Base shoes cover the holes at the bottom (and sometimes the top) of your iron balusters for a clean, finished look. Pick your baluster size below to see the shoes that fit. Stocked in our 4 U.S. warehouses, orders ship within 1 business day.
By Douglas Lovin, owner of Cheap Stair Parts, 20+ years in stair parts · Updated 10/19/26
Which base shoe size do I need?
Match the shoe size to your baluster size: a 1/2″ baluster uses a 1/2″ shoe. The hole in the shoe is actually slightly larger than the baluster, so it won’t scratch the finish when you slide it on. A common mistake is mixing brands, since sizes and finishes vary from one brand to the next. Each section above lists the series that size fits. If you’re not sure what size your balusters are, measure the thickness of the bar at the bottom, where the shoe sits. Foundation balusters have a 1″ square base built in and don’t need shoes.
Flat vs. angled (rake) base shoes
Flat shoes go on every level surface: floor landings, balconies and the starting step. They can also go under the handrail on a level balcony.
Angled (rake) shoes are pre-pitched to sit flush on the sloped run of the staircase and under the handrail. They’re made at a 36-degree pitch, which fits most staircases, with enough wiggle room for a couple of degrees either way. If your stair angle is quite different, you can sand the shoe down with a belt sander, or take the easier route: notch the wood where the shoe sits so the shoe drops into the notch.
How to install base shoes: set screw or epoxy
Most base shoes come with a set screw on the side that locks the shoe to the baluster. It holds well, but it can push the shoe over and leave a small gap on one side.
For a cleaner look, use epoxy instead. It bonds the shoe to the baluster and floor with no set-screw gap and holds long term. To install with epoxy:
Apply a small amount of epoxy to the bottom of the shoe and to the inside where it meets the baluster.
Press the shoe firmly down onto the floor or tread, keeping it even all the way around so no gaps show.
Let the epoxy cure fully before anyone uses the stairs.
Tip: For shoes at the top, some people use painter’s tape to hold the shoe in place while the epoxy dries.
Not always. Base shoes are mostly decorative. Most people drill round holes when they install their balusters, then use the shoe to cover the leftover gap and any imperfections from the install. See our cutting square holes for balusters guide for an alternative method that doesn’t need shoes but takes more work.
How many base shoes do I need?
One per baluster for the bottom. If you also want shoes at the top where the baluster meets the handrail, double it.
Do I need base shoes at the top of my balusters too?
It’s optional. Some people use shoes at the top for the same reason as the bottom: to cover the hole and any gaps where the baluster goes into the handrail. The underside of the handrail is usually hidden enough that small gaps there aren’t noticeable.
Do I put the shoe on before installing the baluster?
Yes. Cut your baluster to size, slide the shoe on, then set the baluster in place and secure it with epoxy. Last, secure the shoe at the bottom, and at the top if you’re using one.
Do base shoes come in every baluster finish?
Yes. We have shoes in a matching finish for every baluster, as well as for every newel mounting kit and handrail bracket. Some satin black modern baluster styles have even more shoe options.
Can I use iron balusters and shoes outdoors?
No. Our iron balusters, newels and shoes are for interior use only and aren’t recommended for long-term outdoor use. For decks, porches and other outdoor railing, use our AXIA stainless steel railing system.
