Let’s be real—figuring out your Parkhurst boot sizing is probably the biggest headache, especially when you’re buying boots from a brand you’ve never tried before.
I get it. I’ve been there too.
The good news is I’ve had a few chats with Andrew (the guy behind the brand), and I feel like I’ve finally wrapped my head around how their sizing works.
So, I thought—why not put together a Parkhurst boot sizing guide? Not just for you, but for both of us. Something that actually clears things up and gives you the confidence to go for a pair without second-guessing every number on the Parkhurst boot size chart.
Oh hey, if you’re just starting out and want a broader understanding of how boot sizing works across different brands, check out my complete guide to boot sizing—it’ll give you a solid foundation before diving into Parkhurst specifically.
Let’s dive right into it…
Parkhurst Boot Size Chart
| Brannock Size | D/regular width & volume | Narrow, low volume foot |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6.5 | 6 |
| 7.5 | 7 | 6.5 |
| 8 | 7.5 | 7 |
| 8.5 | 8 | 7.5 |
| 9 | 8.5 | 8 |
| 9.5 | 9 | 8.5 |
| 10 | 9.5 | 9 |
| 10.5 | 10 | 9.5 |
| 11 | 10.5 | 10 |
| 11.5 | 11 | 10.5 |
| 12 | 11.5 | 11 |
| 12.5 | 12 | 11.5 |
| 13 | 12.5 | 12 |
Related: LL Bean Boot Size Chart
Parkhurst Boot Sizing Guide
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One thing I really appreciate is Parkhurst doesn’t leave you guessing. They go out of their way to share everything they know to help you get the right fit.
From how their lasts are shaped to how their boots stack up against other brands—they actually want you to get it right the first time.
And honestly, I love that. You can tell they’ve put serious effort into making the whole sizing process as clear and transparent as possible.
How Do Parkhurst Boots Fit
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Let’s cut to the chase—getting the right size in Parkhurst boots isn’t just about picking the number you usually wear. I mean, sure, you can say, “I’m a size 10,” but that doesn’t tell the whole story.
It’s kind of like saying you like coffee without mentioning if you take it black, iced, or with three sugars and oat milk. Your foot shape, your preferences, and even your sock choices—all of that matters.
So, how do Parkhurst boots actually fit? Here’s what I’ve learned:
Parkhurst Boots Aren’t Sneakers
First off, these aren’t sneakers. Welted boots (like these) are built differently. You should have some extra space up front—around 1 inch between your longest toe and the front of the boot.
That might sound like too much, but it’s totally intentional. That room balances out how the width and the ball of your foot sit inside the boot. And since Parkhurst boots run a little wide in the toebox, that extra length is just part of the design.
Related:
If you’re jumping from Parkhurst to Wesco, don’t assume the size tag tells the whole story. Read this Wesco sizing guide first.
Sizing Down from Sneakers
Now here’s where things get interesting. If you normally wear sneakers in, let’s say, size 10, you’ll probably want to size down a bit—most likely to a 9 in Parkhurst. But don’t take that as gospel. It depends on the shape and width of your foot.
For example, if your feet are medium width and average volume, going down a half to a full size from your usual sneaker size usually works. But if your feet are on the wider side or have a higher volume, staying closer to your sneaker size (or just going down a half size) might be the better move.
Brannock Sizing Advice
Still not sure? Pull out your Brannock measurement—the one you get at a shoe store with that metal foot ruler thing. If you’re a standard D width on the Brannock, I’d say go down half a size.
So, if you’re a 9D, try an 8.5 in Parkhurst. If your feet are narrow (like a C or even B width), or if you’ve got low volume feet or skinny ankles, then a full size down from Brannock might fit better. You want that secure fit without pinching.
But what if your feet are on the wider side—like an E or EE width? Then Parkhurst might actually work in your favor. These boots already have a slightly roomier toebox, so some folks with wider feet can get away with wearing their Brannock size or even going up a half size for a little more comfort—especially if you wear thick boot socks or just like a bit more space.
