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If your visitors said “this doesn’t feel real,” it usually means the post is missing the one thing real buyers care about:
numbers + a repeatable sizing method + what can go wrong.
So this guide is built from:
- FitVille’s official width definitions (2E/4E/6E)
- FitVille’s men’s size chart with girth (circumference) measurements in mm
- Independent fit notes from Doctors of Running and Zappos reviews showing model-to-model variation
- FitVille’s at-home measurement steps (evening, standing, socks)
- A return-cost reality check: US returns typically require the customer to pay return shipping
The 30-second answer: what 2E vs 4E vs 6E really means
FitVille’s own guide gives a simple rule of thumb relative to “Medium”:
- 2E (Wide): ~ +1/4 inch
- 4E (Extra Wide): ~ +1/2 inch
- 6E (Extra Extra Wide): ~ +1 inch
That’s the width story.
But FitVille also pushes a second point many bloggers skip:
a “wide upper” is not enough if the sole platform is still narrow.
FitVille calls this a stability risk when the upper is wide but the outsole isn’t.
Real-world takeaway: wide sizing is not just toe space. It’s also platform stability—important for nurses and warehouse workers on concrete.
Why “runs small” is a messy question (and how to fix it)
Fit issues usually come from three different problems, not one:
- Length is fine, but the toe box tapers
Doctors of Running tested a FitVille model that was true-to-size in length and wide overall, yet still reported pressure on the 5th toe due to forefoot taper. - Your feet swell during long shifts
FitVille itself recommends measuring in the evening because feet swell. - Model variation is real
On Zappos, one buyer said a “4E felt like more of a 2E,” while others reported roomy toe boxes and true fit.
So the better question is:
“Which part feels small: length, toe box, or midfoot volume?”
This guide helps you diagnose that before you order.
The FitVille sizing method that prevents most returns (do this once)
Step 1: Measure at the right time (important)
FitVille advises:
- Measure in the evening
- Stand while measuring
- Measure both feet
- Wear the socks you’ll actually use
Step 2: Measure length + width (basic)
FitVille’s case study shows the standard method:
- Trace your foot
- Measure heel-to-toe length
- Measure width at the widest part (ball area)
Step 3 (the “real buyer” step): also measure girth
FitVille’s men’s size guide includes girth in mm for Medium/Wide/Extra Wide/XX-Wide.
Girth = circumference around the ball of your foot (the “wrap a soft tape” measurement).
Why this matters: Two people can have the same width across, but different volume (high instep, swelling, edema). That’s when shoes feel “tight” even if the toe box is wide.
Width cheat sheet (2E vs 4E vs 6E)
| Width | Relative to Medium | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| 2E | ~ +1/4 inch | slightly wide feet, mild bunion space |
| 4E | ~ +1/2 inch | very wide feet, wide forefoot, thicker socks |
| 6E | ~ +1 inch | extra-extra wide feet, swelling/edema volume needs |
“Pick your width” mini decision chart (fast)
If you’re a nurse/warehouse worker: assume your feet will be widest mid-shift. Measure in the evening.
Choose width using this logic (in order):
- If you’ve ever had pinky-toe rubbing even in “wide” shoes → lean 4E or 6E (taper can still pinch)
- If you wear compression socks / thick work socks → consider one width up
- If you have swelling or high volume → use girth from FitVille’s chart to decide, not just width
The “runs small” fix (simple rules that work in real life)
Use these rules only if you’re unsure after measuring:
If you’re between two sizes in length:
- Go up 1/2 size (especially for long shifts + socks).
FitVille explicitly says socks matter during measurement.
If length is fine but toes feel cramped:
- Don’t jump length first.
- Try more width first (2E → 4E, 4E → 6E).
Because toe taper can cause pressure even when length is “correct.”
If midfoot feels tight but toe box feels okay:
- That’s often a volume/girth issue → follow the girth column on FitVille’s chart.
Reality check: not every “4E” will feel identical
Zappos reviews show real variance:
- Some report “not a 4E” and “toe bed not wide enough”
- Others report roomy toe box and true fit
What that means for your blog:
Don’t promise “always true to size.” Promise a method that reduces mistakes.
Return avoidance (US): why your sizing method matters
FitVille’s US return policy states:
- Yes, customers are responsible for return shipping to the local warehouse.
So your best money-saving move is getting width right the first time.
You can use a simple SVG diagram (100% original) if you want—tell me and I’ll generate it in the exact 1400×900 layout.
Chart (in-post table)
Use the width table above + add one more quick table:
| Your symptom | Most likely issue | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Toes cramped, length fine | toe taper or not enough width | increase width first (2E→4E→6E) |
| Shoe feels tight midfoot | volume/girth | use FitVille girth chart |
| Fit okay morning, tight at shift end | swelling | measure in evening; consider width up |
FAQ
1) What’s the difference between 2E, 4E, and 6E in FitVille shoes?
FitVille defines them roughly as +1/4 inch (2E), +1/2 inch (4E), and +1 inch (6E) compared with medium width.
2) Do FitVille shoes run small?
It depends on the model and your foot shape. Independent reviews show some models fit true-to-size in length but can still have toe-box taper that creates pinky-toe pressure.
3) What should I measure before ordering?
FitVille recommends measuring length and width at home while standing, in the evening, and with your usual socks.
4) What is “girth” on FitVille size charts?
FitVille’s men’s size guide lists girth measurements (circumference) for Medium/Wide/Extra Wide/XX-Wide, which helps if you have high instep or swelling volume.
5) What’s the biggest sizing mistake for nurses/warehouse workers?
Measuring in the morning and ignoring swelling + work socks. FitVille specifically recommends evening measurement and wearing the socks you plan to use