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Brannock Device

The Brannock device is the tool used for measuring the length, width and arc length of the human foot. The Brannock device was patented in 1926 by Charles F. Brannock and today is the standard measuring tool in the shoe industry. The device can be made out of plastic, wood or metal and features left and right heel cups on both sides of the device so that each foot can be measured separately. It is common for one of the human feet to be larger than the other.

The Brannock device itself is oval in shape due to the heel cups and features the width measuring tool in its middle. The person being measured puts their heel against the back of the heel cup and then the measurement is taken to the big toe. In order to decipher width, a metal slider is pushed up against the sides of the toes and arch to determine the measurement.

It is important to use a Brannock device every time when buying new shoes, especially for those whose feet are still growing, like children. Children's feet fluctuate in size every couple of months, so the Brannock device is an invaluable tool.

If you haven’t bought shoes in a while or are unsure about your shoe size, you should also measure your foot before buying shoes. Some athletic shoe manufacturers suggest buying an athletic shoe that is one size larger than your normal size to reduce the likelihood of your toes banging up against the inside of the shoe when running or walking. Open-toed shoes can usually be bought one half to a size smaller than your normal size so that the shoe will fit tighter and stay on your feet.

The size of one's foot can also be determined by trying on a number of shoes, but that takes a lot of time and is inaccurate, as your size will most typically change with the shoe brand. The Brannock device is accurate and directly corresponds to the whole and half numbered shoe sizes and lettered widths used as an industry standard.