Ireland Boot
Women's Boots Ireland
Irish owned shoe boutique Sheneil Shoes opened in Oranmore Galway in April 2010. Our buyer (and owner) Sheila travels across the continent to select high quality, comfortable and fresh brands to stock instore. She changes up our brands every so often to keep on top of trends. We have a large selection of boot styles to choose from whether you're looking for something casual or dressy, high-drama or low fuss.
Shop local this winter at Sheneil Shoes! Your feet will thank you!
How to Pick the Right Size in Women’s Boots: A Complete Guide
When it comes to selecting the perfect pair of women’s boots, the right fit is crucial—not just for comfort but for durability and style. Finding boots that complement your feet without causing discomfort or lasting damage to the leather is a process that involves understanding a few key factors. Boot sizing isn’t always straightforward, especially when it comes to women’s boots, which often have limited width options. Here’s your expert guide to finding the ideal fit for women’s boots, ensuring you get the right size every time.
Understand Boot Sizing: It’s More Than Just Length
A common misconception is that boot sizing is just about foot length, but width is just as important, if not more so. Women’s boots typically come in E (narrow) and F (medium) widths, but many women’s feet, especially those with shorter foot lengths, require a wider option. In fact, many women’s feet tend to be proportionately wider than men’s feet, especially in smaller sizes.
Here’s a quick breakdown of widths:
F Width: Standard (Medium) width.
G Width: Slightly wider than F
E, EE, H: These represent wider and extra-wide options, but these widths are much less common in women’s boots.
If you struggle to find boots that fit properly in the standard E and F widths, consider looking for German brands like Ara that offer several wider-width fittings.
Know Your Foot’s Shape and Flexibility
- A crucial factor to consider when buying boots is the shape and flexibility of your foot. While you may know your foot length, understanding the natural arch, ball, and toe area of your foot will give you better insight into how boots should fit.
Ball of the Foot: The ball of your foot is the widest part. When you put on a boot, make sure it fits comfortably around this area without pinching or restricting movement.
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Arch: Many boots come with built-in arch supports. However, the arch length of the boot must match your foot’s arch to avoid discomfort. If the boot's arch is too short or too long for your foot, it can lead to pain and blisters.
Toe Box: You want your toes to have enough room to move, but not so much space that they slide around. The toe box should be snug, and your toes should not feel cramped.
A good fit should allow you to move your toes freely, while still feeling secure across the arch and around the heel.
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Heel Fit: The Golden Rule of Movement
Heel fit is critical for comfort and support in boots. While your toes need room to move, your heel should remain snug and secure. When trying on boots, you might experience heel slippage, which can feel odd at first but is actually quite normal.
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Some Slippage is Okay: A small amount of heel slippage (around ¼ to ½ inch) is acceptable because it allows your foot to flex as you walk. This movement is important for comfort and long-term wear. Too Much Slippage: If your heel slips too much, it could lead to blisters or instability. If the boot fits snugly everywhere else but the heel is loose, try a different size or width.
To test for proper heel fit, try standing up and walking a few steps. You should feel secure without excessive movement in the heel area.
The Importance of Width and Flexibility.
Top Tips for trying on Boots
Many people focus primarily on the length of the boot, but width is just as critical. A boot that’s too narrow may squeeze your foot in uncomfortable ways, while a boot that’s too wide could leave your foot sliding around. Finding the perfect width means balancing comfort with a secure fit.
When selecting your boots, always try to pick up a variety of width options. If you’re between sizes, consider trying both a half size up and a half size down to find which one fits best. Your feet aren’t perfectly symmetrical, so you may need different sizes for each foot.
Also, avoid the temptation to "break in" a boot that feels too tight. Leather will stretch to some extent, but forcing it will lead to discomfort and possibly even damage the boots. A boot that fits snugly but comfortably right off the shelf will be your best bet.
Keep Your Feet in Mind Throughout the Day
Your feet are not static—they change over the course of the day. They swell from standing or walking, especially in warmer weather, so it’s always wise to try on boots later in the day when your feet have expanded slightly.
Morning vs. Evening: In the morning, your feet are at their smallest. By the evening, they’ve had time to swell, and trying boots at this time will give you a more accurate sense of how they’ll feel over time.
Don’t Forget About Arch Support and Cushioning
Boots with adequate arch support and cushioning are essential for comfort, especially if you plan to wear them for extended periods. If you have specific foot concerns, such as flat feet or high arches, make sure you select boots with the right support system.
Many modern boots come with built-in arch support, but you can always add custom insoles to ensure maximum comfort. Look for boots that allow room for insoles without feeling too tight, which is often a sign that the boots are too small or narrow for your foot.
Try Boots On Properly: Walk Around, Assess Fit
Once you’ve selected the right size, it’s time to put the boots to the test. Take a few laps around the store or, if you’re buying online, walk around the house on a carpeted floor. This will help you assess the fit in real-world conditions.
When trying boots, consider these fit tests:
- Heel Fit: Does the heel stay snug or slip slightly?
- Toe Fit: Can you wiggle your toes? Does the toe box feel too tight or too loose?
- Side-to-Side Movement: Does your foot slide from side to side? It should feel snug but flexible, with no painful pressure points.
Don’t Be Afraid to Size Up
If you’re between sizes, it’s usually a good idea to go for the larger size. Boots can be snug at first, but a slightly larger size will allow for more comfort as your feet expand. Plus, with boots, you can often adjust the fit with thicker socks or insoles.
Conclusion: The Perfect Fit Awaits
Choosing the right size in women’s boots can be a challenging task, but with the right approach, you’ll find boots that fit comfortably, support your feet, and last for years to come. Remember that boots should feel secure but not tight—flexible yet snug. Consider the width, arch support, and how they’ll feel after a full day of wear. And above all, trust your feet—after all, they know best!
