If you’re trying to figure out Truman boot sizing, you’re not alone because this is one of the most frequently asked questions about Truman boots.
And honestly, I get it.
Even the people at Truman Boot Company admit that sizing is tricky. Different leathers, different lasts, structured vs unstructured toes—it all plays a role.
That’s why I put together this Truman boot sizing guide to walk you through everything I’ve learned from owning, wearing, and testing Truman boots across different lasts and leathers.
There’s no official Truman boot size chart that tells the whole story, so this guide is here to give you the real-world, foot-on-the-ground details that actually matter when you’re trying to pick the right size.
We’ll look at how they fit compared to other brands, what to expect from different lasts, and how things like toe box shape or boot construction affect sizing.
Oh hey—if you’re looking at Truman boots, there’s a good chance you’ve also been curious about Viberg. Both brands sit in that rugged, heritage-inspired, handcrafted category and get compared all the time. I’ve put together a full Viberg boot sizing guide and size chart if you want the lowdown on how those fit too.
Let’s get into it.
Truman Boot Size Chart
| US | Casual Last (79) | Formal Last (56) | Work Last (20) | UK | EU |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7.5 | 7 | 7 | - | 6 | 40 |
| 8 | 7.5 | 7.5 | 7 | 7 | 41 |
| 9 | 8.5 | 8.5 | 8 | 8 | 42 |
| 10 | 9.5 | 9.5 | 9 | 9 | 43 |
| 11 | 10.5 | 10.5 | 10 | 10 | 44 |
| 12 | 11.5 | 11.5 | 11 | 11 | 45 |
| 13 | 12.5 | 12.5 | 12 | 12 | 46 |
| 14 | 13.5 | - | 13 | 13 | 47 |
Related:
Truman Boot Sizing
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There’s a clear philosophy behind Truman boot sizing: they want a snug, shaped fit that hugs the foot in key areas without feeling overly restrictive. The overall fit works for people with average to slightly wider feet, but certain design choices make them feel distinct right out of the box.
Time to roll up our sleeves and break things down properly…
How Truman Boots Fit
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Truman boots have a distinct fit that combines heritage workwear roots with a modern snug profile. If you’re used to boots like the Iron Ranger or Thursday Captain, Truman’s fit will feel familiar in some ways but different in others. Here’s what to expect.
Go Half a Size Down
Across the board, Truman boots generally run half a size large, which means you’ll likely want to go down half a size from your Brannock measurement. That holds up whether you’re trying a rugged waxed flesh model or a more refined horse rump build.
Truman sizing also lines up well with how other heritage boot brands fit. If you wear 8D on the Brannock in Thursday, Red Wing Iron Ranger, Grant Stone, or Parkhurst, Truman in size 8 should feel right. Oak Street’s Trench Boot is one of the few where you’d likely need 8.5D instead.
And while we’re at it—check out my Parkhurst sizing guide and size chart. Parkhurst boots share that heritage aesthetic but come in a sleeker silhouette with a slightly different fit.
Snug Where It Counts
That said, how the boots feel on your feet is a bit different than most others in this space. Truman boots fit snugly in the waist and instep, and that’s something you’ll notice the first time you lace them up.
The heel area has a bit more room, but I’ve never had any serious heel slip because the waist locks things down well. At the ball of the foot, there’s typically enough room to move—not overly spacious and sloppy but not tight.
If you’re someone who has a wide forefoot, a high instep, or wear orthotics, you’ll want to pay attention to how the boot fits across the arch and midfoot.
The quarters don’t have a lot of give vertically, so the instep can feel tight at first, especially if you’re used to boots with more volume in that area.
Related:
If you’re looking at Truman but want something even more heavy-duty and built like a tank, don’t miss my Nicks Boots sizing guide.
Toe Boxes: Structured vs Unstructured
Toe boxes are another thing to keep in mind. Truman’s structured toe boxes add a lot of volume vertically—especially compared to their unstructured models.
That can change the fit in a big way.
In a structured toe boot, the added height gives your toes more breathing room, so you feel like you have extra space. But if you try to size up to get that same sensation in an unstructured model, you’ll probably overshoot and end up with something that’s too long or sloppy in the heel.
On the flip side, unstructured toe boxes collapse over time and reduce that vertical space. They can feel a little tight across the top of your toes as they break in, even if they felt fine when new.
