Ever slipped your foot into a boot and thought, “This is it—this is the one”? That’s the magic of a great fit. But getting there? That’s the tricky part.
Grant Stone boots are built to impress, but nailing the perfect size can sometimes feel like a puzzle especially since their lasts offer a different fit.
So, how do Grant Stone boots fit?—I hear you ask.
Don’t worry—I’ve got the cheat code. Let’s break it down for you…
How Do Grant Stone Boots Fit?
I get it—ordering boots online can feel like a high-stakes game of guesswork. Will they fit? Will they be too tight? Too loose? The stress is real.
But don’t worry, I’m here to help you nail the perfect fit…
First things first—Grant Stone boots run a little bit large. They recommend sizing down a half size, and I’ve found that advice to be spot on. For example, if you’re a US 11.5, go for an 11.
If your feet are on the wider side, Grant Stone has you covered. They offer E widths in addition to their standard D width, so you can find the perfect fit for your foot shape.
If you’re stuck between sizes, size down and use the extra room for thicker socks. Or, if you prefer a snugger fit, stick with your usual size and let the boots break in naturally.
If you’ve worn boots from brands like Red Wing, Thursday, or Wolverine, you’ll find Grant Stone’s sizing to be pretty similar. The rule of thumb? Size down a half size from your sneaker size. It’s a tried-and-true formula that works for most folks.
When trying on your boots, pay attention to two key areas:
- Toe Room:
You want about ¾ to 1 inch of space in front of your toes. This gives your feet room to breathe and prevents that cramped feeling.
- Ball of the Foot:
Make sure the widest part of your foot aligns with the widest part of the boot. If it feels tight or pinched, consider going up a half size or trying a wider width.
In terms of the break-in period, Goodyear-welted boots like Grant Stone’s take a little time to break in. Don’t panic if you feel a bit of heel slippage at first—it’s normal. As the boots mold to your feet, that slippage will disappear.
Overall, Grant Stone boots are designed to fit like a dream—once you get the sizing right. Size down a half size, pay attention to width, and give them a little time to break in. Before you know it, you’ll have a pair of boots that feel like they were made just for you.
Related:
If you’re curious about how other iconic boots fit, you might want to explore how Danner boots stack up. They’ve got their own unique sizing quirks and fit profiles that are worth checking out. Dive into the details here to see how they compare.
Now that you’ve got a handle on how Grant Stone boots fit, check out the Grant Stone boot size chart below because nothing beats having the numbers right in front of you.
Here’s what Devon says about Grant Stone Diesel sizing…
Grant Stone Size Chart
| Brannock size | Grant Stone Size | UK |
|---|---|---|
| 6.5 | 6 | 5 |
| 7 | 6.5 | 5.5 |
| 7.5 | 7 | 6 |
| 8 | 7.5 | 6.5 |
| 8.5 | 8 | 7 |
| 9 | 8.5 | 7.5 |
| 9.5 | 9 | 8 |
| 10 | 9.5 | 8.5 |
| 10.5 | 10 | 9 |
| 11 | 10.5 | 9.5 |
| 11.5 | 11 | 10 |
| 12 | 11.5 | 10.5 |
| 12.5 | 12 | 11 |
| 13.5 | 13 | 12 |
How Grant Stone Brass Fits
When it comes to finding the right size for the Grant Stone Brass boot, I think you’ll find it’s pretty straightforward.
Again, Grant Stone recommends going a half size down from your usual sneaker size. So, if you’re a 10.5 in Nike, you’ll want to grab a 10 in the Brass boot.
This sizing approach is pretty standard for heritage boot brands like Red Wing or Wolverine, so if you’ve owned boots from those makers before, you’ll feel right at home here.
Here’s another way to think about it: if you measure an 8.5D on the Brannock device for example, that’s your true size. For the Brass boot, you’d typically go down to an 8D.
The Diesel boots (built on the Leo last) fit perfectly at 8D, but the Brass feels a bit roomier in the toe box. That’s partly because of the taller side walls and the Floyd last, which has a bit more volume overall.
I wouldn’t recommend sizing down another half size to a 7.5D, though—that might make the boot too short, and you don’t want your toes .
