Shoe Last Explained

In brief: The last is the foot-shaped mould a shoe is built around. It determines the shape, volume and fit, and the word also refers to the lasting construction method.

What is a last?

The last is a solid, foot-shaped form, historically wood and now usually plastic, that a shoe is built around. Its shape sets the shoe's length, width, toe box volume, heel shape and overall fit. Two shoes with the same stated size can fit very differently because they were built on different lasts.

What it does

The last defines the internal shape your foot has to match. A straight last gives more stability and room; a curved last suits a more natural foot shape. Brands keep families of lasts so their shoes have a consistent fit. When runners say a brand fits them, they usually mean its last shape matches their feet.

Lasting methods

The word last also describes how the upper is attached to the midsole. Strobel lasting stitches the upper to a fabric base for flexibility, the most common method in running shoes. Board lasting glues the upper to a stiff board for stability. Slip lasting sews the upper into a sock-like tube for a soft, flexible feel. Combination lasting mixes methods front to back.

What to look for

You cannot see the last, but you feel it as fit. If a brand consistently suits you, its last shape is the reason. When a shoe feels wrong despite the right size, it is usually a last mismatch, and a different model or brand is the fix.

The last and your running kit at OD's

Last shape is why trying shoes on matters so much. We carry brands with different last shapes and can help you find one that matches your foot, with next-day delivery and free click and collect.