I’ve noticed this particularly in the Truman boots made with horse rump or waxed flesh leathers in unstructured builds. You’re not going to feel squished exactly, but there is a light compression on top of your toes that some people might mistake for the wrong size.
So while the overall length and width might be right, the sensation can change depending on how the toe box is built. And that’s why some folks get confused—they size up in a structured toe model, thinking they need more space, but then they try that same size in an unstructured build and find it too roomy or sloppy.
It’s not that Truman’s sizing is inconsistent—it’s that the structure of the boot plays a huge role in how the fit actually feels.
Related:
If you’re into the rugged, heritage-style vibe of Truman, you’ll probably find my White’s Boots sizing guide and size chart useful too.
Ankle and Quarters: Low Volume and Close Fit
Another subtle thing I’ve noticed is Truman boots have lower volume around the ankle and quarters, so when you lace them up, they wrap the foot closely.
That’s great for people who want a performance-style fit in a rugged boot. It’s why I find them excellent for hiking or moving around uneven terrain—you don’t get that loose, wobbly feeling in the ankle like you do with some other heritage boots.
But again, if you have a high instep or wear orthotics, you may feel some pressure on the top of your foot.
Related:
If you’re looking at more approachable work boot options that still deliver solid value, check out my Carolina boot sizing guide and size chart.
Widths
Lastly, Truman doesn’t offer a ton of widths in every model, but if you’ve got wide feet, you might want to check out their EE options when available.
Otherwise, sizing up half a size might not be the best idea unless you have a really wide foot—because the longer length can throw off the snug feel that Truman’s lasts are built around.
If you’re on the edge, and especially if you’re considering models in the 20 last, that one offers a bit more room throughout without needing to change sizes.
In short, Truman boots are made to fit snugly but not uncomfortably. The heel and midfoot lock you in, the forefoot gives you just enough space, and the toe shape—especially on the 79 last—is refined, with an almond taper that gives structure without excess bulk.
Related:
If you’re curious about how LL Bean boots fit, I’ve got a full LL Bean size chart and sizing guide you can check out.
How Truman Boots Fit (Especially the 79 Last)
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| Boot | Size | Truman Equivalent | Fit Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Viberg 2030 Last | 8.5D | 9D (79 last) | Truman fits shorter but roomier in the toe. Go up half size. |
| Alden Indy (TruBalance) | 8.5D | 9D (79 last) | Similar overall. Alden toe wider, Truman heel wider. |
| Thorogood Roofers | 8.5D | 8.5D (79 last) | Similar fit. Thorogood may be slightly wider. |
| Mark Albert | 8.5D | 8.5D | Truman wider. Go E in Mark Albert if you have wide feet. |
| Wolverine 1000 Mile | 8.5D | 8.5D | Width wider in Wolverine. Truman has roomier heel. |
| Red Wing Moctoe | 8.5D | 8.5D | Similar fit, but different vamp shape. |
| Grant Stone Leo Last | 8.5D | 9D (79 last) | Go up half size from Grant Stone. |
| Alden | 8.5D | 8.5D | Alden = roomy toe, Truman = roomy heel. |
| Mark Albert | 8.5E | 8.5D | E width matches Truman D. |
Truman Cap Toe Boot in Seidel Light Natural Limerick
The advice about sizing down half a size in Truman boots holds up, at least with the 79 last. The fit on this last is interesting: it hugs the heel and waist nicely, opens up at the ball of the foot, and then tapers in again toward the toe.
There’s not much volume in the quarters either, so the instep feels snug.
Lengthwise, you’ve got just under half an inch of space at the toe, which sounds tight but doesn’t feel that way—probably because of how the vamp curves gently into the almond-shaped toe.
I like this kind of snug, locked-in fit for hiking, especially with thicker socks. It keeps the foot stable and prevents sliding around.
Related:
Oh, and if you’re wondering how RM Williams boots fit, I’ve written a full guide on how RM Williams sizing works too.
Truman in CF Stead Smoke Rambler Leather
This one also runs on the 79 last and again, the length is dialed in perfectly. The width at the ball of the foot feels great—neither cramped nor sloppy.
If there’s one thing that stood out, it’s the heel. It’s a bit roomier than I’d like, and I didn’t get that same “locked-in” feel I usually expect. It’s not a dealbreaker by any means, but if you’ve got narrow heels or like zero heel slip, it’s something to keep in mind.
