There is nothing worse than buying an expensive pair of boots, only to find out later on that they are too big. Finding shoes that provide the perfect requires research, especially boots, which can be costly. You have to consider several things and make informed decisions.
Luckily, we have developed this in-depth guide on how to tell if boots are too big.
The best way to tell if boots are too big is to be informed about the step in the first place. Then, look at some aspects such as the challenges of such boots and a few helpful solutions.
Tips to Tell if Boots are Too Big – Number 2 is A Stealer
There are various through which you can tell if boots are too big, including:
TIP #1. The Width of the Shoes
The length between the sides of your boot when you lace up is crucial. Go for boots with laces that are easy to pull together. However, you may also come across several people who have shoes that are wide in this section.
The ideal solution would be to go for eyelets that come together and leave about an inch of space between them. If the boot is overly loose, it might not slide around much. However, this might cause lots of friction which can lead to overheating.
Remember that you have big boots if the laces pull the eyelets overly close together and get in contact.
Tip #2. Test the Way Your Heels Fit in The Cup
We come across several people speaking about the space between the end of your big toe and the tip section of the boot. However, we have noticed that this movement or heel stability is a better indicator of the correct shoe size.
You might have come across this issue on everyday boot types such as the Doc Martens. It has a wide heel cup which makes it difficult to put the foot in a stable position. The best way to test this measure would be to walk up through a flight of stairs.
Source: Workgearz.
Tip #3. Check The Heel
The other critical aspect of your shoe’s fit would be the heel. Plus, it also ranks as the most controversial topic in footwear. Many people often ask, “is it ok to have some heel slip.” Well, the answer to this question depends on various factors.
First, many shoe brands won’t slip if you get a shoe of the correct size. However, a little heel slip, such as an inch of space, is not bad. Some people don’t like wearing boots that provide zero slip space as this can be highly uncomfortable.
So, don’t worry if your preferred footwear brand has some slippage space. As you break into the shoes gradually, the slipping issues should subside completely. The other more critical aspect than heel slippage would be when the footwear moves along with your foot.
Or when you don’t feel your foot moves comfortably in the shoe. If slippage still occurs even after the first several days, you can still invest in the best heel snugs. These are products that will help eliminate any slippage issues and discomfort.
Tip #4. Remember The Flex Point
Arguably, the flex point also ranks high up among some of the most important aspects of wearing the correct footwear. It refers to where the boot breaks on your foot. You have to realize that each boot has its unique breakpoint level to bend upon pressure.
It can be at the end section of the toe box or where your toes sit. The idea boot has to flex where your footbeds, primarily around the toe line area. While this concept sounds obvious, if your boots break-in at the wrong position, this might cause friction around your foot.
So, your foot might become prone to slipping, especially as you move around. You can evaluate the flex point conveniently by identifying the width of the shoe. The broadest section of the footwear should align with the widest section of your foot.
Source: Stridewise.
Tip #5. The Arch of the Foot
The arch of your foot is a delicate component. Not many boots have provided the ideal levels of arch support. So, for many boot wearers, does this matter? You have to learn more about the structure and size of your foot.
Do this by asking a few questions. For instance, do you have a high arch or flat foot? The answer to this question will help you choose a comfortable boot design for your needs. People that have flat feet need boots that can provide high levels of arch support.
On the contrary, if you have a well-structured arch, this aspect won’t lead to boot fitting complications. There is a simple technique you can use to gauge whether you have the proper arch support:
- Get a brown paper bag and step on it with wet feet.
- If it leaves a flat footprint throughout, then realize you have flat feet.
- However, if there is a space between the imprint of your foot, then you have a good arch.
PRO TIP: Having a flat foot arch does not have any adverse side effects. It only means that you have to be careful in choosing shoes to suit your foot’s structure.
When sizing your foot, try and use a Brannock device. Remember to focus on the right parts of your shoe, such as the arch of the foot. The broadest section of the foot will have a massive impact on the way each boot fits.
How to Measure Your Feet
Below is an in-depth guide you can use to measure the size of your feet:
Items required
| Item | Purpose | Product Recommendation |
| A piece of paper that is larger than the foot’s length. | ||
| A pencil | ||
| A measuring tape or ruler. |
The Steps
- Start by putting on the socks you plan on wearing with the boots.
- Sit somewhere comfortably, and place the paper on the floor.
- Place your foot on the paper, and then get a pencil to outline the foot. Ensure your foot sits comfortably on the paper so you can produce the ideal design. You can enlist the help of a close person to help with this process.
- Remove your foot from the paper, and make straight lines on the shape of your foot. Do this using a ruler, such that the overall result is a rectangular structure.
- The lines should contact your foot’s outline, which includes the broadest and longest points. Standard footpoints include the ball of the foot, the heel, and the toe area.
- Next, measure the distance existing between the most extended sections of the rectangle you drew earlier. Doing this should provide you with an average measurement of the appropriate boot length size. Remember to also measure across the broadest section of the foot to ensure the width fits.
- We recommend that you use this sizing chart to determine the best boot width and size for your convenience.
What To Do if Boots are Too Big
There are various things you can do if you realize your boots are too big including:
1. Work on Your “Socks” Game
The first step you can do to enhance the fit of your shoes if they are large is to wear thick or an extra pair of socks. However, you have to be delicate in selecting the density of the socks. Socks that are too dense are likely to be uncomfortable or even lead to blisters.
