Choosing a handmade shoe is very different from buying mass-produced footwear. When each pair is crafted entirely by hand from the wooden sole to the final leather details fit, comfort, and design are all customized to you.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to choose the perfect pair for your needs, including:
- how to measure your foot length.
- how to measure your instep height.
- how to measure your calf width for boots.
- and how to choose the ideal heel height for your lifestyle.
1. Why Choose Handmade Leather Footwear with Wooden Soles?
Handcrafted clogs and boots offer unique qualities:
- They are durable, made with natural leather and carefully selected wood.
- The designs range from classic to bohemian and biker-style.
- They are shaped and adjusted to your real measurements.
- Each pair is unique and handcrafted from scratch.
The result: footwear that is special, comfortable, and truly personalized.
2. How to Choose the Perfect Size: Foot Length + Instep Height
For the best possible fit, two measurements are essential:
- foot length.
- instep height.
2.1 How to Measure Your Foot Length
- Place a sheet of paper on the floor against a wall.
- Put your heel against the wall.
- Mark your longest toe.
- Measure the distance.
I craft footwear from size 34 to 47, and I also create fully custom sizes when needed.
2.2 How to Measure Your Instep Height
This is especially important for narrow feet, wide feet, or high insteps.
- Sit down with your foot relaxed on the floor.
- Wrap a measuring tape around the highest point of the instep.
- Do not pull too tight.
- Write down the measurement.
What does this measurement mean?
- Low instep (narrow foot): I adjust the upper to ensure a secure and stable fit.
- Normal instep: Standard patterns fit comfortably.
- High instep (wide or raised foot): I increase the upper height so the shoe doesn’t feel tight.
Why is instep height so important?
Because wooden soles don’t flex like sneakers or factory shoes.
Comfort comes from the leather and the shape of your foot.
A wrong instep height can cause:
- looseness if the instep is low.
- pressure if the instep is high.
But when measured correctly, the shoe feels like it’s made just for you, because it is.
3. Custom Fit for Boots: Calf Width Adjustment
For my bohemian and biker-style boots, calf width is essential for comfort and ease of use.
How to Measure Your Calf Width
- Stand up with your leg relaxed.
- Place the measuring tape around the widest part of your calf.
- Wrap it without squeezing.
- Note the measurement.
What I do with that measurement:
- For wider calves: I widen the boot shaft.
- For slim calves: I adjust the leather so the boot doesn’t feel loose.
This ensures the boot: doesn’t squeeze, is easy to put on, fits comfortably and naturally.
4. Choose Your Ideal Heel Height for Your Lifestyle
Another important detail:
You can choose the heel height that feels best for you.
If you love a model but the heel looks too high, or too low, i can craft it with your ideal height.
Why is heel height so important?
Because it affects:
- posture.
- comfort while walking.
- stability.
- and everyday use.
Examples:
- If you walk a lot: a low or medium heel is ideal.
- For daily elegance: a comfortable medium heel works well.
- For a bold, biker-inspired look: a higher heel adds impact.
Every model can be crafted with your preferred heel height.
5. The Final Result
By combining these measurements and customization options, you receive a pair that:
- is crafted especially for you.
- fits perfectly from the first wear.
- reflects your personal style.
- is stable, durable, and comfortable.
- is truly one of a kind.
Need Help Choosing Your Measurements or Your Model?
You can send your measurements, questions, or inspiration and I’ll guide you personally to ensure you get the perfect pair for your needs and your lifestyle.