Discover how to choose the perfect size Vibram Fivefingers. Measure your feet correctly, please note: Fivefingers fit differently than other barefoot shoes. Still not entirely sure? Then come and try them on in our shop.
Buying Vibram Fivefingers online can sometimes be a challenge. The most common question about Vibram Fivefingers is undoubtedly which size you should choose.
Important: The method for determining your correct size for Vibram Fivefingers differs significantly from our other barefoot shoes with a closed toe box. Therefore, always follow the specific sizing advice for Fivefingers provided below.
First and foremost, it is important to know that you should NEVER simply buy the same size as your 'classic' shoes. With classic (hiking) shoes, it is usually recommended to have some extra space (one finger behind the heel when the shoe is open).
Vibram Fivefingers should actually fit like a glove. However, the best assessment of the size is your own sense of comfort. Does the shoe feel too small or too large? Then it probably is.
Please note: Every model fits and feels different, and everyone has differently shaped feet. If you feel better in a size other than what the tips below suggest, that is perfectly fine if it feels better for you!
Follow the tips below for the best chance of ordering the correct size of Vibram Fivefingers! If you are unsure about your size, feel free to come and try them on in our store.
The best way to determine the correct size is by measuring your feet. You do this as follows:
On our webshop, a length in centimeters is listed with each size. Example: 38 | 23.2 cm or 39 | 23.8 cm.
If your largest foot measures, for example, 23.5 cm, we recommend size 38 for that model. If your largest foot measures 23.8 cm, we would recommend size 39 for that model instead.
However, this is only an indication. From experience, we know that there is some variation in fit and materials between different models, which means you might take two different sizes for two different models. Ultimately, trying them on is the only way to be sure.
If you are at the very end of a size or right on the border, it is best to choose the larger size.
As discussed above, your new Fivefingers should feel like gloves. With other barefoot shoes, you ideally want a 12 mm margin between the tip of your toes and the front of the shoe. With Vibrams, you generally want a more snug fit.
Your heel should fit snugly into the heel cup of the shoe, while your toes fit comfortably into each 'toe pocket'.
Are your toes (softly) touching the tips of the toe shoe? This doesn't have to be a problem. As long as the toes only touch the tip lightly (not pushing against it) and it doesn't restrict movement or cause discomfort, it is a correct fit.
Do your Vibram Fivefingers feel loose? Do you have to 'hold onto' your shoes with your toes, or is the shoe sliding off your heel? You can first try tightening the laces (on models with laces). If they still feel too loose, it is better to exchange them for a smaller size.
If the Fivefingers feel very tight (along the sides) or if your toes are compressed, it is better to choose a larger size.
Finally, some people have very short toes. If your toes don't completely fill the toes of the Vibram Fivefingers, this isn't necessarily a problem, unless your toe(s) don't reach the 'toe pockets' at all. In that case, the shoes will never be comfortable. This might mean that Fivefingers are not the right shoes for you.
Naturally, not everyone has the same foot shape, and sometimes it can be beneficial for a woman to choose a men's model. The only difference (besides the color) between a women's and a men's model is that the men's models are slightly longer and wider.
Conversely, for men with small/narrow feet, choosing a women's model can certainly be a solution.
You can certainly wear Vibram Fivefingers with socks. This is a personal choice. Of course, with toe shoes, you must choose toe socks, such as INJINJI.
Keep in mind that socks add about 1 mm of length to your foot (or 2 mm with thicker models like the Injinji Outdoor Midweight).
With the tips above, you are well on your way. However, keep in mind that every model has its own fit. That is why we list the specific lengths per size for every Vibram Fivefingers model on our product pages.
Are you still unsure which size Vibram Fivefingers you need? Come and try them on in our store. We are happy to help!
Discover all our Vibram Fivefingers →
