soap and water, or a fabric cleaner for cleaning fabric shoes. Allow them to air dry fully before wearing.
• Avoid Machine Washing: unless the manufacturer specifically says it is safe to machine wash.

6.2 Proper Storage

• Store Shoes in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid storing shoes in direct sunlight or in damp areas.
• Use Shoe Trees or Stuffing: To help maintain the shape of shoes.
• Use Shoe Bags: If you do not have shoe boxes, using shoe bags will help keep them clean and protected.
• Avoid Stacking Shoes: Stacking shoes can damage them, especially delicate materials.

6.3 Maintenance and Repairs

• Replace Shoelaces: Replace worn or damaged shoelaces when necessary.
• Resole Shoes: If the outsole wears down, consider having the shoes resoled by a professional rather than disposing of the shoe.
• Repair Damage: Address any damage promptly to prevent it from worsening, be sure to use the correct adhesives for shoe repairs.

Conclusion

Buying shoes doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By understanding your feet, considering your needs, selecting the right type of shoes, assessing fit carefully, and caring for your purchases, you can find shoes that are comfortable, supportive, and long-lasting. Take your time with the selection process, and you will be rewarded with shoes that enhance your comfort and style.