Measure both feet carefully in millimetres. For the Hullachan Hugs H5 Irish Dancing Pump size guide, use the shorter foot measurement when comparing against the chart below. We usually recommend choosing the size immediately below your measurement for the close, secure fit traditionally preferred in Irish dancing pumps.
This is a model-specific Hullachan H5 fitting guide. The shorter-foot method used here is different from the general footwear advice you may see elsewhere on Dance World, so follow this H5 chart when choosing this particular pump.
How to Choose Your Hullachan Hugs H5 Size
Start with both foot measurements, use the shorter one, then compare it with the closest measurements in the H5 sizing chart.
The chart suggests size 2.5 at 214 mm and size 3 at 220 mm.
For a nice close pump fit, we would normally choose size 2.5 in this example.
Hullachan Hugs H5 Irish Dancing Pump Size Chart
Compare the shorter foot measurement with the chart below, then use the fitting adjustments further down the page if the dancer has a particularly narrow or wide foot, higher instep, comfort considerations or prefers an advanced competition fit.
| Foot Measurement mm |
H5 Pump Size | Size Group |
|---|---|---|
| 164 | 10 | Children's |
| 168 | 10.5 | Children's |
| 178 | 11 | Children's |
| 182 | 11.5 | Children's |
| 185 | 12 | Children's |
| 190 | 12.5 | Children's |
| 195 | 13 | Children's |
| 200 | 13.5 | Children's |
| 203 | 1 | UK 1+ |
| 207 | 1.5 | UK 1+ |
| 211 | 2 | UK 1+ |
| 214 | 2.5 | UK 1+ |
| 220 | 3 | UK 1+ |
| 226 | 3.5 | UK 1+ |
| 229 | 4 | UK 1+ |
| 232 | 4.5 | UK 1+ |
| 236 | 5 | UK 1+ |
| 241 | 5.5 | UK 1+ |
| 246 | 6 | UK 1+ |
| 251 | 6.5 | UK 1+ |
| 255 | 7 | Adult |
| 259 | 7.5 | Adult |
| 264 | 8 | Adult |
When to Adjust the Suggested H5 Size
The H5 chart provides a starting point, but foot width, instep height, comfort preferences and dancing level can all affect the size a dancer ultimately prefers.
Go up approximately half a size. Very wide feet may need a full size more. If using a dedicated wide-fit model, half a size extra is usually sufficient.
Where a dancer benefits from a less compressed or more comfortable fit, approximately half a size extra can provide additional room.
Narrower feet often benefit from going down approximately half a size to improve heel security and create a closer overall fit.
Experienced dancers often prefer a particularly close H5 fit for greater control and a cleaner pointed-foot profile. Some may choose as much as one full size down, but this should only be considered by dancers already experienced with a very close competition fit.
The standard Hullachan H5 recommendation already aims for a close pump fit and may allow the toes to sit slightly curled. Avoid repeatedly sizing down beyond what feels safe and functional. Pumps that cause significant toe pressure, pain or persistent compression are too small and may contribute to foot or toe problems over time.
Don't Buy Irish Dancing Pumps Too Large
Buying extra room may seem like a safer option, particularly for a growing dancer, but pumps that are too large can be difficult to control, disguise the pointed-foot line and increase the chance of the shoe moving or catching during dancing.
Hullachan H5 pumps will naturally soften and stretch with wear and can gain a significant amount of room over time. It is therefore better to begin with the appropriate close fit rather than deliberately buying an oversized pump.