Aetrex: Rethinking How We Get the Perfect Fit

With 26 bones, 29 muscles, 33 joints, 112 ligaments and more than 100 tendons, each foot is a marvel of engineering. So why do so many people still shop for shoes based solely on size and style? The truth is, foot comfort (and long-term foot health) goes way beyond what a basic shoe size can tell you. Understanding your foot’s shape, structure and pressure points can be the difference between “just okay” and “all-day amazing” comfort.

 

Most people are familiar with the Brannock device. You know, that classic metal tool used to measure foot length and width. It’s a good place to start. But to find a truly personalized fit, you’ll want to go deeper … much deeper. That’s where our Aetrex foot scanners come in. Available in most of our retail locations, this advanced tech gives you a complete digital scan of your feet and helps our shoe experts guide your team members toward shoes that actually fit.

Here’s why a little extra insight makes a big difference:

1. Length & Width Are Just the Beginning
   Standard sizing doesn’t account for unique foot shapes. You may technically fit into a size 9, but if your foot runs wide or narrow, you’ll likely notice slipping, rubbing or pinching that can lead to long-term discomfort. We’re talking about blisters or deeper foot aches and pains, which can eventually translate to knee and back aches and pains.
   
   
2. Arch Height Is Nothing to Be Ignored
   Whether you have high arches, flat feet or something in between, your arch shape plays a huge role in how pressure gets distributed as you move. The wrong arch support can lead to fatigue, pain or even injury over time. Knowing your arch height helps you choose footwear that supports your body’s natural mechanics.

3. Instep Depth Affects Fit Across the Midfoot
   Your instep is the top part of your foot, and its height can determine how snug or loose a shoe feels across the midfoot. Shoes that are too tight across the instep can cause pressure and circulation issues, while those that are too loose may not feel secure. The goal is to find the sweet spot, which will allow your foot to move and breathe freely while feeling secure, not too little, not too much, but just the right amount.
   
   
4. Pressure Points … Screaming with Discomfort Or Breathing a Sigh of Relief
   We all walk a little differently. Mapping your unique pressure points reveals where your feet absorb the most impact. We can use this data to help us recommend shoes (and insoles) that cushion exactly where you need it. This minimizes discomfort and reduces the risk of developing painful hotspots or calluses.

At the end of the day, we believe your employees should have it all: style, protection and comfort. Our Aetrex foot scanners can deliver all the info listed above and more in as little as 20 seconds. Then our shoe experts cross-reference that detailed foot data with the specs of various shoe styles. It allows them to recommend the right size and shape of shoe for your feet. Sometimes, it means offering alternate suggestions because not every shoe style is made for every foot out there. 

Send your team members to one of our retail locations to experience a complimentary Aetrex foot scan. Armed with the right data, we’ll help them find their perfect fit, because they deserve more than just “okay” safety shoes.

The right fit. Top brands. The protection your team needs. Get them all with a custom Saf-Gard^® safety shoe program.

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