How to Measure Feet with a Brannock Device - Full Explanation

Ever wondered what these metal devices under the fitting chair of the footwear department are for? The Brannock device is a measurement tool for feet that has the ability to measure toe length, arch length and width. This video is a follow-up to a video we posted a year ago, as the previous video didn't have a close-up view of the foot measurement procedure. Got questions or comments? Post them below.
Want to know how to use the Children's Brannock device? Check out our video guide here: • How to Measure Childre...
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Video Content:
✓ Measurement of Feet using a Brannock Device
✓ How to measure toe length, arch length and width
✓ Types of Brannock Devices
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The content seen in this video is provided only for educational purposes and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Video Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
00:39 What type of Brannock devices are available for foot measurements?
01:23 How to measure your feet using a Brannock device
03:29 How to size the foot using a Brannock Device
05:07 Final Thoughts on measuring feet

[@FootGeekzTV]

Got questions? Post them below.

[@CC-hk6vy]

Excellent guide, I just tried to.ise one by myself in store so looked it up here. I thought this was very concise and useful! Thanks!

[@Supercell725]

Very helpful video, thanks man

[@FootGeekzTV]

You're welcome

[@cjanquart]

I recently put a pair of Nick's on order but they had their own measuring guide which was handy. I just wanted to read and measure the width correctly. Didn't realize the doo-hicky on the right was for arch length.

[@Rick-bt6je]

Excellent tutorial, thankyou

[@FootGeekzTV]

Glad it helped you.

[@leefirefox]

Thank you for the edification

[@pgh45rpms]

It's ideal when the arch length and heel to toe length match identically, but sometimes they don't. In my case I register size 8 1/2 at the toe but 10 1/2 in the arch. My fitting problem is compounded by my narrow feet. I can fit into an 8 1/2 B but it seems that 9 B or 9 1/2 A fits best. I bought size 10 A once, but I think there was too much toe room. And with most shoes being imported, you can't go by what size is printed inside the shoe.

[@MarcP5267]

Your arch measures a 10 1/2 but you can fit into an 8 1/2?

[@ivanyaschenko5524]

Hello guys! Can someone help me to measure correct size for the shoes if I know that manufacture use the Brannock Device on the production?! My feet is 27cm( or 270 mm) Thank you in advance!!!

[@xxgg]

Question: Since men size is 1 size larger than women, men measuring with women specific brannock device +1 should be accurate, right? (confirmed by the unisex model, but not sure why you said 2 size difference in the video?) But what about the width measurement? Are they same or how would one go about converting from women to men? Thanks.

[@FootGeekzTV]

Thank you for your questions. In most brands we find the footwear sizing to be 2 sizes different from men's to women's, in US sizing. However, you're right, on the Brannock there's only a 1 size difference. Using UK, European or Japanese sizing would give you the most accurate picture, as these sizes don't differ from woman to man (i.e. a men's 39 would be the same sizing in women's). Width would be measured the same. Please keep in mind that women's shoes are usually a B width while men's shoes are a D width. Meaning the equivalent size in a men's shoe is wider. Most shoes nowadays display labels in all four sizing systems, US, UK, EU and cms. When in doubt convert your measured women's size to a unisex (UK, EU or cms) size and go from there. Happy Shopping.

[@The_Kwassle]

Hi - if I am reading my device and my longest toe is bang on the line for a 10, should I be opting for a 10.5 to get some room at the end?

[@FootGeekzTV]

For most Athletic shoes you'd go a half size larger, but every brand fits different, so use this as a guide only. You'll have to try the footwear to ensure it feels comfortable on your feet and has the appropriate space for your toes.

[@AminK247]

Question: what kind of shoes are you wearing? I need those pls price a link. Thanks

[@FootGeekzTV]

That's the Joya Bruno. Pricing will vary for each country.

[@user-cw9ui2sc1h]

I have read somewhere that you begin the measuring process by having the customer sit down first and then measure standing up. What would be the reason to add the sitting down step?

[@FootGeekzTV]

We like to check both measurements, as major foot length changes would indicate that there may be other underlying issues such as foot pain due to arch collapse. It also helps the client understand their foot mechanics.