Truman Boots Black Rambler
Out of all my Truman boots, the fit on this pair might be the best. You’ve got a full thumb’s width between my toes and the front of the boot, and there’s practically no heel slip.
The heel is a touch more generous than average, but because the waist fits snugly, everything feels well-secured. The ball of the foot has just enough room—not too wide, not too tight.
One small caveat is that, even with the round toe shape, the boot tapers in toward the toe box pretty quickly. Your little toes might feel slightly more pressure than I’d prefer, especially during longer wear. It’s not uncomfortable, just a little more snug than expected.
Related:
I once fell down the JK Boots rabbit hole too—if you’re wondering how their sizing compares, I put together a full guide on how JK Boots fit.
OG Truman Boots in Java Waxed Flesh
This pair was built using Truman’s older construction method, so keep in mind that your experience might differ slightly with newer models like the Seidel Limerick version.
That said, the sizing is consistent. The 79 last here is roomy at the heel and ball of the foot, tighter at the waist, and comes to a sharp almond toe.
As usual with the 79 last, going half a size down works well. For comparison, if you wear 8D in boots like Thursday Captains, Red Wing Iron Rangers, Grant Stone, or Parkhurst, and 8.5D in Oak Street Trench Boots, you’ll probably land at 8D in Truman 79s.
One thing to note: the unstructured toe box doesn’t offer much vertical volume, so the toes feel a bit more restricted—especially after the leather collapses over time.
Truman Aubergine Horse Rump (Unstructured Toe)
Like most Truman boots, this pair fits best when you size a half down from Brannock. What’s interesting here is the difference that the unstructured toe makes.
Because the leather collapses slightly over time, I feel a little pressure across the top of my toes—nothing painful or tight, but enough to notice.
I don’t get that sensation in Truman boots with structured toes, probably because those give a bit more vertical space up front. Otherwise, the fit is consistent with the 79 last: snug in the waist, roomy in the heel, and solid through the ball of the foot.
Related:
Wesco boots’ fit is just as unique as Truman’s. If you’re considering a pair, this Wesco boots sizing guide will help you get it right.
Truman Java Waxed Flesh
The 79 last strikes a really nice balance. It’s got a slim profile, but with just enough ruggedness to keep it from looking dainty.
Compared to other boots, the Truman toe box is flatter and tapers more than something like the Red Wing Iron Ranger, which uses a bump toe last.
The Truman’s toe feels less bulky and definitely gives a cleaner silhouette. When stacked against the Nicks Americana in the same brown waxed flesh leather, the Truman toe is much slimmer.
So if you prefer something that doesn’t look as stubby, Truman’s 79 last is a solid choice. That said, the waist is snug—so if you have wider feet (like an E width), I’d recommend going up to EE.
If you’re worried the 79 last might be too slim, consider checking out Truman’s 20 last in the same leather. It’s roomier throughout, with a slightly more pronounced toe shape.
I don’t think you need to change sizes for the 20 last, but if you’re on the fence or have a foot that’s between standard and wide, the extra room might work better for you.
Truman Boot Last Guide
I know this topic can get confusing, especially when a boot company drops a new last. Suddenly you’re sitting there, wondering, “Do I stick to my usual size? Do I go up? Down? What even is a ‘last’ again?”
Been there. And that’s exactly why I wanted to write this — to make all of it simple and easy to figure out.
So, first things first: Truman uses a consistent sizing scale across all their lasts. That means the measurement from your heel to the ball of your foot (the widest part) is the same no matter which last you go with.
Even if the boots look longer or shorter, what really matters is that heel-to-ball length — and that stays consistent. So don’t let a pointier toe or a chunkier silhouette throw you off.
Right now, Truman focuses on three main lasts: the Casual Last (formerly the 79), the Formal Last (formerly the 56), and the Work Last (inspired by the old 20 last).
Let me break each one down for you.
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The Casual Last (Old 79 Last)
This is Truman’s OG last. It’s the one most of their classic boots are built on — think cap toes, plain toes, and all the solid, rugged stuff.
It’s got a rounded, almond-shaped toe that doesn’t feel tight or pinchy. Actually, it’s pretty forgiving. If you’ve got wider feet or you just want something that doesn’t squeeze your toes together like a pair of dress shoes, this is a great pick.
It comes in D (standard) and EE (wide) widths, and Truman recommends sizing down a half size from your Brannock or sneaker size. So, if your Brannock size is a size 9, go with 8.5 in this last.
