Understanding Shoe Widths
Shoe widths are indicated by individual letters or combinations of letters, which can vary between men's and women's footwear. Ensuring you are buying shoes with the right width will increase your comfort levels when walking or doing sports. Below is a general breakdown on what shoe width letters mean, for a more accurate assessment on what shoe width you need, please refer to the below charts.
Here's a general breakdown:
- A: Narrow width for women.
- B: Standard (medium) width for women; narrow width for men.
- C: Narrow width for men.
- D: Standard (medium) width for men; wide width for women.
- E: Wide width for men; extra wide for women.
- EE: Extra wide width for men.
- EEEE (4E): Ultra-wide width for men.
Note: Not all manufacturers use these exact letters, and the actual width can vary between brands.
Women's Shoe Width Chart
Below is a comprehensive chart to help you find your perfect women's shoe width. It includes U.S. sizes, European sizes, foot length in centimeters, and measurements for various widths. If you are uncertain about your shoe width, consider following our step by step guide on measuring your foot width below.
Men's Shoe Width Chart
Here's a detailed chart for men's shoe widths, including U.S. sizes, European sizes, foot length in centimeters, and measurements for various widths. If you are uncertain about your shoe width, consider following our step by step guide on measuring your foot width below.
How to Measure Your Shoe Width
Measuring your foot width at home is straightforward and can help you choose shoes that fit comfortably.
Steps to Measure Your Foot Width:
- Prepare Your Materials: Get a piece of paper larger than your foot, a pencil, and a measuring tape or ruler.
- Trace Your Foot: Place the paper on a flat, hard surface. Stand on the paper wearing the socks you intend to wear with the shoes. Hold the pencil perpendicular to the paper and trace around your foot. As a pro tip, measuring your foot width in the afternoon has some advantages, as the food width does increase a tiny bit over the day.
- Find the Widest Point: Examine the outline and identify the widest part of your foot.
- Measure the Width: Use the measuring tape or ruler to measure across the widest part of your foot tracing. Note the measurement in inches or centimeters.
- Repeat for Both Feet: Measure both feet, as one foot may be slightly wider than the other. As a general rule, if your right food is a bit larger, go with the larger foot width for both feet.
Tips for Different Foot Widths
Narrow Feet
- Adjustable Closures: Choose shoes with laces, straps, or buckles to tighten the fit.
- Insoles: Adding insoles can reduce extra space inside the shoe.
- Avoid Wide Styles: Steer clear of shoes labeled as wide or extra wide.
Medium Feet
- Standard Sizes: Most medium-width shoes should fit comfortably.
- Try Them On: Since sizing can vary by brand, it's best to try shoes on before purchasing.
Wide Feet
- Wide Width Options: Look for shoes available in wide (E) or extra wide (EE) widths.
- Comfort Brands: Consider brands that specialize in comfort or orthopedic shoes, as they often offer wider sizes.
- Avoid Narrow Designs: Avoid shoes with pointed toes or narrow constructions, as those can hurt when you walk. Depending on the material of the shoe, shoes widen a bit after wearing them for a while.
Shoe Width vs. Shoe Size
Remember, shoe size refers to the length, while shoe width refers to the girth of the foot. Going up a size won't necessarily give you more width. If the shoe feels tight across the width but fits well in length, opt for a wider width rather than a larger size. When trying on a shoe, walk around to see if you notice any pressure on the sides of your shoe, generally if the pressure is too much, go with a wider shoe for more confort.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does Shoe Width D Mean?
- Men: D is considered a standard (medium) width.
- Women: D indicates a wide width.
What Is Shoe Width B?
- Men: B signifies a narrow width.
- Women: B is the standard (medium) width.
What Is Shoe Width EE?
EE represents an extra wide width in men's shoes and is similar to E in women's shoes.
What Is the Difference Between D and EE Widths?
- D Width: Standard width for men; wide for women.
- EE Width: Extra wide for men; wider than D.
How Do I Know If I Need a Wide Width Shoe?
If your shoes feel tight across the width, or you notice stretching and bulging on the sides, you may need a wider shoe.
Conclusion
Finding the right shoe width is essential for comfort and preventing foot problems down the line. By measuring your foot width and consulting size charts, you can make informed choices and find shoes that fit perfectly. If you are purchasing sports shoes for running or any activity, it is critical to ensure you are choosing the right shoe width, as narrow width shoes will impact the comfort levels you feel during the activity. Lastly, always remember that the best shoe is one that feels comfortable from the moment you put it on—no breaking in required.
