Style Guide: How to Buy Footwear as a Gift Without Knowing the Size

Why Giving Shoes Feels Risky (And Why It Doesn’t Have to Be)

Let's face it: presenting someone with shoes is a significant event. It's very personal and useful, and when you get it right, it becomes a daily habit. The only real concern? The fit. A near-miss with a boot, on the other hand, can leave a beautiful gift at the back of a closet.

But here's a secret from the Pegia design studio: if you know which styles are "forgiving" and how to do some research, buying shoes without trying them on isn't a risk. Here's how to get the surprise right without worrying about the size. When it comes to giving shoes as a gift, the right approach makes all the difference between a risky guess and a thoughtful success.

Pick “Forgiving” Shoe Styles First

If you're not sure of the number, pick a style that fits the foot instead of making it fit the shoe.

Sheepskin Slippers: The Ultimate Safe Choice

Open-back mules are the best. Because the soft wool lining naturally shapes itself to the foot, they are very forgiving. This is why sheepskin slippers are one of the safest and most appreciated gifts you can choose.

Lace-Up Boots: Adjustable and Flexible

Laces are the best friend of a gift giver. They let the wearer adjust the fit across the instep, which fixes a lot of "in-between" size problems.

Chelsea Boots with Stretch Panels

Look for styles that have a lot of "pull" or stretch. These fit better than stiff zippers for people with different ankle and instep heights.

Roomier Toe Boxes for Extra Comfort

Don't let your toes get too sharp. A rounded or almond-shaped toe gives the person who gets the gift a little more "wiggle room," which makes them feel comfortable right away.

The Stealth Sizing Strategy: How to Get the Size Right

These small details matter when learning how to choose the right fit without spoiling the surprise. Use these "under-the-radar" strategies:

• The "Trainer" Test: Look at the trainers they wear the most. Trainers can be a little different from leather boots, but they are a good starting point.
• The Box Hunt: If they keep their shoe boxes in the hallway or wardrobe, the UK size label is usually easy to find.
• Ask the "Accomplice": While they're in the shower, ask a partner or housemate to quickly look at the label on their current winter boots. "Is her Pegia boot a UK 5 or 6?" is the best question to ask.
• The Insole Trick: If you can "borrow" a removable insole from a shoe they wear a lot, measure it in millimetres from heel to toe. It's the best way to compare sizes when you shop online.

The British Reality: Socks, Seasons, and Fit

In the UK, a "size" represents more than just a number; it also indicates the weather conditions.

• Giving gifts in the winter: If you're getting sheepskin boots for a birthday in December, keep in mind that they will probably be worn with thicker socks. In this case, leaning a little more is usually the safer choice.
• The Instep Factor: Some people have "high volume" feet, which means they have a high arch. If you see that they always leave their laces a little loose, choose adjustable straps or soft, flexible leathers that can stretch.

Between Two UK Sizes? Here’s the Rule That Works

Are you stuck between a UK 5 and a UK 6? Here are some general rules to follow:

• For Boots: Go up. You can always put a thicker sock or a cosy insole in your boot, but if it's too tight, you can't wear it.
• For Slippers: If the upper is soft, like our sheepskin models, a snug fit is fine because it will stretch a little. But to feel safe, it's best to stay close to their real size.

The Final Fitting Mindset: Exchanges Are Part of the Gift

An exchange isn't a failure at Pegia; it's just the last step in the fitting process. To make this feel like it was meant for the person:

• Keep the box clean: Tell them to try the shoes on a carpeted floor first.
• Add a note that says, "I chose these for the style and quality. If they don't fit perfectly, I've already checked, and a swap is as easy as a cup of tea!"
• The "Care" Add-On: Adding care essentials shows you’ve already thought about how to care for leather shoes long after the gift is opened.

FAQ: Quick Answers for Shoe Gift-Givers

Are slippers easier to give as gifts than boots?

Yes, most of the time. A sheepskin slipper is much more flexible when it comes to small size differences than a structured leather loafer.

Should I guess based on how tall they are?

No way! There isn't a strong link between height and shoe size. Instead, always look for a physical label in their current clothes.

What if their feet are wide?

Look for the "Lace-up" or "Adjustable Strap" sections on our site. These let the person wearing them choose their own width.

Final Thoughts: A Gift They’ll Walk In Every Day

A pair of shoes is a wonderful way to say, "I want you to be able to walk comfortably in the world." You're giving them more than just shoes; you're giving them a new favourite to wear every day by picking a forgiving style and doing a little research. Explore our sheepskin footwear collection and choose a gift that feels considered, comfortable, and confidently right.