Foot length is the most common measurement used when buying shoes, but it only accounts for one dimension. For true comfort and a proper fit, the foot’s volume, or circumference, must be considered. The ball girth is a significant, yet often overlooked, measurement that provides three-dimensional data for footwear selection. This girth measurement determines the necessary width of the shoe’s toe box, ensuring the forefoot is not compressed. Understanding this measurement can prevent many common foot discomforts and long-term issues.
Defining the Ball Girth Measurement
The ball girth is a circumference measurement taken around the widest part of the forefoot. This area, commonly referred to as the ball of the foot, is the point where the foot naturally flexes during walking or running. Specifically, the measurement wraps around the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joints, which are the prominent joints connecting the toes to the rest of the foot.
It involves the joint of the big toe (first MTP) and the joint of the little toe (fifth MTP), capturing the full volume of the forefoot. This measurement is distinct from the two-dimensional width, which is simply the straight-line distance between the sides of the foot on the ground. A foot can have the same length and width as another but a different girth, highlighting why this measurement is necessary for an accurate shoe fit.
Accurate Step-by-Step Measurement Guide
Measuring the ball girth requires a flexible tailor’s tape measure and is best done while the foot is bearing weight. You should stand up and distribute your weight evenly, as the foot expands and flattens when standing, which is the state it will be in when wearing a shoe. If you plan to wear socks with the footwear, take the measurement while wearing them.
The tape measure should be wrapped entirely around the foot, passing over the joint of the big toe and the joint of the little toe. Ensure the tape is snug against the foot but not pulled so tightly that it compresses the soft tissue. If you have bunions or other bony protrusions, the tape must pass over them to capture the largest possible circumference.
Record the measurement in millimeters or inches before removing the tape. Since feet are often slightly different sizes, repeat the process on the other foot. The larger of the two measurements should be used when determining the appropriate shoe size for the most comfortable fit.
Translating Girth into Shoe Width
The numerical ball girth measurement translates directly into the letter-based width codes used in shoe sizing (Narrow, Medium, Wide, and Extra-Wide). This system accounts for the volume of your foot, ensuring the shoe’s toe box is wide and deep enough to accommodate the forefoot. Manufacturers use a size chart to correlate foot length and the ball girth measurement to determine the final width designation.
The width codes typically follow an alphabetical progression, with “A” being the narrowest and “E” or higher indicating progressively wider fits. For instance, a men’s standard or medium width is often designated as “D,” while a women’s medium is commonly “B”. Ignoring this girth measurement and wearing a shoe that fits only the length can lead to significant foot health issues.
A shoe that is too narrow for your girth can compress the forefoot, potentially resulting in conditions like nerve compression, blisters, bunions, or hammertoes. The pressure on the MTP joints and toes can lead to pain and inflammation, negatively impacting your gait and posture. Aligning your girth measurement with the shoe’s width designation is a simple step to promote long-term comfort and foot health.