If you've ever bought shoes in your usual size and found them pinching at the sides or rubbing at the toes, the size probably wasn't the problem. The shape was.
Every shoe is built around a last, and the last decides how a shoe fits long before you try it on. At Propét (it's pronounced Pro-Pay!), we've been designing comfort footwear around fit since our first walking shoe in 1985. Here's what a last is, why it matters, and how to find the fit that's right for your feet.
What is a shoe last?
A last is a three-dimensional form, shaped like a foot, that a shoe is built around. The upper is shaped over it, and the sole is attached to fit it. Once the shoe is made, the last comes out, but its shape stays in the shoe.
That shape sets almost everything you feel when you put a shoe on:
- Length: how far the shoe runs from heel to toe.
- Width: how much room there is across the ball of your foot.
- Toe box: how much space your toes have to spread and move.
- Instep: how much height there is over the top of your foot.
- Heel: how snugly the back of the shoe holds your heel.
Two shoes in the same size can fit very differently because they're made on different lasts. That's why your size is only half the story.
Why fit comes first at Propét
Most shoe brands make each style on one last, in one width. If your feet don't match that shape, you're left choosing between a shoe that's too tight or a size that's too long. Many people end up wearing the wrong size without realising it.
Propét was built on a different idea: true comfort starts with the right fit, and one size doesn't fit everyone. Our product team designs each style with comfort and fit in mind, so you can choose a shoe that matches the shape of your foot, not just its length.
That means more room where you need it, a secure hold where you don't, and shoes you can wear all day, whether you're walking the dog, running errands or travelling.
Finding your width
The width is shown as a letter next to the size. Our Australian range includes these wider fittings:
| Wide | Extra wide | XX-wide | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Women's | D | 2E | – |
| Men's | – | 3E | 5E |
For reference, a standard (medium) width is B for women and D for men. That's why a women's D is a wide fit.
You may need a wider fitting if:
- shoes feel tight across the ball of your foot, even in the right length
- you've been buying a size up to get more room
- the sides of your feet press against the edges of the sole
- you get redness, rubbing or pressure on your little toe or bunion area
- your feet swell later in the day or after a long walk
If you're between two widths, try the wider fitting in your usual length before going up a size.
How to measure your feet at home
It takes five minutes and gives you a much better starting point than your old shoe size.
- Measure later in the day. Feet naturally swell as the day goes on, so an afternoon measurement reflects how your shoes will feel when it counts.
- Stand on a sheet of paper against a wall, with your heel touching the wall and your weight evenly spread. Wear the socks you'd normally wear.
- Mark your longest toe and the widest points on each side of your foot. Ask someone to help if you can.
- Measure the length from the wall to the toe mark, and the width across the widest points, in centimetres.
- Repeat for the other foot. Most people have one foot slightly larger than the other, so always use the bigger measurement.
- Compare with our sizing guide to find your size and width.
A note on US sizing
Propét is an American brand, so our shoes are sized in US sizes. US sizes don't line up exactly with Australian sizes, and the difference isn't the same for men's and women's shoes.
The easiest way to get it right is to measure your feet in centimetres and use our sizing guide, rather than converting from your usual Australian size. If you're unsure, our team is happy to help you choose.
Signs your shoes don't fit
A well-fitting shoe should feel comfortable from the first wear. Watch out for:
- your toes touching the end of the shoe (aim for about a thumb's width of space)
- pressure or rubbing across the sides of your foot
- your heel slipping up and down as you walk
- red marks, blisters or numbness after wearing
- needing to "break in" a pair before it feels right
If any of these sound familiar, it may be time to try a different size or width.
Find your fit
Everyone deserves to enjoy their day without sore feet. Whether you need a wide, extra wide or XX-wide fitting, Propét has comfortable, stylish shoes designed to fit.
Shop Propét View our sizing guide
Not sure which size or width to choose? Contact our friendly team and we'll help you find the right pair.