Quick Fit Check
Oh, and here’s a simple test: once the boots are on, you should be able to wiggle your toes without your foot sliding around. If anything feels sharp or pinchy on the sides, that’s usually a sign you’ve gone too small—try going up half a size.
At the end of the day, it’s not just about the number on the box. It’s about how the boot feels on your foot. So ask yourself: Do you like a snug fit? Do you want room for thicker socks? Do you hate feeling the front of the boot against your toes?
Because that’s what sizing is really about—what feels right for you.
Parkhurst Lasts and How They Fit
Understanding how a last fits is just as important as knowing your size. Parkhurst boots have gone through an evolution over the years, and each last brings something slightly different to the table.
Right now, the two main lasts Parkhurst is building on are the 602M and the 618. If you’re new to the brand, start by figuring out which of these your boot is built on. Then look at your Brannock size, your foot shape, and how snug you like your boots.
If you’re somewhere between sizes, your instep height and foot volume might be the tiebreaker. And when in doubt—Andrew is super helpful, and he really wants you to get the right fit. Don’t hesitate to reach out.
Let’s start from the original 18 all the way to the newer 602M and 618—so you get a sense of what to expect depending on which model you’re looking at.
Parkhurst 18 Last (The Original)
This was Parkhurst’s first last, and it had a very distinct almond-shaped toe that tapered a little too early. The fit was a bit snug in the toe box—not in a painful way, but enough that it wasn’t the most forgiving shape for wider feet.
Length-wise, it matched the later 602, but the early taper made it feel tighter in the front. The heel and waist felt narrow, and the toebox opened to about a D width. Not a bad fit, but definitely not Andrew’s final vision.
Parkhurst 602 Last
With the 602 last, Parkhurst started to get things dialed in. The taper at the toe became more rounded, the ball area widened slightly (up to about an E width), and the heel stayed locked-in.
It had a nice combination last feel—narrow in the heel and waist, but roomy enough in the forefoot. If you wore a D width on the Brannock device, you’d typically go down half a size in the 602. Narrower feet or lower volume folks often did better with a full size down.
Parkhurst 602M Last (Spanish Factory)
When production moved to Spain, Andrew took the 602 and gave it a few tweaks. The 602M added about 1–2mm of width and volume in the forefoot, which made it feel a bit roomier without changing the overall shape. The heel and waist stayed snug, and it still kept that same natural contour over the instep.
If you already owned a pair in the original 602 and they felt great, stick with the same size in the 602M. If the 602 felt slightly snug before, the 602M might be the sweet spot. On the other hand, if the 602 just barely fit without being tight, this might feel a touch too roomy—and it’s worth talking to Andrew directly if you’re unsure.
👉 Sizing Tip: Go down a half size from your Brannock if you’re a D width. Go down a full size if your feet are narrower or lower volume.
608 Last (Upstate NY)
This was another combination last—very narrow in the heel and waist and then opening up at the ball of the foot to about a D or E width. The toe was more rounded than the 18, and the length matched the others. It’s not widely used now, but it shows how Parkhurst kept refining that snug heel + roomy forefoot combo.
618 Last (Portuguese Factory)
This is where everything started to come together. The 618 last combines features from earlier designs with a bit more sophistication. It has a very snug heel and waist—arguably narrower than the 602 or 602M—but opens up into a wide forefoot that fits just over an E width.
It tapers into an almond-shaped toe, but don’t let that scare you off—it’s long enough that your toes aren’t cramped, and the structure keeps you from feeling like you’re jamming your toes forward when you walk.
Some folks compare the shape back to the 18 last, but it’s more refined. The taper happens after your toes are accommodated, so you get that sleek silhouette without the squeeze. It’s also slightly longer than the 602M—by about 4–5mm—which adds to that comfort up front.
👉 Sizing Tip:
- If you’re a 10D on the Brannock, go with a 9.5.
- If you’re closer to an E width or want a bit more room, stick with your Brannock size.
- If you’re narrow or low volume, go down a full size.
