When it comes to shoe sizes, the letter M stands for “medium” width. Shoe width is an important factor when finding the right fit, along with length sizing. Understanding the meaning behind shoe width lettering like M can help you buy shoes that are comfortable and supportive.
The Significance of Shoe Width
Shoe width indicates the measurement across the ball of the foot. Most shoes come in standard medium or D widths. However, some brands offer narrow, wide, and extra wide options as well. The width lettering tells you how wide a shoe is so you can find the right fit.
Getting a good width match is crucial for comfort and avoiding problems like blisters, calluses, and pain from shoes that are too tight. Wearing shoes that are too loose can also cause issues with slipping and lack of support. So paying attention to the width designation is key.
Common Shoe Width Markings
Here is an overview of the common width letters used for shoe sizing and what they mean:
Women’s Widths
| Letter | Width Description |
| AAA | Extremely narrow |
| AA | Very narrow |
| A | Narrow |
| B | Medium/standard |
| D | Wide |
| EE | Extra wide |
Men’s Widths
| Letter | Width Description |
| AA | Extremely narrow |
| A | Very narrow |
| B | Narrow |
| D | Medium/standard |
| E | Wide |
| EE | Extra wide |
| EEE | Extra extra wide |
As you can see, the letter M does not appear in the sizing charts for men or women. So what does M stand for when it comes to shoe width?
M Stands for Medium Width
The letter M is sometimes used by shoe brands to designate a medium or standard width. It is equivalent to a D width for men and a B width for women. So an M width shoe is not extra narrow or extra wide, but right in the middle.
Some shoe companies will use M on their shoes or boxes to simply indicate a medium/regular width. This can be especially common with athletic sneakers that tend to come in standard sizing. Seeing M on a shoe tells you that it is a medium width option.
Differences Between Brands
It’s important to note that there are no universal width standards in shoe sizing. Some brands use their own letters on shoes to represent width, so an M may have a slightly different meaning from company to company.
For example, New Balance uses M for medium width in both men’s and women’s shoes. But Sperry Topsider uses M for narrow width in men’s sizes and medium in women’s.
So while M generally stands for medium width, be sure to check the sizing charts and specifics for any brand you are shopping with to understand their lettering.
Determining Your Width
The best way to figure out your ideal shoe width is to have your feet professionally measured at a shoe store. A sales associate can use a special tool called a Brannock device to measure your width and length.
If you don’t have access to professional fitting, here are some tips for determining width at home:
- Trace your foot on a piece of paper and measure across the ball
- Pay attention to how snug current shoes feel across the ball of your foot
- Consider factors like flat vs high arches that can impact width needs
- Try shoes on in both medium/D or M and wide/EE sizes to compare fit
Choosing a size with the right proportions of length and width can make all the difference in comfort. If you experience tightness in standard M width shoes, try wider options. Very narrow feet may require a B/AA width instead.
Width Considerations for Certain Shoe Types
The importance of width varies for different kinds of shoes:
Athletic Shoes
Getting a secure fit without tightness is important in athletic shoes for sports and exercise. Consider width along with length when sizing performance footwear.
Heels
Heels that are too narrow can irritate the ball of the foot over time. Make sure heels fit comfortably across the width and don’t pinch anywhere.
Boots
Boots need a little extra room for wearing with socks. Size up or choose wider calf widths to accommodate calves comfortably.
Sandals
Width is less critical in open-toe sandals. Focus on length sizing and choose adjustable straps for a custom fit.
Tips for Buying M Width Shoes
Here are some tips for purchasing shoes in a medium or M width:
- Try shoes on at the end of the day when feet are largest
- Wear the socks you plan to wear with the shoes when trying them on
- Walk around the store in shoes to make sure they feel comfortable standing and moving
- Pay attention to areas like the ball, toes, and arches that shouldn’t feel tight
- Consider custom orthotics if you need extra support
- Shop brands that offer multiple width options to find your best fit
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a M width shoe the same as a D width?
An M width is generally the same as a men’s D width, which is a standard/medium shoe width. But some brands may use M differently, so check sizing info.
Is a M width shoe narrow or wide?
M width shoes are a medium or regular width, neither narrow nor wide. Widths narrower than M are A, AA, AAA and widths wider are E, EE, EEE.
What width is a women’s M width shoe?
Women’s M width is equivalent to a B width, indicating a medium or standard width for women. A women’s D width would be a wide size.
What is a 3M width shoe?
3M stands for triple medium or extra extra wide width shoes. It is greater than EEE width. 3M shoes provide a very roomy fit.
Conclusion
When it comes to shoe sizing, the letter M stands for medium width. Choosing shoes in an M width can help you find a fit that is not too tight or too loose but just right. Keep in mind that some brands may use M to designate varying widths. Always check the size charts and try shoes on for best fit. Getting properly fitted shoes in your ideal length and width combination will allow you to walk in comfort.