How to Read a Last Stamp or Size Marking
Decoding the numbers, letters, and codes stamped into a last (or printed inside a shoe) that identify size, width, and last shape.
By Ambrogio Shoes Editorial, in consultation with Ambrogio's Spain-based shoemaking team
· Updated July 8, 2026
A last stamp typically encodes a combination of the size, a width-fitting letter, and often a model or last-shape reference number specific to the maker — for example, a marking like "9 D 4567" might indicate size 9, D width, on last shape 4567. Because these codes aren't standardized across brands, the same stamp format can mean different things at different makers, so the most reliable way to interpret one is to check the specific brand's own sizing and last documentation.
What's Usually Encoded in a Last Stamp
A typical last stamp combines a few pieces of information: the size, a width-fitting letter, and often an internal last or model reference number specific to the maker. A marking like "9 D 4567" might, for instance, indicate a size 9, D width, built on the maker's internal last shape 4567 — though the exact format varies from brand to brand.
Where You'll Encounter These Markings
The full stamp appears on the physical last itself, used internally during production, while a size and width designation (though not always the full last reference number) is typically also stamped or printed inside the finished shoe for the wearer's reference.
Why There's No Universal Decoder
Because no industry-wide standard governs how this information is encoded, each brand has developed its own internal system for tracking last shapes and sizing. That makes a last stamp most useful for tracking consistency within one brand's range — for example, confirming a new pair uses the same last shape as a pair you already know fits well — rather than for comparing across different makers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a last reference number actually tell me?
It typically identifies a specific last shape used by that maker, which can be useful if you know from experience that a particular last shape fits you well and want to look for other shoes built on the same or a similar one.
Is the size stamped on the last the same as the size printed on the shoe box?
Usually yes, in terms of the base size and width, though some brands add internal codes or model numbers to the last stamp that don't appear on consumer-facing packaging or labeling.
Why don't all brands use the same last-stamp format?
There's no industry-wide requirement for how this information is encoded, so each brand develops its own internal system for tracking last shapes, sizes, and widths based on its own production and inventory needs.
Can I use a last stamp to find similarly-fitting shoes from other brands?
Not directly — since the codes are brand-specific, a last number from one maker has no defined relationship to another brand's numbering. It's more useful for tracking consistency within a single brand's range than for cross-brand comparison.
Sources & further reading:
The Shoe Snob — Understanding Last Stamps: https://www.theshoesnobblog.com/
