Hands And Feet / Question
Published: April 2, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I am an 18-year-old male that's 5'11 and have a 12 - 13 shoe size. I was wondering: Is this shoe size "normal" for someone my height? Because I notice many other guys have smaller feet than I do, and it sort of makes me feel weird. I mean, if I was a size 10 or 11, I'd be content, but having a 12 - 13 shoe size is very weird. I sort of feel like an outcast, for some strange reason. My shoes look really big compared to most other guys my height or even taller. Please answer this. Thanks.
Signed: Male Concerned About Large Feet
Dear Male Concerned About Large Feet,
TeenHealthFX understands that your shoe size is making you feel awkward. During this time in your life, a person can start to feel very self-conscious about different aspects of their body. This is normal, but FX recommends that you try to focus on the positive qualities (physical but more importantly the personality traits) that you possess.
Here is some additional information about shoe size:
There is no "normal" size for people's feet, and little connection between their height and their shoe size. Much of this has to do with genetics, so checking out your family's feet may serve as a comfort to you, but this is not the only determining factor in final shoe size or height. As you shop for shoes you will notice that some styles will make your feet appear bigger, while others will make them seem smaller. Make choices that not only make you feel comfortable physically, but emotionally as well. If you are having trouble finding stylish shoes in your size at your local stores, you can use the internet as a resource to find stores that carry larger sizes.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
A national study of women ages 15-44 found that women were almost twice as likely to receive contraceptive services rather than STD services.