- If the 602M fits you well, the 618 will likely fit too—just know it might feel a little longer and snugger in the waist and heel.
How Some Parkhurst Boots Fit
Parkhurst Allen Horween Waxed Flesh Parkhurst Stitchdown
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The Horween Waxed Flesh Parkhurst Stitchdown Allen is made on Parkhurst’s 618 last, which is a combination last designed for a sleek look without squeezing your toes.
The 618 last features a narrow heel and waist, opening up to just above E width at the ball before tapering into an almond-shaped toe.
Fit details:
- The narrow heel locks your heel in place, reducing heel slip right from the start.
- The narrow waist grabs your midfoot, providing extra structural arch support as the uppers tuck under your arch.
- The width at the ball of the foot offers comfort, despite the low-profile design.
- The slightly extra length allows your toes to narrow in without actually squeezing them into a tight box.
For most people, you’ll want to size down by half a size from your Brannock device measurement and possibly up to a full size down from your sneaker size.
Here’s how this translates:
- If you’re a size 8.5D in US sizing on the Brannock device and wear a 9 in Nikes, you would go with an 8D in Parkhurst.
- For UK, Australia, Canada, and South Africa (countries that use true size), your true size would be 7.5.
However, if you have particularly wide feet, splayed toes, or any other foot issues, contact Andrew. He’s been known to suggest alternate sizing or a different last if the combination lasts don’t work for certain foot shapes.
If you want to dive deeper into how Australian sizing works—and how to convert it to US sizing—check out my full guide on Australian Shoe Size to US. I break down conversions, fit tips, and even brand-specific quirks so you’re not left guessing.
Parkhurst Allen Service Boot in Horween’s Natural Dublin
The Parkhurst Allen Service Boot in Horween’s Natural Dublin is made on the 602M last and follows a slightly different fit than earlier US models, despite using the same last.
Andrew explained that each factory applies different pressure when lasting the boots, and some factories or workers are more consistent than others. Because of this, the fit can vary slightly.
Fit details:
- These boots are snug at the heel and waist but roomy at the ball of the foot.
- The underfoot feel is firm but giving, making them comfortable right out of the box.
Over time, the leather and cork layers will adjust to the shape of your feet, making the boots even more comfortable and supportive as you break them in.
For sizing, these boots generally follow the pattern of most US Heritage boot brands, so you’ll likely want to go half a size down from your Brannock measurement.
However, the 602M last offers a bit more room in the toe box than earlier models, but not so much that you need to go down a full size. If you find them slightly roomy, thicker socks or a slipping insole can help fill the space and add extra comfort.
Parkhurst Richmond Boot in Natural Veg Re Tan
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The Parkhurst Richmond Boot in Natural Veg Re Tan is built on the 602 combination last, which provides a snug fit around the heel and waist of the foot. However, it opens up at the ball of the foot and features a roomy, round toe box. This design ensures that:
- Everything that needs to be held in place (heel and waist) is secure.
- Everything that needs wiggle room (toe box) has enough space.
This combination results in a comfortable and supportive fit, providing structure where it’s needed while allowing flexibility and comfort for the toes.
Parkhurst Richmond Boot in Raiz Reverse Waxed Mohawk
The Ruchmond follows the same design principles as other Parkhurst boots. Parkhurst recommends going a half size down from your true Brannock size for the best fit.
Fit details:
- The last used for this boot is snug around the heel and waist but then widens out before narrowing again into an almond-shaped toe.
- This creates a comfortable fit for most foot shapes, providing a balance of security and room.
I find that Parkhurst, Grant Stone, and Alden all use some of the best lasts, making these boots a great choice for most people’s feet.
The result is an easy break-in period, with no heel slippage, hot spots, or tight toes. The only part that might require some breaking in is the flex point of the sole where your foot naturally bends as you walk.
If you’re curious about how these other brands fit, I’ve broken things down in my articles on Grant Stone boot sizing and the Alden size chart and fit guide.
