Shoe Fit When You Have One Foot Bigger Than the Other

By Deidre

Shoe Fit When You Have One Foot Bigger Than the Other www.walkjogrun.net

Having one foot bigger than the other is normal. In the adult population, around 60% have a differing foot length and width.

But, if one of your feet is more than 1 ½ shoe sizes larger or if one of your feet is wider than the other, you may need to purchase different shoe sizes.

Purchasing shoes that fit

When you are going to buy new shoes, there are a few things you want to keep in mind:

Shoes from different companies will fit differently
Our feet change as we get older
Your feet need to be measured a few times a year
Buy the shoe size for the larger foot

As we age, the soft tissue and ligaments in our feet relax, and the shape and size of our feet change. These changes will make it essential for you to have your feet measured before buying new shoes.

You will want to do the measurement later in the day after your feet have had some time to swell a little and while you are standing. You may want to try having someone trace the outline of your feet on a piece of paper and measure the length and width.

The shoes you are purchasing should be comfortable immediately. Uncomfortable shoes can lead to pain and blisters. So, if you are in a store, walk around with both shoes on and make sure the fit is perfect. You will want to have a ½ inch (1.25 cm) from your longest toe to the end of the shoe.

Purchase the shoe size for your larger foot. And you may add inserts or padding to the shoe for the smaller foot to give you a more comfortable wear.

But, if there is a 1 ½ shoe size difference between your feet, you need to purchase different shoe sizes. Even if one foot is wider than the other, you may need to buy different-sized shoes.

Buying shoes when one foot is bigger

When you have one foot that is bigger than the other, buying shoes may prove to be difficult because all companies do not offer the option to purchase shoes individually. This is only required if your foot is larger by 1 ½ shoe sizes are more or if you need a different width.

Some companies that offer the option of buying shoes individually are:

Zappos
Nordstrom
National Odd Shoe Exchange

These companies offer you the option to purchase an individual shoe or shoes in 2 different sizes and widths.

But, there are various parameters for each company.

Zappos

They only offer select shoes in different sizes. You will need to call their customer service line at 1.800.927.7671 to inquiry about the styles.

Nordstrom

In order to qualify to purchase shoes of different sizes, the minimum length difference has to be 1 ½ size (9M to 10.5M) or a width difference (9M and 9D).

You may order the shoes by calling 1.877.543.746 or in the store, and then once you receive the shoes, you will choose the pair you would like to keep and send the other pair back that you do not need.

Once the unwanted shoes are received, Nordstrom will refund you for the returned pair of shoes.

National Odd Shoe Exchange

This company allows you to purchase one shoe or different shoe sizes. But the minimum requirement is 2 shoe sizes difference. You will need to contact them at 480.892.3484 for any inquiries.

Why is one foot larger than the other?

One foot is larger than the other due to us having a dominant foot. And this causes the non-dominant foot, usually the left foot, to be the foot that leads.

Then, the non-dominant foot ends up being worked more and becomes larger. That will explain why my left foot is longer than my right.

But some conditions will result in someone having 2 different foot sizes, such as scoliosis and clubfoot.

one foot larger than the other — Pinterest

Scoliosis is the sideways curvature of the spine, and it sometimes results in one leg being longer than the other. In turn, extra strain is put on your foot and makes your arch fall.

Clubfoot is when a baby is born with one foot or both feet turning inwards. This condition is usually corrected at birth.

There are conditions, traumas, and illnesses that could result in a person having a foot that is longer or wider than the other. But, it is excellent to know that there are resources out there to help make shoe buying less stressful.

Bringing it together

Asymmetry is more common than the opposite. So, remember to take your time when buying shoes because the process of buying shoes always comes with a gift!

And when it comes to shoes, comfort is most important.