Gear Guides
How to Pick the Best Running Shoes
How We Use SmartLast to Find Your Ideal Fit
By Running Warehouse Staff
Publish Date August 25, 2025
• 2 min read
When it comes to running, the comfort of our shoes plays a crucial role in our overall experience and directly affects our performance. Among the various factors that contribute to comfort, arguably, the most significant is the fit. However, finding a shoe that precisely meets your desired fit can be challenging. Fortunately, Running Warehouse now offers fit descriptions powered by SmartLast, empowering you to discover your ideal fit more easily.
What is SmartLast?
SmartLast is a technology by Heeluxe designed to deliver precise shoe fit measurements. It uses laser light, pressure sensors, and data from millions of foot scans to give accurate, unbiased information about how shoes fit. By providing standardized measurements for length, width height, and overall 3D fit, SmartLast makes it easier to choose running shoes that fit correctly in the comfort of your own home.
How It Works
Running Warehouse works with Heeluxe to measure every men's and women's running shoe on our website. We start by sending a men's size 9.0 and women's size 8.0 or Unisex size 9 (all medium width) to their lab. Using SmartLast foot-shaped technology, Heeluxe scans the shoe. The results are then used to determine the fit based on the following metrics:
| Fit Measurement | What It Means |
| Sizing | The fit of the shoe lengthwise, front to back. Sizing (length) options are Short - True - Long. Note: fit is relative to the "average" running shoe. Note: Long doesn't always warrant sizing down. |
| Heel Width | The fit on the back of the shoe where your heel sits. Fit (width) options are Narrow - Snug - Average - Roomy - Wide. |
| Midfoot Width | The fit in the middle of the shoe around your arch and metatarsal heads. Fit (width) options are Narrow - Snug - Average - Roomy - Wide. |
| Toebox Width | The fit in the front of the shoe around your toes. Fit (width) options are Narrow - Snug - Average - Roomy - Wide. |
Finally, SmartLast compiles all the measurement data into our database. You’ll find these SmartLast results listed under the “How It Fits” section on each product page, making it easier to choose the right shoe and size for you.
Find Your Ideal Shoe Fit
Our goal with SmartLast is to provide you with objective fit recommendations so you can easily find your next favorite running shoe. By using standardized measurements, we make it simple to discover footwear that matches the comfort of your best-fitting pairs—taking the guesswork out of shopping. Here’s to effortless miles and happy running!