Parkhurst Niagara
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The Parkhurst Niagara is built on the 602M last, which is a combination last. This last starts with a narrow width at the heel and waist, then opens up to an E-width at the ball of the foot, offering a bit more room in that area.
Parkhurst suggest going half a size down from your true size. Once you know your true size, the Parkhurst Niagara will fit most feet comfortably with this adjustment.
Potential fit issues:
While this design works for many, Parkhurst does not offer wide lasts for most of their boots, so the Niagara might not be suitable for people with wide feet. If you have a wide foot or specific foot conditions, it could be challenging to find a proper fit.
Parkhurst Delaware (Brogue Cap Toe Service Boot)
The Parkhurst Delaware is built on the 602M last, which is a combination width last. This means the boot starts at a very narrow C width in the heel and gradually widens through a narrow waist, finally opening up to an E width at the ball of the foot.
Toe Box: The almond-shaped toe is rounded, so it doesn’t squeeze your toes, offering a comfortable fit.
Unless you have a very wide foot, you should go half a size down from your Brannock size. This sizing generally works well for most people, especially those who wear typical US heritage brands.
Parkhurst Spaulding in Natural Chromexcel
The Parkhurst Spaulding is crafted with Natural Chromexcel leather, which provides a luxurious, smooth feel while offering durability and character over time. The boot is built on a combination last, ensuring a comfortable fit with a bit of flexibility for most feet.
Half Size Down: As with many Parkhurst models, it’s recommended to go half a size down from your true Brannock size. This ensures a more snug and comfortable fit, especially around the heel and waist.
To give you an idea of sizing across brands, you can compare this to other popular boots:
- Parkhurst Spaulding: 8D
- Red Wing Iron Ranger: 8D
- Red Wing Moctoe and Blacksmith: 8D
- Grant Stone Leo and Floyd lasts: 8D
- Alden Indy’s: 8D
- Wolverine 1000 Miles: 8D
- Thursday Boots: 8D
Parkhurst vs. Grant Stone
Grant Stone Leo Last
I find that the Leo last used in these boots gives a bit more room in the toe box and hugs the heel a little more snugly than Parkhurst. Even though the Leo last looks chunkier, the fit feels generous, especially up front.
The Parkhurst, on the other hand, feels a little shorter in length and more sculpted through the midfoot. The quarter area in the Parkhursts feels more spacious, though the heel doesn’t have quite that same “love pinch” you get in the Grant Stones.
If you’re used to the Leo last, expect Parkhurst to feel a bit shorter and maybe a little lower-volume in the toe and heel.
Grant Stone Diesel
Comparing the Parkhurst to the Diesel boot from Grant Stone, also on the Leo last, there’s still that extra half size in length that shows up.
The Diesel fits really well in 8.5D, for example, but I think if you’re getting a pair in Chromexcel, you could size down to 8 because the leather will stretch. The only catch is that might compress your instep a bit too much depending on your foot shape.
Personally, I like how the Diesel gives you that generous fit without creating pressure points, and the Leo last just works really well for a lot of people.
It’s not too roomy, not too tight, and that balance makes it ideal. The Parkhurst doesn’t quite give the same glove-like heel fit, but it holds the foot well and feels a bit more structured in the midfoot.
Grant Stone Chelsea
Now if you’re comparing Parkhurst to Grant Stone’s Chelsea boot on the Euro last, the fit experience changes completely. The Chelsea relies on locking in around the instep, which creates a different kind of hold compared to the standard lace-up fit of a Parkhurst service boot.
You can still wear the same size in both—8.5D for example—but the fit is totally different. The Euro last has a slimmer toe profile, which gives it a slightly dressier vibe.
It’s a touch longer than Parkhurst too, just like the Leo last, but overall, if the Chelsea fits you well, there’s a good chance the same size in Parkhurst will too. Just don’t expect the same feel on-foot, especially through the instep and heel.
If you’re wondering how a Chelsea boot should feel on foot, check out my guides on how Chelsea boots should fit and how Blundstones fit.
