Choosing a shoe seems simple: you find the right size, try it on for a few seconds, and decide.
In reality, many of the problems we feel after buying footwear stem from how we tried them on.
A shoe that seems perfect in the store can prove uncomfortable after just a few hours of use, while a model that initially leaves some doubts might be the most suitable for our foot.
Here are the three most common mistakes and some practical tips for choosing a truly comfortable shoe.
1. Trying on the shoe without walking
This is probably the most frequent mistake.
Many people slip on the shoe, check that the size is correct, and decide immediately.
In reality, a shoe should be evaluated by walking.
Only by taking a few steps can you tell:
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if the heel remains stable;
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if the toe box leaves enough room for your toes;
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if the arch of the foot is properly supported;
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if the shoe creates any pressure points.
A few meters are enough to notice details that you wouldn't perceive while sitting.
The tip
Always walk for a few minutes before making a decision.
2. Trying on shoes only in the morning
Throughout the day, the foot changes volume slightly.
After many hours on your feet, a walk, or simply due to summer heat, it can swell slightly.
For this reason, a shoe tried on in the morning might feel tighter in the afternoon or evening.
This does not mean buying a larger size, but choosing the right time to try it on.
The tip
If possible, try on shoes in the late afternoon or evening, when your foot is in a condition most similar to that of daily use.
3. Stopping at the size
"I wear a 38."
It is a phrase we often hear.
But two shoes of the same size can have a completely different fit.
Each manufacturer uses different lasts, and each model changes based on:
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width;
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toe shape;
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materials;
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upper structure;
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sole flexibility.
For this reason, the size is just a starting point.
How the shoe wraps around the foot counts for much more.
The tip
Always listen to how your foot feels, not just the number on the label.
How to tell if a shoe is truly comfortable
Before buying, ask yourself:
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can I walk naturally?
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does the heel stay in place?
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do my toes have room to move?
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do I feel any pressure points?
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does the shoe support the foot well without pinching?
If the answer is yes to all these questions, you have probably found a model that suits you.
A good shoe is not just a matter of size
Comfort comes from the balance between:
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correct size;
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shoe shape;
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materials;
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intended use;
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characteristics of the foot.
For this reason, it is always useful to dedicate a few extra minutes to trying them on: it is a small action that can make a big difference in everyday comfort.
At Pli-Pla Calzature, we believe that choosing a shoe well means walking better. This is why we accompany every customer during their try-on, helping them find the model most suited to their needs, without simply stopping at the size.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should you try on a shoe?
Ideally, you should wear them for a few minutes and walk a little inside the store. A few steps are enough to understand if the fit is truly comfortable.
Is it better to try on shoes in the morning or the evening?
In the late afternoon or evening, the foot tends to have a volume more similar to what it will have during a normal day of use.
Can two shoes of the same size fit differently?
Yes. The shape of the shoe, the materials, and the construction of the model can greatly influence the fit, even when keeping the same size.
How to tell if a shoe is the right size?
In addition to the size, check that your toes have room, your heel doesn't slip, and there are no pressure points while walking.