Some folks might even consider sizing down another half size, but I’d be cautious about that—you don’t want your toes getting too close and bumping up against the end of the toe box.
Now, if you’re stuck between sizes and not sure which way to go, I’d suggest leaning toward the smaller size. The Brass boot is gives you about an inch or two of space for your toes to wiggle around. Even if you size down, it won’t feel too snug or cram your toes. Trust me, you’d rather have a little extra room than deal with pinching or discomfort.
The heel and waist of the Brass boot are snug and fitted, which gives you that secure, locked-in feel. But the boot flares out just right at the ball of your foot, so it’s comfortable where it counts.
The roominess in the toe box isn’t just about width—it’s also about height, so you’ll feel like your toes have plenty of breathing room. It doesn’t feel like you’re wearing clown shoes or anything; it’s just a comfortable, spacious fit that you’ll appreciate.
One thing to keep in mind: if your Brass boot is just a little roomier and you don’t want to ship it back, you could either throw in an insert or wear thicker socks.
Related:
Grant Stone boots are known for their snug, half-size-down fit, but RM Williams sizing takes a different approach. Wondering how they compare? Dive into our guide on how RM Williams sizing works and how they fit to see which brand suits your feet best.
How Grant Stone Diesel Fits
I find that the Diesel boots run true to your Brannock size. If you’re a 10 on the Brannock device, you can confidently go for a 10D or 10E, depending on your foot shape.
If you’re someone who finds dressier boots or plain-toe styles too narrow, the 10E might be your best bet. The Diesel has a wider toe box, but it doesn’t look like it. The silhouette remains sleek and refined, which is a huge win in my book.
And if you need an extra-wide fit, Grant Stone has you covered with EEE widths. That’s pretty rare for a smaller company, as investing in extra-wide lasts isn’t cheap or easy.
If you’re coming from other boot brands like Thursday Boots, Red Wing, or Wolverine, you’ll find the sizing consistent. I typically wear a 10.5 in sneakers, and going down to a 10 in the Diesel was spot on for me.
The break-in period is also a breeze, thanks to the Horween Chromexcel leather. It’s known for being supple and forgiving, so you won’t have to suffer through weeks of blisters to get these boots feeling like they were made for you.
One thing to note, though, is the angle of the boot’s opening. It’s a little odd at first—you might find yourself having to lace them really tight to keep the laces from slipping.
This can lead to some initial pinching around the ankles, especially when the boots are new. But once they break in, this issue tends to ease up. It’s a small quirk in an otherwise fantastic boot.
Related:
Grant Stone boots are all about precision and craftsmanship, but if you’re stepping into Xtratuf boots, you’ll want to check their sizing first. Our Xtratuf size chart guide makes it easy to find the right fit.
How Grant Stone Edward Fits
The Edward is built on the Leo last, which is hands down one of the most comfortable lasts out there. It’s a combination last, meaning the heel and waist are narrower, while the ball of the foot and toe box have a bit more room.
But while the toe box is roomy enough to be comfortable, it doesn’t look bulky or clunky.
This design gives you a secure, snug fit at the back of your foot while still letting your toes breathe. You won’t feel squished or cramped anywhere.
As with all their footwear, Grant Stone recommends going a half size down from your Brannock measurement. So, for example, if you’re an 8 on the Brannock, you’d want to go for a 7.5 in the Edward.
In terms of width, a 7.5E in the Edward will fit similarly to an 8D in the Diesel, which is also built on the Leo last.
How Grant Stone Chelsea Boots Fit
If you’re considering the Grant Stone Chelsea boot, there’s one thing you need to know upfront: it’s built on their UK last, and that makes it a little different from their other boots. The UK last is wider in the waist and has a longer toe, which gives it a distinct fit compared to, say, the Diesel or Brass boots, so going down a half size helps you get a snugger fit.
Here’s how it works: if you’re a US 10 in your Grant Stone Diesel, Brass, or even other heritage brands like Red Wing, Wolverine, or Thursday Boots, you might want to size down to a 9.5 for the Chelsea.
That said, if you’re planning to wear thicker socks, you might want to stick with your usual size—otherwise, a 9.5 could feel a little too tight.
