Choosing barefoot shoes can be more challenging than picking regular footwear since they need to fit perfectly without restricting natural foot movement. To avoid discomfort, it's essential to measure your feet correctly and choose the right extra space (toe allowance). Here’s how to do it step by step.
How and When to Measure Your Feet?
To determine the correct size, measure the length of your foot from the heel to the longest toe (which is not always the big toe). The best time to do this is in the evening, as feet tend to swell slightly throughout the day. Since foot length can vary between both feet, it's a good idea to measure both.
All you need is a sheet of A4 paper and a pencil. Stand with your heel against a wall and place your foot on the paper. Distribute your weight evenly and mark the tip of your longest toe or trace the entire foot outline. Finally, measure the distance from the heel to the marked point—this is your foot length, which you’ll use when selecting your barefoot shoes.
How to Determine the Right Width?
In addition to length, it's also important to consider foot width, especially for children. Thick socks can add a few extra millimeters, which might affect the fit of the shoes. You can measure the width using a shoebox—have the child stand with their heel and the side of their foot against the box. Mark the longest toe and the widest part of the foot with a pencil.
Barefoot shoes should not be too tight, but they must allow enough space for the toes to spread naturally. If you find that your feet are wider or narrower than the selected shoe model, don't worry—some brands offer options specifically designed for different foot shapes.
Why Is Extra Space (Toe Allowance) Important?
Choosing the right shoe size isn’t just about length and width. Barefoot shoes require additional space at the front, known as the toe allowance, which allows natural toe movement while walking. The recommended toe allowance for kids is between 9–12 mm.