Definition

Noun: A size stick is a specialized, handheld measuring tool. It is used by professional shoe fitters to obtain precise measurements of a person's foot, specifically its length and width, in order to determine the correct shoe size.

Usage

The size stick is a standard tool in footwear retail and fitting. It is designed to provide an objective measurement, which is more accurate than simply estimating size. The fitter slides adjustable parts of the stick against the heel and the longest toe, and often against the widest part of the foot, to read the corresponding size from marked scales.

Examples

• Before buying the hiking boots, the clerk used a size stick to measure both of my feet.
• A proper shoe fitting always involves using a size stick to check for length and width.
• The orthopedic specialist relied on a size stick to ensure the custom shoes would fit perfectly.

Advanced Usage

• "to be measured with a size stick": This phrase describes the process of having one's foot professionally measured.
  • For the best fit, have your child's feet measured with a size stick every few months.

Variants and Related Words

• Brannock Device®: (Proper noun) This is the most common and well-known brand name for a size stick. It is often used generically to refer to any foot-measuring device.
  • The store used a Brannock Device to determine my exact shoe size.

Synonyms

• Shoe sizer
• Foot-measuring gauge
• Foot ruler

Related Phrases

• Get sized: An informal phrase meaning to have one's foot measured, typically with a size stick.
  • You should get sized before ordering running shoes online.

Noun

1. a mechanical measuring stick used by shoe fitters to measure the length and width of your foot