[narfforc]

Originally Posted by SamwiseGamgee

I rather feel that it is not so much the actual size of the boots but the perceived size that is the key here- as can clearly be seen from Saruman's use of the word 'purchased'.

As a mighty Istari Gandalf had many strange powers, not least of which was the ability to grow his feet. In fact, some claim this is how he first befriended Bilbo- by putting him at ease by brandishing his disproportionately large, hairy feet in Baggins's face. Of course, the Good Professor said as much in that famous letter which I shan't insult you all by mentioning here- it's assumed knowledge.

Therefore, taking the argument to its next logical step, there is no reason that Gandalf could not have purchased and utilised a large pair of boots any time he'd fancied. He did not do this previously (he didn't, of course, have shoes on when brandishing his feet at Bilbo (mentioned above)- otherwise Bilbo could have quite easily levelled the claim of empty shoes at him) and therefore the fact that Saruman, who- despite his many shortcomings- was one of the wise, mentions the boots here indicates that they must be purely metaphorical. And if they are then it is, surely, the perceived size which matters.

So simple, really.

Yeh...well I was going to say that...but you beat me to it..