Measure Your Foot
at Home
Get professional-grade accuracy in 2 minutes. No special tools needed—just paper, a pen, and a ruler. This is the method podiatrists use, adapted for home measurement. Your foot length in centimeters is the most reliable size anchor across all brands.
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Average completion time
Accuracy when done correctly
Cost (vs. $15-30 Brannock device)
Why measure at home instead of guessing?
Stop buying the wrong size
60-70% of people wear the wrong size. One measurement fixes this forever—no more returns, no more painful break-ins.
Universal sizing anchor
Your CM measurement works across all brands. No more confusion between Nike 10, Adidas 10.5, and New Balance 9.5.
Saves money on returns
Returns cost brands $550B/year, mostly from sizing mistakes. Get it right the first time—save time and shipping fees.
Buy online with confidence
Know your exact size before you click "buy." No more gambling on fit—especially for limited releases you can't return.
Real user feedback: "I've been wearing size 10 my whole life. Measured and found out I'm actually 10.5. My feet don't hurt anymore. Wish I'd done this years ago."
— Community member, verified SizeCheck user
MATERIALS
What you need to measure your foot
Three simple items. No special equipment. Takes 30 seconds to set up.
1. Blank paper
Standard letter/A4 size. Must be larger than your foot. Place on a hard floor (not carpet).
2. Pen or pencil
For marking your toe and heel positions. A sharp pencil works best for accuracy.
3. Ruler (metric)
Must show centimeters. A tape measure works too. Measure in CM, not inches—it's more accurate for shoe sizing.
Pro tip
Do this measurement standing up with weight on your foot. Sitting down gives an inaccurate (shorter) measurement by 2-4mm.
Common mistake
Don't measure on carpet or soft surfaces. They compress and add 1-2mm of error. Use tile, wood, or concrete only.
THE PROCESS
How to measure your foot (step-by-step)
Follow these 6 steps for professional-grade accuracy. Takes 2 minutes per foot.
Place paper on hard floor against a wall
Tape or hold the paper against a wall so it won't slide. The wall will serve as your heel reference point. Make sure the floor is hard (tile, wood)—not carpet, which compresses and gives false readings.
Stand with heel against the wall
Put your full weight on the foot you're measuring. Your heel should touch the wall (and the edge of the paper). Stand naturally—don't curl toes or lean forward. Look straight ahead, not down.
Mark your longest toe
Use a pen or pencil to mark the tip of your longest toe on the paper. For most people, this is the big toe—but not always. Check both feet; they're often different.
Measure heel-to-toe in centimeters
Use your ruler to measure from the wall (heel point) to the toe mark. Write down the measurement in centimeters with one decimal place (e.g., 27.3 cm). Round up if you're between millimeters.
Repeat for the other foot
Most people have one foot slightly larger than the other (1-3mm difference is normal). Measure both feet and use the longer measurement for shoe sizing.
Convert CM to your shoe size
Use the conversion table below to match your CM measurement to US/UK/EU sizes. Add 0.5-1cm for sock thickness and toe wiggle room (most brands do this automatically, but check the table notes).
See conversion table →AVOID THESE
5 common foot measurement mistakes
Even a 2-3mm error can put you in the wrong size. Here's what to avoid.
Measuring while sitting down
Why it's wrong: Your foot compresses when weight-bearing. Sitting gives a measurement that's 2-4mm shorter than your true standing length.
Fix: Always measure standing with full weight on your foot.
Measuring on carpet
Why it's wrong: Carpet compresses under your weight, adding 1-2mm of error. It also makes it harder to get a straight ruler measurement.
Fix: Use a hard floor (tile, wood, concrete). Tape paper down so it doesn't slide.
Only measuring one foot
Why it's wrong: Most people have a size difference between feet (1-5mm is normal). If you only measure one foot, you might size for the smaller one and end up with painful tightness.
Fix: Measure both feet. Always size for the longer measurement.
Measuring in the morning
Why it's wrong: Feet swell throughout the day (2-4mm longer by evening). Morning measurements give a shorter length, which leads to tight shoes later.
Fix: Measure in the afternoon or evening when your feet are at their largest.
Using a flexible tape measure on bare foot
Why it's wrong: Tape measures follow the curve of your foot, adding 1-3mm to the measurement. Shoe sizing is based on flat, heel-to-toe length.
