The majority of women were found to be wearing shoe sizes that differed from the size indicated by their measured foot, according to a new study conducted by the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT).
The findings highlight the limitations of conventional sizing systems in accounting for natural differences in foot width and shape. In the study involving 107 women, researchers found that 72% of participants wore a different size under the US sizing and 65% wore a different size under the EU sizing.
Women Shoe Size Study
Other findings from the study include:
- Most participants wore a larger size shoe than their foot length indicated (59% under US sizing and 52% under EU sizing).
- Researchers believe the tendency to size up suggests some women may be compensating for shoes that do not adequately accommodate their foot width, rather than simply choosing the wrong size.
- Women assigned the same shoe size based on foot length varied by up to 1.6 inches around the widest part of the foot under US sizing and 1.5 inches under EU sizing.
- 68% of participants had at least one recurring problem with shoe fit.
“Australian women aren’t bad at buying shoes—the sizing system is bad at describing their feet,” said study co-author associate professor Saniyat Islam, from RMIT’s School of Fashion and Textiles. “Women are often forced to choose between the right length and the right width because a single shoe size does not capture the shape of their feet. They may be choosing a larger shoe because it is often the only way to achieve a comfortable fit.”
Most shoes are sold with only one width despite the fact that a previous study found enough variation in womens’ feet to support six or seven width options for the same foot length.
“Offering more width options would give consumers a better chance of finding shoes that fit both the length and width of their feet,” Islam said.
The next time you are out buying shoes, know that it’s not just about getting a shoe that is the correct length. You’ll also want a shoe that supports and fits the width of your foot. A shoe that is too tight or too loose on the sides can lead to additional foot problems, so consider getting professionally fitted into a shoe that is perfect for your foot’s unique shape.
If you’re dealing with foot pain and are struggling to find the right shoes or overcome discomfort, reach out to Dr. Silverman. He’ll be happy to help get you back up on your feet and ensure you can put your pain in the past. For more information, reach out to him at OrthoArizona. You can schedule an appointment here or give the team a call today at (602) 648-5444.