Sizing up Winter Boots, Should Winter Boots Be A Size Bigger?

Sizing up Blundstones for men, women and kids

Blundstone has warm, comfortable boots for men, women and kids. We know that choosing a new pair of winter boots requires attention, and we’ll help provide the information you need to select the boots right for you.

The first thing to think about is warmth. Once you’ve found that best boot for cold weather, finding your proper boot size should be a simple task. You already know your shoe size, right? That’s where you start.

Your shoe size and your boot size may not be the same. It’s not unusual to find that you need to size up for a new pair of winter boots. Your feet may require a boot a half size, or even a whole size larger than your shoe size. A bit more space inside your boots will allow a layer of warm air to surround your feet and keep them warm. Next, you have to determine the right amount of that space. You’ll want both a snug fit and enough room for your feet to spread normally during the day. If the fit is too snug, your feet will get cold and your toes will have no wiggle room. If the fit is too loose, you risk heel blisters.

Another key question that determines your winter boots fit and whether to go a full size up is - What winter socks will you be wearing in your new boots? A warm pair of socks is important for those cold days and nights. Be sure to wear those socks when you try on any new pair of boots. Blundstone merino wool socks are a good choice, but a favorite pair of thick socks will work. Note that cotton fibers keep in the cold, so be sure to wear wool socks.

FAQs: How to get the best winter boot fit

Blundstone Thermal boots fit true to size. If your feet are wider than average, check our sizing chart and order one half size up.
Allow a quarter inch of space between the tip of your toe and the front of the boot. You need a little wiggle room.
Blundstone leathers will conform to the width and shape of your foot, but they will not stretch to accommodate the length of your foot. Measure each foot carefully. Twice.
Blundstone Classic Series boots are slightly wider than our Originals. Each Classic pair includes extra insoles you can insert to adjust the fit.
Blundstone Kids' boots have a removable insole you can insert to adjust the fit as their feet grow.
All Blundstone boots have the AU/UK size stamped on the bottom of the boot. Check our conversion table to find the correct US size for your boots.
If you order your boots in a US size, we’ll send you the corresponding AU/UK size.

Final check for a good winter boot fit

Some useful tips:

The gentle kick test - Pull on your snow boots and, if required, securely lace them up. Next, kick a wall. Gently. If your toes hit the end of the boot, it may be a warning that the boots will rub against your heels and cause blisters. Try a size smaller.
Check your heel space - Stand up and push your foot forward into the boot. How much space do you have around your heel? If two fingers don’t fit, try a size larger. If you have extra room, try a size smaller.
Stretch out your toes - Pull on both boots, stand up and stretch and wiggle your toes. You should feel no pressure at any point on your toes or against the widest part of your foot. If you feel pressure at any of these points, try a size larger.

Blundstone winter boot features

Depending on the winter boot style you select, you’ll find noted Blundstone features that include the following.

SPS Max Comfort System - The System incudes a lightweight, thin and breathable cushioning material engineered to receive repeated impact. XRD® Technology in the heel provides shock absorption of up to 90% with every step.
Waterproof leather - Blundstone’s Thermal Series boots are impervious to snow, slush and icy rain. Look for waterproof elastic gore and Latex seams, too.
Thermal Thinsulate® and leather lining - This pairing traps your body heat as it allows moisture to escape.
TPU outsole - Thermoplastic PolyUrethane resists the cold. Elastic and slip-resistant, it adjusts to your footprint to increase awareness of and confidence in the grip of the tread.
Vibram® outsole - This self-cleaning outsole is made of a rubber compound that provides enhanced grip for both city walkers and trail trekkers.
Polyurethane or cushioned midsole - The midsole rests underneath the insole to provide the boot’s main support and cushion. You can remove and dry the insole when you take off your boots, or replace them with an orthotic.
Removable contoured sheepskin EVA footbed - Lightweight and cushiony, this footbed provides maximum warmth and comfort. Stretchy EVA adapts to the natural movements of your feet as you walk.

Exactingly styled and crafted

Blundstone makes the very best hiking boots, work boots and boots to keep your feet warm and comfortable all winter. We’ve become the go-to brand worldwide for outdoor worksites, chilly city sightseeing, long distances, nature hikes, and cold weather travel in style.