Fix: Use a straight ruler on paper, not a curved tape measure on your foot.
TIMING
When to measure your feet (time of day matters)
Your feet change size throughout the day. Measure at the right time to avoid buying shoes that feel too tight later.
❌ Morning
Avoid measuring in the morning.
Your feet are at their smallest after a night of rest. They'll swell 2-4mm by afternoon, making morning measurements inaccurate.
✓ Afternoon
Best time to measure.
Your feet have swollen to near-maximum size but aren't overly fatigued. This gives the most accurate everyday measurement for shoe buying.
~ Evening
Also acceptable.
Feet are at maximum swell. Good for performance shoes (running, hiking) where you need extra room. May oversize casual shoes slightly.
Special cases: When to measure evening size
- •Running or workout shoes: Your feet swell more during exercise. Evening measurement ensures you have enough room.
- •Standing all day: If you're on your feet 8+ hours, evening measurement reflects your true daily size.
- •Hot weather: Feet swell more in heat. Measure in similar conditions to when you'll wear the shoes.
CONVERSION TABLE
Convert CM to shoe sizes (Adidas)
Match your foot length (in CM) to the corresponding US/UK/EU sizes. This is Adidas-specific; other brands may vary slightly.
| FOOT LENGTH (CM) | US MEN | US WOMEN | UK | EU |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24.0 - 24.5 | 6 | 7 | 5.5 | 38 2/3 |
| 24.5 - 25.0 | 6.5 | 7.5 | 6 | 39 1/3 |
| 25.0 - 25.5 | 7 | 8 | 6.5 | 40 |
| 25.5 - 26.0 | 7.5 | 8.5 | 7 | 40 2/3 |
| 26.0 - 26.5 | 8 | 9 | 7.5 | 41 1/3 |
| 26.5 - 27.0 | 8.5 | 9.5 | 8 | 42 |
| 27.0 - 27.5 | 9 | 10 | 8.5 | 42 2/3 |
| 27.5 - 28.0 | 9.5 | 10.5 | 9 | 43 1/3 |
| 28.0 - 28.5 | 10 | 11 | 9.5 | 44 |
| 28.5 - 29.0 | 10.5 | 11.5 | 10 | 44 2/3 |
| 29.0 - 29.5 | 11 | 12 | 10.5 | 45 1/3 |
| 29.5 - 30.0 | 11.5 | 12.5 | 11 | 46 |
Note: These measurements already include the 0.5-1cm toe room that Adidas builds into their sizing. Use your bare foot measurement—don't add extra.
What if I'm between sizes?
If your measurement falls exactly between two sizes (e.g., 27.5cm), here's how to choose:
- •Narrow feet: Go with the smaller size.
- •Wide feet: Go with the larger size.
- •Average width: Check model tendency (narrow last = size up; roomy last = smaller size).
COMMON CONCERN
What if my feet are different sizes?
It's completely normal. Here's what to do about it.
The reality: Almost everyone has different-sized feet
60-80% of people have one foot that's 1-5mm longer than the other. It's usually the dominant foot (right foot for right-handed people, left for left-handed).
This is not a problem—it's anatomy. Shoe brands know this and design for it.
If the difference is 1-3mm (most people)
Solution: Buy shoes sized for your larger foot. The smaller foot will be fine—most shoes have 5-7mm of internal tolerance.
If the smaller foot feels loose, use a thicker sock or a thin insole to take up space.
If the difference is 4-6mm (less common)
Solution: Still size for the larger foot, but consider half-sizing adjustments by model:
- —In roomy models (Ultraboost, NMD), the smaller foot may feel loose. Use an insole.
- —In snug models (Samba, Gazelle), sizing for the larger foot is critical. Don't compromise.
If the difference is 7mm+ (rare)
Solution: Consider buying two different sizes (some retailers allow this). Or use an orthotic insole in the smaller foot to fill the space.
If this is a new development (feet weren't always different), consult a podiatrist to rule out injury or structural issues.
Bottom line
Always size for the longer foot. A shoe that's slightly loose is better than a shoe that causes numbness or pain. You can always add an insole to the smaller foot—you can't add length to a too-short shoe.
FAQ
Foot measurement — quick answers
Do I measure with or without socks?
