Why is measuring my feet at the end of the day important when choosing sneaker size?

We recommend measuring standing with weight on your feet late in the day because feet swell with activity and are slightly larger; this gives a more accurate length and width to compare with brand size charts on Bash.

If I’m between two sizes, should I size up or down?

When between sizes we advise choosing the larger size and adjusting with a thicker sock or an insole, which typically costs around R100 to R450 depending on material and support needs.

How much toe room should I allow for running versus casual wear?

For most active uses like running or training we suggest about 5-10 mm (roughly a thumb’s width) from your longest toe to the shoe end, while casual sneakers worn with thin socks can be closer-fitting.

How can I compare fit across different brands and styles on Bash?

Compare each shoe by matching your measured foot length to the brand’s size chart, noting any product fit notes (narrow, roomy, etc.), checking width or volume descriptions, and reading verified customer fit reviews on the product page.

What should I check when trying sneakers on in-store to judge fit?

When trying on we advise wearing the socks you’ll use, lacing the shoes as you normally would, standing and walking for at least five minutes, and checking heel slip, toe-room, midfoot hold and any pressure points; if a sneaker still feels tight after ten minutes it’s unlikely to loosen sufficiently.

How to compare sneaker fit and size: practical

Why fit matters for sneakers

A sneaker that fits well protects your feet, reduces rubbing and fatigue, and helps the shoe perform as intended - whether for daily walking, gym sessions or weekend wear. We focus on practical checks you can do at home and when shopping online on Bash so you spend less time guessing and more time moving comfortably.

Step 1 - measure your feet properly

Measure both feet while standing (weight on them), late in the day when feet are slightly larger. Use a ruler or tape and a sheet of paper: stand on the paper, mark the longest toe and the back of the heel, then measure the length in millimetres or centimetres. Record the wider foot’s measurement - most people have one foot slightly larger. Measure width by tracing the widest part across the forefoot and noting that dimension. Keep these numbers for comparing to size charts.

Step 2 - read brand size charts, not only sizes

Sizes (e.g., 7, 8, 9) are just labels. Each brand’s internal last and shape vary. Always match your measured length and width to the brand’s size chart and any foot-length to size conversion table they provide. If a brand lists centimetres, use your measured centimetres. When browsing, use the Sneakers category on Bash to jump to size charts and product pages for different brands and styles.

Step 3 - factor in sock thickness and activity

Decide how you’ll wear the shoe. Running or training usually needs a little extra room for thicker technical socks and foot swell; casual sneakers worn with thin everyday socks can be closer-fitting. As a rule of thumb, allow about 5-10 mm (roughly a thumb’s width) of space from the longest toe to the end of the shoe for most active uses.

Step 4 - check width and last shape

Some people need a wider or narrower last. If you have a high instep, wide forefoot or narrow heel, look for notes in product descriptions about fit (narrow, true to size, wide). When in doubt, filter by brands and read the fit notes on the Sneakers articles and brand pages to see common fit patterns.

Consideration: if you measure between two sizes, most people choose the larger size and adjust with an insole or thicker sock. Insoles can cost from around R100 to R450 depending on material; consider budget and intended use.

Step 5 - test when trying on

When trying shoes in-store: wear the socks you’ll normally use, fasten laces in your typical pattern, and stand and walk around for at least five minutes. Check these fit points: heel slip (small is normal but avoid large gaps), toe-room (approx. thumb’s width), midfoot hold, and any pressure points. If a sneaker feels tight after 10 minutes, it’s unlikely to loosen enough to be comfortable long-term.

If you’re ordering online, note return and exchange windows before you buy. On product pages we list measurements and fit notes; use those to shortlist sizes and styles before ordering.

Useful links: find styles and size details in our Sneakers category and read brand-specific notes on the Sneakers articles. When you’re ready to shop, check the Men or Women sneaker collections for gender-specific lasts and filters.

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How to compare fit across brands and styles

Comparing fit is easier when you break choices into three lenses: length, width/volume, and intended use. For each sneaker you consider, gather the following quickly: the brand size chart measurement for your decided size, any product notes saying “narrow” or “roomy”, and customer fit reviews that mention sizing (many Bash product pages include verified reviews).

Practical comparison checklist

Foot length (cm/mm) matched to brand chart.
Width or fit note (narrow, standard, wide).
Recommended activity (running, cross-training, casual).
Returns and exchange policy window.

When two shoes are close on length, choose by volume: a higher-volume shoe feels fuller across the midfoot and top of foot; a low-volume shoe feels tighter even if the length matches. If you need extra room now, pick the higher-volume option or size up and add an insole for a better heel lock.

How to handle tricky fits: common scenarios

If the forefoot feels cramped but heel is fine: try a half-size up or look for a wider last. If the heel slips but toes have space: tighten the lacing, use a heel-grip or try a style with a narrower heel cup. If the shoe rubs across the top of the foot: you may have a high instep - look for adjustable lacing systems or flexible uppers (mesh, knit).

Using returns intelligently

Order two adjacent sizes when unsure and return the one that fits worse - check Bash returns for the specific seller before ordering. Keep packaging and try the shoes on clean flooring to meet return conditions. When you return, add a short note about fit (e.g., “too narrow in forefoot”) - that feedback helps other shoppers and improves product notes over time.

Local context and buying tips in South Africa

Our roads, gyms and weekend braai rhythms mean many people want durable outsoles, breathable uppers for hot seasons, and comfortable all-day cushioning. Look for materials suited to local conditions - breathable mesh for hot summers, leather or treated fabrics for occasional light rain - and check product care notes where included. If you’re comparing prices, remember service, shipping and return convenience add value beyond sticker price; many shoppers value a smooth return process as much as a lower price.

Summary: a quick action plan

Measure both feet and use the larger measurement.
Match measurements to the brand size chart for the sneaker you want.
Decide intended use and sock thickness, then allow 5-10 mm toe room for active use.
Consider volume (width/instep) and read product fit notes and reviews.
If unsure, order two sizes or styles and return the less suitable pair within Bash’s return window.

We’ve found that shoppers who follow this simple, consistent routine spend less time returning shoes and more time in pairs that feel right from day one. Explore Sneakers on Bash or narrow to Men or Women collections to compare size charts and read fit notes across brands.

Next steps on Bash

If you want to compare specific brand fits, start with the Sneakers category and use filters for width and activity. Need professional help? Some sellers list sizing advice on brand pages - check those before you buy.

Sources

NHS - How to measure your foot
American Podiatric Medical Association - Foot health and shoe fit
ISO standards on footwear sizing (overview)

How to compare sneaker fit and size: practical size-and-fit tips

Measure both feet

Why Choose Bash?

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30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Use brand charts

Think volume & activity

Why fit matters for sneakers

Step 1 - measure your feet properly

Step 2 - read brand size charts, not only sizes

Step 3 - factor in sock thickness and activity

Step 4 - check width and last shape

Step 5 - test when trying on

How to compare fit across brands and styles

Practical comparison checklist

How to handle tricky fits: common scenarios

Using returns intelligently

Local context and buying tips in South Africa

Summary: a quick action plan

Next steps on Bash

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