Grant Stone Brass
When I tried the Grant Stone Brass boot, which is built on the Floyd last, I realized this one isn’t even in the same category. The Parkhurst is more of a dressy service boot with a clean, unstructured toe, while the Brass is pure workboot.
The Floyd last gives you way more room in the toe box, and while it still hugs the heel like other Grant Stone lasts, it just feels like a beefier boot all around.
The Parkhurst’s heel fit feels more neutral—it doesn’t pinch, but it’s not loose either. I wouldn’t say either brand wins here; they’re just going after different goals. The Grant Stone might be slightly longer in overall length, but the real difference is in volume and intent.
Parkhurst vs. Thorogood
When I lined up the Parkhurst 8.5D with the Thorogood Roofer Last in the same size, I noticed that the Thorogoods definitely run a bit more generous.
The toe box sticks out just a bit more, and there’s more room overall. You can wear them with really thick socks and still have a bit of space. I’d say Thorogoods are probably about a half size longer than the Parkhursts, so keep that in mind if you’re trying to get a similar fit.
For a deeper look at how Thorogood boots fit, head over to my Thorogood size chart and sizing guide—I cover the fit, width options, and much more.
Parkhurst vs. Wolverine
Now with the Wolverine 1000 Mile boots, also in 8.5D, these feel like a perfect match. The length is the same, the width is spot on, and I wouldn’t change a thing.
Both have an unstructured toe, and the Wolverines just feel like that easy, classic American work boot fit that doesn’t overthink anything. It’s a reliable, straightforward fit—and Parkhurst holds its own in comparison.
If you want to dive deeper into Wolverine sizing, check out my full article on the Wolverine size chart and sizing guide.
Parkhurst vs. Red Wing
The Red Wing Moc Toe in 8.5D brings a very different fit to the table. These boots have taller vamp walls and a roomier overall feel.
That said, the Parkhursts still manage to feel generous even though they look sleeker. I think that’s one of the sneaky strengths of the Parkhurst design: it looks compact, but it doesn’t feel tight or constricted on foot.
Now, if you want a full breakdown of Red Wing sizing, check out my guide on how Red Wing boots should fit.
Parkhurst vs. Alden
Alden Indy
Lining up Parkhurst boots in 8.5D against the Alden Indy 405 on the Truebalance last in the same size, the Aldens feels more generous overall.
The Aldens are rounder in the toe and more generous in the heel. The heel dimensions feel about the same overall, but the Aldens are definitely longer—maybe by about a half size. The Aldens feel best with medium-weight socks, while the Parkhursts works better with thinner or light-medium socks.
I could probably go down to a size 8 in the Aldens and get a similar fit to the 8.5 Parkhursts. So, if your Aldens feel snug, consider going up a half size in Parkhurst. If your Aldens feel roomy, stick to the same size.
Alden Plain Toe Derby & Long Wing Blucher (Barrie Last)
Comparing the Parkhurst 8.5D to the Alden Plain Toe Derby on the Barrie last, also in 8.5D, I found the two fit surprisingly similar. The length and width both seem to match up pretty well.
That said, Alden’s Long Wing Bluchers on the same Barrie last felt a bit longer than the derbies. There’s a lot of talk about variation in the Barrie last, and this just confirms how inconsistent the Barrie last can be. But in general, I’d say if you have an Alden Barrie-last shoe that fits, you could probably take the same size in Parkhurst.
Alden Barrie Last
In another comparison, the Parkhurst look and feels about a half size shorter than a pair of Alden Plain Toe Bluchers on the Barrie last in 8.5D.
These are calfskin, which doesn’t stretch much, so I wouldn’t recommend sizing down in those. If they were Chromexcel, which stretches and molds to your foot more, then maybe an 8 would work, but not with stiff calfskin.
Parkhurst vs. Truman
Truman 79 Last
Comparing the Parkhurst boots in 8.5D to the Truman boots on the 79 last in the same size, the length feels about the same, but the 79 is more generous all around.
