Finding the perfect slipper size can be surprisingly tricky. Unlike outdoor shoes that you try on in store, many slipper purchases happen online, making accurate sizing essential for avoiding the hassle of returns. Different materials behave differently over time, brands vary in their sizing conventions, and even the time of day affects your foot size. This comprehensive guide ensures you get the perfect fit every time.
Why Slipper Sizing Differs from Regular Shoes
Slippers require different sizing considerations than your everyday shoes. Most slippers are designed to be worn without socks, changing how they should fit compared to shoes worn with hosiery. Additionally, slipper materials often stretch, compress, or mould to your feet over time, meaning the initial fit should account for these changes.
The desired fit also differs from outdoor footwear. While shoes often need room for walking long distances and accommodating sock thickness, slippers prioritise cosy snugness for indoor comfort. A slipper that feels slightly loose in store may become frustratingly floppy after a few weeks of wear.
Your feet are typically largest at the end of the day after hours of standing and walking. For the most accurate measurement, measure your feet in the late afternoon or evening.
How to Measure Your Feet
Accurate measurements form the foundation of proper sizing. Here's how to measure your feet correctly at home:
Step-by-Step Measurement Process
- Gather supplies: You'll need two sheets of paper, a pencil, a ruler or measuring tape, and a hard, flat surface.
- Position the paper: Place a sheet of paper on a hard floor against a wall. Tape it down if necessary to prevent sliding.
- Stand correctly: Stand on the paper with your heel touching the wall. Distribute your weight evenly on both feet as you would when standing normally.
- Mark your length: Have someone mark the longest point of your foot (usually the big toe or second toe) on the paper. If measuring alone, bend carefully without shifting your weight.
- Measure the distance: Using a ruler, measure from the wall (heel position) to the toe mark. Record this measurement in centimetres.
- Repeat for both feet: Most people have slightly different sized feet. Always fit to the larger foot.
- Measure width: Mark the widest points of your foot (usually the ball of the foot) and measure across.
If you plan to wear socks with your slippers, put them on before measuring. Thick socks can add 3-5mm to your foot length and width.
Understanding Australian Sizing
Australian shoe sizing follows UK sizing conventions, which differ from US and European systems. When shopping for slippers, be aware of which sizing system a brand uses. Many international brands sold in Australia list multiple sizing systems, but confusion can arise when only one is shown.
For reference, a women's AU size 8 typically corresponds to 25cm foot length, while a men's AU size 10 is approximately 28cm. However, these are guidelines rather than exact standards, as sizing can vary between brands.
Converting Between Sizing Systems
When shopping internationally or with brands using different systems, use these general conversions:
- Women's AU/UK size + 2 = approximate US size (AU 8 = US 10)
- Men's AU/UK size + 1 = approximate US size (AU 10 = US 11)
- AU/UK size + 33 = approximate EU size (AU 8 = EU 41)
These conversions are approximations only. Always check brand-specific size charts, as sizing can vary significantly between manufacturers. When in doubt, contact the retailer for guidance.
Material-Specific Sizing Advice
Different slipper materials behave differently over time, affecting how you should approach initial sizing.
Sheepskin Slippers
Genuine sheepskin slippers typically require snug initial sizing because the wool compresses and moulds to your foot shape over time. A new sheepskin slipper should feel quite fitted—almost tight—when first worn. After a few weeks of regular wear, the wool will flatten slightly and the leather will stretch, creating a custom fit.
If sheepskin slippers feel comfortable and roomy when new, they'll likely become too loose after break-in. Err on the smaller side if between sizes, unless you have particularly wide feet or plan to wear thick socks.
Memory Foam Slippers
Memory foam responds to body heat and pressure, moulding to your foot's contours. Unlike sheepskin, quality memory foam returns to its original shape when not worn. This means memory foam slippers should fit comfortably from the first wear—neither too tight nor too loose.
Choose your usual size for memory foam slippers. If between sizes, go up for a more relaxed fit or down for a snugger feel, depending on your preference.
Wool and Felted Slippers
Boiled wool and felted slippers also stretch with wear, though typically less dramatically than sheepskin. Choose snug initial sizing, particularly for brands like Glerups that are known to stretch. These slippers often come in whole sizes only or even S/M/L sizing, requiring consultation with specific brand size guides.
Synthetic Materials
Synthetic fleece and fabric slippers generally don't stretch significantly. Choose your normal size and expect the fit to remain consistent throughout the slipper's lifespan.
Special Foot Considerations
Wide Feet
If you have wide feet, look for slippers specifically designed in wide widths or with naturally accommodating designs. Slide-style slippers often work well for wide feet, as do slippers with stretchy uppers or adjustable closures. Avoid rigid-sided slippers that can constrict wide feet.
When wide widths aren't available, sizing up can provide more room, though this may compromise heel fit. A half-size up often provides adequate width without excessive length.
High Arches
High arches require slippers with adequate arch support and sufficient volume in the instep area. Low-profile slippers may feel uncomfortably tight across the top of the foot. Look for slippers with contoured footbeds and spacious designs that accommodate the higher volume of arched feet.
Bunions and Toe Deformities
Bunions, hammertoes, and other toe issues require wide, soft toe boxes that don't compress or irritate affected areas. Opt for slippers with stretchy or soft upper materials and generous toe room. Avoid pointed toe shapes and rigid constructions.
- Measure feet in the afternoon when they're largest
- Always fit to your larger foot
- Size down (snug) for sheepskin and wool slippers that will stretch
- Size normally for memory foam and synthetic slippers
- Consider width as well as length
- Account for socks if you plan to wear them
- Check brand-specific size charts—don't rely solely on conversions
What the Perfect Fit Feels Like
A properly fitting slipper should feel snug but not constrictive when first worn (for materials that stretch) or comfortably secure without tightness (for non-stretching materials). Your heel should stay in place when walking—excessive slipping indicates a size too large. Your toes should have room to move slightly but shouldn't slide forward inside the slipper.
There should be no pressure points, pinching, or areas of discomfort. If you feel any painful spots, even minor ones, consider a different size or style. Discomfort won't disappear with wear—it will only worsen.
Dealing with Between-Size Feet
If your feet fall between standard sizes, your choice depends on the material and intended use. For stretching materials like sheepskin, size down. For non-stretching materials, size up if you prefer a roomier fit or down if you prefer snugness. If you plan to wear thick socks, size up; without socks, size down.
Some brands offer half sizes or wide widths that may provide a better fit for between-size feet. It's worth seeking out brands with more granular sizing options rather than forcing a poor fit from whole-size-only options.
Return Policies and Trying Before Committing
When purchasing online, always check return policies before ordering. Reputable retailers offer free returns for sizing issues, allowing you to try slippers at home and return or exchange if necessary. Consider ordering two sizes to compare if returns are easy—keeping the better fit and returning the other.
The extra effort of proper sizing pays dividends in comfort and longevity. Slippers that fit correctly last longer, provide better support, and deliver the cosy comfort that makes quality indoor footwear worth the investment.