Socks are important for any type of footwear, and they are also excellent problem solvers. For instance, many physical enthusiasts often struggle to find the perfect fitting running shoes. A common question we have noticed is “are running shoes supposed to be tight?”
If you have big shoes, working on your socks game could be the solution, regardless of whether its a boot or running shoe.
It’s one of the simplest ways to resolve the issue of shoes that are too large. Plus, if your question has been “what to do if hiking boots are too big?” then this should be your answer. There is no need to go out of your with this approach because we all have a sock full of socks.
Recommended Product : Dickies Moisture Control Socks
2. Address the Extra Space
If you are in a hurry, and you dont have time to improvise with various options for a precise fit, consider this approach. A good suggestion for filling up the space would be to use some cotton pads or even an old rag.
Using this approach is particularly helpful if your foot moves around insider the shoe. Moreover, it’s also a convenient and affordable solution for your needs.
Recommended Product : XIANEWS Toe Filler Inserts
3. Remember the Insoles
Shoe inserts are a common alternative for folks who have shoes that are overly large. It’s a terrific solution if you want to balance out the space in your shoe and enjoy added support. Remember that the insoles which come with your shoes are not permanent.
You may have to replace them at some point. Furthermore, avoid products such as latex or gel insoles, because they might compromise your shoe’s longevity. If you use these materials regularly, they might easily deteriorate over time.
Source: Allure.
Sure, they might appear to be perfect for when there is pain in your shoe, but once the material inside breaks down, there won’t be any cushioning left. So, this might leave you back right where you started.
Recommended Product : Dr.Scholls Heavy Duty Orthotics Insoles
4. Use a Foot Cushion Ball
A foot cushion ball is a perfect solution if you feel the shoes have become small, or uncomfortable during use. If you want to make your shoes more comfortable, consider using a suitable cushion ball.
Ensure you place it at the ball of the foot with the shoe. It’s a structure that you use for shoes that tend to be large and can are not suitable for use with full insoles. The benefit of foot cushions is that they are available with different features and design aspects.
Recommended Product : Ball of Foot Cushions.
5. Ensure You Position the Heel Strips Correctly
If you are using heel strips, ensure you stick them into the boot correctly. Introducing a different padding type to your footwear is another approach you can use. These are the same products as the cushions we identified earlier in this guide for the ball of your foot.
However, these cushions sit above the heel section or the specific section where your foot is uncomfortable. The strips are a better alternative, which makes it easy to place on any section on your shoe.
Recommended Product : Dr. Foot Heel Grips
6. Effects of Wearing Shoes that Are Too Big
There are various effects of wearing shoes that are too big, including:
- Discomfort – overly large shoes are likely to be uncomfortable, especially if you move around a lot.
- Heel slippage – such shoes provide too much wiggle room for the toes, leading to slipping.
- Compromised foot functions – big boots can be dangerous for work applications, or your typical workday contains lots of movement.
How Should Boots Fit?
Various factors come into play in the way your shoe should fit. Below are some helpful boots too big hack tips you should consider:
- Go for professional foot measuring – visit a local store or guide so that you can find the ideal foot size for convenience.
- Go for slightly larger boots than your feet – most people often have one foot that is usually larger than the other. So, choose boots that will provide the perfect fit for both of your foot.
- Try the shoes with both your feet. Ensure that you settle for a size that is larger than both of your feet. Remember to try both shoes and choose the types that provide a perfect fit.
- Once you tie the shoelaces, walk around the room with the shoes. Try and put on the sock you often wear when wearing such shoes.
- Buy your shoes in the afternoon. The feet tend to stretch throughout the day. So, the ideal time to purchase a pair would be at night when your feet are large.
FAQs:
- How To Tell if Shoes are Too Big or Too Small?
The best way to tell if shoes are too big or small is to determine the amount of room the boots provide. On average, the shoe should have about one finger of width space between the longest toe and the front shoe section.
The other alternative would be to place a finger on the heel cup section of the foot. A good shoe offers a finger width of space which would be perfect for your feet. If your finger gets in your shoe easily, then it’s an excellent shoe.
- Is It Better for Shoes to Be Tight or Loose?
Shoes shouldn’t be too loose or tight. The ideal shoe offers the right amount of space for your foot. Tight shoes are likely to rub on your foot and cause issues such as blisters. So, it’s good to go for shoes that provide some wiggle room.
Ensure the ball of your foot fits perfectly in the widest section of the shoe. Any heels that are loose or prone to slipping can also make the shoe uncomfortable. The how-to tell if boots are too big Reddit is a common thread. That is because the way boots fit is not similar to traditional footwear.
- Is it Ok to Wear Shoes a Size Bigger?
Yes, it’s ok to wear shoes a size bigger. This is the main benefit of such a shoe that provides sufficient wiggle room for your feet to move around. However, the shoe should not be enormous. Such a shoe is likely to cause discomfort and slipping issues.
- How Much Room Should be in the Toe of A Boot?
The amount of room in the toe of a boot should provide just enough space for you to move your feet around. The space should not be overly large as it’s likely to cause discomfort and heel slippage.
- Should Boots Fit Tight or Loose?
Boots should not fit neither tight or loose. The ideal boost should just be comfortable enough for you to move around. Remember the negative side effects of the space around the front section of the boots. The space should be minimal to avoid slipping.
Your ability to tell if boots are too big before buying can save from from a lot of hassle. The good thing is that its easy to determine whether boots are big, and the solutions are many. With this information, you should find it easy to choose good boots next time when shopping.