The Trumans gives off more of a rugged, work boot feel, while the Parkhursts leans more toward a dressy service boot. But fit-wise, if the 79 last works for you in 8.5D, you can probably take the same size in Parkhurst without any issues.
The old 79 last from Truman has an unstructured toe and that classic roomy work boot fit—it hugs your foot in all the right places but still gives you plenty of space. If your Truman 79s fit like a glove, there’s no way you’d want to size down in Parkhurst. You might even have to go up a half size to match that same comfort level.
Truman C55 Last
Looking at the Truman C55 last in a 9D, I’d say it’s about a half size longer than the Parkhurst in 8.5D. So if your C55 Trumans fit just right in 9D, you can probably stick to that same size in Parkhurst and get a similar feel. The difference is subtle but noticeable. That half size length bump in the Trumans just gives you a little more room without feeling sloppy.
To keep it simple: Truman boots generally run about a half size larger than Parkhurst boots, especially on the more generous 79 last.
If you want a deeper dive into how Truman boots fit, check out our full Truman Boot Sizing Guide—with the official size chart and detailed fit comparisons.
Parkhurst vs. Viberg
Viberg 2020 Cantilever Last
Lining up the Parkhurst boots in 8.5D next to the Viberg 2020 Cantilever last in the same size, the difference in length is immediate. The Vibergs feel at least a half size, maybe even a full size longer than the Parkhurst.
That 2020 last is really sleek—it reminds me a lot of the Alden Plaza last with its almond toe and narrow waist. It’s a sharp, dressy last. Even though it’s long, the 2020 last is still pretty narrow. You won’t want to wear thick socks with either of these boots.
One thing I’ve been hearing lately is that Viberg sizing leans closer to UK sizing. That actually makes sense when you feel how much longer they run.
So if your 2020 Vibergs fit just right and you can’t go down in size, then you’ll probably need to go up at least a half size in the Parkhurst to get a similar fit.
Viberg 2030 Last
Now, comparing the Parkhurst 8.5D to Viberg’s 2030 last in 8.5D, the difference gets even more dramatic. The 2030 last is noticeably longer—easily a half to full size longer than the Parkhurst.
It’s still technically a dressier last, but unlike the 2020, you can wear it with thicker socks and still be comfortable. I’d call the 2030 last more versatile, but still, the size difference matters.
If your Viberg 2030s fit you perfectly, don’t even think about taking the same size in Parkhurst. You’ll want to go up at least half a size, and maybe even a full size, depending on how snug you like your fit.
Bottom line: both Viberg lasts (2020 and 2030) run significantly longer than Parkhurst, even though they’re technically the same size on paper. The shapes are dressy, but you’ll get more room in the Vibergs. Size accordingly.
→ Want the full breakdown? Here’s my complete Viberg Boot Sizing Guide—every fit detail, size chart, and how each last compares.
Parkhurst vs. Mark Albert
Parkhurst 8.5D vs. Mark Albert 8.5EE
When I put the Parkhurst 8.5D next to the Mark Albert 8.5EE, I was actually surprised at how similar they fit lengthwise. Even though the Mark Alberts are marked EE in width, the overall fit isn’t drastically different.
The extra width in the Mark Alberts does make a difference, though—you’ll probably want to wear thicker socks with them to get a snug feel. But if the Mark Alberts in 8.5EE fit you well, you can go with the same size in Parkhurst and expect a comparable experience.
Parkhurst 8.5D vs. Mark Albert Whisky Shell 8.5EE
Looking at the Mark Albert Whisky Shell boots in 8.5EE, again, the length matches up well with the Parkhurst in 8.5D. The difference is all in the width.
The EE width on the Mark Alberts gives you more room in the forefoot, which is great—especially because shell cordovan doesn’t stretch. What you get on day one is what you’re living with for the life of the boot. So, if you’re going with shell, that wider width makes sense.
Mark Albert Coyote Roughout
Now, with the Mark Albert Coyote Roughout in 8.5D, the sizing lines up almost exactly with the Parkhurst in 8.5D. No surprises there.