If you’re wearing thinner socks, you might notice a bit more space than you’re used to. For some, that’s a plus—it adds to the comfort. But if you prefer a tighter fit, you could even try going a full size down from your sneaker size or a half size down from your usual heritage boot size. It’s one of those boots where being in between sizes gives you some flexibility to experiment.
Now, what’s the secret to the perfect Chelsea boot fit overall? Good news—I’ve got you covered. For a deep dive into how Chelsea boots should fit, check out this in-depth guide: How Should Chelsea Boots Fit?.
How Grant Stone Ottawa Fits
For the Ottawa, you’ll want to stick with your usual boot size, which typically means going a half size down from your Brannock measurement.
So, if you’re an 11 on the Brannock device, you’d go for a 10.5 in the Ottawa. This sizing is consistent with other heritage brands like Red Wing and Wolverine—if you’re an 11 in those, you’ll be an 11 in the Ottawa too.
The Ottawa is built on Grant Stone’s Leo last, which is known for its comfortable, versatile fit. The heel and waist are snug, giving you a secure feel, while the toe box is roomy enough to let your toes breathe without looking bulky. It’s that perfect balance of support and comfort, making it a great choice for all-day wear.
One thing to keep in mind: if you’re between sizes or have wider feet, you might want to consider going up a width instead of sizing down further. The Leo last already provides a bit of extra room in the forefoot, so you shouldn’t feel cramped.
Next up, Grant Stone doesn’t just slap on a wider sole and call it a day—they actually put thought into their widths, and it shows..
Grant Stone Widths Explained
One of the first things you’ll notice—and honestly, appreciate—is just how thoughtful Grant Stone is about their widths. When they grade their widths, they make the boot slightly longer too to keep everything proportional.
They offer half sizes and three width options: D, E, and EEE. This might not sound like a big deal at first, but trust me, it is, because making working with 50+ lasts, especially for a small company like this, is quite an investment.
So, if you’re a 10.5D, you might find that a 10E or even a 9.5EEE fits you like a glove and a 10E will have a bit more length in the toe than a 10D.
If you’re a 10.5 in sneakers—you could try a 10D for a snugger fit or a 9.5E for a little more room in the forefoot while still keeping the heel secure.
Here’s the breakdown:
D width is your standard medium width—great for most feet.
E width is wide, but not too wide. It’s about 1/8 of an inch fuller than a D width, which might not sound like much, but trust me, your toes will notice. It’s perfect if you need a little extra room in the instep, ball of your foot, or toe box.
EEE width is where things get spacious. This is for those who’ve been cursed with feet that most brands seem to ignore. It’s significantly fuller in the instep and ball area, so if you’ve ever felt like your forefoot was being pinched or squeezed, this is your happy place.
Now, here’s a pro tip: if you’re feeling even the slightest pinch or pressure (but not full-on pain), go up a width. It’s way easier to fill up an extra 1/8 of an inch with thicker socks or an insole than it is to squeeze your feet into something too tight.
Plus, let’s not forget the magic of leather—especially Chromexcel (CXL). It’s forgiving and will stretch and mold to your feet over time. Veg tan leather, on the other hand, is less stretchy, so if you’re going for that, err on the side of more room.
Now that we’ve covered how Grant Stone boots fit in terms of length and width, let’s take a closer look at the lasts that make these boots so unique…
Grant Stone Leo vs. Floyd Last
A last is that foot-shaped mold around which a boot is built, giving it its specific shape and form. Grant Stone boot are built on two lasts—the Floyd and the Leo—and each has its own unique characteristics.
The Floyd last, compared to something like Allen Edmonds, is designed with taller sidewalls and a broader toe box, which gives you a bit more wiggle room than you’d typically find in dress boots.
Why does that matter?
Well, it means your toes have plenty of space to move, both up and down and side to side. This extra room makes the Floyd last incredibly comfortable, especially if you’re planning to wear your boots for long periods or even light hikes. (You might want to check how hiking boots should fit.)
The Leo last is Grant Stone’s most popular last, and for good reason. It’s got a sleek, almond-shaped toe that strikes the perfect balance between dressy and functional.
Some might call it a chisel toe, but it’s not as sharp as you’d see on some dress shoes—it’s more rounded, with a low profile that looks great and feels even better.
