Have you ever wondered how long five feet really is? Whether you’re redecorating, measuring for furniture, or just satisfying a curiosity, knowing everyday objects that measure five feet can put the length into perspective.
This article explores 11 common things that are approximately 5 Feet Long. By the end, you’ll not only gain a better grasp of the measurement but also learn some fascinating trivia along the way.
There are 11 Common Things That Are 5 Feet Long
1. A Standard Bathtub
A typical bathtub in most homes measures around 5 feet (60 inches) in length. This standard size accommodates most bathroom spaces while providing enough room for a comfortable soak. Of course, larger soaking tubs and smaller shower-tub combinations exist, but the five-foot bathtub remains the go-to choice for builders and homeowners alike.
Did You Know? Freestanding bathtubs, while stylish, often deviate from this standard size and can range anywhere from 4.5 to 6 feet.
2. A Full-Size Bed’s Width
The width of a full-size bed, also known as a double bed, is approximately 54 inches, just shy of 5 feet. While the length of a full-size bed is around 6.25 feet (75 inches), its width is a perfect example of a nearly 5-foot-long dimension.
Pro Tip: If you’re planning to buy a full-size bed, ensure your bedroom has at least 9 feet by 10 feet of space for optimal comfort.
3. Five Subway Sandwiches
Subway’s famous footlong sandwiches can serve as a quirky way to visualize five feet. Line up five of these sandwiches end-to-end, and you’ll have exactly five feet of sub.
Fun Fact: Subway’s footlong sandwiches became popular in the 1960s, but it wasn’t until the 2000s that they became a marketing sensation.
4. A Snooker Cue
A standard snooker or pool cue measures approximately 57 inches, just over five feet. These cues are designed to provide optimal balance and control, allowing players to make precise shots on the billiard table.
Insider Tip: For younger or shorter players, cues around 48 inches (4 feet) are also widely available.
5. A Christmas Tree
Many artificial Christmas trees come in a variety of sizes, but the 5-foot tree is a popular choice for small apartments or cozy spaces. It’s tall enough to make an impression while still being manageable to decorate and store.
Decoration Idea: For a 5-foot tree, use smaller ornaments and lights to maintain a balanced look.
6. An Adult’s Arm Span
On average, an adult’s arm span (from fingertip to fingertip) is roughly equal to their height. For someone who stands about 5 feet tall, their arm span will also measure close to 5 feet. This relationship is commonly referred to as the “Vitruvian Man” principle, named after Leonardo da Vinci’s famous drawing.
Quick Test: Stretch your arms out and measure the distance from fingertip to fingertip to see how it compares to your height.
7. A Surfboard
Shortboards, a popular type of surfboard, often measure around 5 feet. These boards are designed for quick, sharp turns and are favored by experienced surfers for riding waves with precision.
Pro Tip: Beginners usually start with longer boards (around 8-9 feet) for added stability.
8. A Roll of Carpet
When purchasing carpeting, rolls often come in widths of 5 feet. This size is convenient for handling and transportation while covering a significant area when installed.
Expert Advice: Always measure your room’s dimensions accurately before purchasing carpet rolls to minimize waste.
9. A Great Dane
One of the largest dog breeds, a Great Dane can measure up to 5 feet long from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail. These gentle giants are known for their affectionate and loyal nature despite their intimidating size.
Fun Fact: The tallest Great Dane on record, Zeus, stood 44 inches tall at the shoulder and measured over 7 feet long when standing on his hind legs.
10. A Fishing Rod
Many standard fishing rods are designed to be around 5 feet long, especially those used for freshwater fishing or targeting smaller species like trout. This length offers a good balance of flexibility and control.
Angler’s Tip: Longer rods (6-8 feet) are better for casting long distances, while shorter rods (under 5 feet) are ideal for precision fishing in tight spaces.
11. A Garden Hose
Short garden hoses designed for small yards or balcony gardens often come in 5-foot lengths. These compact hoses are perfect for watering plants in confined spaces without the hassle of dealing with long, heavy coils.
Maintenance Tip: Store your hose in a shaded area to prevent cracking and extend its lifespan.
Conclusion
Understanding the length of five feet becomes much easier when you visualize it through common items like bathtubs, bed widths, and surfboards. Whether you’re measuring for practical purposes or simply curious, these examples provide a clear and relatable reference. Next time you come across a 5-foot measurement, you’ll have a better sense of its scale and maybe even a fun fact to share!