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How To

How to Shop for Shoes

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By jenphelps
User-Submitted Article
(1 Ratings)
Shop for Shoes
Shop for Shoes

What to know before you go shoe shopping.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Time and patience.
  1. Step 1

    Go shoe shopping after lunch. Since your feet swell throughout the day, this will ensure the best fit.

  2. Step 2

    Try them out. Walk around the store on both carpeted and hard surfaces. Make sure they are comfortable from the beginning. Don't let a salesperson talk you into a pair that's too tight by saying that they will "break in".

  3. Step 3

    Know your true size. Don't try to squeeze into a 7 if you're an 8. Focus on the fit instead of the number. To figure out your European size, add 31 to your American shoe size if you are a 9 or under. If you're a 10 or higher, add 32.

  4. Step 4

    If you have a high arch, shoes should have a cushioned midsole. Flatter feet need a more supportive firm midsole. Make sure that the leather or rubber is flexible , because stiffer, more rigid shoes won't allow your feet to move naturally when you walk.

  5. Step 5

    Always try on shoes with the outfit you'd likely wear them with. If you are trying to find shoes to wear with a formal dress, and don't want to wear the dress to the mall, wear a more casual dress. This way, you can at least see the shoes with bare legs and get a better idea than you would if you were wearing jeans.

  6. Step 6

    When buying heels, if you're going to be on your feet for more than a few hours, choose something with more surface area such as a platform or wedge. These will be much more comfortable in the long run.

  7. Step 7

    If you have a hard to find size, go to sites like zappos.com or piperlime.com, which have unbelievable inventories and great return policies.

Comments  

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on 12/20/2008 Tip #1 is great I never thought of that!

cadence said

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on 11/8/2008 Shoes.com is a great site, too.

shoelover said

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on 11/5/2008 Step 8: Check a site like Zappos.com or ShoesRUs.net to see if you can find a lower price. The last few pairs of shoes I've bought I've been able to find a better deal online, with no sales tax and free shipping.

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