Is your boot size the same as your shoe size? Your boot size will often not be the same as your shoe size, though for some people it will be. There are a few reasons for this. Partially, it has to do with the way that sizes are measured. Partially it has to do with the lasts that shoemakers use to make shoes.
How do you determine boot size? Most men find they must size down 1/2 to 1 full size from their athletic shoe size to get the proper boot fit.
How much bigger should boot size be? If you’re considering a pair of boots that only come in one width, you might have to go up or down a half size to accommodate your feet. This is because shoe sizes get gradually wider as they go up. For instance, a size 8 boot will be about an eighth of an inch wider than a 7.
Our Top picks
Title
Wolverine Men's Overpass 6" Mid Composite Toe Waterproof Work Boot, Summer Brown, 10.5
Timberland PRO Men's Boondock 6 Inch Composite Safety Toe Waterproof Industrial Work Boot, Black, 10
Cat Footwear mens Second Shift Work Boot, Dark Brown, 10.5 US
Red Wing Heritage Men's Iron Ranger Work Boot, Copper Rough and Tough, 8 D US
Title
Wolverine Men's Overpass 6" Mid Composite Toe Waterproof Work Boot, Summer Brown, 10.5
Title
Timberland PRO Men's Boondock 6 Inch Composite Safety Toe Waterproof Industrial Work Boot, Black, 10
Title
Cat Footwear mens Second Shift Work Boot, Dark Brown, 10.5 US
Title
Red Wing Heritage Men's Iron Ranger Work Boot, Copper Rough and Tough, 8 D US
Should you size up for boots? That really depends on whose boots you’re buyingand not everyone’s sizes are the same. We do recommend that you order a pair of Nick’s Handmade Boots a half-size down from your normal shoe size, but that’s because of how our boots are made and no one else’s.
Is your boot size the same as your shoe size? – Additional Questions
Do you buy boots a size bigger?
You should also not try to size up in regular boot sizes, because even if larger boots fit the width of your foot, the boot will be too long and will cause blisters, chafing and heel slippage. Instead, try on boots that naturally come in wide sizes like Chippewa, Rocky and Wolverine.
Should boots be tight or loose?
Your boots should not feel tight. They should feel snug on the forefoot, they should have plenty of room in the toe box, and the heel should not slip more than a quarter of an inch.
Is it OK to wear boots a size too big?
Is it OK to wear boots a size too big? It’s OK to size up if you secure your foot in place with insoles or heel shields. It’s not OK if your feet are sliding around in the boot, your heels are slipping, and the flex points are misaligned. This causes blisters, inflammation, and plantar fasciitis.
How much room should you have in boots?
You should be able to wiggle your toes inside the toe box (the front of the shoe). To see if you have enough room, slide your foot forward so your toes are just touching the end of the unlaced boot. In this position, you should have a finger’s width (about ½”) between the base of your heel and the boot.
Is it better to size up or down in shoes?
Christine Luff from verywell.com recommends going up half a shoe size because one’s feet swell when they run and it is important to have plenty of room in the toebox. If one’s toes are crammed in the front of the running shoe, you could develop blisters or black toenails.
Should I size up or down in Doc Martens?
Doc Martens generally run true to size but keep in mind the classic boots are a little big. If you are an in-between size it’s recommended that you size down. If you are a whole size then purchase your correct size, and expect there to be a nice amount of wiggle room for your toes and a chunky pair of socks.
How do I know what size Dr. Martens to buy?
In general, remember, Dr. Martens boots and shoes run true to size (probably half a size down from your sneakers) and aren’t as big as you may imagine. The exception is the 1460s, Jadons, and Chelseas, which need to be sized down about a whole size from your sneaker. [SHOP THE ORIGINAL DR MARTENS 1460 BOOT HERE!]
How tight should Dr. Martens be?
The boots should feel tight, but not uncomfortable. If the boot feels uncomfortable when you try it on, especially in the width, then it is too small. Docs will soften and stretch as you wear them in – You can check out our size guide for more information.
What size docs should I get?
As we’ve said, Doc Martens only come in full sizes – so if your true to size fit is a half size, the brands recommend sizing down to your closest full size.
How long do Dr. Martens take to break in?
It’s no secret that our boots can take a day or two to wear in. But what’s less well known is that there are actually plenty of little things you can try to ease in those first few wears. We put out a call to our community – asking for the most out-there break-in tips our wearers have discovered over the years.
Do Doc Martens hurt your feet?
The lining of Doc Martens can cause damage to your feet through friction. Thick socks help reduce friction and minimize pain.
Do Dr. Martens fit wide feet?
Dr Martens and Vans are SUPER comfortable, stylish and perfectly roomy for people with wide feet.
How long do Dr. Martens last?
Doc Martens last between 5 and 20 years, depending on their level of use, care and how they are stored. If the leather is properly cared for and soles replaced they could potentially last even longer.
Are Dr. Martens worth buying?
Doc Martens are worth it if you are looking for a durable boot with a timeless fashion style. They are not worth it however if you find heavy boots uncomfortable to wear, or don’t have the patience to properly break them in.
Do Doc Martens stretch out?
Will my docs stretch out? Doc marten boots will stretch out some with more wear. Eventually, they will conform generally to the shape of your foot. In the beginning they will be more snug, and you shouldn’t buy a larger size to compensate for this.
How do you break in Doc Martens overnight?
You can break in Doc Martens overnight by using two zip locked bags of water and a freezer. Simply line your Doc Martens with plastic bags for protection, then put a zip locked bag of water into each boot and freeze overnight. The water will expand slightly as it freezes, stretching out your Docs by a small amount.
How do you know if a shoe is too small?
If the shoe’s toe box is too small, your toes will rub against the top of the shoe and you will get calluses or sores. Check the space at the end of the shoe. Stand up and make sure there is 3/8″ or 1/2″ (about the width of your finger) between your longest toe (usually the second toe) and the end of the shoe.
Are Doc Martens waterproof?
Doc Martens are not winter boots. They just aren’t. Deep inside, we all know this. They don’t provide enough traction, they are not lined for warmth, and they are really, really not waterproof.