But again, roughout doesn’t stretch much, so the way it fits out of the box is pretty much how it’s going to stay. Make sure you’re good with that fit from the start.
Bottom line: Parkhurst and Mark Albert are close in sizing. Just keep an eye on width and leather type. Shell and roughout won’t give you much stretch, but if you’re wearing thicker socks with Mark Alberts in EE, you can match your size in Parkhurst without a problem.
Parkhurst vs. Alfred Sargent
Then there’s the Alfred Sargent in 9D. These are just a hair longer than the Parkhurst 8.5D, maybe not even a full half size. But honestly, both fit great.
I wouldn’t change either. They both work really well with thinner to medium-weight socks and give you that refined, comfortable feel.
Parkhurst vs. Sanders Bruno
And finally, I compared the Parkhurst with the Sanders Bruno in a Euro size 42. The length is just about identical, and the fit is solid across the board. No complaints here—I’d happily wear both all day.
In all these comparisons, Parkhurst boots in 8.5D consistently hold their own. They run a bit shorter than some roomier lasts like the Thorogood or Viberg, but they stay true to size next to brands like Wolverine, Alfred Sargent, and Mark Albert.
While they look more refined, they don’t sacrifice comfort. If you’re switching from bulkier or more generous boots, consider going up half a size in Parkhurst—but if your current boots fit snug, your usual size will likely work just fine.
What to Tell Andrew About Sizing
When I spoke with Andrew, he mentioned that sizing is one of the biggest challenges he faces when helping customers get the right fit.
He said, “This has been a crazy tough one. You should see the emails I get and how people’s sizing varies so much. The biggest struggle on my end is that not many people, in the grand scheme of things, really provide decent feedback on how their boots fit compared to other brands. So it’s difficult for me to gather as much data as possible.”
So, what’s the best way to get the most accurate sizing advice from Andrew (or any bootmaker)? The key is in the details. Just telling him, “I wear an 8.5 in Red Wing Iron Rangers” doesn’t cut it.
Instead, be specific. Andrew needs to know how that size feels on your foot and what kind of feet you have. Here’s a list of things that will help you give him the most useful feedback:
How to Provide Detailed Sizing Feedback
- Not just the size:
Instead of just saying “I wear an 8.5 in Red Wing Iron Rangers,” go into more detail about how that fit actually feels. Does it feel tight? Loose? Roomy in the toes? Narrow in the heel?
Foot shape and features:
Provide extra info about your foot shape. Do you have wide feet, narrow feet, flat feet, high arches, or high insteps? These details are critical to determining how boots will fit you compared to other brands.
Foot conditions:
If you have any foot conditions—like bunions, collapsed arches—mention that too. Even if you think it’s minor, it could be a factor in how boots fit and feel.
Comparisons with other brands:
When you mention other boots you wear, provide context. For example, “I wear an 8.5 in Alden Indies, and they fit generously” or “The 8.5 in Red Wing Iron Rangers is really tight.” If the fit feels different in other brands, let Andrew know so he can adjust the sizing advice accordingly.
Brannock measurement:
While measurements in mm or cm are helpful, they don’t always tell the whole story. Be sure to include your Brannock measurement (which tells both your foot length and width). This helps paint a clearer picture of your true size.
How to Measure Your Feet for Parkhurst Boots (and Why Andrew Wants You to Do It This Way)
Now, let’s talk about how to measure your feet properly. Trust me, this step is important, and you’ll want to get it right.
First off, grab a tape measure or a ruler. And, no, you don’t need a fancy foot-measuring tool for this. It’s easier than you think. Just make sure you’re in a place where you can stand up and have a little room.
Step 1: Stand Up Straight
This one’s a no-brainer. But seriously—standing up straight is key because it helps your foot spread naturally. You won’t believe how much your foot changes when you sit or slouch! Have you ever noticed how your foot feels a little wider when you’re standing?
