What Is The Average Womens Shoe Size?

updated March 7th, 2024

Discovering the Perfect Fit: What Is The Average Shoe Size for Women?

Finding the right shoe size is an essential aspect of comfortable footwear. Whether you're strolling down the street or stepping into the office, the right fit can make all the difference. Yet, it’s extremely difficult, more than it needs to be, to find the right, consistent shoe size across multiple brands.  Why is my shoe size different when I switch from Nike to New Balance to Somexc? In this article, we’ll explore what exactly is the average shoe size for women, and how you can ensure the perfect fit for your feet.

How Do Shoe Sizes Work?

First and foremost, what even are shoe sizes? Shoe sizes serve as a standardized measurement system within the footwear industry, ensuring uniformity across various styles and brands. While this may seem straightforward, the reality is a bit more intricate, primarily because of the diverse shoe size systems employed worldwide.

The most prevalent sizing systems include the US, UK, and European standards. However, it's crucial to recognize that a size 7 in the US may not equate to a size 7 in the UK or Europe. Discrepancies arise from the distinct measurement units utilized in each system. Therefore, understanding your shoe size in each system becomes imperative, particularly when shopping for footwear from international brands.

Yet, even in the same size system, women’s shoe sizes vary greatly. 

Have you ever experienced buying a size 7 (or whatever your size is) shoe from one brand then buying another shoe of the same size from another, only to find out it doesn’t fit and you have to return and/or exchange it?! FRUSTRATING!!

It’s because there’s no universal standard for shoe sizes. Different brands adopt varying sizing approaches based on their manufacturing methods and target customer base. 

Furthermore, the style of the shoe can also influence sizing. For instance, a size 7 in ballet flats may feel distinct from a size 7 in high heels. This discrepancy arises from how the shoe's design impacts its fit on the foot, resulting in differences in perceived size. Given these nuances, grasping the intricacies of women's shoe sizes proves essential in securing a pair that fits just right.

Factors Influencing Shoe Size

Several factors can influence an individual's shoe size:

1. Age: Feet change in shape and size over the course of a women’s life.  Natural events, such as pregnancy and menopause, as women age, can also have an affect on women’s shoe size. Feet tend to get longer and wider over time
2. Weight: Changes in your body weight can affect the size and shape of your feet. For example, as you gain more weight, the extra pounds pressing down on your ligaments and tendons that support your feet may cause your feet to widen or lengthen.
3. Genetics: Genetics can influence your feet size, sometimes even one foot, much like our height, hair color, etc.
4. Lifestyle: Your daily activities and habits can impact your feet. High-impact activities, such as running or playing sports, can contribute to the development of stronger, more muscular feet, which may necessitate wider shoes for adequate comfort and support. Conversely, leading a more sedentary lifestyle could result in softer, less muscular feet, potentially altering one's shoe size and fit preferences.

How Do You Find Your Perfect Shoe Size?

Achieving the perfect fit starts with understanding your foot measurements. It’s as simple as following these directions:

1. Stand with one foot on a piece of paper and trace the outline of your foot on the paper with a pen or pencil. 
2. Repeat the process with the other foot. It’s common for a person’s feet to be two slightly different sizes.
3. Mark the tip of the big toe and the outermost part of the heel, and use a ruler or measuring tape to measure the distance between the two points. For the most precise measurement, consider using a ruler with centimeters, rather than inches.
4. Compare the measurement with a shoe size chart to find your corresponding shoe size.

For the most accurate fit, we recommend receiving a professional measurement at any shoe store.

So, What IS The Average Women’s Shoe Size?

Now that you know how shoe measurement works from design to conception to production, let’s reveal what the average women’s shoe size is.

According to recent studies, the average shoe size for women in North America is size 8. However, it's important to note that this average may vary depending on the region and population demographics.

Why Is It Important To Find The Right Shoe Size?

Wearing a misfitting shoe doesn’t stop at temporary discomfort while wearing the shoe.  Prolonged wear can lead to numerous health issues such as:

1. Foot health issues: Wearing shoes that are too small may put you at risk for corns, bunions, and other deformities that may require surgery to correct.
2. Blisters: Blisters arise when the skin constantly rubs against shoe/sock. This can happen frequently when wearing shoes without socks or wearing shoes that are too big.
3. Improper gait: Oversized shoes can affect your natural walking pattern, potentially leading to foot, knee, or back pain over time.

Tips for Shoe Shopping

When shopping for shoes, consider the following tips to ensure a comfortable fit:

1. Try Before You Buy: Always try on shoes before making a purchase to assess fit and comfort. Don't forget your socks!
2. Roomy Toe Box: Your toes should have some wiggle room within the shoe. If your toes feel cramped, go a half size up or try a wider-width option for maximum comfort.
3. Shop at the Right Time: Feet tend to swell throughout the day, so try shopping for shoes later in the day when your feet are at their largest.
4. Consider Width: In addition to length, pay attention to width to accommodate different foot shapes.

Final Thoughts

While the average shoe size for women may fluctuate, finding the perfect fit is key to comfort. At Somexc, we firmly believe in and are committed to providing the most comfortable recovery sneakers.  We accomplish this with our relaxed fit that comes with a roomy toe box, recovery nodes that promote blood flow, cushioned outsoles for support, and much much more. And we dare to say that our recovery shoes are aesthetically stunning, unlike some of our competitors. 

By understanding your foot measurements and considering various factors, you can confidently select footwear that meets your needs and preferences.  Style is important but comfort is a necessity. After all, your feet need the best support to help you continue to step forward in life.

So treat yourself to a pair of Somexcs that has been designed and crafted to help you comfortably recover.

References:

1. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/shoes-getting-tight-feet-change-size-time/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6914786/
3. https://www.modernfootankle.com/resources/foot-care/guides/unequal-foot-sizes
4. https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/tight-shoes-and-foot-problems/
5. https://www.compeed.co.uk/how-to-prevent-and-treat-blisters-when-wearing-new-shoes/