Oh, and by the way — if you use inserts, orthotics, or just prefer a roomier fit, you can stick with your regular size instead of going down. Truman’s sizing guide even mentions that directly, which I think is super thoughtful.
The Formal Last (Old 56 Last)
This one’s a newer, sleeker version of the 55 last. If you’re looking for something a little dressier but still rugged enough to take a beating, the Formal Last might be for you. The toe is more pointed and refined compared to the Casual Last, but the overall fit is pretty much the same.
Again, you’ve got D and EE widths, and Truman says to go down a half size from your regular US size. Same deal as with the Casual Last.
What’s cool here is how Truman managed to strike that balance between sharp and practical — kind of like what Viberg did with their 2030 last. You know, that sleek-but-tough vibe? Truman pulled that off here with a bit more comfort.
And just so you know — the 56 last feels like a solid upgrade over the older 55. I found the 56 to be just slightly more rounded at the toe and a bit more generous overall. So if you struggled with the 55 in the past, don’t be afraid to give this one a shot.
The Work Last (Inspired by the 20 Last)
Now this one’s all about function. The Work Last is designed for—you guessed it—work. It’s got more volume in the toe box, a slightly turned-up toe, and a snugger heel to help lock you in. Truman boots with a moc toe, like the service boots, usually use this last.
Here’s where the sizing changes a bit: Truman recommends going down a full size from your sneaker or dress shoe size. So if you’re usually a 9, go with an 8 in this last. But again, if you like extra room or use insoles, you can go down just a half size instead.
This last only comes in D and EE widths — no narrow option here. Makes sense, though. It’s built to be practical, not fussy.
Before I wrap this up, let me quickly mention the C55 last, which Truman has used in the past. It’s got that nice almond-shaped toe — sort of like a mashup between dressy and casual. Kind of like if the Viberg 2030 and Alden Trubalance had a boot baby.
If you ever come across Truman boots on the C55 last, go a half size up from your Casual Last size (or the 79 last). It’s a little narrower through the waist, so that extra room helps.
I found the fit to be just about perfect with that adjustment. Truman really nailed the proportions on this one, especially if you’re into a lower-profile silhouette.
So, here’s the quick recap:
- Casual Last (79) → Half size down from Brannock
- Formal Last (56) → Same as your Casual Last size (also half size down from Brannock)
- Work Last (20) → Full size down from Brannock
- Orthotics or want more room? Stick to your regular size or only go down a half size on the Work Last
And remember: don’t stress too much about the toe shape or how the boot looks at first glance. Focus on the heel-to-ball fit. That’s what really matters for comfort.
Have you tried Truman boots on more than one last? I’d love to hear what worked for you. Everyone’s feet are a little different.
What to Keep in Mind Before You Pull the Trigger
Ordering boots online can feel like a gamble — especially if you’re new to a brand or switching lasts. There’s a lot going on behind the scenes that affects how a boot fits on your foot, and some of it you just can’t predict until you’ve got the boots in hand.
Ask the Experts
Here’s the first thing I always tell people: reach out to Truman directly. They build these boots. They know the patterns, the materials, the construction, and every tiny spec that goes into each last. They’re your best source for sizing advice.
Fit Is a Personal Thing
That said, I also believe something a friend once told me: “Never let anybody tell you how to size in your boots.” That stuck with me. Because at the end of the day, fit is personal.
Some people like their boots snug and secure, others want a little room to breathe. There’s no universal “perfect size” — and honestly, more than one size might work for you depending on the time of day, how swollen your feet are, or even what socks you’re wearing.
Your Feet Aren’t Twins
Another thing people don’t talk about enough: your feet aren’t identical. So if you’re comparing boots between brands — say, your Vibergs vs. your Trumans — don’t compare your left foot in one pair to your right foot in the other.
Match right with right and left with left. You’ll probably notice small differences because these boots are handmade, and small inconsistencies are part of the game — even within the same brand.
Feet Change Over Time
Also, life happens. Your feet can change over time. Weight gain, weight loss, age, even your gait — all of that can affect how a boot fits.
Leather Can Make or Break the Fit
And here’s a big one: leather thickness matters more than you think. Truman uses some seriously thick hides, and that cuts into the internal volume of the boot.
