How should I measure my foot before comparing size charts?

We recommend standing on paper, marking heel and longest toe, then measuring the straight-line distance in centimetres for both feet and using the longer result; add 0.5-1.0 cm for everyday sneaker movement unless the style is very narrow.

What sizing terms should I look for on a brand or retailer chart?

We check whether the chart lists ‘foot length’, ‘insole/internal length’ or only regional conversions (US/UK/EU) and use the chart’s stated meaning to compare against our measured foot plus allowance.

If a chart only shows US/UK/EU sizes, how do we compare them reliably?

We convert the listed sizes to centimetres and use a cm column where available; if there’s no cm mapping, we search the brand’s sizing FAQ or product technical details so we can compare in centimetres.

How do we choose between two sizes when a measurement falls between them?

For athletic use or thicker socks we recommend the larger size; for narrow, low-profile street sneakers and a narrow foot we may choose the smaller size, and for children allow some growth but not so much that the shoe bends when walking.

What role do fit notes and reviews play when comparing charts online?

We treat brand fit notes (e.g., ‘runs small’) and community reviews as important context for shape-related fit-especially toe-box width and instep height-and use them alongside numerical comparisons to decide whether to size up or down.

How to compare sneaker size charts online

A practical step-by-step method to compare sneaker size charts online, measure your foot correctly and pick the right size across brands.

Published:July 11, 2026

Updated:August 14, 2026

5 min read

Photo by Kampus Production on Pexels

Measure in centimetres

Use foot length in cm as the single source of truth when comparing charts.

Why online size charts vary - and what that means for you

We’ve all bought shoes that looked right in photos but felt wrong on the feet. Different brands measure in different ways: some use last shape, others list internal length, and international conversions (US, UK, EU) are rounded differently. That variability matters most with sneakers because fit depends on shape, not just length. In this guide we show a simple, repeatable process you can follow on any retailer or brand site when you compare sneaker size charts online.

Quick checklist before you start

Measure your foot in centimetres while standing (longest toe to heel).
Note how the brand defines its size (inside length, foot length, or standard conversion table).
Check whether sizes are for adults or kids - some ranges overlap but last shapes differ.

Step 1 - take a reliable foot measurement

Stand on a sheet of paper, mark heel and longest toe, then measure the straight-line distance with a ruler or tape in centimetres. Repeat for both feet and use the longer measurement. We recommend adding 0.5-1.0 cm for movement in everyday sneakers; narrower styles may need less. This simple measurement is the ground truth we’ll use against size charts.

Step 2 - understand a site’s sizing terms

When you open a product page or brand chart, look for the exact meaning of each column. Is the chart showing “foot length”, “insole length” or a generic conversion (e.g., EU 42 = UK 8)? If the chart gives insole or internal length, compare that to your foot measurement plus your chosen allowance. If it only lists conversions, treat them as guidance and try to find a manufacturer-specific measurement table or a product review that lists true fit.

Step 3 - convert consistently (cm is best)

Convert any size in the chart to centimetres so you compare apples to apples. Most trustworthy brand charts include a cm column - use that if present. When only US/UK/EU sizes are given, search the brand’s sizing FAQ on the same site for a cm mapping, or use the product’s technical details. Keeping everything in cm removes ambiguity from rounding rules between regions.

If you’re browsing category pages for ideas, check our Sneakers collections for Men or Women to find product pages that often include precise size guidance and measurement charts for each model.

Sneakers can vary by style; a running shoe will usually have more room than a low-profile street sneaker, so always check the model notes.

Step 4 - use brand fit notes and reviews

Beyond raw numbers, look for notes like “runs small” or “true to size.” Community reviews are especially helpful for subtle fit cues (narrow toe box, high instep). When a brand page lacks this, the product Q&A or review section often reveals whether customers sized up or down. For targeted advice on style-specific fit, our related article on Totalsports Women's Safari Sneakers highlights how a particular style can differ from standard sizing and gives practical fit tips.

Totalsports Women's Safari Sneakers: Fit, Styling & Buying Guide is a good example of model-specific guidance you can look for when comparing size charts.

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Step 5 - make a comparison table for the brands you care about

Open each brand or retailer size chart, convert to centimetres, and list: brand name, model (if given), charted cm for your target size, and any fit notes. A short table you keep on your phone or notes app saves time next time you shop. If you’re deciding between models from different manufacturers, prioritise the insole/internal length column over regional conversions.

Step 6 - apply practical fit rules

If your measured foot + allowance matches the charted insole length, choose that size.
If between two sizes, pick the larger for athletic use or thicker socks; pick the smaller for snug street styles if you have a narrow foot.
For kids, allow room for growth but not so much that the shoe bends on walking.

Step 7 - when to rely on returns and when to avoid them

Returns give confidence, but they’re not a substitute for checking charts when stock is limited or seasonal (e.g., back-to-school). If a retailer’s returns are free and fast, you can be a bit bolder; when returns cost or are capped in time, be conservative and follow measurement-based sizing closely. We keep our product pages clear about delivery and return windows so you can decide how much risk to accept.

Bonus tips from our fittings team

Try on shoes later in the day when feet are slightly larger. When measuring at home, stand, not sit. Use the same sock type you’ll normally wear with the shoe (running socks vs thin fashion socks). If a brand offers a printable foot-measure PDF, align it carefully - small misprints can mislead, so always double-check with a ruler.

Putting it into practice on Bash

When you shop with us, look for product pages that list internal measurements or fit notes. We link to specific categories to help you find examples and model pages - for Men’s sneakers, start at our Sneakers collection, and for Kids’ styles see Kids' Sneakers. That way you can compare real model details side-by-side.

Short practical plan: measure in cm, convert charts to cm, add allowance, check reviews, choose size - then keep your comparison note for next time.

If you’d like, we can create a printable comparison sheet based on your foot measurements and a short list of brands you want to compare - tell us the brands and we’ll prepare it.

Last updated: August 14, 2026

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How to compare sneaker size charts online

Measure in centimetres

Sources

Why Choose Bash?

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30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Compare internal lengths

Use reviews and notes

Why online size charts vary - and what that means for you

Quick checklist before you start

Step 1 - take a reliable foot measurement

Step 2 - understand a site’s sizing terms

Step 3 - convert consistently (cm is best)

Step 4 - use brand fit notes and reviews

Step 5 - make a comparison table for the brands you care about

Step 6 - apply practical fit rules

Step 7 - when to rely on returns and when to avoid them

Bonus tips from our fittings team

Putting it into practice on Bash

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