What Is the Difference Between Narrow & Medium Shoes?

What Is the Difference Between Narrow & Medium Shoes?
Written By
Marie Greene
Marie Greene
Published: Mar 23, 2010
Updated: Dec 13, 2021
1 minute read

Shoes normally come in a variety of lengths and standard widths. This is the case mostly for economic reasons. However, if you have either narrow or wide feet, you can find shoes that will accommodate your size.

Standard Width

The standard width of the shoe will be proportional to the shoe's size, and vary with manufacturers. Typically, the width of a shoe is increased in 1/16th-inch increments for each change in size.

Medium

Most shoes, unless otherwise stipulated, will be Medium, often labeled M or D.

Narrow

The width of narrow shoes will also be proportional to the shoe size. Typically, this measurement will be 1/16th inch less than that of Medium or standard shoes. Narrow shoes are most commonly indicated by the letters N, C or B.

Wide Shoes

Wide shoes are those that are roughly 1/16th inch wider than the Medium shoes.

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Other Sizes

Other specialty sizes include “Slim” and “Extra Wide.”

References

Marie Greene

Marie Greene has been a writer for more than 20 years on a variety of topics including natural health, fitness and creative pursuits. Her work has appeared on FaveCrafts and other websites. She received her herbalist certification from the…

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