Buying Shoes Online - How to know what size?
MFinding the right shoes to fit is something that so many ladies find a challenge. Especially with there being less and less independent shoe stores and sadly the support and education about quality shoes and footwear is often lost in some of the larger chain stores. Buying shoes online might seem like an extra hurdle again but over our 14 years selling shoes with Big On Shoes we understand this and work hard to make sure we make it easy for you.
Why is it important to wear shoes that are the right size for your foot?
Wearing shoes that are the right size for your foot is important for several reasons. Firstly, shoes that are too small can cause your toes to be cramped and uncomfortable, and can lead to blisters, calluses, and other foot injuries. Secondly, shoes that are too large can cause your foot to slide around inside the shoe, which can lead to blisters, calluses, and other foot injuries. Additionally, shoes that are the right size will provide the necessary support and stability for your foot, which will help prevent injury and improve overall foot health. Overall, it is important to wear shoes that are the right size to ensure maximum comfort and foot health.
What is the difference between EU and AU Shoes.
European (EU) and Australian (AU) shoe sizes use different measurement systems, which is the main reason why they are different sizes.
Another reason for the difference in shoe sizes is that the shape of the foot and the manufacturing process can also vary from one country to another. Footwear manufacturers in different countries may use different lasts (the form around which a shoe is built) and different fitting standards to make shoes, which can result in variations in the sizes of the shoes produced.
It's also worth noting that sizing can vary between different brands and even within the same brand. It is best to try on shoes before buying them, as different brands and styles may fit differently. Additionally, using a conversion chart to convert between EU and AU shoe sizes is not always accurate, as there can be discrepancies between brands and models.
Now while this might have you thinking - well how am I ever going to work it out that is where Big On Shoes comes in and our sizing support.
Size Comparison Chart- GUIDE ONLY. Please ensure you refer to each individual size for recommendations on sizing.
1. I am normally a size 11 what size is that in EU?
So if you are normally a size 11 you would be looking at a size 42. If you are a size 12 you are looking for the size 43s etc. We have made this table below to make it nice and easy for you to find your best size. Remember use the above advice to help you- measure your shoes at home, measure your feet and then compare this to the styles that we have.
2. We custom measure every size of every style of shoe
For us this is key to helping you find your right fit. Every single shoe is measured for the innersole length and width so that you can compare to your foot measurements and also your shoes at home to get a good comparison on what size you need.
We have linked a Vlog here for you to see what this process looks like when we work through it on each shoe and also some extra sizing advice.
3. Shoe fitting videos
We know that since you can not touch and feel the shoe in real life that it makes it harder to understand it when you are purchasing online which is why make videos for you (so many videos). Every shoe is filmed on the foot for you so you can see how it moves, shapes and bends when on and with the foot moving in it. We also film chat videos which you can find on the product pages where Melissa chats through the fit and shape and style and also does a sizing comparison for you.
4. True to size recommendation
If any of the shoes are a small fit or large fit (which we idenfiy during the fit testing) we then provide advice if they are 'True to Size' or a 'Larger Fit' or 'Smaller Fit' so that you can use this commpare.
5. We are here to help you find your right shoes
Our small but mighty team is here to help. We live and breath our shoes every day. We understand the cut and shape of them in away that sometimes shocks people (we talk about every shoe as if she is a person). We are here for you to ring us, message or email us so that we can provide the advice you need. If you have purchased with us previously we use your customer file to understand what fitted well, what you returned so we can provide you the advice.
Reach out to us if you need help- we are here for you.
6. Different fit options
Every season when ordering (our ordering happens 12 months ahead of time) we look at all brands and options and make sure we have options for Wide Fitting Women's Shoes, Narrow Fitting as well as a regular. We also look for options for adjust to fit because as we know every foot is different in the way it fits and sometimes you just need to make the shoe your own with adjustable straps and laces.
7. Our 'Shoe Quiz' is here to help you
We heard you loud in clear when you let us know that sometimes with so many shoes you struggle to find the right ones for you. So some time ago we added to our site the Shoe Quiz. This little piece of awesomeness allows you to take the quiz and answer a few questions (do you want sneakers or sandals, what colour are you looking for, what is your normal size) and just like that it gives you great results for you to be able to see your options nice and quickly.