That’s why the exact same last might feel tighter or roomier depending on the leather used. I’ve had boots made with thin shell cordovan that felt super spacious, and then the same size in a thick roughout felt snug and locked-in.
One Brand’s Last Doesn’t Equal Another’s
One last tip: don’t stress over comparing one brand’s last to another’s. A TruBalance from Alden isn’t going to translate perfectly into a Truman Casual or Formal Last. Every bootmaker does things a little differently. If you’re unsure, Truman’s customer service is top notch — they’ll help you figure it out.
Structured Toes Can Trick You
A structured toe box adds a lot of volume up front. It gives the illusion that there’s more room inside the boot than there actually is.
So, when you size up in a boot with a structured toe thinking you need more space, you can easily end up with something that feels too big. That’s especially true if you’re coming from a dress boot or a more collapsed toe shape. The extra structure in the toe can completely change how the boot fits, even if the length on paper stays the same.
Quick Summary: Truman Boot Fit Tips
- Talk to Truman — they know their boots better than anyone.
- Your fit is yours — what feels good to you is what matters.
- No one-size-fits-all — foot swelling, socks, and personal preferences affect sizing.
- Compare left-to-left and right-to-right when checking sizes.
- Expect your feet to change over time.
- Thicker leather = snugger fit — keep that in mind when ordering.
- Don’t match lasts across brands — it rarely lines up cleanly.
Truman Boot Sizing Compared to Other Brands
Viberg Service Boots (8.5D, 2030 Last) vs. Truman (9D, P79 Last)
When comparing the Viberg Service Boots on the 2030 last in size 8.5D with Truman boots in a 9D P79 last, the fit and length are actually quite close. The Vibergs may even be a touch longer despite the smaller labeled size.
The 2030 last from Viberg has an almond-shaped toe, while the Truman P79 last is more rounded, so the toe shape alone changes how the boot looks and feels.
One area where both boots feel very similar is around the heel. Both the Truman and Viberg heel counters are quite generous and supportive.
However, the vamp on both is snug, so that’s something to keep in mind if you have a high instep. You’ll want to go up a half size in Truman compared to your Viberg size to get a comparable fit.
Alden Vintage Indy (8.5D Trubalance Last) vs. Truman (9D 79 Last)
The Alden Vintage Indy boots built on the Trubalance last in 8.5D line up closely in length with the Truman 9D on the 79 last. However, the Aldens do come in just a touch wider.
Both boots feature unstructured toes, which helps with comfort and break-in. If you’re coming from Alden, taking your usual Alden size and adding a half size for Truman is the way to go. This helps balance out the slightly snugger Truman fit across the vamp and toe box.
Thorogood Roofers (8.5D) vs. Truman (8.5D P79 Last)
The Thorogood Roofers in 8.5D match up surprisingly well with the Truman boots in the same size. Length-wise, they’re just about identical.
Even though Truman doesn’t officially reference Thorogood sizing, I’d say you can confidently use your Thorogood size when ordering Truman.
If anything, the Roofers might be just a hair wider. That tracks with Thorogood’s reputation for being generous in width, especially in models like the Roofers.
Truman (8.5D) vs. Mark Albert (8.5D)
Mark Albert boots in 8.5D are almost the same length as Truman boots in the same size, but they are noticeably narrower. If your feet lean wide, you might consider going with an E width in Mark Albert.
I’ve found that the D width in Truman fits much more generously than Mark Albert’s D. So, if you’re coming from Mark Albert and you’re used to a snug fit, Truman in the same size will probably feel a bit roomier—especially through the forefoot.
Truman (8.5D) vs. Alden Innsbruck Indy (8.5D Trubalance)
A major difference between the Alden Innsbruck Indy and Truman boots lies in the structure of the toe. The Truman model has a structured toe, whereas the Alden uses an unstructured one.
That gives the Truman a slightly firmer and more supportive shape in the toe area. The fit between both in 8.5D is close, but again, Alden’s Trubalance last tends to be wider in the toe and vamp, while Truman is more generous through the heel. It’s a subtle but important distinction.
Truman (8.5D) vs. Wolverine 1000 Mile (8.5D)
Fit-wise, the Truman and Wolverine 1000 Mile boots in size 8.5D are fairly comparable. The lengths match up well. The width might be just a little wider in the Wolverines.