The Leo last is designed to accommodate a variety of foot types, including medium arches, high arches, heavily splayed feet, and flat but flexible feet. It’s often compared to Alden’s Truebalance last, and I can see why.
Here’s what makes the Leo last stand out: it hugs your heel snugly for stability, supports your arch beautifully (you’ll feel that classic “tuck” under the arch), and widens at the ball of the foot to accommodate your natural shape.
Grant Stone vs. Truman vs. Parkhurst vs. Oak Street Lasts Compared
If you’re into heritage boots, you’ve probably noticed that Grant Stone, Truman, Parkhurst, and Oak Street are some of the most talked-about brands—and for good reason.
Each of these brands has its own unique lasts, giving their boots distinct shapes and fits that set them apart from the crowd.
The Grant Stone Leo last has a low instep and a fairly wide forefoot, but what really sets it apart is the sleek, almond-shaped toe.
It’s not as rounded as some other lasts, which gives it a dressier, more refined look while still offering plenty of comfort.
The heel and waist are snugand provide a secure fit, while the toe box gives your toes room to breathe. It’s a last that works well for a variety of foot types, making it one of Grant Stone’s most popular options.
The Truman 79 last strikes a perfect balance between the rugged, bulky look of a Red Wing and the slim, narrow profile of something like the Thursday Captain.
The 79 last is a little wider around the toe box, but it doesn’t feel overly chunky or work-boot-like. It’s not so bulky that it looks out of place in a casual setting, but it’s also not so slim that you feel like you’re squeezing into a fashion boot from the early 2000s. It’s a great middle ground—heritage-inspired but with a modern, versatile shape.
The Parkhurst 602 last is a bit of a sleeper hit. At first glance, it looks slim and narrow, but don’t let that fool you—it’s actually quite wide at the forefoot.
The 602 last is longer than most, which gives it that streamlined appearance, but the extra length means your toes have plenty of space to spread out.
It’s a clever design that lets you have the best of both worlds: a narrow-looking boot that doesn’t sacrifice comfort. If you’ve struggled with boots that pinch your toes together, the 602 last might be your new favorite.
Finally, we have Oak Street’s Elston last. This one’s wide, stubby, and a little shorter than the others. From the side, it doesn’t look overly bulky, but from a top-down view, you’ll notice it’s significantly wider and flatter.
This makes it a great option if you have wider feet or just prefer a roomier fit. The Elston last gives your toes plenty of space to spread out, which can be a game-changer if you’re on your feet all day.
It’s not the most streamlined last out there, but it’s incredibly comfortable—and sometimes, that’s what matters most.
Let’s take a step back in time and talk about how Grant Stone came to be—because this isn’t just a story about boots; it’s a story about passion, family, and breaking stereotypes.
How to measure Your Feet
Let’s face it—measuring your feet isn’t exactly a thrilling activity. But if you want boots that fit like they were made for you (and who doesn’t?), it’s worth the effort.
Here’s how to do it right…
In-Store:
If you’ve got a shoe store nearby, pop in and ask to use their Brannock device. It’s the most accurate way to get your measurements, and bonus—you’ll feel like a kid again standing on that thing.
Got your own Brannock device? First of all, respect—that’s next-level boot enthusiast energy. Use it just like the pros:
- Stand up straight.
- Place your heel firmly against the back
- Slide the measuring bar to your longest toe.
- Write down both length and width, and you’re good to go.
You can find printable versions online (just make sure to scale it correctly). Tape the paper to the floor, stand on it, and mark the tip of your longest toe and the widest part of your foot. Measure the distance, and voilà—you’ve got your size.
At Home Without a Brannock
If you’re flying completely solo, here’s the DIY approach:
- Grab a piece of paper, a pen, and a ruler.
- Stand on the paper.
- Trace your foot (keep the pen upright for accuracy)
- Measure the length and width.
- Compare your measurements to a sizing chart.
No matter which method you choose, remember: measure both feet (they’re often slightly different sizes) and do it at the end of the day when your feet are at their largest. Trust me, your future self will thank you.
Now, let’s tackle some burning questions you might have about Grant Stone boot sizing—because let’s face it, when it comes to finding the perfect pair, the devil’s in the details.
