Size isn’t everything: Why instep, width and more matter when buying shoes

Many people know their shoe size - but hardly anyone knows their instep. Yet this very measurement can determine whether a shoe sits comfortably or becomes torture after an hour. If you know your own foot shape, you benefit from paying attention to more than just shoe size when buying shoes.

At GIESSWEIN, we know that every foot is individual. That’s why we develop our shoes with a special focus on comfort and fit. In addition to the right shoe size, instep, shoe width and ball width play a decisive role. Many of our models are therefore available in different widths - for a comfortable feel from the very first step.

The most important foot measurements at a glance

Length
Is the best-known measurement – the basis of every shoe size. But on its own, it often isn’t enough.

Instep (instep height)

Refers to the height of the top of the foot, i.e. the arched area between toes and ankle. A high instep means the foot needs more room “on top”, while a low instep (so-called flat foot or low instep) leaves too much space in many shoes and therefore loses support.

Shoe width

Shoe width describes the circumference of the foot in the ball area and complements the shoe size for an optimal fit.

At GIESSWEIN we distinguish three widths:

• Width F - for narrow to regular feet

• Width G - for regular feet with average width

• Width H - for somewhat stronger, fuller feet

With the right width, wearing comfort can be significantly improved and pressure points can be avoided.

Ball width

The absolute width of the foot at its broadest point. Especially an essential measurement for people with a splayed forefoot.

For which feet are these measurements particularly important?

1. High arch / High instep (cavus foot) --> People with a pronounced arch often have a high instep. Standard lace-ups or slip-ons can then press on the instep area or not close fully. If you know your instep, you can specifically choose models that offer sufficient space in the upper shoe area.
   GIESSWEIN RECOMMENDATION: Merino Runners + Wool Peak + Wool Trail X

2. Low instep / Low arch (flat foot) --> With a low instep, shoes often sit too loosely in the upper area and therefore lose support. Models with laces help here, as they can be individually adjusted to the foot and ensure a secure fit.
   GIESSWEIN RECOMMENDATION: Wool Sneaker + Merino Runners  + Merino Wool Knit

3. Wide forefoot / Splayed forefoot --> the arch has dropped and the forefoot spreads out. Those who buy solely by shoe size often end up in shoes that are too tight. Ball width and shoe width are crucial here to avoid pressure points and to give the toes enough space. For somewhat stronger, fuller feet we recommend our models in Width H.
   GIESSWEIN RECOMMENDATION: Merino Runners + Wool Sneaker + Merino Curve Max

4. Tendency to swell / Water retention --> If you tend to have swollen feet - for example due to prolonged standing, pregnancy or medical conditions - you should always measure the width in the evening when the foot is at its widest. Shoes with laces or hook-and-loop fasteners can be adjusted throughout the day.
   GIESSWEIN RECOMMENDATION: Merino Runners + Wool Peak + Merino Easy Step

How to measure your own instep and width

A simple method for at home:

1. Stand on a blank sheet of paper.

2. Trace around the foot with a pen held vertically.

3. Measure the foot length from the heel to the longest toe.

4. Determine the ball width at the broadest part of the forefoot.

5. Use a measuring tape to measure the circumference over the highest point of the instep - that’s the instep.

With these measurements, it becomes much easier to find the right shoe size and width.

Shoe size is only one part of the perfect fit. If you also consider instep, shoe width and ball width, you’ll find shoes that fit optimally and provide greater comfort in the long term.

At GIESSWEIN, many models are available in Widths F, G and H. This way, narrow to regular, average-width and somewhat fuller feet can all find the right fit. Combined with high-quality materials such as Merino wool, this creates an especially comfortable wearing experience - for every day, when travelling or on long walks.