Where I noticed a real difference is in the heel: the Wolverines are a bit more narrow in the heel cup compared to the Truman, which has a more generous and forgiving heel fit. That might make a difference for people who need a snugger heel to avoid heel slip.
Truman (8.5D) vs. Red Wing Moc Toe (8.5D)
These two boots are pretty close in fit. Both are 8.5D, and they match up well in width. The big difference is in the length—Red Wing’s Moc Toe appears a little shorter.
Another noticeable point is that the vamp on the Red Wing is quite elevated compared to Truman’s. That’s typical of the Moc Toe design, but if you have a high instep, you might find the Red Wing more forgiving up top. Truman’s toe is unstructured, which helps make up for that elevation difference, especially after a few wears.
Truman (9D C79 Last) vs. Grant Stone Ottawa (8.5D Leo Last)
There’s no official Truman sizing guidance for Grant Stone, but the Ottawa boot on the Leo last in 8.5D fits very similarly to the Truman C79 last in 9D. The overall fit is comparable in terms of length and width.
Based on how Truman suggests sizing up from Alden Trubalance by a half size, I’d say following that same logic for Grant Stone makes sense—especially since the Leo last from Grant Stone is pretty similar to Alden’s Trubalance in terms of fit philosophy.
Truman (8.5D) vs. Alden Vintage Indy (8.5D Trubalance)
This comparison highlights a big difference in last shapes. The Alden Trubalance is known for being generous in the toe and vamp area. That’s where it stands out. Truman’s boots, on the other hand, feel more snug up front and roomier in the heel.
So, even if the overall fit feels similar in length and width, the shape of the interior is different. Truman is great if you want a more locked-in heel, while Alden might be better if your toes need more room to splay.
Truman (8.5D) vs. Mark Albert (8.5E)
This comparison speaks to the difference in how these brands build their widths. Mark Albert in an 8.5E fits very similarly to Truman in 8.5D.
That tells me that Truman’s D width is generous, almost as if it overlaps with an E in other brands. So, if you usually wear an E width in Mark Albert, you can probably stick with a D in Truman without much worry.
Truman (8.5D P79) vs. Viberg (8.5D 2030 Last)
Here, the Vibergs are slightly longer than the Truman boots, even though both are marked 8.5D. However, the structured toe in the Viberg Service Boot actually gives you less usable space inside the toe box compared to Truman’s unstructured version.
So, even if the outside length is greater, you might not feel that inside the boot. Overall, the fit between these two is very different, even at the same size. Viberg feels tighter up front, and Truman offers a little more toe room.
How to Measure Your Feet for Truman Boots
Getting the right size in Truman boots starts with knowing your true foot measurements—not your sneaker size, not your best guess.
Truman boots, especially on the 79 and P-79 lasts, don’t fit like your average casual shoe.
The Brannock Device Technique
The Brannock Device is that metal foot-measuring tool you’ll find in quality shoe stores. It’s the industry standard in North America and was designed to give you three key pieces of information:
- Heel-to-toe length
- Arch length (heel to ball of foot)
- Width (across the ball of the foot)
To use it properly, here’s what to do:
- Place the device on a hard, flat surface.
Wear the kind of socks you plan to wear with the boots — preferably thicker boot socks.
- Stand on the device with full weight on the foot.
Your foot should be all the way back in the heel cup.
- Measure the heel-to-toe length.
Look at where your longest toe lines up on the scale — this gives you your basic size (e.g., US 9, 9.5, etc.).
- Measure the arch length.
Slide the pointer until the ball of your foot (the big toe joint) lines up. Sometimes this number is different from the heel-to-toe size — go with the larger of the two.
- Check your width.
Align the width bar so it gently touches the outer edge of your foot at the ball. This will give you your width (e.g., D, E, EE, etc.). If you’re between widths, note that Truman’s 79 last has a snug waist and a roomier ball, so going up to an EE might be worth considering.
- Measure both feet.
Most people have slightly different-sized feet. Always size based on the larger foot.
Measure at Home
Now, here’s a step-by-step process to measure your feet at home and match your numbers to the right Truman size…
1. You’ll need:
- A sheet of paper (big enough for your whole foot)
- A pen or pencil
- A ruler or measuring tape
- A flat, hard surface (no carpet)
- A pair of socks you’d normally wear with boots
2. How to Measure Your Foot Length
Step 1: Place the paper flat on the floor, up against a wall.
