Comfortable shoes come down to two things: a good fit and the right type of shoe for what you do. Whether you're looking for sneakers for long walks, sandals for summer or slip-ons for the office, these are the points to check before you buy.
Start with the right size
Sizes can differ between brands and styles, so don't rely only on the size you usually buy. Measuring your feet takes about two minutes:
- Measure both feet and use the longer measurement.
- Measure at the end of the day, wearing the socks you'd normally wear with the shoes.
- If your measurement falls between two sizes, choose the larger size.
Our size guide shows step by step how to measure and which US/Canadian size matches your foot length. Always read the product description as well, for notes such as "runs small" or "wide fit".
Check the fit in three places
Toes. Leave about a thumb's width (around 1 cm) between your longest toe and the front of the shoe, and make sure your toes aren't squeezed at the sides. If your feet are wide, look for a roomy toe area, a wide fit or adjustable straps. Our Comfort & Support collection is a good place to start.
Heel. Your heel should stay in place when you walk, without slipping up and down or rubbing against the back of the shoe.
Top of the foot. Laces, straps or elastic should hold your foot securely without pressing. If you can't loosen them enough, the shoe is probably too narrow or too shallow for your foot.
Look at the sole
- Cushioning: a cushioned sole or footbed softens the feel of hard floors and pavement. You'll notice the difference on days when you're on your feet for hours.
- Flexibility: the sole should bend easily at the ball of the foot, where your foot bends when you walk.
- Grip: a textured rubber outsole grips better on wet sidewalks, which matters for much of the year in Canada.
- Weight: lighter shoes are often more pleasant for long walks, travel and busy days.
Choose a closure that suits you
- Laces give you the most control over the fit.
- Adjustable straps and hook-and-loop closures are quick to adjust during the day.
- Slip-ons go on and off in seconds. Make sure they hold your heel, because there are no laces to tighten.
Match the shoe to your day
- Walking, errands and travel: cushioned sneakers. Browse women's sneakers and men's sneakers.
- Warm days: sandals with adjustable straps and a soft footbed. See women's sandals and men's sandals.
- Work and smarter outfits: loafers and slip-ons. See women's loafers & slip-ons and men's loafers & slip-ons.
- Cold and wet weather: insulated boots with good grip. Read our guide to choosing winter boots.
- At home: warm slippers with a sole that grips. See women's slippers and men's slippers.
Try new shoes at home first
When your shoes arrive, wear them indoors on a clean floor for a while. Walk around, take a few stairs and check the fit points above. If they don't feel right, you can return or exchange unworn shoes within 30 days of delivery. See Returns & exchanges for how it works.
Still not sure?
Email support@orangewear.com with a link to the shoes you like and your foot length, and we'll help you choose a style and size.