We often forget that our feet, like the rest of our body, go through changes over time. These changes can affect the size and fit of our footwear—a fact we at DT Footwear understand well. In this article, we’ll walk you through the various reasons your feet might change in size and share some tips on how to manage these changes.
| Factor | Explanation | Impact on Foot Size |
|---|---|---|
| Growth and Development | Feet grow in childhood and adolescence | Increase in foot size |
| Age-Related Changes | Aging can alter foot size and shape | Potential size increase |
| Weight Fluctuations | Weight changes can affect foot structure | Variable changes |
| Pregnancy | Hormonal changes during pregnancy can enlarge feet | Temporary increase |
| Health Conditions | Conditions like diabetes can lead to swelling | Possible size increase |
| Regular Measurements | Frequent measuring ensures proper shoe fit | Ensures size accuracy |
Growth and Development
During the early stages of life, children and adolescents experience rapid growth, often leading to a constant need for new shoes. Proper shoe sizing in these formative years is essential for supporting healthy foot development. As we transition into adulthood, our feet continue to evolve. A notable change is the gradual flattening of the foot. This phenomenon occurs because the feet are the only parts of our body that consistently support our entire weight. Over time, this constant pressure can lead to a decrease in the foot’s arch height, potentially altering foot size and shape. This flattening can have various effects on overall foot health and comfort, making appropriate footwear choices increasingly important.
- Age-Related Changes in Adulthood: As adults age, changes in skin elasticity and muscle tone can cause feet to widen and lengthen. Adjusting shoe size to accommodate these alterations is important for maintaining comfort and preventing foot-related issues.
- Weight Fluctuations: Significant changes in body weight can impact the structure and size of the feet. Weight gain can increase the load on the feet, potentially leading to a flattening of the arch and an increase in foot size.
- Pregnancy and Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes during pregnancy, particularly the release of relaxin, can lead to a temporary enlargement of the feet. This change often necessitates a larger shoe size for the duration of the pregnancy and sometimes beyond.
- Health Conditions and Foot Size: Certain health conditions, such as diabetes or edema, can cause swelling in the feet, leading to an increase in shoe size. Regular monitoring and appropriate footwear adjustments are crucial for individuals with these conditions.
Did You Know?
Age-related changes, such as the thinning of the fat pads on the bottom of the feet and loss of elasticity in the foot’s ligaments, can lead to changes in foot size and shape.
Practical Tips for Coping with Changing Feet Size
Adapting to changes in foot size is crucial for maintaining foot health and comfort. As your feet evolve over time, it’s important to choose footwear that can accommodate these variations. This means selecting shoes with features like xx-wide widths, adjustable straps, stretchable materials, and ample toe room. DT Footwear carries a number of wide toe box brands like Apis, Propet and Orthofeet to name a few. These attributes ensure that your shoes can adapt to changes in foot size, whether due to natural growth, health conditions, or other factors.
- Look for shoes with adjustable closures, such as Velcro straps, which allow for easy modification of tightness and fit.
- Choose shoes made from stretchable materials that can expand to accommodate changes in foot size and shape.
- Ensure there is enough room in the toe box to prevent cramping and allow for natural toe movement.
- Consider shoes with removable insoles, which can be replaced with custom orthotics for personalized support.
Regularly measuring your feet is essential to keep up with any changes in size. By taking frequent measurements, you can ensure that you’re always wearing the right shoe size, reducing the risk of foot discomfort and related problems. Learn how to measure your feet at home for accurate sizing. This simple step can make a significant difference in your overall foot health and comfort, allowing you to adjust your footwear choices as needed.
Recommend Shoes With Velcro Straps
Men’s Shoe Options
Men Athletic Mesh Velcro Walking Shoes | 9704-V
BONUS Gift with purchase - three sets of custom heat moldable inserts. A $240 value included FREE!
- Comfort and Support: This shoe is noted for its supportive design, which is particularly advantageous for individuals with specific foot needs.
- Durability: Made with high-quality materials, the shoe is durable and suitable for prolonged use.
- Customizable Fit: The shoe features design elements like removable insoles, offering flexibility and customization to accommodate different foot shapes and orthotics.
