Gender differences in adult foot shape: implications for shoe design

Purpose: To analyze gender differences in foot shape in a large sample of y oung individuals. Methods: Univariate t-tests and multivariate discriminant analyses were used to assess. 1) significant differences between men and w omen for each foot and leg dimension, standardized to foot length, 2) the r eliability of classification into gender classes using the absolute and sta ndardized variable sets, and 3) the relative importance of each variable to the discrimination between men and women. Results: Men have longer and bro ader feet than women for a given stature. After normalization of the measur ements by foot length, men and women were found to differ significantly in two calf Eve ankle, and four foot shape variables. Classification by gender using absolute values was correct at least 93% of the time. Using the vari ables standardized to fool length, gender was correctly classified 85% of t he time. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that female feet and legs are not simply scaled-down Versions of male feet but rather differ in a number of shape characteristics, particularly at the arch, the lateral side of th e foot, the first toe, and the ball of the feat. These differences should b e taken into account in the design and manufacture of women's sport shoes.