Sandals-How much space in front of toes?

Minnie

Seeing that sandal season is almost upon us, I’ve been wondering about proper sandal fit.
Many websites, like Nordstrom, have a model in sandals to showcase clothing.
I noticed that almost always the model’s toes are at the front and side edges of the sandals. Today’s blog post had a couple of examples (see pic)
To me that looks too small. I know that feet slide forward, especially in heeled shoes/sandals, but should that not be taken into consideration?
My sandals all have some space between my toes and the edges. Should there be space and if so, how much?
Thanks

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5 years ago

General

8 replies

Latest reply was from MsMaven

smittie

Veteran

Yes, the models’ shoes look too small to me too.
I’d say maybe a 1/4” extra space in sandals would be ideal, though I’m no expert. Also, your foot’s silhouette might not follow the outline of the footbed of the sandal, so you have to fudge it a little.

5 years ago

Jaime

(website)

Veteran

Models are tall and their feet probably are bigger than the sample size at hand. I think a bit of space is ideal, it is sort of a judgment call though when it comes to how much.

5 years ago

Jenni NZ

Veteran

Hi Minnie, people thought I might have too much space in these new sandals and that I should return them. After consideration I tried on all my other sandals as well and many had this much space. They were comfy and I loved the style so I decided to ignore the forum’s advice and keep them.
I have worn them out to dinner since and was happy. But I do agree that a little less space than this would be better. But more than the pics you show.
You don’t want them to look too big or too small! Goldilocks situation!

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5 years ago

anne

Veteran

I have feet that are short and wide at the ball and always have space - somewhat like yours. At a 6, I'm already at the smallest easily provided size - and my feet go over the sides a bit at the ball too.

5 years ago

Jenni NZ

Veteran

Yes Anne my feet are smaller than that, they are either a 5 or 5.5 in US sizes, usually 36 but has been 35 or 35.5 in European sizes. Many brands do make a 36 but not smaller, which is probably why I am sometimes sized out at the bottom end. Comfort is the most important to me with sizing, then style, then the perfection of how the fit looks. In the sandals above, they are comfy, I adore the style with the gold bits and so the fit being not quite perfect I can live with. They were a 36.
Some Fabbers would not do it though and would have returned. Returning is such a hassle and I had been happy with the price, as well. Now for #30 wears though!

5 years ago

Joy

Veteran

Just.becareful not to have too much space. It makes it easy to trip. I think the space depends some on the shape of your foot and the foot bed of the sandal.

5 years ago

Anonymous

The model's shoes do look too short.

My sandals inevitably curve upward at the toes after a few wears and I'd be surprised if that's unusual, so that makes the visual of extra space less obvious. I actually like a little space in front because I think it gives a little protection.

Jenni, how delightful to have such small feet that you get sized out!

5 years ago

MsMaven

Veteran

I wince when I look at the model's photos. Those straps have to hurt and those heels! For me they aren't too short though--I prefer not to have a lot of space at the end, but then I have long toes and bunions and weird-shaped feet nowadays. I do have a pair I bought last summer that have as much space as Jenni's. I wish I had returned them and bought a half size smaller.

If yours are comfortable and you are happy with them--great!

5 years ago

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