How to Figure Out Your Boot Size?

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If it’s the first time you want to place an order for boots, please understand that boots fit differently, and people have different needs. Plus, boots don’t adjust in the same way as shoes with laces. Furthermore, handmade boots tend to have specific boot fit requirements.

The last thing you want is to buy a pair of costly cowboy boots, and later on, discover that the boots put pressure on your toes.

Boots vary in terms of various factors including the size, structure, design and more. These differences all occur due to the thickness and natural strength of each type of boot.

“If a shoe fits, buy.” Bet you have come across this statement before. It means that you go with a shoe that feels comfortable for your needs. While this might apply in some cases, the best approach is to always measure your feet correctly by using proven methods. Fortunately, there are many proven and time-tested techniques which you can consider for your feed.

Fast Facts on Boot Sizing

Being able to choose the correct type of boot for your needs is highly essential. Consider these common tips for boot sizing:

• Wearing boots that are too tight or loose can lead to blisters or chafing. Boots that fit too snugly are discomforting, and can even lead to ingrown toenails. More so, such snug fit boots can also compromise the flow of blood to the feet.
• The arch of the foot is a crucial aspect of body balance. Thus, if you go for boots without adequate arch support, then you may face various issues. These including plantar fasciitis, fallen arches and joint complications.
• Every boot has a unique “break-in”, where the boots adjust to accommodate the size of the foot. If the breakpoint is not correct because you wear the wrong size, then your feet won’t flex as well as it should when walking. You will suffer from many issues, including foot pain or worse.
• Boots that don’t fit correctly will often wear unevenly, and won’t last for as long as they should. Usually, this is because a boot that fits correctly is reinforced to resist damage in places where it makes contact with the ground.

Benefits of Figuring Out Your Boot Size

Even is this process does not seem useful, it has many benefits, especially for people with specific boot requirements, or for those who want to meet workplace standards. Determining the size of your boot will save you from many trips to the boot store and lots of cash as well.

Some boot stores won’t accept refunds, or if they do, you may have to pay a tax fee. Furthermore, getting the correct boot size ensures that you get boots which are comfortable for your needs.

This way, you are both comfortable and safe, which will, in turn, boost your productivity levels. An employee with a good set of boots is an undoubtedly motivated individual.

How to Determine the Correct Boot Size

Measuring your feet is a pretty simple process. Never try to guess or order a shoe, based on the size of a different shoe you have in your closet. Go for a boot with your foot measurements to ensure the best results.

The US size system involves the use of specific numbers, which include the use of letters and numbers to indicate the size of shoes. A device referred to as the Brannock Device is most suitable for measuring shoe sizes. More so, the shoe size system is linear. There a total of 9 widths in this system, and they include

It is still possible to get accurate foot measurements even you don’t have a Brannock device around with you. The most effective method for measuring your shoe size would be to go to a professional fitter.

You can determine your boot width and size by following the steps below. You may need:

• A sheet of paper, which you can use trace an outline of the foot
• A regular pencil and eraser
• A measuring ruler or tape
• The type of socks you will wear with the boots

Notes:

• Remember that bone and muscles enlarge through the day, so measure the feet in the evening
• Left and right feet are sometimes different sized, and you may have to measure both feet
• Consider getting help during the tracing process, avoid tracing DIY

Follow these steps for each foot:

• You must sit and place your foot on a piece of cardboard or paper large enough to make a drawing of your foot.
• Draw the foot outline by using a pencil, and its best to get a friend to help you with the process. Ensure you hold the pencil correctly against the foot as you draw.
• Measure the width and length at different points of the foot. The drawing might be a little bit larger, so you can subtract 0.2 inches from the drawing.
• Use the boot length chart, and find the Men`s US Boot size. Then, go to the Width Chart, and choose the closest width measurement for your drawing.

Factors to Consider

If there is no one to help with the tracing, you can place your foot between two flat and solid objects such as big books. Then measure the length between these items. Repeat the same steps for each width level, and both feet as well. You may not have to subtract any extra pencil length thickness when using this approach.

If you are still young, you have to note that your feet are likely to grow larger in the next coming years. Thus, you also have to buy boots by taking factors such as your age, weight, height and more into perspective. The last thing you want is to get a pair of work boots, which you will outgrow in a few months.

Usually, the recommended approach for boots when still young is to go for slightly larger boots. For instance, if your feet are size 7, consider going for size eight boots. Not only will this approach ensure your boots last for a long duration, but it also provides optimal comfort for the toe and heel.

When unsure, always go up when it comes to size and width measurements. It is easier to adjust to a slightly large boot, as when compared to a smaller boot. Also, consider getting padded insoles or thick socks. There are many size boots available for most shoe, toe and heel combinations. People who have larger than normal feet will usually have to go for the fitting process.

Basic Tips for Boot Sizing

Boots should feel comfortable, and without affecting the circulation to your feet, or leading to painful pressure points. Slight or moderate pressure on your toes when the shoes are laced is an indication that the shoe will fit correctly. That said, if the foot feels short, then try flexing the boot hard, when it’s unlaced.

A good pair of boots will fit looser after a few days of use, and the goal should be to get the perfect fit as soon as possible. When trying on new boots, consider using a pair of compact socks. The best recommendation for you would be to go for a professional boot fitting service or visit a foot specialist. However, if not possible, you can just use the pencil and paper method noted above.

No two feet are similar. Usually, this is because you are the only one who can tell which shoe is suitable for your needs. Some people prefer loose-fitting shoes, while some prefer shoes that can provide a snug fit. Feel, and comfort are all crucial, and usually, these boil down to individual preferences.

There are many other useful guidelines you should consider when it comes to boot sizing. They include:

• Get your feet measured whenever possible.
• If you are familiar with a type of boot, go for the same size you usually wear for that brand.
• If you have another boot brand, it may not be suitable to go for the same size. Getting new boot brands may require new measurements, especially if you order them a while after making measurements.
• Avoid getting boots based on the way they feel or look, because this may cause you to end up at the boot store rather than later.

Finally

Getting the correct boot size has its many benefits. You not only get a boot that is comfortable, but that you can wear for many years. Thus, you should determine your boot size before you go shopping. The last thing you want is to end up back at the store to start the boot measurement process. The best way to get your foot measured is to go to a professional fitter.

That said, you can still measure your foot by using DIY techniques. You can use the conventional pencil and paper method or perhaps use a Brannock device. Also, its best to measure your feet, at the end of the day when the feet are largest.