Foot Measuring Guide for Boots

Custom boots are typically crafted for an individual, beginning with a standard size and then modified to fit the buyer’s unique measurements. For this reason, it is essential to measure your feet thoroughly according to the following instructions and compare your measurements with the dimensions of the specific boots you are interested in.

Essential Measurements

· Heel Height: Measure from the floor up to the top of the heel or sole leather.

· Shaft Height: Measure from inside the boot, starting at the heel and extending to the top of the shaft or pull tabs.

· Ball of the Foot Width: Determine the width at the widest part of the ball area of the sole by measuring side to side.

· Heel Width: Measure the heel in the middle, side to side.

· Heel to Toe Length: Start inside the heel and measure to the natural toe area. Exclude the pointed area of snip or pointed toe boots, as these are purely decorative and not part of the functional fit.

· Ball of the Foot Circumference: Wrap a measuring tape around the widest part of the ball of your foot.

· Ankle Circumference: This can be challenging to measure accurately. Begin at the front of your ankle where it meets the top of your foot (the “vamp” area) and measure around to the farthest point on your heel. An inaccurate measurement here may prevent you from putting on boots, even if they are labeled as a standard size.

· Calf Circumference: Measure around the thickest part at the center of your calf. If you have larger calves, consider choosing a bootie or shorty style boot to ensure a proper fit, as taller boots may be too tight in this area.

Additional Fitting Considerations

Most cobblers can stretch leather boots, sometimes increasing their size and width by up to a full size if performed professionally. However, it is generally safe to expect an increase of about a half size.

Tips for Accurate Sizing

Whenever possible, measure boots you already own to validate sizing. Ideally, compare with similar styles, as measuring work boots to select dress boots may not yield accurate results; dress boots are typically constructed with thinner soles and uppers, making them less bulky than work boots.

Link to Olsen-Stelzer Video on Foot Measuring