What’s Your True Sandal Size? A Buying Guide

Sahar Enady October 14, 2020

0 2 minutes read

Do your feet keep slipping out of your sandals? Does your big toe hang over the sole?

Finding the right sandal size can be a challenge.

Sandals come in various styles and materials, and your ideal sandal size isn’t necessarily the same as your regular shoe size. In fact, your size may vary between brands.

Like shoes, sandals are one of those accessories you have to try on first to ensure a perfect fit. However, as more retail companies pivot to eCommerce, you may not have a choice but to shop online. Fortunately, more online stores now have hassle-free return policies for sandals that don’t fit.

Are you ready to finally discover the perfect sandals for your feet?

Follow these tips to find your size!

Size Up or Size Down?

Some shoe styles force you to increase your shoe size or purchase a smaller size. The same applies to sandals, but you’re more likely to increase your sandal size because of the nature of sandal design.

Many sandal styles don’t enclose the foot. Some have vamp enclosures, toe caps, and heels. Many sandals feature just outsoles and straps, like flip-flops, for example.

Flip-flops are also “one size fits all,” so the shape of your foot also determines your final sandal size. Even if you wear a size 7 in Converse sneakers, you may need a size 8 for flip-flops if your toes hang over the soles as you walk.

Sandals with more sole, toe, and heel enclosures (or straps) are likely closer to your original shoe size. Popular Birkenstock sandals secure the feet with thick straps, buckles, and sole ridges, so these styles may be closer to your sneaker size, as well.

Don’t forget about comfort. The wrong size sandal can cause foot blisters, infected cuts, and foot pain. Learn how they fit first before settling on a pair.

How to Measure Your Foot

Shoe stores have precise shoe measuring tools to find the perfect size. Luckily, all you need at home is a pencil, a piece of paper, and a simple 12-inch ruler.

Put the paper on the ground and place your foot on top. Take the pencil and trace your foot as precisely as possible. You may want to get someone to help you with this part.

Measure both of your feet. It’s not uncommon for one foot to be slightly larger than the other. Your toe may be longer on one foot, too.

Take a ruler and measure your foot tracings. This measurement is your sandal size. If you’re buying sandals with extra straps, use a flexible measuring tape to measure the width of your foot.

Remember, your toes need wiggle room. Crammed toes can cause foot and back problems. If your feet still hurt, exchange your sandals for a larger size.

Most sandals aren’t meant for long-distance walks, either. You may need to use comfortable sole inserts to relieve pain.