Shoe Stores Near Me: Irish Favorites, Top Brands & Foot Health

Searching for shoe stores near me in Dublin? Whether you mean Dublin, Ireland or one of the U.S. cities with the same name, this guide separates local store options from podiatrist-backed walking shoe advice and explains Irish footwear terminology.

Popular Shoe Styles in Ireland

Brogues – traditional leather shoes with decorative perforations
Trainers/Sneakers – casual athletic footwear for everyday wear
Leather Boots – durable footwear for wet Irish weather
Comfort Walking Shoes – cushioned shoes for long walks

Top Shoe Brands on the Market

Nike – global leader with ~27% market share
Adidas – German sportswear giant
New Balance – known for comfort and width options
Skechers – popular for casual comfort
Clarks – heritage British brand with strong Irish presence

Podiatrist Recommended Walking Shoes

Brooks Ghost 15 – top pick for neutral walkers
New Balance 1080v13 – plush cushioning with APMA seal
Hoka Clifton 9 – maximalist cushioning for impact absorption
Asics Gel-Kayano 30 – stability shoe for overpronation

Where to Shop in Dublin

Schuh on O’Connell Street – trendy sneaker selection
Foot Locker in city centre – athletic footwear specialist
Paul Byron Shoes online – Irish retailer with wide range
The Shoe Horn for women – boutique women’s shoe store

Quick stats: Average women’s shoe size in Ireland (UK sizing): 6.5–7 | Most popular shoe brand globally (Nike): ~27% market share | Number of shoe stores in Dublin city centre: Over 50 | Podiatrist-recommended walking shoe: Brooks Ghost 15 | Irish term for shoes: Brogs | Percentage of people over 50 experiencing foot size increase: ~70%

Key Facts at a Glance
Fact	Value
Average women’s shoe size (UK)	6.5–7
Top global shoe brand (2025)	Nike (~27% market share)
Podiatrist #1 walking shoe	Brooks Ghost 15
Irish slang for shoes	Brogs
Percentage of people over 50 with larger feet	~70%
Number of shoe shops in Dublin city centre	50+

What are popular shoes in Ireland?

Irish shoe preferences blend practicality with style. The damp climate makes waterproof leather boots a staple, while brogues remain popular for both casual and formal occasions. Trainers (sneakers) dominate everyday wear, with global brands like Nike and Adidas leading sales. Local retailers such as Schuh, Foot Locker, and Paul Byron Shoes stock these styles, alongside heritage brands like Clarks and Loake Shoemakers.

What do Irish people call shoes?

The word “brogue” derives from the Irish bróg, meaning shoe. Informally, Irish people use “runners” for sneakers and “wellies” for Wellington boots. Regional variations exist, but “brogs” remains a common slang term across the country.

“The term ‘brogue’ has deep roots in Irish language and culture, originating from the Irish word ‘bróg’ for shoe.”

— Irish shoemaker tradition via Wikipedia

What are the most comfortable shoe brands?

Comfort-focused brands prioritize cushioning, arch support, and wide toe boxes. Clarks, Skechers, and Ecco are popular for everyday wear, while athletic brands like Brooks, New Balance, and Asics dominate the walking shoe category.

What shoes do most podiatrists recommend for walking?

Podiatrists consistently recommend specific models for walking due to their biomechanical support. The Brooks Ghost 15 is often the first choice for neutral walkers, while the New Balance 1080v13 offers plush cushioning with the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance. The Hoka Clifton 9 provides maximalist cushioning for impact absorption, and the Asics Gel-Kayano 30 supports overpronators.

“Brooks Ghost is often the first choice for neutral walkers.”

— Dr. Megan Leahy, DPM (podiatrist quoted on Healthline)

The implication: Podiatrists recommend Brooks, New Balance, Hoka, and Asics for walking because these brands combine arch support, cushioning, and stability features that reduce injury risk.

What are the top 5 most popular shoe brands?

Global shoe brand rankings reflect market share and consumer preference. Nike holds the #1 position with approximately 27% of the global market. The top five brands are Nike, Adidas, PUMA, New Balance, and Skechers. In India, local brands like Bata, Liberty, and Relaxo compete strongly with international names.

Which shoe brand is No. 1?

Nike is the world’s largest shoe brand by revenue, maintaining its lead through innovation, marketing, and athlete endorsements.

What is the top 1 shoe in the world?

While individual models fluctuate in popularity, the Nike Air Force 1 and Nike Air Max series consistently rank among the best-selling shoes globally.

Which Are the Top 10 Shoes Brands in the World & India?

Global top 10 includes Nike, Adidas, PUMA, New Balance, Skechers, Converse, Vans, Under Armour, Asics, and Reebok. In India, Bata, Liberty, Relaxo, and Paragon join international brands in the top rankings.

What is the average shoe size for a woman?

Average women’s shoe size varies by region. In the United States, the average is size 8.5. In the United Kingdom and Ireland, it ranges from 6.5 to 7 (UK sizing). These differences reflect population demographics and measurement standards.

Does foot size change with age?

Yes, foot size commonly increases after age 50. Ligaments loosen and fat pads change, causing feet to widen and lengthen. Approximately 70% of people over 50 experience some foot size increase. Podiatrists recommend measuring feet regularly after 50 to ensure proper shoe fit.

Is a size 9 foot big for a woman?

A size 9 (US) is larger than average but not unusual. Whether it’s considered “big” depends on height and body frame — there is no strict medical cutoff. Many brands now offer extended sizes to accommodate diverse foot shapes.

“New Balance and Hoka have received the APMA Seal of Acceptance for their walking shoe models, indicating they promote foot health.”

— Podiatrist association consensus (APMA)

Editorial judgment: Don’t assume your shoe size stays the same after 50. Measure both feet annually and buy shoes that fit the larger foot — this prevents blisters, calluses, and long-term foot problems.

What this means: The geographic ambiguity of “Dublin” means shoppers must verify whether store listings refer to Dublin, Ireland or Dublin, California, Georgia, or Ohio. Always check the address before visiting.

Additional sources

hibbett.com, stores.dsw.com, journeys.com, famousfootwear.com, macys.com, stores.footlocker.com

If you are looking for something more rugged, a guide to boot stores in Ireland can help find the right pair for work or hiking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are shoe sizes the same in Ireland as the UK?

Yes, Ireland uses UK shoe sizing. A UK size 7 is the same in both countries. US sizes differ by approximately 1.5 sizes.

Do shoe stores in Dublin offer tax-free shopping for tourists?

Many stores in Dublin city centre participate in the Retail Export Scheme, allowing non-EU tourists to claim VAT refunds on purchases over €75.

What is the return policy for online shoe stores like Paul Byron Shoes?

Paul Byron Shoes offers a 30-day return policy for unworn items in original packaging. Check individual store policies before purchasing.

How can I measure my foot size at home accurately?

Trace both feet on paper while standing, measure length from heel to longest toe, and width at the widest point. Measure in the afternoon when feet are slightly swollen.

Are podiatrist-recommended shoes more expensive than regular shoes?

Podiatrist-recommended walking shoes typically cost $120–$180, which is higher than budget brands but comparable to mid-range athletic shoes. The investment often prevents costly foot problems.

Which shoe store in Dublin has the largest selection of women’s shoes?

Schuh on O’Connell Street and The Shoe Horn offer extensive women’s collections. For online browsing, Paul Byron Shoes provides a wide range with home delivery.

Can I find custom orthotics at local shoe stores?

Some Dublin shoe stores offer custom orthotic fitting services. Specialized podiatry clinics provide prescription orthotics for medical conditions.