Shoe Size Bigger: What It Really Means for Your Game and Comfort

When people say they need a shoe size bigger, a larger foot measurement to accommodate swelling, shape, or comfort during physical activity. Also known as going up half a size or a full size, it’s often a quick fix—but not always the right one. Many athletes, especially runners and table tennis players, assume that a bigger shoe means more comfort. But here’s the truth: a shoe that’s too big doesn’t help your game—it hurts it.

Think about how table tennis works. You’re darting side to side, stopping on a dime, pivoting fast. Your foot needs to feel locked in, not sloshing around. A running shoe, a type of athletic footwear designed for forward motion and impact absorption that’s too large might seem comfy at first, but it turns every quick step into a gamble. Your heel slips, your toes bang forward, and your balance gets wrecked. That’s not just annoying—it’s an injury waiting to happen. Studies on foot mechanics show that even a 5mm difference in shoe length can increase the risk of bruised toenails, plantar fasciitis, and ankle rolls. And if you’re playing on a hard indoor court like we do here in Cardiff, your feet are taking a beating anyway. You don’t need more room—you need the right fit.

So why do people keep going for a bigger size? Often, it’s because they’re wearing the wrong shape. Foot width matters just as much as length. Maybe your foot is wide, and you’ve been stuffing it into narrow shoes, thinking a bigger size will fix it. But that just makes the shoe longer and looser. What you really need is a shoe with a wider toe box. Brands like Altra, Hoka, and New Balance make models built for broader feet without adding extra length. And don’t forget: feet swell during play. Try on shoes later in the day. Wear the socks you play in. Stand up, jump a little, and wiggle your toes. If your big toe is brushing the front, you’re too tight. If your heel lifts when you walk, you’re too loose. The sweet spot? About a thumb’s width between your longest toe and the end of the shoe.

It’s not just about running shoes, either. Table tennis shoes are low-cut, lightweight, and built for lateral movement. They’re not meant to be bulky. But if you’re using basketball shoes or hiking boots because you think "bigger is better," you’re slowing yourself down. The right gear doesn’t shout—it supports. And when it comes to your feet, support isn’t about size. It’s about precision.

Below, you’ll find real advice from players who’ve been there—whether it’s choosing the best shoe brand for your foot type, understanding why Hoka shoes last longer than others, or learning how to spot when it’s time to replace your pair. No fluff. Just what works.