What To Know
- Espadrilles are known for their unique construction, featuring a canvas or fabric upper and a jute or rope sole.
- Your feet may swell slightly in the heat, so it’s best to go up half a size if you’re buying espadrilles for summer.
- If the espadrille has a narrow toe box or a snug overall fit, going down half a size can be helpful.
Espadrilles, with their charming blend of casual chic and breezy comfort, have become a summer staple. But before you click “add to cart,” a crucial question arises: do espadrilles run true to size? The answer, unfortunately, isn’t a simple yes or no.
Espadrille sizing can vary significantly depending on the brand, style, and even the materials used. This guide will delve into the intricacies of espadrille sizing, helping you navigate the world of espadrilles with confidence and find the perfect fit for your feet.
The Espadrille Construction: A Factor in Sizing
Espadrilles are known for their unique construction, featuring a canvas or fabric upper and a jute or rope sole. This construction can influence the fit in a few ways:
- Jute Sole Flexibility: Jute soles are naturally flexible, which can make the espadrille feel slightly larger than expected. The flexibility allows the sole to mold to your foot, providing a comfortable fit.
- Canvas Stretch: The canvas upper can stretch slightly over time, especially if it’s made from linen or cotton. This can also affect the fit, particularly in the toe area.
- Lining Variations: Some espadrilles have a lining, while others are unlined. Lined espadrilles may feel slightly tighter than unlined ones, especially in the toe box.
Brand-Specific Sizing Variations
While a general rule of thumb exists, it’s crucial to consider the brand when determining espadrille sizing. Here’s a breakdown of how some popular brands tend to size:
- Castaner: Generally runs true to size, but some styles might run slightly small.
- Soludos: Known for running slightly large, especially in the length.
- Veja: Usually runs true to size, but can be a bit snug in the toe box.
- Havaianas: Their espadrille styles typically run true to size.
- Tory Burch: Often runs true to size, but some styles might run slightly small.
The Importance of Measuring Your Feet
Before you even think about ordering espadrilles, take the time to measure your feet accurately. Here’s how:
1. Stand on a flat surface with your weight evenly distributed.
2. Place a piece of paper against a wall, ensuring your heel is touching the wall.
3. Mark the end of your longest toe with a pen or pencil.
4. Measure the distance between the wall and the mark.
5. Repeat for both feet, as they may be slightly different sizes.
Trying on Espadrilles: A Crucial Step
Whenever possible, try on espadrilles before purchasing them. This allows you to gauge the fit and comfort firsthand. Here’s what to look for:
- Toe Room: Your toes should have enough room to wiggle comfortably. Avoid espadrilles that feel too tight or cramped in the toe box.
- Heel Fit: The heel should fit snugly without slipping. If your heel is sliding out, the espadrille might be too large.
- Arch Support: Espadrilles typically offer minimal arch support. If you have high arches, consider choosing a style with a slightly thicker sole.
- Overall Comfort: Walk around in the espadrilles for a few minutes to ensure they feel comfortable. Pay attention to any pressure points or areas of discomfort.
Tips for Finding the Perfect Espadrille Fit
- Consider Season: Espadrilles are often worn during warmer months. Your feet may swell slightly in the heat, so it’s best to go up half a size if you’re buying espadrilles for summer.
- Sock Thickness: If you plan on wearing socks with your espadrilles, factor that into the sizing. Choose a size that accommodates the thickness of your socks.
- Style: Some espadrille styles, like wedges or platform espadrilles, might run slightly larger or smaller than flat espadrilles.
- Materials: The material of the upper and sole can affect the fit. Leather tends to be more rigid than canvas, while jute soles are more flexible than rubber soles.
Sizing Down: When It Makes Sense
While espadrilles often run true to size, there are instances where sizing down might be necessary. This is especially true for:
- Espadrilles with a narrow fit: If the espadrille has a narrow toe box or a snug overall fit, going down half a size can be helpful.
- Espadrilles with a canvas upper: Canvas can stretch over time, so sizing down can prevent them from becoming too loose.
- Espadrilles without a lining: Unlined espadrilles may feel slightly larger than lined ones, so sizing down can provide a more secure fit.
Finding Your Perfect Espadrille Fit: A Recap
Navigating espadrille sizing can be a bit tricky, but with these tips, you’ll be well on your way to finding your perfect pair:
1. Measure your feet accurately.
2. Consider the brand and style.
3. Try on espadrilles whenever possible.
4. Pay attention to the toe room, heel fit, and overall comfort.
5. Factor in the season, sock thickness, and materials.
6. Consider sizing down if necessary.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: What if I order espadrilles online and they don’t fit?
A: Many online retailers offer free returns or exchanges, so don’t hesitate to return them if they don’t fit.
Q: Can I stretch espadrilles that are too small?
A: It’s possible to stretch canvas espadrilles slightly, but it’s best to consult a professional shoe repair shop.
Q: How do I clean espadrilles?
A: Most espadrilles can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid soaking them in water, as this can damage the jute sole.
Q: Are espadrilles suitable for all occasions?
A: Espadrilles are versatile and can be dressed up or down. They are perfect for casual outings, but they can also be styled for more formal occasions.
Q: What are some good espadrille brands to try?
A: Some popular and well-regarded espadrille brands include Castaner, Soludos, Veja, Havaianas, and Tory Burch.
