Safety Footwear Sizing and Width

What it is

Protective-toe footwear made to ASTM F2413 has a rigid cap over the toes. Unlike leather, the cap does not stretch or break in. A boot that is the right length but the wrong width, or too short, presses the toes into the cap edge and causes pain, blisters and workers who stop wearing their boots. Correct sizing starts with measuring both feet.

How to measure

1. Measure late in the day, when feet are at their largest.
2. Wear the socks used at work, and any orthotic insert.
3. Stand with full weight on the foot. Use a foot-measuring device or trace the foot on paper.
4. Measure both feet for length (heel to longest toe) and width (across the ball of the foot). Fit the larger foot.
5. Try the boot on and lace it fully. Walk, squat and climb a step.

Fit checks for the toe cap

• Toes should not touch the cap when standing or when crouching with the heel raised.
• There should be room to wiggle the toes freely.
• The widest part of the foot should sit at the widest part of the boot, behind the cap edge.
• The heel should not lift much when walking.

US width letters

Width ranges and labels vary by maker. Check each brand's chart.

Key points

• Length and width are separate choices. Do not go up a full length to get width.
• Composite and alloy caps may have different internal shapes from steel caps. A size that fits in one brand may pinch in another.
• Women's protective footwear is built on women's lasts. Men's sizes converted down often fit poorly at the heel.
• Metatarsal guards and thick insoles take up room. Fit with them installed.
• Feet change with age, weight and injury. Remeasure rather than reordering the old size.

Common mistakes

• Buying a size up to relieve toe pressure, which lets the foot slide and the cap rub.
• Measuring sitting down.
• Fitting with thin dress socks.
• Assuming a work boot size equals a sneaker size.

Governing standards: ASTM F2413; 29 CFR 1910.136.

Reference only. Verify against the current governing code or standard, the manufacturer's data and the project documents before use. Apps for Distributors disclaims liability arising from reliance on this reference.