- Limited Color Options: The shoe is available in only a few color choices - black or grey.
- Size Availability: Certain widths and sizes are only available through special order, which may involve longer wait times and restrictions on returns or exchanges.
- Fit Concerns: Some users have reported issues with the fit, such as the shoe running slightly narrow or having a tongue that could be wider for better comfort.
Black, Grey
5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5, 9, 9.5, 10, 10.5, 11, 11.5, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20
D, 4E, 6E, 9E, 10E, 14E
Men's Athletic Walking Shoe | Stability X Strap
*FREE Gift with purchase - one set of our custom heat moldable inserts. An $80.00 value included FREE!
Black, Grey, Navy, Stone, White
7, 7.5, 8, 8.5, 9, 9.5, 10, 10.5, 11, 11.5, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17
B, D, E, 3E, 5E
Men's Velcro Strap Loafers | Orthofeet Lincoln Center
BONUS Gift with purchase – one set of our custom heat moldable inserts. An $80.00 value includes FREE.
- Comfortable and supportive: Ortho-Cushion™ system with anatomical arch support provides all-day comfort and reduces foot pain.
- Adjustable fit: Hook-and-loop strap closure allows for easy on and off and customized fit.
- Durable: Genuine leather upper and rubber outsole ensure long-lasting wear.
- Lightweight: Compared to some other orthopedic dress shoes, the Lincoln Center feels lighter and less bulky.
- Break-in period: Leather upper might require some time to soften up and conform to your foot shape.
- Not as sleek as some dress shoes: The hook-and-loop closure and slightly wider design might not appeal to those who prefer a more traditional and streamlined look.
Black
7, 7.5, 8, 8.5, 9, 9.5, 10, 10.5, 11, 11.5, 12, 13, 14, 15
D, 2E, 4E
Women’s Shoe Options
Women's Double Strap Athletic Shoe | 9331
FREE Gift with purchase - three sets of custom heat moldable inserts. A $240 value included FREE!
Black, White
4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5, 9, 9.5, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15
B/D, 3E, 5E, 7E, 10E, 14E
Women's Single Strap Casual Shoe | Wichita
FREE Gift with purchase - one set of custom heat moldable inserts. A $80 value included FREE!
Black
5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5, 9, 9.5, 10, 10.5, 11, 11.5, 12
B, D, 3E, 5E
Final Thoughts
Understanding the dynamic nature of our feet is key to maintaining their health and comfort. As we’ve explored, various factors throughout our lives can cause changes in foot size and shape. Whether it’s due to growth and development, age-related changes, weight fluctuations, pregnancy, or health conditions, being aware of these changes and how to address them is crucial.
Having “Happy Feet” is not just a whimsical idea; it’s a practical goal that can significantly enhance your daily comfort and overall well-being. Adjusting to the evolving needs of your feet ensures that you can continue to engage in your daily activities without discomfort.
If you have any questions or need further guidance on how to adapt to these changes in foot size, our Fitment Specialists are here to help. They can provide personalized advice to ensure that your footwear choices align with your unique foot structure and lifestyle needs.
Remember, taking care of your feet is a vital step towards a healthier, more comfortable life.
The DT Footwear Guarantee
Free shipping
We offer free shipping anywhere in the U.S.
Quick delivery from 10 US warehouses
Sizing Questions
Need help with sizing? Call, email, or text to speak to our Fitment Specialists.
BONUS Inserts
Receive up to 3 free BONUS inserts per shoe with your purchase. (Not available with all styles)
Disclaimer: Educational Information Only
The information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment, including any foot-related concerns. If you have any health issues or questions about your feet, please consult a qualified healthcare professional, like a doctor or podiatrist. Don’t ignore medical advice or delay seeking help based on what you read here or elsewhere. We’re not responsible for any harm caused by using this information. Everyone’s response to treatments can be different, and medical recommendations may change over time. If you experience a medical emergency or serious foot problem, seek immediate medical attention, or call your local emergency services. By using this resource, you agree to these terms and understand the importance of getting personalized medical advice from a qualified professional.
