Decoding the B Shoe Size: The Mystery of Shoe Widths - Shoes and Fitness (2024)

(Last Updated On: December 4, 2023)

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When it comes to footwear, finding the perfect fit is crucial. Our feet carry us through life, and the right shoe width can make all the difference between comfort and misery. While we often focus on shoe length, shoe width is just as important in ensuring a comfortable fit. In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of shoe widths, specifically focusing on the elusive B width. Let’s unravel the mystery of the B shoe size and help you find the perfect pair of shoes that match your feet’s unique dimensions.

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Understanding Shoe Widths

Shoe widths are typically measured using a series of letters, which indicate the width of the shoe. These letters, ranging from AA to EE, form a scale that represents the narrowest to the widest shoe widths. The most common shoe width sizes are A, B, C, and D, with additional sizes for even narrower or wider fits.

Shoe WidthDescriptionInches (Approximate)
AAExtra Narrow2.95″ – 3.4″
ANarrow3.4″ – 3.6″
BStandard/Medium3.6″ – 3.8″
CSlightly Wide3.8″ – 4.0″
DWide4.0″ – 4.2″
EExtra Wide4.2″ – 4.4″
EEExtra Extra Wide4.4″ – 4.6″

It’s important to note that shoe widths differ between men and women, even when using the same letter scale. For example, a D width shoe for men is considered a standard or medium width, while a D width shoe for women is considered wide. Understanding these nuances is essential when shopping for shoes, as it can greatly impact the overall fit and comfort.

Here’s a table detailing women’s shoe sizes and corresponding widths for narrow (A), medium (B), and wide (C and D):

Shoe SizeNarrow (A)Medium (B)Wide (C and D)
53.1″3.25″3.4″ – 3.55″
63.15″3.3″3.45″ – 3.6″
73.2″3.35″3.5″ – 3.65″
83.25″3.4″3.55″ – 3.7″
93.3″3.45″3.6″ – 3.75″
103.35″3.5″3.65″ – 3.8″
113.4″3.55″3.7″ – 3.85″
123.45″3.6″3.75″ – 3.9″

Here’s a table detailing men’s shoe sizes and corresponding widths for narrow (C and B), medium (D), and wide (E) starting at size 5:

Shoe SizeNarrow (C and B)Medium (D)Wide (E)
53.6″ – 3.75″3.9″4.05″
63.7″ – 3.85″4.0″4.15″
73.8″ – 3.95″4.1″4.25″
83.9″ – 4.05″4.2″4.35″
94.0″ – 4.15″4.3″4.45″
104.1″ – 4.25″4.4″4.55″
114.2″ – 4.35″4.5″4.65″
124.3″ – 4.45″4.6″4.75″

Please note that this table is a general guideline, and the actual measurements can vary slightly depending on the brand and shoe model. Always consult the specific sizing information provided by the manufacturer when shopping for shoes.

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Decoding the B Shoe Size: The Mystery of Shoe Widths - Shoes and Fitness (1)

The B Shoe Size Width in Detail

The B width is a specific shoe width size that falls in the middle of the scale for women and towards the narrower end for men. For women, B width is considered standard or medium, while for men, it is considered narrow. To provide some context, B width for women is typically narrower than a D width, while for men, it’s wider than an A width but narrower than a C width.

Feet that typically fit well in B width shoes tend to have average proportions with no excessive width or narrowness. While each person’s feet are unique, this width size accommodates a wide range of foot shapes and characteristics.

Measuring Your Shoe Width

To determine if B width is the right size for you, it’s essential to measure your foot width accurately. Follow these simple steps:

Gather tools: You’ll need a blank sheet of paper, a pen or pencil, a ruler, and a soft measuring tape.

Prepare your foot: Make sure to wear socks similar to those you plan to wear with your shoes.

Trace your foot: Stand with one foot on the paper, ensuring your weight is evenly distributed. Trace your foot carefully, keeping the pen or pencil perpendicular to the paper.

Measure length and width: Use the ruler to measure the length and width of your foot at its widest points. Don’t forget to measure both feet, as they may differ slightly in size.

Compare measurements: Consult a shoe size chart that includes width sizes to determine if B width is the best fit for your feet.

Tips for Finding the Perfect B Width Shoe

When shopping for B width shoes, keep these tips in mind:

  • Look for brands known for offering B width options, such as New Balance, ASICS, and Brooks.
  • When shopping online, read customer reviews for insights on fit and comfort.
  • In-store, don’t be afraid to ask for assistance and try on multiple sizes to find the best fit.
  • Pay attention to the shoe’s construction, materials, and features that contribute to its overall fit and comfort.
  • Finally, remember that proper fit is crucial for maintaining foot health and overall comfort. Don’t compromise on size or width just because a particular shoe style catches your eye. With patience and persistence, you’ll find the perfect B width shoe to support you in all your adventures
Decoding the B Shoe Size: The Mystery of Shoe Widths - Shoes and Fitness (2)

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Conclusion

Understanding shoe widths and finding the right size is essential for your overall foot health and comfort. We’ve explored the meaning of B width in shoes, how it differs for men and women, and the steps to measure your foot width accurately. With this knowledge, you’re well-equipped to find the perfect B width shoe that fits your unique foot shape and characteristics.

