all-day walking shoe (retail work) proper sizing

So, I posted previously about it, but I've been trying to find better shoes for my retail job where I'm on my feet all day. I've encountered an issue that I don't care as much about when I'm not focused on comfort, but here I want to tread carefully. Basically, I'm wondering how much room there should be in the shoe, specifically leather ones. (For context, my left foot is a bit smaller than the right.) I ordered these (https://www.nordstromrack.com/s/gender-inclusive-made-in-usa-996-sneaker/7700661) in two sizes (9.5 and 10 if it matters). What I'm trying to figure out is whether I should go with the smaller ones that are tighter (they just fit my larger foot) or with the larger ones that leave a bit more room. I know the rule is normally that you go up a half size, but since these are suede, I'm not clear if the shoes will "break in" over time, and the larger one might get a little too large where the smaller one would get to be an appropriate size. Sorry for the wordy question! (Also sorry for my understanding of shoe material being sub-par)
7 Replies
Mosh
Mosh3w ago
Go larger, new balances dont really break in so youll be relieved that you went bigger For context im usually a 10.5 - 11 in shoes but i own 11 - 11.5 in new balances and even 12 in asics, but thats because my foot is wide asf I also have the same problem as you where my right is bigger than my left and its definitely bothersome with some brands
kewlpinguino
kewlpinguinoOP3w ago
Yeah basically every time I buy new shoes I get blisters on my left heel because of the sliding and I need to deal with it until they eventually kinda break in. But I didn’t know about the runners loop until today so maybe that can help
za warudo
za warudo3w ago
I would find a store that stock NB and try them on first. Another good sneaker for being on your feet all day is the Hoka Clifton.
Nayyyyy
Nayyyyy3w ago
You can put a small amount of leather conditioner on the inside heel to make it break in quicker. Also for reference suede is softer than calf leather. Less likely to rub.
kewlpinguino
kewlpinguinoOP3w ago
Oh I have them both in my house and am gonna return them once I choose which ones fit better
Tandy
Tandy3w ago
More room is nice because your feet will swell up by the end of the day
kewlpinguino
kewlpinguinoOP3w ago
I ended up going with the larger size and I’m wearing them today, nearing the end of my shift and happy with that choice but there’s a weird thing that I need to push the smaller foot to the front before tying because of the drop If I don’t the point where it drops digs into my arch

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