Step 2: Stand on the paper with your heel snug against the wall. Make sure you’re standing straight with your full weight distributed equally. That’s important—your feet spread when you put weight on them.
Step 3: Mark the longest point of your foot (usually the tip of your big toe or second toe). Do this for both feet. You might notice one foot is slightly longer—go with the longer measurement.
Step 4: Measure from the wall edge of the paper to your toe mark using a ruler. Write that number down in centimeters and inches.
3. How to Measure Foot Width
Step 1: Wrap the tape measure around the widest part of your foot—usually the ball area just behind the toes.
Step 2: Take the measurement when standing, not sitting, as your foot will widen slightly with your weight on it.
Step 3: Write that number down and repeat on both feet.
Truman boots generally come in D width (standard) and EE (wide), so knowing your foot width helps you decide if you need to size up or go wide.
4. Use the Truman Boot Size Chart
5. Compare to Other Boots You Own
Truman do give sizing recommendations for common brands like Red Wing, Alden, Viberg, and Thursday Boots.
If you wear Red Wing Iron Rangers in 8.5D and they fit well, and you’ve measured your feet at 10.25 inches long, that’s good context. Truman boots on the 79 last often run about a half size large, so you’d probably want a size 8 in that last.
Here’s the general rule for Truman sizing:
- 79/P-79 Last: Go half a size down from your Brannock size or most sneaker sizes.
- 20 Last: Slightly roomier than the 79; some people stay true to size or size down if they want a snug fit.
- Consider width: If your foot is wide (E or EE), don’t squeeze into a D. Go with the EE width or consider sizing up a half.
6. Take Your Instep Into Account
Truman boots, especially on the 79 last, are known for a low-volume instep. That means if you have a high arch or thick instep, even if the length and width feel right, the top of the boot might feel tight across the foot.
If that’s you, consider going true to size instead of sizing down. Or look for models in the 20 last or leather options that break in more easily
Truman Boots: From a Border Collie to the Pacific Northwest
Truman Boot Company isn’t some hundred-year-old bootmaker, but you’d be forgiven for thinking so just by looking at their boots. The designs scream American heritage—thick leather, rugged construction, and that unmistakable workwear aesthetic. But the company itself was only founded in 2014 by Vince Romano.
Romano had traveled the world and noticed something special about the level of craftsmanship that went into heritage-style footwear—particularly the kind made in the United States.
It wasn’t so much about waving the “Made in USA” flag, though. According to Vince, his priority was to make something well—and since he happened to be based in the U.S., it naturally became a well-made American product.
Truman started as a made-to-order operation in Pennsylvania. From there, they moved to Colorado, and eventually settled down in the Pacific Northwest—Oregon, to be exact. According to the brand, those moves were all about finding better factory space and skilled workers to keep growing the quality side of the operation.
The name Truman isn’t an old bootmaker or a historical figure. It’s Vince’s dog—a Border Collie. (Yes, really.)
From the beginning, the goal was clear: make boots that would last for years, stand apart from the rest, and feel as rugged and unique as the leather they’re made from.
And in that respect, Truman has stuck to the script. They’ve gained a reputation for limited runs, bold leather choices, and builds that you can beat up for years.
While Truman started and largely remains a made-to-order company, they’ve made it clear that they’re shifting toward more ready-to-ship options.
As one article on their website puts it: “Ready to ship products are going to be key in the success of Truman. Wait times on built-to-order products are frustrating, inconvenient, and difficult to manage.”
The tricky part is they make small batches, and the stuff sells out fast. But that’s the direction they’re aiming for—to balance small-batch uniqueness with a bit more convenience.
Final Thoughts
Truman boot sizing can be a bit of a puzzle, but once you understand the patterns—how the 79 last fits, how structured vs unstructured toes behave, how they compare to other boots you might already own—it starts to make sense.
For most people, going a half size down from Brannock is the safe bet, especially in the 79 last.
But that’s not the full story.
You still have to think about your instep, your heel, how much volume you like in the toe box, and what kind of socks you plan to wear.
If you’re stuck between sizes, look at what other brands you wear and how they compare. If you’ve worn Red Wings, Vibergs, or Aldens, there’s a good chance you can use those as reference points—especially since Truman often fits close to those with just small tweaks.
Have you tried Truman boots? How did you find the sizing compared to other brands you’ve worn? Drop your size comparisons, fit tips, or questions in the comments—I’d love to hear how they worked out for you.