Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to the pedestrix.com Help Center. Find answers to common questions about our products, sizing, care, and more. Browse the topics below or use the search function to find specific information.
Sizing & Fit
Q: How do I convert men’s shoe sizes to women’s shoe sizes?
A: As a general rule, converting men’s to women’s shoe sizes is fairly simple: you would subtract one and a half sizes from your U.S. women’s size to find the appropriate size in U.S. men’s shoes.
Q: How do I get the right fit in kids’ shoes?
A: Feet should be measured while standing, and always have both feet measured. Since one foot is usually larger than the other, buy shoes to accommodate the largest of the two feet. When your child is wearing the shoes, there should be about a half inch of room between the edge of the shoe toe and your child’s toes.
It’s tempting to buy shoes that are too big with the rate children outgrow them, but you should never buy shoes that are more than one size too large for your child. Shoes that are too big can potentially cause a child to trip or even develop foot problems.
Product Care & Use
Q: How do I break in a new pair of heels?
A: To stretch them out, put on a pair of cotton socks and slip on your heels. Walk around the house for about 30 minutes a few nights in a row and they should be stretched to perfection. If the soles are slippery, you can rough them with some sandpaper or use non-slick pads that stick to the sole.
Q: How can I keep my feet from sliding forward in my shoes?
A: There are inserts that help prevent blister-causing friction and keep your feet in place. Some people use double-sided tape safe for skin contact, such as toupee tape.
Q: How do I clean Bearpaw and other sheepskin boots?
A: Follow these careful steps to clean your boots without damaging them:
- Wetting the Boots: Dampen the entire boot evenly with water, being careful not to soak it.
- Cleaning the Suede Upper: Create a lather with suede cleaner and water on a soft, damp cloth. Work this lather onto the boot’s surface. Rinse thoroughly. Never put cleaner directly on the boot and avoid getting it on the sheepskin.
- Cleaning the Sheepskin Lining and Trim: Use a special sheepskin shampoo to gently clean the lining and trim. Rinse again carefully.
- Drying the Boots: Let them dry naturally in a well-ventilated area. Stuff them with unprinted paper or towels to keep their shape. Never place them in direct sun or near a heat source.
- Protecting Your Boots: Once dry, protect them with a stain and water repellent spray.
Q: How do I clean sneakers?
A:
- Remove the shoelaces and any inserts.
- Mix a solution of mild soap and water or use a commercial cleaner compatible with your sneaker’s material.
- Clean the inside and outside with the soapy water and a soft-bristle brush. Rinse with clean water. Do not machine wash unless they are designed for it.
- Stuff the sneakers with paper towels to help them keep their shape.
- Let everything air dry in a well-ventilated area. Do not use a clothes dryer.
- Once dry, replace the laces and inserts.
Q: How do I remove stains from canvas shoes?
A: Use targeted methods for different stains:
- Dirt stains: Scrub with shampoo on a toothbrush, then wipe away residue.
- Grass stains: Scrub with a soapy dish soap solution. For remaining stains, use nail polish remover.
- Grease or tar stains: Rub with a cotton ball dipped in clear nail polish remover.
- General stains: Scrub with oxygen bleach applied to a brush.
Selecting Products
Q: How do I buy the perfect athletic shoes?
A: Consider your activity:
- Running on pavement: Look for shoes that are lighter and more flexible.
- Trail running: Choose shoes with a different tread and support for uneven terrain.
- Treadmill/Gym/CrossFit: Find shoes that give you more contact with the ground.
General Fit Tips for Athletic Shoes:
- Sizes vary by manufacturer and model. You may need to go up or down a size.
- Try on shoes at the end of the day when feet are naturally more swollen.
- Leave about a thumb’s width of space between your big toe and the shoe.
- If the shoe is snug in width, try a half size up to avoid blisters.
- A good pair typically lasts about 9 months. For active runners, consider replacement every 3-4 months or 400-500 miles. Check for worn midsoles and outsoles.
Orders & Policies
Q: Will I receive a confirmation after placing an order?
A: Yes. You will receive an order confirmation shortly after your order is submitted. A second shipping confirmation will be sent when your order ships.
Q: What is your return policy?
A: For any questions regarding product returns, please contact our customer service team directly through the contact form on our website for prompt assistance.
Q: Are Pedestrix gift cards redeemable for cash?
A: Pedestrix gift cards are not redeemable for cash except where required by law. Gift cards with a balance of less than $10.00 are redeemable for cash.