How to choose the right size when buying shoes in the USA
Everyone sometimes runs into situations when new shoes, right after the purchase, suddenly turn out to "not fit". You spent a long time picking them out, tried them on several times, and the price wasn't exactly the cheapest. And now — somewhere they rub, somewhere they pinch, somewhere they press. In the end, the shoes just get put away in the closet and wait for better times. But all of this happens for a reason, and then the question arises: how do you choose the right shoe size?
First you need to figure out the question: what type of shoes you need, and for what purpose. For example, if these are high-heeled shoes that you put on a few times a year, comfort here isn't that important. They can be very elegant and beautiful, and completely uncomfortable. A couple of times a year you can put up with it. But when it comes to everyday shoes, which you wear all day long, you need to know how to choose them based on more than just appearance. They shouldn't stretch out if you want your foot to fit snugly. Or if you're buying them counting on "breaking them in", you need to be careful, because not every shoe has the property of breaking in.
You need to choose shoes by US size, width, and material type.
- Conversion charts for American clothing and shoe sizes to Russian sizes.
16.05.2025
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Choose by US Size
There are French (35-48) and English (2-12) shoe sizes. Shoes should not be too small, otherwise you can get foot deformation, or become the owner of that same protruding bone on the side. If the shoes are too big, there is too much room left for stable walking. This means that instead of a smooth rolling motion, the foot roughly hits the floor. Wearing such shoes a couple of times is not scary, but if you constantly walk like this — you can ruin your joints, over time your leg may start to cramp. In winter, shoes 1-2 sizes larger is not so bad. You can manage by putting in thick insoles and wearing thick socks. This way it's warmer and there's less chance that your feet might get wet.
US shoe sizes are measured according to the English version.
How to Choose US Shoe Size by Foot Width
Most often, shoes one size larger are taken because they are wider. The width is calculated by the circumference at the widest part of the foot and its instep. In America, the width is denoted from A to E.
Women's width:
4A — fits a very narrow foot
3A — fits a narrow foot
2A — just narrow width
B — standard
C — slightly wider than standard
D — wide
E — very wide
Men's width:
3A — the narrowest size
2A — slightly narrower than the previous
A — narrow
B — standard
C — slightly wider than standard
D — even wider
E — wide
2E — very wide
3E — even wider
It is important not only to choose the right size. If the shoes don't fit you in width, they won't be comfortable. Too much width doesn't allow the foot to sit stably in the shoe, which over time causes cramps. And too narrow strongly squeezes the foot. Walking like this is very uncomfortable, and it can lead to deformation of the toes or foot.
To choose shoes correctly by width, you should at least once go to a shoe store with a huge assortment and use the services of a consultant. You will know your foot size and width, and will be able to calmly order shoes from online stores in America or other countries. Children's shoe sizes can also be chosen with a store consultant.
How to choose a shoe size for a child
Children's shoe sizes differ slightly from adult sizes. You can refer to the size chart. Measure your child's foot size and find the required US or European size in the table.
Shoes are sorted by age: New Born (up to 3 weeks), Baby (up to a year), Toddler (from 1-5) and Youth/Junior (5-12).
US sizes for toddlers range from 0.5 to 13.5. After that, the scale starts over (transition to adult size). For children over 10-12 years old, shoes can be selected according to the adult scale, which is divided into women's and men's.
How to Choose Shoes by Material and Type
It is known that low-quality material will not last long. In bad shoes you will feel uncomfortable throughout the day. Shoes made of dermatin or artificial leather retain their shape, while natural leather tends to stretch. For example, in the evening after a workday our feet swell. In this case leather shoes stretch and adapt exactly to your foot. This prevents burning sensations, your feet are less tired, sweat less or get cold.
The quality of materials should be selected according to your preferences and needs.
- Natural leather. The most popular and suitable material for shoes. Pig leather is mainly used for winter boots and shoes; it is waterproof and hard-wearing. Calf leather is mostly used for soft summer or autumn boots, dress shoes or oxfords. Leather shoes are durable and strong, but often very expensive.
- Artificial leather. Does not stretch well, feet breathe less in it, and in severe frost artificial leather shoes protect poorly against cold. Its advantages are waterproofing and a low price. It can easily be purchased for autumn and not very cold winters, for children and teenagers. Artificial leather is easier to process, which allows for original and unusual shoes.
- Natural and artificial nubuck. Nubuck — sandpapered natural leather. Requires thorough care. Nubuck looks very high-quality and expensive. It is a breathable and durable material, though sometimes it lets moisture through. It is not cheap, but with proper care it will last a very long time. Artificial nubuck does not let air through, so the foot will be less comfortable. On the plus side it is inexpensive, does not let moisture through, and does not require special care.
- Suede. A material that requires very careful maintenance. Does not tolerate wet weather, so walking through puddles in it can ruin it very quickly. By the way, suede is often bought for children; it is soft and breathable, perfect for growing feet!
- Leatherette. Looks almost identical to natural leather from the outside. If you wear such shoes regularly, wrinkles appear over time that turn into cracks. Leatherette is cheap but short-lived. You will have to replace it every season, or every two seasons at best.
- Felt. Felt shoes are mainly suitable for harsh, dry winters. They are completely unsuitable for wet weather. Such shoes are soft and pliable. They are very expensive, so they are rarely purchased. By the way, insoles are often made from felt; they absorb excess moisture from the foot and retain warmth in shoes of any material.
- Textile. The second most popular material. Mainly summer and early-autumn shoes. Sneakers, trainers, slippers, light moccasins, sandals and summer shoes for toddlers are made from textiles. They can be machine-washed, are practical and breathable. Always inexpensive, but considered short-lived.
In America it’s common to have big sale days, and some people think shoes on discount are cheap and low-quality. That’s not true, because US discounts are real, so it’s totally possible to snag a good pair of shoes for next to nothing.
Ordering shoes from the US is far more profitable and cheaper than in Russia. The only downside is shipping, which can cost nearly half the price of your item. With US package forwarding service Pochtoy.com this issue is solved! Shipping through our service starts at just $10, while American online stores often charge from $40 to $100 (3000 – 7000 rub)!
- US shoe stores on Pochtoy.com.
Buy shoes from US online stores and ship your purchases affordably through our service.
Which stores should you check?
Full list of shoe and clothing stores in America.
Stores with special terms for Pochtoy.com customers:
- Amazon US – order and buy clothes and shoes from private sales.
- eBay US – order and buy clothes and shoes from private sales.
- 6pm US – order and buy clothes and shoes from private sales.