Always remember the importance of prioritizing fit and comfort when shopping for shoes, as this can make a significant difference in your daily life. Don’t be afraid to explore various brands and styles, and take the time to find the perfect pair that feels like it was made just for you. Happy shoe hunting, and may your feet be forever comfortable in your new B width shoes!

About The Author

Darren Cater

Darren is the editor of shoesandfitness.com. He’s a footwear enthusiast that also loves to train with the most comfortable footwear available and the best equipment too.

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Decoding the B Shoe Size: The Mystery of Shoe Widths - Shoes and Fitness (2024)

FAQs

What does B mean for shoe width? ›

B Widths. A 'B' width is the most common letter size for women and is considered a Normal/Medium/Standard width. For men, it's considered a Narrow width.

What does B width mean in New Balance shoes? ›

If the majority of shoes you own fit adequately, consider ordering a Standard Women's width (B) If your shoes tend to feel overly spacious in width consider selecting a narrower width (2A) If your shoes tend to feel noticeably narrow or snug consider selecting a wider width (D, 2E, or 4E)

How to determine shoe size and width? ›

To find your size, measure the heel-to-toe mark and use the inch-to-size table. For example, if you are a man and your foot measures 12" long, you will wear a U.S. size 14 shoe. 8. To find your width, measure the marks for the widest part of your foot and use the inch-to-size table.

Is B or C wider in shoes? ›

Foot Width:

Boots are typically available in 6 widths: B (extra narrow), C (narrow), D (regular), E (wide), EE (extra wide), and EEE (triple wide). We suggest ordering your boots according to the size chart above.

Which is wider B or D? ›

A: A men's medium width is a 'D' width whereas a women's medium is a 'B'. Men typically have wider feet and therefore the standard width for a men's shoe would be a wide for a woman's shoe. You can review the charts below to better understand how widths vary between gender.

Can I wear wide fit shoes with normal feet? ›

However, while you can technically wear wide-fit shoes with standard feet, choosing the right width for you is best. Ill-fitting shoes may lead to discomfort, reduced support, and an increased risk of tripping.

How do you determine if you need a wide shoe? ›

Signs You May Need a Wide Width Running Shoe

Numbness or tingling sensations in the feet. Your foot spills over the side(s) of your shoe. You have existing foot conditions like bunions, hammertoes, or Morton's neuroma. Something just doesn't feel right in the toe box despite having enough room (length wise).

Is 9.5 B wide? ›

A: My husband got the 9.5 D - it is a "normal" width for a shoe for men. The 9.5B is a very narrow width and the 9.5E is very wide.

How should new Balance shoes fit? ›

With respect to feel, your heel should fit snugly into the shoe with no slipping; the midfoot of the shoe under your arch and over the top of your foot should be snug but not tight, and you should have enough room in the toe box to wiggle your toes.

What is considered a wide foot for a woman? ›

For comfortable heels width is an important factor along with length. Many shoes will also have a width size, ranging through AA, A, B, C, D, E, EE, and EEEE. B is average for women, D is average for men. A and below are narrow, E and up are wide and extra-wide.

How many inches is a wide width shoe? ›

A regular or medium foot width is a little less than half of your foot size in inches. For example, if you wear a size 7 shoe, then a regular foot width would be around 3.45 inches, whereas a wide size 7 foot would measure anywhere from 3.75 to 4.25 inches.

What is the difference between wide and regular shoes? ›

Wider shoes have more roomy toe boxes for comfort, while regular shoes have tighter toe boxes for support. Arches – Wide feet and flat feet often go hand-in-hand. For wide shoes, the arch support is often lower and less pronounced. In regular shoes, there's typically more sturdy and shapely arch support.

What does B mean in shoe size? ›

In general, B signifies a medium width for women's shoes, whereas M typically denotes a medium width for men's shoes. However, it is worth noting that sometimes, B is used to represent medium width for both men's and women's shoes.

What is B width in New Balance shoes? ›

We offer a variety of widths to best accommodate everyone's needs. Our widths are as follows:
X-NarrowStandard
Women'sNot AvailableB
Men's2AD
Kid'sNot AvailableM

What is width B in Nike? ›

Nike Shoe Size Chart
BMedium
MediumDWide
Wide2EExtra Wide
Extra Wide4E
1 more row

What does 9.5 B mean in shoe size? ›

A: B and D designate the width - being `medium' for women's and men's sizes, respectively - of the shoe for a given size (which is based on length). Some brands and models offer different widths; in men's sizes, 2E is wide, 4E is extra wide, and I think I've even heard of 6E (if very rarely).

What do shoe width letters mean? ›

AAA, AA, A, B, C, D, E, EE, EEE is the typical North American system and follows the brannock device standards, per the system B is narrow, C is regular, D is medium, E is wide, EE is extra wide and so on. The unlettered D size is the norm for men and B for women.

What does Hoka size B mean? ›

Traditionally, Women's sizes have been built as a B width and Men's as a D width. For All-Gender Styles, these tend to have more of a C/D width to be able to fit most feet. The good news is our adjustable straps help accommodate a wide range of foot widths and sizes!

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