When it comes to barefoot shoes, finding the right fit is essential—especially when ordering online. This shoe size guide will help you measure your feet and find the ideal Hike Footwear fit, along with tips for cleaning shoes to keep them in top shape.
A good fit ensures comfort and durability. Here’s how to measure accurately with our shoe size guide:
1. Measure the Length: Place a piece of paper against a wall and stand with your heel touching it. Mark the end of your longest toe and measure the distance from the wall.
2. Measure the Width: Find the widest part of your foot and measure across.
3. Measure Both Feet: It’s common for one foot to be slightly larger, so go with the larger size.
4. Check the Size Guide: Use our shoe size guide to match your measurements with the closest fit. If between sizes, we suggest sizing up for extra comfort, especially if you wear socks.
Following these steps ensures the best fit and makes your barefoot shoe experience as comfortable as possible.
Consider Sock Thickness: If you typically wear thicker socks, you might want to size up slightly to accommodate.
Foot Swelling: Feet can swell throughout the day, so it’s best to measure your feet in the afternoon or evening for a more accurate fit.
Check for Width: If you have wider feet, look for shoes that offer wide sizes or additional room in the toe box.
If your shoe size falls between two sizes, we recommend choosing the larger size. For instance, if a size 7 fits you well in some brands, but a size 7.5 fits better in others, we suggest ordering size 7.5.
Tips for Cleaning shoes and Keeping Them Odor-Free
Barefoot shoes need special care to stay fresh and in shape for longer. Here’s how to effectively handle cleaning shoes and managing odors:
Here’s a simple guide for cleaning barefoot shoes, along with tips for keeping them fresh and odor-free:
Basic Cleaning Routine for Barefoot Shoes
1. Remove the Insoles
Start by taking out the insoles. This helps you clean every part of your barefoot shoes thoroughly, ensuring no dirt or moisture gets trapped inside.
2. Prepare a Gentle Cleaning Solution
Mix a small amount of mild detergent with warm water. Since barefoot shoes are made from soft, flexible materials, avoid harsh cleaners like bleach, which can damage the fabric.
3. Scrub Gently
Use a soft brush or cloth to gently scrub your shoes with the cleaning solution. Focus on areas with dirt or stains. Barefoot shoes are delicate, so light pressure is key to preventing any damage.
4. Rinse Carefully
Rinse your barefoot shoes well with clean water to make sure all soap is removed. Any soap left behind can cause stiffness, which is something you want to avoid.
5. Dry Naturally
Shake out the excess water and pat the shoes dry with a towel. To help them keep their shape, stuff them with newspaper or a dry cloth and let them air dry in a cool, dry place — away from direct sunlight.
Wash Insoles by Hand Using a Mild Detergent Solution
To clean the insoles effectively, remove them from the shoes and gently wash them by hand using a mild detergent solution. Once cleaned, rinse the insoles thoroughly under running water to remove all detergent and let them air dry completely in a well-ventilated area, avoiding direct sunlight.
Odor Prevention Tips for Barefoot Shoes
Since barefoot shoes are often made from natural materials, odor buildup can be a common issue. Here’s how to prevent it:
1. Air Out Regularly After wearing your barefoot shoes, remove the insoles and let both the shoes and insoles air out completely. Placing them in a dry, ventilated area will prevent moisture buildup and keep odors in check.
2. Use Baking Soda Sprinkle a little baking soda inside your barefoot shoes after wearing them. Let it sit overnight to absorb moisture and neutralize any odors, then shake it out in the morning.
3. Essential Oils for Freshness For a pleasant scent and natural antibacterial properties, add a drop of tea tree or lavender oil to a cotton ball and place it inside your shoes overnight. It’ll keep your barefoot shoes smelling fresh and clean.
By following these simple cleaning and odor prevention steps, you’ll be able to keep your barefoot shoes in great condition for longer!
What to Avoid When Cleaning Barefoot Shoes
1. Hard Scrubbing: Excessive scrubbing can damage flexible materials.
2. Direct Sunlight: Avoid sun exposure as it can weaken the materials.
3. Harsh Detergents or Bleach: Stick to mild cleansers to prevent material damage.
4. Long Soaks: Avoid soaking, as it may cause mold. Use an anti-mold spray if needed.
Keep Your Shoes Fresh for Every Adventure!
With this shoe size guide and simple tips for cleaning shoes, you’ll keep your barefoot shoes looking great and lasting longer on every journey.
Additional Help
Need more assistance with finding the right size? Our customer service team is here to help you with personalized advice.