Measuring your feet correctly – how do I determine my shoe size?

Feet are unique and differ in many ways. When shoes pinch, in many cases it is not the size—i.e., the length of the shoe—that is the problem, but the width. Here at Groundies, we have deliberately developed barefoot shoes with a wide toe box so that your toes have enough space and freedom of movement. And yet, to find the perfect barefoot shoes that fit well and are comfortable all around, it's best to measure your feet. We want you to enjoy a relaxed wearing experience and would like to help you find your ideal barefoot shoes. So take a few minutes to read this article on how to measure your feet correctly.

What shoe size for barefoot shoes?

Did you know: Our feet can be more than 1 cm longer and wider in the evening than they are in the morning. To determine the right shoe size, the most important rule is: Measure your feet in the evening. The second most important rule: If you are between two sizes, choose the larger size if in doubt. (You can find more information here.) Also helpful: a pair of helping hands. You will get the most accurate result if you distribute your weight evenly on both feet. However, if you have to measure yourself, you run the risk of shifting your weight and accidentally putting more pressure on one foot. The foot with more pressure will then appear wider.

How to measure your shoe size correctly:

Place a sheet of paper on the floor so that the end of the sheet touches a wall. Take a piece of tape and use it to secure the paper to the floor so that it does not slip. Stand barefoot on the sheet. Make sure that your heel touches the wall.
Have a second person trace the shape of your foot with a pen. Make sure that the pen is held vertically and does not lean outwards or inwards, as this will cause the sketch of your foot to be either too large or too small.
Now measure the length from the longest toe to the end of the heel. Repeat the process with the second foot. If your feet are different lengths, the longer foot is your benchmark for choosing the right size. Compare this larger value from both feet with the respective measurement table for the item. We have different size charts because we offer different soles for different needs. So please note that your determined shoe size may vary within our shop.
With other shoe manufacturers, it is sufficient to provide your foot length To know. With us, you also have the opportunity to foot width
when choosing your size and it is best to measure them right away to choose the correct fit: Light, Barefoot, or Barefoot+? It is best to mark the widest part of your foot directly with two thicker lines on the left and right and then measure the distance between them.

Three fits at a glance

Barefoot Light Barefoot Barefoot+

Barefoot Light

Our regular toe box design – ideal for narrower feet or for those new to the world of barefoot shoes.

About the models

Barefoot

This cut follows the natural anatomy of your feet and offers unrestricted freedom of movement.

About the models

Barefoot+

Our widest cut offers extra space and comfort—ideal for wide feet and barefoot enthusiasts.

About the models

Groundies Light, Barefoot, and Barefoot+
Our barefoot shoes for narrow feet, normal-width feet, and wide feet

Here at Groundies, we have developed barefoot shoes in three different widths. Light are barefoot shoes with a regular toe box, as the name suggests. Here you will find all the well-known advantages of our Groundies barefoot shoes, such as a thin, flexible sole and a fine, sensitive barefoot feeling, but with a normal width toe box. The width Barefoot
On the other hand, barefoot shoes feature a wider, anatomical toe box. If you have wider feet or want more freedom of movement for your toes, this is the toe box for you. Barefoot+ is our widest barefoot shoe model, offering you extra space in the toe box.

Why it is so important to determine the correct shoe size

The right shoe size is essential if you want to enjoy your barefoot shoes for a long time. Your feet will thank you, but so will your shoes: poorly fitting shoes wear out much faster. For example, shoes that are too wide cause creases when worn regularly, which cause additional friction on the foot. In shoes that are too wide, your feet slip forward when walking, your heels lift, and your toes bump against the front of the shoe. Shoes that are too tight, on the other hand, wear out faster and therefore don't last as long. In addition, shoes that are too tight often have painful consequences: excessive friction increases the risk of blisters. If you don't have enough space in the toe box, you may create "problem areas" on your feet. For example, shoes that are too small can promote the formation of hammer and claw toes, which can cause toe deformities in the long term. These are all things that no one needs, but you can avoid them by determining your correct shoe size and investing in healthy footwear, such as Groundies.