[@user-fj4ih2uk9o]

​@FootGeekzTV how much bigger should my foot be standing up vs sitting down? I'm a 10 sitting but 11 standing. Is that normal

[@FootGeekzTV]

@@user-fj4ih2uk9o If your arch has a tendency to fall on weight bearing your size range may vary from 1/2 size larger to 2 sizes larger. Nothing unusual about it.

[@a.humphries8678]

So, length was 10.5 but arch was a 10. Which one do you go with? And, if you choose your arch length do you still add about a fingers width for room?

[@FootGeekzTV]

Always go with the longer size. As for space. That would always be a finger's width from the longest toe. If the arch is longer than the foot length, use arch length to better position ball of foot in widest part of shoe.

[@a.humphries8678]

@@FootGeekzTV thank you. This is great info. You explained it so clearly, I appreciate it! Thanks for getting back with me so fast too, I'm going to measure my feet tonight. :)

[@sarahb.6475]

​@@FootGeekzTVstupid question maybe, but how can your arch length be longer than the entire foot??? I mean dont the toes add extra length so surely the foot length has to be longer than the arch length doesn't it ?

[@FootGeekzTV]

@@sarahb.6475 If you compare the metric or imperial measurements, yes. However, the Brannock allows you to measure the toe length, as well as the arch length. When the toes are shorter than average the arch length may be longer than the overall foot length. In some cases the toes may be longer than average and hence the foot length will be longer than the arch length. Non custom shoes are designed and built based on average foot shapes. This assumes that the ball of the foot will be at about the 3/4 mark. If toes are shorter, but the ball of foot longer you may choose a shorter shoe. However, this may cause the ball of the foot not to sit in the appropriate spot. In this case it may be appropriate to choose a shoe based on the arch length. The same holds true for longer toes. However, with a longer heel to toe length and a shorter arch length you can't choose a shorter shoe, as that will cram the toes. Hope that helps.

[@faridemran]

So if my longest toe lines up at 9 when standing, what shoe size should in US should i buy? You didnt mention the measurement of the device is UK or US, And I hate to assume

[@FootGeekzTV]

This device measures shoe sizes in US sizes. The black one pictured is for men. They do have Unisex options of the Brannock, where both men's and women's sizes are displayed on the device, side by side. If you measure a size 9, you may fit shoes anywhere from US 8.5 to 10, depending on the width of the shoe, the shape of the shoe and the depth of the shoe. Athletic shoes tend to fit short, so often you may have go up a half size to a size.

[@leftyseel8658]

I got an almost 11cm foot width. Is that standard or wide on that device?

[@FootGeekzTV]

That really depends on the length of the foot, as the length of the arch decides the width of the foot. However, the measurement only takes into consideration the straight line width of the foot and not the circumference. If your instep is higher or lower you may require a wider or narrower shoe than the width dictates.

[@brettbjornson]

If someone measures up to a 10 should they buy a size 10 shoe or go a half or full size up to 10.5 or 11? How much room should you have at the end of the shoe?

[@FootGeekzTV]

Usually we recommend about a finger width of space from the longest toe. Not all brands fit the same. Best to try the shoes in person, unless you're reordering something you had before.

[@brettbjornson]

@@FootGeekzTV Which finger?

[@FootGeekzTV]

@@brettbjornson we use the index finger as a guideline. Ideally there is anywhere from 6 to 10 mm of space. However, this may differ depending on the shape of the toe box of the shoe, square or pointy. You should be able to wiggle the toes freely when you're standing in the footwear. No rubbing on the edges of the footwear. Sandals on the other hand won't require that amount of space as they're open toe.

[@user-ci5sf5qj2k]

I think he is asking if you measure a 10 and are unable to try the shoe on before buying (ie, buying on line) or are dealing with a situation where they don't have a Bannock device (ie getting a ski boot rental) should you order your measured size (a 10 in this case) or a larger size. @@FootGeekzTV

[@FootGeekzTV]

That's a tough question to answer as there is no consistent sizing for brands. If you had a brand before, other styles within that brand will most likely fit similar, but it's not guaranteed. Always best to try in store to make sure that you have a good fit.@@user-ci5sf5qj2k

[@thepracticalgymnast8001]

Foot geekz gang 🤞

[@smirkinatu5512]

When using this device. It is imparative that the measurement be taken while bearing weight on the foot being measured and that the human being is wearing the stocking thickness that is most likely to be worn with the shoe in question.

