If Your Boots Don’t Fit, Nothing Feels Right
We get it—when you’re on your feet all day, the last thing you need is a boot that rubs, slips, or squeezes the life out of your toes. Whether you're on a site, in a shed, or up a ladder, the right fit isn't just nice to have—it's critical.
This guide’s made for Aussie tradies and workers who are sick of guessing their size and ending up sore. Let's fix that.
How to Get the Right Size (No More Guesswork)
Finding your size is easier than you think. Just follow these steps:
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Place a sheet of paper against the wall.
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Stand on it with your heel snug against the wall.
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Mark where your longest toe ends.
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Measure from the edge of the paper to your mark (in centimetres).
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Repeat for both feet. Go with the larger one.
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Compare it with our sizing chart to lock in your size.
This small step could save you weeks of blisters, back pain, and buyer’s regret.
Are You Wearing the Wrong Size?
Here’s How You Know:
Your boots might look the part—but do they feel right?
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Toes crammed up the front? Nope.
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Heels slipping when you walk? That’s a trip hazard.
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Blisters before lunch? Big red flag.
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Pain in your arches or knees? Blame your boots.
The wrong fit causes more damage than you think. Don’t “wear them in”—wear the right size from day one.
Wide Feet? Don’t Just Size Up
A common mistake we see: folks with wide feet buying bigger boots just to squeeze in. You’ll end up with clown-length boots that flop around and wear out fast.
Instead, go for Wide Fit Work Boots. They’re built for broader feet, not longer ones—so you stay supported without the extra baggage.
Different Styles, Different Fit – What’s Right for You?
Zip Side Boots
If you’re in and out of boots all day, zips are gold. Just make sure your heel doesn’t shift when zipped up. See our Zipside Collection.
Lace-Up Boots
Solid for support and easy to tighten where you need it. Best for all-day wear on uneven ground.
Elastic Sided Boots
Quick to pull on, but they stretch over time. Get a snug fit from the start so you’re not swimming in them later. Explore our Elastic Sided Range.
Socks and Insoles—They Matter More Than You Think
Thick cotton socks? Not ideal. They trap sweat and can throw off your sizing.
Instead, wear work socks made from wool blends or performance materials—they wick moisture and keep your feet dry. If you wear orthotics or inserts, grab boots with removable insoles like Redback or Steel Blue.
Do Work Boots Stretch Over Time?
Yes, leather softens with wear. But don’t bank on a too-tight boot suddenly fitting like a dream. If it feels wrong at the start, it’s not your size.
Between Sizes? Go Up—Then Adjust
Always pick the larger size if you’re in-between. You can fix extra space with a thicker sock or an insole. But too tight? There’s no saving that.
Real Tradies. Real Fit Problems. Real Fixes.
Case Example 1: Jake the Electrician (NSW)
Jake wore size 11 lace-ups but always had heel slip and arch fatigue. After measuring, he found he was actually a 10 wide. Switching to Mongrel wide fit zip-side boots solved his problem: "10-hour days now feel like a breeze."
Case Example 2: Laura the Landscaper (QLD)
Laura needed boots that worked with her orthotics. She tried Redback elastic-sided boots and said: "Total game changer. My orthotics finally fit without making the boots feel tight."
Case Example 3: Marcus the Apprentice (VIC)
Marcus ordered the wrong size online, relying on sneaker size. After measuring, he swapped to FXD lace-ups and said, "Sizing properly saved me from daily heel blisters."
Data Backs This Up: Poor Fit = Long-Term Issues
A 2023 University of Sydney study found that over 60% of tradies wear the wrong size boots, leading to plantar fasciitis, knee strain, and fatigue.
Safe Work Australia reports that 23% of serious work injuries come from slips, trips, and falls—many linked to poor footwear.
Why the Right Fit Changes Everything
A proper fit doesn’t just protect your toes—it saves your knees, hips, and back too. Better posture, better focus, and better days on site.
Need a place to start? Our Steel Cap Work Boots are built tough for long shifts and long-term wear.
Still Unsure? Ask Us—We’ve Fitted Thousands of Feet
Our team knows boots inside out. Message us with your foot size, job type, and any trouble spots. We’ll steer you to the right pair—no mucking about.
Shop Aussie’s Most Trusted Work Boots
We’re not just a boot store—we’re your mates on the ground, here to make sure you’re wearing something that works. With 2,000+ pairs ready to ship, you’ll find something that fits just right.
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FAQs
Can I use my own orthotics in work boots?
Yep—most of our boots come with removable insoles so you can slot in your own.
Should work boots feel tight at first?
They should feel snug—not tight. Your heel shouldn’t lift, and your toes shouldn’t be squished.
What if I buy the wrong size?
No worries. We’ve got a stress-free return process so you can swap and get the right fit.