Getting the Right Fit: A Complete Guide to Comfortable Sandals

May 6, 2024 BakerLuna

A study in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research discovered that 72 percent of individuals wear shoes in the wrong size. That's over two-thirds of people!

The research also highlighted a strong link between wearing ill-fitting shoes and foot pain or disorders. To prevent future foot problems, it's crucial to wear the correct shoe size.

This advice applies to sandals too. Poorly fitting sandals can cause blisters, irritation, or conditions like plantar fasciitis. So, how should sandals fit?

Here's what you should understand.

Key Points to Remember

Over two-thirds of people wear shoes in the wrong size, increasing the risk of foot pain and disorders such as plantar fasciitis.
Well-fitting sandals should feel comfortable and provide adequate support, including proper arch support and straps that don't rub or irritate.
Signs of sandals being too big include slipping and blisters, while signs of them being too small include overhang and tight straps, leading to foot discomfort.
It's essential to measure your feet accurately and consult the brand's shoe size conversion chart to ensure you find the right fit.

Signs of a Good Fit:

Well-fitting sandals should feel comfortable and supportive. Here are some things to look for before buying:

Fit: Sandals should support your feet well, without any overhang or tight straps.
Width: Your foot should fit comfortably inside the sandal. If your feet extend beyond the edges of the sandal, consider going up a size.
Length: Your toes and heels should be inside the sandal with no overhang. If your heel sticks out, the straps may dig into your foot. Also, if your toes or heel hang over, they could get injured or snagged.
Arch Support: Proper arch support is important to prevent foot problems like plantar fasciitis. Make sure your sandals provide adequate support, especially if you have foot issues.
Material and Straps: Avoid tight straps that may rub or irritate your feet. Comfort is key, so choose sandals that feel good rather than just looking good. Leather and plastic straps tend to stretch, while other materials may not.
Purpose: Consider the intended use of the sandals. For hiking, opt for durable sandals with non-slip soles. For a night out, choose fashionable sandals that still offer comfort.

How Should Sandals Fit in the Back?

Sandals should fully support your heel with no overhang. Avoid tight straps that could rub or irritate your feet while walking.

Signs Your Sandal Is Too Big:

If you spot any of these signs, your sandals might be too big:

Slipping: Do your feet slide forward or backward in your sandals while walking? If so, they may be too big. Your feet should move naturally with your sandals, not against them.
Blisters: Sometimes, you might develop blisters on your feet due to extra pressure from sliding. If your sandals have a back, you might also get blisters on your heels from rubbing against the shoe's back as you walk.
Altered Walking: Do you find yourself adjusting your walking style to prevent slipping or taking smaller steps? If so, your sandals probably don't fit properly.

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Signs Your Sandal Is Too Small:

Are your sandals too snug? Watch out for these signs:

Overhang: Your entire foot should comfortably fit on the sandal's sole. If your toes or heel hang over the edges, the sandals are too small.
Tight Straps: Straps that dig into your heel or the top of your foot indicate the sandals are too small. If the straps are adjustable and need to be loosened to the maximum size, consider sizing up.
Foot Discomfort: If you feel foot pain while wearing the sandals or immediately after taking them off, they're too small. While it might seem like a minor inconvenience for stylish shoes, wearing ill-fitting footwear can lead to more serious foot problems over time, such as ingrown toenails or heel spurs.

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Tips to Improve Sandal Fit:

If your sandals are a bit too loose or tight, try these simple tricks to make them fit better:

Soften Stiff Leather: Rub soap on stiff leather sandals to soften the material and aid in breaking them in.
Stretch Stretchable Material: For sandals made of stretchable materials like leather or plastic, wear socks and use a hairdryer to heat and stretch them to your foot shape.
Freeze and Expand: Place plastic bags filled with water inside the straps or toe box of your sandals and freeze them. As the water freezes, it expands, stretching the sandals.
Use Foot Cushions: Insert ball-of-foot cushions into slightly oversized sandals to prevent your feet from sliding while walking.
Prevent Heel Slippage: If your sandals have a back and are slightly too big, use heel gripper cushions to stop your heel from slipping in and out.
Professional Adjustment: A cobbler can tighten the straps of strappy sandals that are too loose, ensuring a better fit.

Choosing the Perfect Sandals for You

Your sandals should cater to your unique foot needs. Here are some easy tips to help you find the right pair:

Wide Feet: Opt for open-toed sandals instead of ones that cover the top or sides of your foot. This gives more space and less chance of irritation for wider feet.

Narrow Feet: Look for sandals with adjustable straps to customize the fit for your narrow feet. This ensures a secure and comfortable feel while walking.

Health Considerations: If you have foot issues like plantar fasciitis or flat feet, prioritize sandals with excellent arch support, cushioned soles, and a suitable heel height. These features can help alleviate foot pain and provide necessary support.