[@nathancruz9172]

Do I still have to wear size 9 👟 and 🩴, when I’m 8.5 👣 size?

[@FootGeekzTV]

Not every footwear brand builds their shoes on the same last, so they won't all be the same fit. We recommend trying the shoes in the store to ensure the fit is right. Size is but a number and really doesn't matter as long as it's a good fit. Enough space around the toes, not too loose across the ball of the foot and snug around the heel.

[@nathancruz9172]

@@FootGeekzTV thanks for the tip.

[@nathanfleming5965]

If you're big toe lens on the 10 and a 1/2 does that mean your shoe size is 10 and a 1/2?

[@FootGeekzTV]

Not necessarily, as not all brands are true to size and don't necessarily offer additional space at the toes to prevent rubbing. It's an approximation. In the end you will have to try the shoe to make sure it has enough space and doesn't interfere with foot function.

[@Bourbonsmoke]

So I'm a little confused on the width part. My length is a 13, arc is a 13/13.5... but then my width says I'm like a B. I've always worn standard width shoes which I'm pretty sure is D.

[@FootGeekzTV]

The problem with the width measurement is that the Brannock doesn't take into account the instep height. If a Regular width is fitting well I wouldn't worry about it. If you find yourself putting extra insoles into the shoe or adding fillers under the ball of the foot to tighten up the shoe you may want to consider a narrower shoe. B width isn't easy to come by in men's shoe. Also, certain brands will fit more narrow than others.

[@mohapagla]

Is there any good soul who will explain me if your heal to ball of feet is 19.1cm what is the arch length number in the brannock device? I really need this number but I don't have a brannock device.

[@FootGeekzTV]

The brannock doesn't measure in cms. You may want to draw an outline of your foot on a piece of paper and do the measurements by hand.

[@mohapagla]

@@FootGeekzTV you mean the brannock device don't calculate in any unit . It has its own unit?. I have drawn my feet and from heel to ball of feet is 19.1 cm but I just wanted to know what will dmbe the number in brannock device.

[@mohapagla]

@@FootGeekzTV And how to measure by hand the measure ment I need is brannock device measurement

[@FootGeekzTV]

@@mohapagla That's correct. It measures in US sizing, comes in both a male and female version or a unisex version. I created a paper version you can download from this page: shopfootsolutions.ca/shoe-fitting-help/. You can print it and measure the length on it to get the size you're looking for.

[@xiaoyanlin9327]

OMG they are so cool but I’m gonna buy my owns!

[@Mattdog45]

If your big toe is right on the line is that the right size or do you go a 1/2 size higher?

[@FootGeekzTV]

That depends on the footwear. Some footwear manufacturers add extra spacing to the end of the shoe to allow the size measured to fit well. However, many brands, especially athletic shoes tend to fit short, so you may have to go 1/2 a size or a full size longer to make sure you have enough wiggle room for the toes. You just don't want your toes to be jammed into the end of the shoe, as this can cause ingrown nails, thickened nails or turf toe.

[@Mattdog45]

@@FootGeekzTV ok so let me elaborate. My big toes sits right on the line of a 12 but my arch length also sits right on the 12. This will be for a pair of running/walking shoes. My left foot is a size 13, and wearing a 13 on my right foot yields blisters and foot discomfort. Should I just make a special trip to a store and try on size 12 on my right foot?

[@FootGeekzTV]

@@Mattdog45 Does your right foot move around too much, hence causing blisters, or is the right foot wider and hence experiencing more pressure points on the sides? If the right shoe is too loose you can experiment with fillers under the ball of the foot to tighten up the fit: kzbin.info/www/bejne/a4TFi5aod7F9h68feature=shared. Or, as you mentioned, you can choose to go with a smaller size on the right to create that improved fit.