Grant Stone Sizing FAQ
Do Grant Stone offer multiple widths?
Yes, and this is one of the things I love about Grant Stone. They offer three widths: D (average), E (wide), and EEE (extra wide). Not every style has all widths (which is a bummer, but hey, they’re working on it), but there’s still a solid range to choose from.
Are Grant Stone boots true to size?
Grant Stone boots don’t run true to size in the traditional sense—and that’s actually a good thing. Most of their collection runs half a size larger than your standard shoe size and a full size larger than your sneaker size.
For example, if you’re a 10.5 in most dress shoes or casual shoes, you’d want to go down to a 10D in Grant Stone boots. And if you’re a 10.5 in sneakers (like Nike or Adidas), you’d likely want a 10D in Grant Stone. Why? Because their lasts are designed to give you a snug, secure fit in the heel and midfoot while leaving plenty of room in the toe box.
This sizing approach is pretty consistent with other heritage brands like Red Wing or Wolverine, so if you’ve worn those before, you’ll feel right at home. But if you’re new to boots or just unsure, I’d recommend starting with a half size down from your Brannock measurement or your usual shoe size. And if you’re between sizes or have wider feet, bumping up to an E or EEE width can make all the difference.
Will Grant Stones work for you if you have a high instep?
Grant Stone’s lasts are designed with volume in mind, so they usually handle a higher instep pretty well. If you’re still worried, going up to an E or EEE width can give you even more room to play with.
Do Grant Stones accommodate orthotics or inserts?
Most folks recommend going up half a size or one width to make room for orthotic and inserts. The trick is to think about how thick or bulky your insert is—if it’s on the chunkier side, you might need that extra space. But if it’s slim, just bumping up to a wider width (like an E or EEE) could do the trick.
The History of Grant Stone Boots
It all starts with Wyatt Gilmore, the co-founder of Grant Stone. But really, the groundwork was laid decades earlier by his father, who grew up in the shoe business as the son of a renowned New England boot and shoe salesman.
In the early ’90s, Wyatt’s dad built a relationship with a factory in China, helping them produce Goodyear-welted shoes for the American market.
In 2010, Wyatt’s father convinced him to visit that same factory in China. What started as a visit turned into a full-blown apprenticeship. Wyatt moved in with the factory owner and spent six days a week learning the ins and outs of shoemaking.
In 2016, after six years of immersion, Wyatt and the factory teamed up to launch Grant Stone. Their mission? To create a super high-end Goodyear-welted collection using the best materials sourced globally—think leathers from France, Italy, the UK, and the USA—and assembled with some of the most meticulous construction methods in the industry.
But here’s the twist: Grant Stone faced an uphill battle from the start. The “Made in China” label carried a stigma, especially in the high-end footwear world.
Early on, they struggled to break into certain markets, but they didn’t let that stop them. By 2018, they opened their first warehouse and office in Michigan, and sales have been climbing ever since.
Today, Grant Stone offers around 120 different Goodyear-welted styles in multiple widths, all designed with quality, fit, and comfort in mind. Their direct-to-consumer model cuts out the middleman, allowing them to deliver exceptional craftsmanship at a more accessible price.
What’s truly remarkable is how Grant Stone has shattered the “Made in China” stereotype. Through sheer dedication to quality and a relentless focus on craftsmanship, they’ve earned a loyal following of boot enthusiasts who appreciate their attention to detail and timeless designs.
Wrap Up
So, there you have it—everything you need to know about how Grant Stone boots should fit, their lasts, widths, and sizing quirks.
From their proportional widths to their comfortable lasts, they’ve put a lot of effort into making sure their boots fit as good as they look.
If you’re still on the fence, here’s my advice: start with your usual boot size (half down from Brannock or your sneaker size), and don’t be afraid to experiment with widths if you need a little extra room. And remember, breaking in a pair of Grant Stone boots is more like breaking in a favorite leather jacket—it only gets better with time.
Now it’s your turn! Have you tried Grant Stone boots? How did they fit for you? Did you size down, go wider, or stick with your usual size? Maybe you’ve got a favorite last or a tip for breaking them in? Drop your thoughts, questions, or even your hot takes in the comments below.