After exploring the maze of shoe sizing systems—UK, US, EU, Mondopoint—and how hard it is to find consistency across brands and countries, we’re now diving deeper.
Because size isn’t just about length. It's about fit, shape, and comfort. And it starts with knowing your feet—really knowing them. This is especially relevant when looking for shoes in larger sizes.
Our kids are learning so much about their bodies—skin, food, exercise—from social media and online content. But no one’s really talking to them about their feet. Most of the time hidden, we don’t really think of them as an important part of the body.
Yet our feet are intricate structures—with 26 bones, 33 joints, and over 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments. They bear the weight of our entire body and are pivotal for our mobility and balance.
So let’s change that—and start understanding them better.
The Challenge: Why Shoe Size alone isn’t enough
Most of us don’t truly know our foot measurements. We get our feet measured as children—but rarely (if ever) after that. Instead, we assume we’re a “UK size 6” and leave it at that.
But foot length is just one piece of the puzzle. Two people with the same length can have completely different feet—due to variations in width, arch height, ball girth, or toe shape. That’s why measuring length alone isn’t enough.
And when it comes to growing kids—especially those with larger feet—it’s even more important. Their feet are still developing, and the right fit isn’t just about comfort. It’s about confidence, support, and preventing long-term issues.
What I’ve learned about Measuring Feet
Length is just the start.
It’s important, yes—but length alone doesn’t tell us how a shoe will feel or fit. That’s why we are launching a Measure your feet campaign along with a free Measuring guide to help you measure not just length, but:
- Flat Width
- Ball Girth
- Instep Girth
And look at:
- Arch Height
- Toe Shape
Fit = Function + Feel
These detailed measurements and considerations help us understand our feet better—how they move, where they need support, and what makes them feel good.
There’s no one-size-fits-all.
All brands make shoes on different moulds, called “lasts.” That’s why even two UK size 6 shoes can feel totally different. It is so important to recognise - and educate - that every foot is unique. We are all different, with different feet and needs.
The better we know our feet, the better choices we can make.
What's Next
Launching a “Measure Your Feet” Campaign
I’ll soon be inviting you to measure your feet at home and send me your results. Why? Because your feedback is shaping the future of our designs. We want to understand the real foot shapes of growing girls with larger shoe sizes—and design shoes that actually fit them.
Publishing my Next content
Practical, clear, and designed to raise awareness to girls, teens and mums or dads who want to feel confident when buying shoes that actually fit.
A Measuring App (Coming Soon!)
I’m collaborating with an award-winning tech partner to bring you a simple, phone-based app that lets you measure your feet and match to the right shoes from the comfort of your home.
What You Can Do
- Take part in our Measure your feet campaign and join our Fit Squad (coming soon!)
- Send me your foot measurements and help shape the future of Lofty Little Boutique
- Share with a friend who’s ever struggled to find shoes in larger sizes
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With love,
Vanessa
Founder, Lofty Little Boutique