June 19, 2025, 9:07 am | Read time: 2 minutes
Finding the right shoes isn’t easy—the leather is too stiff, the heel too high, the fit too tight. However, there are some golden rules for buying shoes that you should keep in mind.
Almost everyone has made a bad shoe purchase, leaving the shoes barely worn in the closet. It’s frustrating, but it doesn’t have to be if you consider these tips and tricks.
Consider the Time of Day When Buying Shoes
In the store, the shoe fit perfectly when you decided to buy it. This is likely due to the time of purchase. Feet tend to swell slightly throughout the day, so it makes sense to schedule shoe shopping for the afternoon.
Try on Both Shoes When Buying
Because it’s not obvious to everyone: when buying shoes, you should definitely try on both shoes. It’s best to take a few steps to test the fit of the model.
Opt for the Larger Size
If you’re exactly between two sizes and your desired model doesn’t offer half sizes, lean towards the larger shoe size. As mentioned, feet swell throughout the day, and a shoe that’s too small could become very uncomfortable.
Also interesting: 7 Tips to Soften Leather Shoes
Shoe Sizes Can Change
Foot size can also vary, for example, if you’ve lost weight, as the fat tissue in the foot decreases. The foot becomes narrower. After a pregnancy, feet can also become wider, and you may need a larger size from then on.
Don’t Buy Tight Shoes
Many women opt for tight shoes when shopping, hoping they will stretch over time. While this may be true for some models and materials, you shouldn’t rely on it. It’s better to choose a shoe that fits well and comfortably from the start.
Quality Over Quantity
Yes, a diverse shoe wardrobe is great. But if the budget doesn’t allow it, focus on a good pair of shoes and invest a little more. You’ll benefit more in the long run than with numerous pairs of lower-quality shoes.
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Buying Shoes with Foot Deformities
For people with foot deformities, different rules apply when buying shoes. If the shoes don’t provide support, it can lead to foot strain, even “with flat shoes,” says Dr. Mathias Schettle. He advises always consulting an orthopedist if you experience pain or posture issues.
Additionally, it’s wise to strengthen foot muscles: “Weak foot muscles are the most common cause of deformities. Walking barefoot is very beneficial. The prerequisite is a soft surface, like a sandy beach or a meadow,” says the expert. The feet must gently compensate for the unevenness, which optimally trains the muscles.