How Shoe-Fitting X-Ray Machines Captivated the Nation and Raised Health Concerns

How the X-ray Shoe Fitter Worked

To use the X-ray shoe fitter, customers would stand on a step at the base of the machine, placing their feet into two openings. By peering into a viewing porthole, they could see the bones of their feet inside their shoes. This visual aid was marketed by shoe stores as a method for achieving the best fit and, consequently, the longest-lasting shoes. However, despite its popularity, the machine did not significantly improve shoe fitting accuracy. It was especially popular among children, who were fascinated by the eerie, greenish images of their feet.

A Fascinating Era for Children

During the era when X-ray shoe fitters were prevalent, children were captivated by the chance to see the bones in their feet. The novelty of the experience turned a mundane shoe-shopping trip into an adventure. Parents and salesmen could also view the fit through additional portholes, making the entire process a shared experience. For many kids, the X-ray shoe fitter provided entertainment and a memorable diversion while their mothers shopped.

Health Concerns and Decline

By the late 1940s, scientific studies began to raise alarms about the long-term effects of radiation exposure. The amount of radiation emitted by these machines varied widely, and the cumulative exposure from trying on multiple pairs of shoes could be significant. Children, who are particularly sensitive to radiation, often lingered at the machines, delighting in the sight of their wiggling toes. Salesmen were at even higher risk due to frequent and prolonged exposure, as the machines were notorious for leaking substantial amounts of radiation.

Department Store and Community Memories

In the early 1950s, many department stores featured one of these intriguing machines. Local residents who were children during that time recount the fun and fascination of viewing the glowing images of their toes, a fond memory of their visits to the store. The X-ray shoe fitter provided a unique form of entertainment, keeping restless youngsters occupied and engaged.

The End of an Era

As awareness of the dangers associated with radiation exposure increased and regulations became stricter, X-ray shoe fitters gradually disappeared from shoe stores. The charm and curiosity of the device were overshadowed by the health risks it posed. By the mid-20th century, the era of the X-ray shoe fitter had come to an end, leaving behind a legacy of both wonder and caution.