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One term used and thrown around a lot in the shoe (and clothing) industry is ‘true to size’. If you are reading this post then like many others you are wondering what does true to size mean? Let’s take a look at what this sizing term means.
What Does True to Size Mean in Shoes and Footwear?
True to size means that the shoes or clothing your are buying are sized accurately according to industry standards.
- In shoes the measurements on the Brannock device are used to find your true size.
- In clothing, true to size follows the standards set by the ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials).
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What Does PS Mean in Shoes: Understanding the Terminology?
How Do You Measure True Size?
To measure shoes true to size the following measurements are taken using a brannock device:
- Foot Length
- Foot width
- Arch measurements (distance from the heel to the ball of the foot)
The brannock device when used correctly will allow you to measure the above to find the direct proportions and your correct shoe size.
Helpful Posts on Popular Men’s and Women’s Footwear
We have previously looked at some specific sizing of different styles:
Do Hey Dudes run big or small.
Do Nike Air Forces Run Bigger or smaller.
Do Crocs run bigger or smaller.
Is a Half Size in Shoes a Big Difference?
Any small change in sizing can make a difference when it comes to foot wear. Although half a shoe size represents a 1/8” (inches)difference this can still make quite a difference when it comes to comfort and discomfort.
Accurate measurement and trying on a variety of different sizes should always be considered when looking at a larger or smaller size when shopping.
How Do I Know if My Shoes are Too Big or Small?
The main thing to consider here is comfort and discomfort when it comes to shoes. To find a comfortable pair of shoes you should consider the points below when trying on different sizes. in a store.
This goes for both women, men and children too when looking for shoes that run true to size.
Should My Toe Touch the End of My Shoe?
My answer is no your toes should not touch the end of your shoes. You toes should have enough room to move and spread naturally. Your heel should also feel comfortably cupped with no movement or slipping occurring when you walk.
Is It OK To Wear a Size Bigger?
If you have found that a pair of shoes are more comfortable in a bigger size then they maybe the right pair for you. This can depend on the shape of your foot and can especially be the case with the width of your foot.
Some brands will run big or small when compared to the brannock device measurements. As long as you consider how comfortable you are, your heel is cupped correctly and your toes have ample space then a bigger size is fine.
If you are a size 11 1/2 then you could find a bigger size 12 in a specific style might feel a lot more comfortable and a better fit.
What About Wearing a Size Smaller?
You should only wear a smaller size if you feel that the brand you are trying on seems to run big compared to other brands you have tried. Although with a true to size measurement taken from a brannock device will determine your size, some brands can still run big or small.
What Does TTS Size Mean?
TTS simply means true to size. It is a form of Jargon shortening the term from ‘True to Size’ to TTS. You can often come across TTS when shopping and looking at shoes and clothing on online stores.
What About the Meaning of True Size in Clothing?
The concept of real and true size is more challenging when it comes to clothing, because most businesses do not adhere exactly to the industry standard. Different clothing manufacturer brands will ultimately decide the size of each garment (such as pants or shirts for example) they are producing. Let me try my best to describe true to size in clothing…
What is the definition of True Size in clothing? According to ASTM International, clothing must meet ASTM’s standard measurements and size standards to be true to size. This means ready-to-wear clothing of similar nominal sizes should be the same or very close in size.
What Does True To Size Mean – Final Tips
Here are some final tips to help you find the correct and comfortable shoe size.
1. Try Not To Shop Online
Try not to shop online if you are unsure of your correct size of shoe. Although it is a lot easier to buy from the comfort of your home you will get the best results by visiting a physical store.
2. Get Your Feet Measured at a Well Established Store
When looking to get your feet measured look to get it done at a well established store. They will have well trained and experienced staff who can provide you with an accurate size. Remember, you don’t have to purchase from the same store if you can’t find what you are looking for.
3. Don’t be Afraid to Return an Item
Never be afraid to return an item if it doesn’t fit or feel comfortable when you get home. As long has you haven’t worn the shoes for some time or caused any damage you shouldn’t have a problem.
4. Try On Lots of Shoes
The true key to success when searching for true to size shoes is to try on as many pairs as possible. I have been guilty myself of not doing this in the past and I’m guessing it is probably quite common for guys shopping for men’s shoes who want to get things done quickly.
5. Comfort is the Main Goal
Always remember comfort is the main goal. Finding the right size means ultimately means finding a comfortable pair of shoes regardless of style and brand of shoe.
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