How to Measure Your Foot Size at Home

Getting the right shoe size feels like a magic trick, but it’s really just a few simple steps. Knowing your exact foot length and width stops you from buying shoes that pinch, slip, or leave blisters. Whether you’re shopping online or in a boutique, a quick foot measurement gives you confidence that the shoes will fit the way they should.

What You’ll Need

Grab a piece of plain paper (a printer sheet works fine), a pen, and a ruler or measuring tape. If you have a flat, hard floor, use that – carpet can add a few millimetres and throw off the reading. A friend can help, but you can do it solo by marking the paper and then measuring.

Step‑by‑Step Foot Measurement

1. Stand straight. Put your weight evenly on both feet. Your heel should touch the wall or a straight edge.

2. Trace the foot. Press your foot lightly onto the paper and trace around the outer edge. Keep the pen upright; don’t tilt it.

3. Mark the longest point. The tip of your longest toe (often the big toe, but sometimes the second toe) is the farthest point from the heel. Put a small line there.

4. Measure the length. Use the ruler to measure from the heel line to the toe line. Write down the number in centimetres or inches.

5. Check the width. Measure the widest part of your foot (usually across the ball). Record that too.

6. Do both feet. Your left foot is often a tiny bit bigger. Use the larger measurement for sizing.

Now you have your raw foot dimensions. Convert them to the sizing chart of the brand you’re buying – most brands list the exact foot length each size covers. If you’re between sizes, consider the shoe’s shape: a narrow‑toed model might need a half size up, while a roomy sneaker might be fine as is.

These steps also help you understand why some shoes feel tight in the toe box. Check out our post “Should Your Toes Touch the End of Your Shoes When Walking? Fit Guide and Toe Room Rules” for more detail on the ideal toe room.

Lastly, remember that socks add a bit of bulk. If you wear thick socks, add a millimetre or two to your measurement. And always try the shoes on, walk a few steps, and make sure there’s a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the shoe’s front edge.

Measuring your foot doesn’t have to be a chore. With a sheet of paper and a ruler, you’ll shop smarter, avoid returns, and keep your feet happy.