A recommendation to *anyone* who buys shoes through the internet

[extempore]

Many shoe companies or retailers ask that you trace the outline of your foot and fax or scan/email it across to them, so they may ascertain your size in their company's product. While not perfect, this is a reasonable way to obtain a decent fit without having to try shoes on in person. BUT - what I have found is that some fax machines 'resize' whatever is sent through them. The solution to this is to draw out a 1 inch line, and clearly label it as such ('1 inch'). Then, make mention of this to the saleperson you are communicating with. While an extremely simple step, I've found that this will allow them to scale whatever they measure off the printout they receive, and assist you in getting the fit right the first time round. I hope that at least some people here find it useful, and will be saved the effort/grief of paying shipping two ways for shoes that don't quite fit right.