Step 2: Measure the Length of Your Foot
Next, place your foot on a flat surface (a piece of paper works well for this). Make sure your heel is touching the edge. Then, measure from the very tip of your longest toe (yep, the big one) all the way back to the heel.
Keep that tape measure straight and as parallel as possible. Write down the measurement in inches or centimeters, whichever works for you. I know, this sounds super easy, but people forget to measure both feet—yes, both feet.
Step 3: Measure the Width
Place the tape measure around the widest part of your foot (it’s usually around the ball of the foot, near the toes). Make sure the tape is snug but not tight—no need to crush your foot!
Step 4: Check the Arch and Instep
I know, not every shoe measurement guide tells you this, but it helps with fit, especially for boots that cover more of your foot. Just check how high your arch is and if there’s any noticeable space above the top of your foot (where the laces would sit). A higher instep could mean you need a little more room in the boot.
Step 5: Find Your Size
Now that you’ve got your foot measurements, it’s time to compare them with Parkhurst’s size chart.
Finally: Double Check the Fit
When you get your boots, try them on at the end of the day when your feet are a bit more swollen. You know, when you’ve been walking around all day and your feet are their “real” size. This is when you get the most accurate sense of how your boots are going to feel after wearing them for a while.
Parkhurst Boot Sizing FAQ
Do Parkhurst cap toe boots fit tighter than the plain toe boots?
No, they don’t—at least not if they’re built on the same last. It’s easy to assume that the cap toe design makes the toebox feel tighter, but that’s just not the case.
Both cap toe and plain toe uppers are shaped over the exact same last, so the internal fit stays the same. If you’re comparing boots built on the same last, you should take the same size in both styles.
Do Parkhurst boots run big?
Most people recommend going a half size down from your true Brannock size for a good fit. This is especially true for models like the Richmond, Spaulding, and Delaware. However, the sizing can vary slightly depending on the last used. For instance, the Parkhurst Niagara, built on the 602M last, runs large compared to some other Parkhurst models, but even in that case, going a half size down should work for most.
Do you size up or down for boots?
In general, it’s recommended to size down a half size for boots, especially if you’re trying on Parkhurst boots, as most of their models suggest going half a size smaller than your true Brannock size for the best fit. However, this can vary depending on the brand and last used. For instance, some brands like Alden or Grant Stone might have slightly different sizing nuances.
How do you tell if your Parkhurst boots are too big or small?
To determine if your Parkhurst boots fit properly, consider these signs:
Toe Box: If your toes feel cramped or there’s excessive tightness in the toe box, the boots might be too small. If your toes slide forward when walking, causing discomfort or hitting the front of the boot, they could be too big.
Heel Fit: A properly fitting boot should hold your heel securely. If your heel slips significantly while walking, the boots are likely too big. On the other hand, if there’s tightness or pinching around your heel, the boots may be too small.
Instep Pressure: A good fit means you don’t feel excessive pressure across the instep. If the boots feel too tight in this area, they might be too small. A loose instep could indicate the boots are too big.
Length: When standing, there should be about a half-inch gap between the end of your longest toe and the front of the boot. If your toes are pressed against the boot, it’s too small. If you have too much space, they might be too big.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to sizing, finding the right fit may take a little trial and error, as Parkhurst lasts vary in terms of shape and fit across different models. The general rule of taking a half size down from your true Brannock size works for most, but as we’ve seen, every foot is unique.
Comparing Parkhurst to other boot brands, the fit is often slightly shorter or narrower, especially in models built on specific lasts like the 602M.
While the brand doesn’t offer a range of widths, their combination lasts tend to provide a good balance for most feet. However, for those with wider feet or unique foot shapes, Parkhurst boots may not be the perfect match without some adjustments or different sizing strategies.
Ultimately, when it comes to Parkhurst, the key is understanding your foot shape, knowing your true size, and considering the fit of each specific model.
Have you tried Parkhurst boots? How was your experience with sizing, fit, and comfort? Or do you have any specific questions about Parkhurst compared to other boot brands?
Feel free to leave a comment below!