by Jon Coe

Created on: April 06, 2007   Last Updated: April 08, 2007

When trying on, and eventually purchasing a pair of shoes, there are a few things to keep in mind.

When you arrive at the shoe store, walk around the shoe selection once. Take note of what catches your eye. Some shoes will stand out more than the rest, these shoes will be the ones for you, if they fit.

Always try one pair on at a time! When you are finished, put both of the shoes back into the box and put them back onto the shelf. If they fit and you like them, and you wish to try on another pair, keep the shoes with you, but never more than two pairs.

Believe it or not, one half of the human body, in most cases, is a little bit bigger than the other. That side is the left! When trying on a pair of shoes, always put the left one on first! This simple guide line will determine if you need to move onto larger or smaller size. The same goes for gloves.

Always try on both shoes! Sometimes, there is a chance that the person before you, tried on two pairs of the same style, but in different sizes. You might end up with a size seven and a size eight in the same box, for example.

Be prepared, if you are normally...say, a size seven and you try on a size seven, it maybe too big or too small. Sizes vary from brand to brand.

Always, always take a walk in the shoes first. This will allow you see the truth about them. If they are going to be snug or not, will depend upon the movement of the bones and muscles in your foot.

Always make sure that you have plenty of time. This will ensure that you will not make a rash decision.

Always wash you feet before going to the shoe store. Wear a clean pair of socks or stockings.

Do not buy a pair of shoes if they are too tight. Even if you find the pair you want, you gotta have 'em, but they are not in your size! Shoes are not like jeans! You can't stretch them that far and you can't diet to get into them.

If you are getting desperate and you have spent a long time at the shoe store, it is best to just leave! You will be getting tired and it will affect your judgment. Staying longer will lead to a wrong purchase. Go home or go to another shoe store.

If you spend a long time looking for shoes in one store, it probably means that they don't have the shoe for you!

When trying on lace up shoes, always lace them up and walk in them. Sometimes, the tops of the shoe will dig into your foot.

Always pay attention to your foot. If it hurts squeezing your toes into a narrow shoe, then it will hurt even more later. Check out to see if the same shoes are available in a wider fit.

Finally; NEVER wear your NEW shoes out of the store. That will be considered very poor etiquette!

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