[@Mattdog45]

@@FootGeekzTV it’s because it moves around too much. I am going to try a heel insert to lengthen the foot a little bit in the shoe, but should I put the insert in a new shoe that’s fresh or in one of my current running shoes that’s already been broken in? It’s a size 13 shoe on a size 12 foot so the insert will lengthen my foot out, will that place the ball of my foot in an area of the shoe that may not conform to where the bend has already taken place?

[@FootGeekzTV]

@@Mattdog45 you can put toe fillers into both new and old pairs of shoes. I would refrain from putting stuff behind the heel and work to fill out the volume in the front of the shoe to create a more secure fit.

[@rogerr.8507]

what do i do with the arch length??

[@FootGeekzTV]

If the arch length is longer than the toe length you should fit the footwear to the arch length, as opposed to the toe length.

[@bunpeishiratori5849]

Keeping the camera about five feet away from the device, far enough so that it would be impossible to read the numbers, was an interesting choice.

[@FootGeekzTV]

Thanks for the feedback

[@lostsoul3154]

Great video, some people are going to b***h about anything. Geesh.

[@FootGeekzTV]

😊

[@Fudgeballs88]

Bannock device is flawed the widest part of the foot is the toes which the Bannock device does not measure accurately

[@jamestropicals8262]

My feet are about 11.14 inches in length and 4.3 inches in width

[@CoreyCantwell-jv4be]

Line it up with the big toe joint... The end of wasn't lined up, nor was the center little point of it. What are you even trying to explain?

[@FootGeekzTV]

We're talking about measuring the arch length there and then reading the width.

[@markmicensky2744]

(right @ 1:47) a woman's size 9 is a men's size 7!? WTH

[@RadarLeon]

I'm 33 and a man, my foot is just under 9 and my foot is freaken wide i never quite understand how to read the width

[@FootGeekzTV]

To read the width you pick up the big toe, see where the big toe joint breaks and then position the moveable arch length pointer on the inner side of the big toe joint. The number it points to is your arch length. Then you push in the moveable foot width bar against the outer aspect of the foot. Take the number from the arch length and find the corresponding number on the width bar. Trace it down to the bottom and you'll be able to find your width. However, this is only an approximation and you may potentially require a wider shoe than the width suggests.

[@RadarLeon]

@@FootGeekzTV thank you very much my foots odd as my 2nd and third toe are both longer than my big toe and my third toe would have been almost as long but it's been bent from wearing to narrow of shoes, that helps me understand how to read the device

[@BluJns]

What?

[@BluJns]

Too wordy....

[@FootGeekzTV]

@@BluJns Cheers

[@manuelcastaneda7838]

Women's is pink. Men's is baby blue. Youth is baby blue.

[@FootGeekzTV]

You mean colour of the brannock?

[@mboaz4730]

#1 Still too far away to see any details. You say you are a 10.5 but I can't tell because you are holding the camera facing down and from your perspective which, as you pointed out, is opposite of the professional who will be reading the device. #2 You only show how to use the mens device. ALL of the ones that I have ever seen have been dual devices, which I could not make heads or tails of in the store.

[@FootGeekzTV]

Thanks for the feedback!

[@sekacity3425]

Way too wordy .

[@ayosaksham6369]

Is wordy even a word😅

[@jdw3828]

Too much talk, repeated sentences/phrases

[@3rdjrh]

Unnecessary comment

[@Rick-ih7wp]

This is IDIOCY! These were developed by shoe manufactures. MOST companies that manufacture shoes have NEVER seen a healthy foot. Normal feet are NOT pointy at the toe. Further, heels were not meant to be raised. Arches were not meant to be artificially supported. If you choose shoes using one of these YOUR SHOES WILL NOT FIT CORRECTLY.

[@stephthestar90]

I wear high heels a lot and I love them! I wear them for height as I'm quite short and I find6 people take me more seriously when I wear them

[@Rick-ih7wp]

@@stephthestar90 I didn't ask.

[@Devon.Hamilton]

@@Rick-ih7wpaww someone’s mad

[@Rick-ih7wp]

Quite happy Thank You.........and my feet don't hurt.@@Devon.Hamilton

[@larrynelson7839]

Wow! There is just too much here to unpack!