How to Choose the Right Size for Barefoot (Minimalist) Shoes
Selecting the correct size in barefoot (minimalist) footwear is far more critical than with conventional shoes. These shoes are designed to allow the foot to spread naturally, so both length and width measurements must be taken accurately.
Note: We recommend choosing your normal shoe size.
Important Note: Barefoot shoes have a wider fit compared to other standard shoes. Therefore, we recommend ordering your normal shoe size. Do not assume that ordering one size smaller or one size larger would be better.
If you are unsure about your size, please contact us.
How to Measure Your Foot for Barefoot Shoes
Required Materials
- A flat surface
- A sheet of A4 paper
- A pen or pencil
- A ruler or measuring tape
Measurement Steps
Step 1: Place Your Foot on the Paper
Place your foot fully on the paper while standing on a flat surface.
Make sure your full body weight is on your foot (measure while standing, not sitting).
Step 2: Trace Your Foot
Hold the pen vertically and trace around your foot.
Avoid tilting the pen inward or outward to minimize measurement errors.
Step 3: Determine the Longest Point
Measure the distance between your heel and your longest toe
(note: it is not always the big toe).
Step 4: Measure the Width
Measure the widest part of your foot (the forefoot/ball area).
This measurement is especially critical for barefoot shoes.
Tips for Accurate Measurement
- Measure your feet at the end of the day (feet tend to swell during the day)
- Measure both feet (one is usually slightly larger)
- Always choose the size based on your larger foot
- Add +0.5 cm (0.2 inches) to your measurement to allow natural toe splay (essential for barefoot shoes)
Example Calculation
- Measured foot length: 25.0 cm
- Added allowance: +0.5 cm
- Recommended insole length: 25.5 cm
Why Is This So Important?
Barefoot shoes are designed to:
- Support natural toe splay
- Promote proper foot biomechanics
- Provide a more natural “grounding” sensation
Choosing a size that is too tight can negate these benefits and even cause discomfort or harm. Proper sizing ensures maximum comfort and optimal performance.
Women’s Foot Size Guide
| EU | US | Shoe Insole Length | Shoe Inner Toe Width |
| 35 | US 4,5-5 | 22,7cm (9″) | 8,2cm (3,22″) |
| 36 | US 5,5-6 | 23,4cm (9,21″) | 8,5cm (3,34″) |
| 37 | US 6,5-7 | 24,1cm (9,48″) | 8,7cm (3,42″) |
| 38 | US 7,5-8 | 24,7cm (9,72″) | 9cm (3,54″) |
| 39 | US 8,5-9 | 25,3cm (9,96″) | 9,2cm (3,62″) |
| 40 | US 9,5-10 | 25,9cm (10,19″) | 9,5cm (3.74″) |
| 41 | US 10,5 | 26,7cm (10,51″) | 9,8cm (3,85″) |
| 42 | US 11-11,5 | 27,4cm (10,78″) | 10,1cm (3,97″) |
| 43 | US 12-12,5 | 27,7cm (10,90″) | 10,4cm (4,1″) |
Men’s Foot Size Guide
| EU | US | Shoe Insole Length | Shoe Inner Toe Width |
| 40 | US 8,5-9 | 26,5cm (10,43″) | 9,8cm (3.85″) |
| 41 | US 9,5-10 | 27,1cm (10,66″) | 10,1cm (3,91″) |
| 42 | US 10,5 | 27,7cm (10,9″) | 10,4cm (4,09″) |
| 43 | US 10,5-11 | 28,5cm (11,22″) | 10,7cm (4,21″) |
| 44 | US 11,5-12 | 29cm (11,41″) | 11cm (4,33″) |
| 45 | US 12-12,5 | 29,6cm (11,65″) | 11,3cm (4,44″) |