Measure without socks. Shoe sizes already account for sock thickness (most brands add 5-7mm). If you measure with socks, you'll over-size.
Can I use a foot measuring device instead?
Yes, Brannock devices (the metal foot measurers at shoe stores) are accurate. But home measurement with paper and ruler works just as well if done correctly.
How often should I remeasure my feet?
Once a year is enough for adults. Feet can change due to weight gain/loss, pregnancy, or aging. Kids should remeasure every 3-6 months.
Should I add extra length for running shoes?
No need—shoe brands already build in 5-7mm of toe room. If you add more, the shoe will be too long and cause blisters. Measure normally; the brand handles the rest.
Why do my feet swell during the day?
Gravity pulls blood and fluid downward. After hours of standing/walking, feet swell 2-4mm. This is normal. It's why evening measurement gives the most accurate size for everyday wear.
Can I trace my foot instead of marking it?
Yes, tracing works—but it's less accurate. Most people's hands shake slightly when tracing, adding 1-2mm of error. Marking the heel and toe point is more precise.
What if I don't have a ruler with centimeters?
Use inches and convert: multiply by 2.54 to get centimeters (e.g., 10.5 inches × 2.54 = 26.67 cm). But buying a metric ruler is $2 and eliminates conversion errors.
Should kids' feet be measured differently?
Same process, but add 1 full size (not just 0.5) for growth room. Kids' feet grow fast—measure every 3-6 months. Shoes should have 10-12mm of toe space, not the adult standard of 5-7mm.
Can I measure my foot width at home?
Yes, but it's harder to be accurate. Wrap a flexible tape measure around the widest part of your foot (ball area). Most people are 9-10cm wide. Adidas doesn't offer width options, so this mainly helps you choose models (narrow last vs wide last).
What if my heel doesn't sit flat against the wall?
You might have a high arch. Press your heel against the wall as much as comfortable. The goal is a consistent reference point, not to force your foot into an unnatural position.
Does foot shape affect the measurement?
Length measurement is the same for all foot shapes. But wide feet, high arches, or bunions affect sizing within that length. If you have any of these, check model-specific fit notes after you know your CM length.
Can I use this measurement for Nike or other brands?
Your CM measurement is universal. But each brand converts CM to sizes differently. Nike, New Balance, and Adidas all have slightly different size charts. Always check the brand-specific conversion.
Should I measure after exercise?
If you're buying running/workout shoes, yes—your feet are at maximum swell. For casual shoes, measure in the afternoon when feet are moderately swollen but not exercise-swollen.
What if I get a half-millimeter measurement (e.g., 27.3 or 27.7)?
Round to the nearest 0.5 cm. So 27.3 becomes 27.5, and 27.7 becomes 28.0. The size charts have 0.5 cm ranges anyway, so precision beyond that doesn't matter.
Can I measure someone else's foot for a gift?
Yes, but they need to be present and standing. You can't measure a sleeping person—their foot needs weight on it. Or trace a shoe they already wear and measure the insole (but subtract 5mm from insole length to get foot length).
Why is my measurement different from my usual size?
Most people wear the wrong size. Studies show 60-70% of people are in shoes that are 0.5-1 size too small or big. Trust your measurement over what you've been wearing—it's often more accurate.
Do feet shrink with age?
No, feet get longer and wider with age due to ligament relaxation. Most people go up 0.5-1 size between their 20s and 60s. Remeasure every year if you're over 40.
Can weight gain/loss change my foot size?
Yes. Gaining weight adds length and width (0.5-1 size per 20-30 lbs). Losing weight can shrink feet by the same amount. Remeasure after any major weight change (10+ lbs).
What about pregnancy—do feet change?
Yes, feet often grow 0.5-1 size during pregnancy (hormones relax ligaments). This change is usually permanent. Remeasure after giving birth and again 3-6 months postpartum.
Should I measure on tile or wood—does it matter?
Both are fine as long as the surface is hard and flat. Avoid carpet, bath mats, or any soft surface. Concrete is ideal if available.
What's the fastest way to know my size without measuring?
Use SizeCheck. Scan a shoe you already own that fits well. SizeCheck maps it to your perfect Adidas size in 20 seconds—no ruler, no math, no guessing. More accurate than DIY measurement.
FASTER ALTERNATIVE
Skip measuring — let SizeCheck do it for you
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