How to Correctly Measure Your Foot and Choose the Right Barefoot Shoe Size?

How to Measure Your Feet Correctly

Accurately measuring your foot is essential when choosing comfortable and functional barefoot shoes.

We have prepared a simple guide on how to properly measure your foot and choose the right shoe size to ensure maximum comfort and natural movement.

How to Correctly Measure Foot Length and Width?

Wear the Right Socks

Before measuring, put on the socks you plan to wear with the shoes (thin socks for spring/autumn shoes, thick socks for winter shoes, or barefoot for sandals).

Trace Both Feet

Stand on a piece of paper and trace around both feet while holding the pencil upright.

If measuring a child’s foot, ensure their toes are straight and that their weight is on the measured foot.

Measure Length and Width

  • Measure the distance from the heel to the longest toe — this is the foot’s length.
  • For the width, draw a perpendicular line at the widest part (usually across the ball of the foot).
Tip: Always measure both feet. It is common for one foot to be slightly longer or wider than the other.

How Much Extra Space Should You Leave in Barefoot Shoes?

Choosing the right allowance (extra space) is key for comfort and healthy foot function:

  • First walkers: recommended allowance of 0.8 – 1 cm.
  • Experienced walkers: allowance of 1 – 1.2 cm.
  • Adults: allowance is individual, usually 1 – 1.5 cm.

During walking, the foot naturally expands by about 0.5 cm, so this should always be accommodated.

Remember: Choosing a shoe that is too short can restrict natural movement, while excessive extra space may negatively affect comfort and stability.

Width Allowance

Enough width is also crucial for natural foot movement:

  • The recommended width allowance is around 0.5 cm.
  • It can vary depending on the material, shoe design, and foot shape.

If you are unsure how to choose the right barefoot shoe size, feel free to contact us — we are happy to help.

Recommended Extra Space for Children's Shoes

Type of Shoe Recommended Allowance
Indoor Shoes around 1 cm
Sandals around 1 cm
All-Year Shoes around 1.2 cm
Winter Shoes around 1.2 cm

What Else to Consider When Choosing Shoes?

Each foot is unique. When choosing shoes, also consider:

  • the instep height (low, normal, high),
  • ankle shape (narrow, normal, wide),
  • toe shape (dominant big toe, fan-shaped toes).
Good fit is about more than size. Foot width, instep height and toe shape are just as important as foot length.

Help with Choosing the Correct Size

All models in our e-shop have been carefully measured — you will find real internal measurements (internal length × internal width) in each product description.

If you need advice on how to choose the correct size for barefoot shoes, don't hesitate to reach out — we are happy to assist you.

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