When was the last time you visited a store to have your feet measured? Whether it was recent, or whether it has been a while, you may have placed your foot on a Brannock Device. Even if you don’t know the name, we’re sure you have seen this dependable measuring tool. When it comes to the footwear industry, this device is the go-to standard for getting the right measurement.
Great foot care includes wearing the right size. The doctors at the New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group share a few facts about the Brannock Device.
Meet the inventor
Charles Brannock is the inventor of this industry-changing device. While he was a student at Syracuse University, his goal was to find the best way to measure the foot. He patented his device and launched a company to bring his idea to life in 1926 and 1927, respectively. We may take this device for granted now, but it took a few years for Brannock to bring his idea to a prototype. Today, it is a stable fixture in the shoe shopping world.
Before the Brannock
How did people measure their feet before this invention? They guessed based on a block of measured wood. With the invention of this device, people could measure with more accuracy. The rate increased to almost 96%. Getting the sizing right the first time is a tremendous advantage for consumers. It adds convenience and confidence when making a shoe shopping decision.
Fun facts
- These devices last. Most stores keep them for at least a decade – even up to 15 years.
- During World War II, the US Army employed Brannock to help with boot-fitting. He used his device to ensure enlistees wore the right size boots.
- There are different models to meet the needs of men, women, children, including when they play various sports or take a ski trip. We encourage you to spend the time to double-check measurements each time you shoe shop.
If you’re skipping out on using this go-to tool when shoe shopping, you may be going home with the wrong pair of shoes. Increase your chances of accurately measuring your feet and your family’s feet. It’s worth your time.
At the New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group, there are almost 30 foot and ankle surgeons, podiatrists, and doctors. With more than 30 locations, from Newark, NJ, to Cape May, NJ, we value convenience and excellent service for our patients. We offer compassionate, cutting-edge care across our network, and we specialize in treating the following conditions: ankle and sports injuries, heel pain and plantar fasciitis, bunions, hammertoes, corns and calluses, ingrown toenails, diabetic foot care complications, children’s foot problems, skin conditions of the feet, and fungal nails. Our group is among the best foot and ankle providers in the country. To schedule an appointment, first find a podiatrist in your area.
