Work sneakers: choose the right size and fit | Shraks

The right size and fit of your work sneakers determine comfort, safety and performance on the job. The Shraks models Venu, Moda, Nova, Moon and Stride combine EN ISO 20345 safety with a sneaker feel. They are available in sizes 35 to 47 and run true to size — so usually choose your regular size.

How to measure your shoe size correctly

Measure in the evening, when your feet are largest, wearing the socks you use for work. Always measure both feet and go by the longer one. You’ll find a detailed measuring guide here: Richtig messen: Größentipps für Stahlkappen-Sneaker.

• Place a sheet of paper against a wall, heel lightly touching the wall.
• Stand upright, mark the longest toe, and measure the distance from wall to mark in millimetres.
• Compare the length to an EU size chart or the manufacturer’s work-shoe sizing.
• If you’re between sizes, choose the larger one — safety shoes need toe room.
• If you wear orthotic insoles, also check volume over the midfoot and at the toecap.

For Shraks work sneakers: start with your everyday size. Safety sneakers with a protective toecap should not let your toes touch when you roll through your stride. Allow about 7 to 12 mm of space in front of the toes, especially for long shifts or if feet swell. More tips for checking sizing on sneaker-style models are in Kaufberatung: Arbeitsschuhe im Sneaker-Look.

Shoe width and fit in work sneakers

Besides length, width also critically affects fit. In work sneakers with a toecap, insufficient width quickly feels tight, while too much width reduces stability. Many brands use width indicators that define forefoot space. Wider feet, splayfoot or hallux often need more volume at the ball of the foot; narrow feet benefit from a more compact last. How the toecap affects forefoot space is explained in Stahlkappe vs. Kunststoffkappe.

Width	Foot type	Fit notes
Weite 10	narrow	secure midfoot hold, prevents slipping; still check toe room
Weite 11	normal	balances comfort and support; suits most feet
Weite 12	wide	more forefoot room; relieves ball and toecap pressure on wide feet

Manufacturer specs may vary. Shraks work sneakers are built on a comfortable standard width with a sporty fit. If you have very wide or very narrow feet, check the fit carefully at the forefoot and heel, use appropriate socks and, if needed, orthotic insoles. Don’t go up a full size too quickly just to gain width — a secure heel lock and stable midfoot matter as well. The closure system also affects fit — learn more in BOA vs. Schnürsenkel: Passform-Feintuning.

Fit check: how your work sneaker should fit

• Toe room: 7 to 12 mm in front of the longest toe; no contact with the cap during toe-off.
• Heel hold: minimal movement, no heel slip on stairs.
• Midfoot: securely wrapped, without pressure on instep or ball.
• Width: toes can splay; no side rubbing against the cap.
• Socks: test with your work socks, not thin casual socks.
• Field test: walk 5 minutes, squat, rotate sideways, make quick direction changes.
• Insoles: try on with your insole and ensure sufficient volume.

For extra comfort at work and to prevent pressure points, we recommend 7 Tipps gegen Fußbeschwerden im Job.

FAQ on work-sneaker size and fit

Should you buy work shoes one size up?

No — start with your usual size. Size up only if your measured foot length falls between sizes, you wear very thick socks, or insoles require extra volume. Oversized shoes reduce support and increase tripping risk.

How much bigger should sneakers be?

Aim for 7 to 12 mm of toe room. In work sneakers with a toecap, this space is important so the cap doesn’t touch the toes. More than half to one full size extra is rarely useful.

What size should I choose for work shoes?

Measure both feet in the evening and choose based on the longer one. If between two sizes, pick the larger. Shraks models fit true to size; sizes 35 to 47 cover most foot lengths. If your chosen size still doesn’t fit, use our return policy for the wrong size.

Should I go a size up or down in sneakers?

Neither by default. Safety first: sufficient toe room, a locked-in heel and a stable midfoot. For narrow feet, try your usual size first and fine-tune with lacing instead of sizing down right away.