The High Incidence of Mismated Feet in the Population

Abstract

All Americans, and most likely all individuals in all societies, have mismated feet; that is, the two feet of probably no individual are exactly alike in size, shape, or proportions. This conclusion was based on the findings of a demographic foot-measurement survey embracing 6800 adults (4000 females, 2800 males), conducted in 1981–1982 by the Prescription Footwear Association. The findings may explain why the ideal or expectation of “perfect” shoe fit is virtually impossible, although they do not suggest that adequate or satisfactory shoe fit is not attainable in most instances involving so-called “normal” feet. They also indicate that a mild degree of “breaking in” is required with most new footwear, although never necessitating any distress.

This article presents the methodology of the survey and foot measurements, along with the found data and their significance regarding the traditional processes of search of “proper” shoe fit and the obvious need for higher levels of professional shoe-fitting skills and service. The article also analyzes and discusses some little known or seldom considered complexities of shoe fit and the foot-shoe relationship that surfaces from this study, for example, the role of shoe design, shoe-sizing systems, consumer shoe-buying attitudes, and shoe materials, the four variable phases of shoe fit (static, weightbearing, functional, and thermal), and the availability of shoe sizes in stores.