How to Tell if Your Shoes Fit Correctly: A Practical Guide

The Leavys Shoes fitting guide

The size on the box is a starting point. A good fit also depends on the width, toe shape, fastening and how the shoe feels when you walk.

Use these simple checks when your order arrives, then explore examples from our Jana, Caprice, Tamaris and Marco Tozzi collections to see which details matter for each style.

Five checks before you keep a pair

1. Check the length while standingFor closed shoes, about 1 cm (10 mm) beyond your longest toe is a useful guide. Your longest toe may be your second toe. Toes touching the front while standing suggest the shoe is too short.
2. Check width and depth togetherYour forefoot should sit comfortably, with space above the toes as well as around them. A wide-fitting label does not guarantee that every toe shape will suit your foot.
3. Pay attention to your heelWalk a few steps. Your heel should feel held without digging in. Repeated slipping or rubbing is a reason to reassess the size or shape.
4. Adjust the fasteningSet laces or straps to hold the shoe comfortably across the instep. A decorative buckle and a functional fastening do different jobs; check the product details.
5. Try both shoes and walk naturallyStand, turn and walk in both shoes. Notice any pressure across the toes, instep or heel. Do not judge the fit from one shoe or from sitting down alone.

The toe-space and width guidance follows Guy's and St Thomas' NHS footwear advice.

Do you need a different size, or a different width?

If the length feels right but the sides squeeze, a wider fitting or a different toe shape may be more useful than simply going up a size. Extra length can leave the heel loose while the front still feels wrong.

Width descriptions belong to the individual style. The Jana trainer below is listed as H wide fit, the Caprice boot as G fitting, and the Tamaris and Marco Tozzi examples as standard fit. Avoid assuming that every shoe from one brand fits alike, or that letters mean exactly the same fit across brands.

Four current styles, four different fit checks

These examples show how construction changes what to look for when trying shoes on. Choose for your own foot shape and plans for wearing them; a fashion heel, loafer and trainer each deserve a separate try-on.

Jana · H wide fit · EU sizing

Navy wide-fit wedge trainers

A rounded toe, adjustable laces and a functional side zip, with Memory Foam cushioning underfoot.

When trying them on: adjust the laces to your instep first, then use the zip for taking them on and off. Check that the extra forefoot room works alongside a secure heel.

View Jana trainers

Caprice · G fitting · UK sizing

Black leather ankle boots

Black nappa leather, a block heel and an inside zip, finished with a decorative buckle detail.

When trying them on: wear your intended socks and check the instep and ankle as well as the toes. The zip opens the boot; the decorative buckle does not adjust its width.

View Caprice boots

Tamaris · Standard fit · EU sizing

Black patent Mary Janes

An occasion style with a chunky platform, an 8 cm heel and an adjustable buckle strap across the instep.

When trying them on: set the strap without digging in and walk in tights or socks you plan to wear. Check for forward sliding and toe pressure. The strap cannot compensate for insufficient width.

View Tamaris Mary Janes

Marco Tozzi · Standard fit · EU sizing

Dark red patent loafers

A slip-on shape with gold-tone trim, a 3.5 cm block heel and FEEL ME cushioning.

When trying them on: check the heel as you walk. If you need to curl your toes to keep the loafer on, reassess the fit. Do not squeeze into a smaller size simply to stop slipping.

View Marco Tozzi loafers

Styles selected from our online range in September 2026. Available sizes can change; each product page shows the latest options and full details.

A simple try-on routine at home

Try your shoes indoors on a clean, carpeted surface, wearing socks or tights you intend to use. Fasten both shoes properly and spend a few minutes standing and walking. If you wear your own insoles, check whether the style has a removable footbed and enough room for them before ordering.

Keep the shoes, packaging and labels in their original condition while deciding. Check our returns information for the current conditions and time limits before wearing a new pair outside.

Common shoe-fit questions