Why should we measure both feet before buying sneakers?

Feet are often different sizes, so we recommend measuring each foot and using the larger measurement when choosing a size to avoid buying shoes that are too tight on the bigger foot.

How do we measure foot width and identify high volume at home?

Use the same paper trace from the length measurement, draw across the widest part of the forefoot and measure that width in centimetres; note a high instep or fuller midfoot as 'high volume' since many sneaker lasts come in narrow, regular or wide shapes.

How do we convert centimetres into the correct brand size on Bash?

Compare your measured foot length in centimetres to the brand's size chart on the product page and pick the size whose recommended range includes your measurement, choosing the larger size if you fall between sizes to allow about a thumb’s width (roughly 1-1.5 cm) at the toe for active use.

What should we check with an at-home fit test when we first try the sneakers?

Stand and lace the shoe as you normally would and confirm there’s about a thumb’s width between your longest toe and the toe box, that your heel has minimal lift (around 1-2 mm is normal), the midfoot feels secure without pinching, and your toes can wiggle freely.

When should we exchange a pair instead of trying adjustments like insoles or heel grips?

If we experience persistent pressure points, numb toes, or must use extreme lacing to make the shoe wearable, we should exchange rather than adapt; minor issues like slight looseness or heel lift can often be fixed with insoles, thinner socks or heel grips.

How to measure fit for sneakers: a clear, step-by-step method

Step-by-step, practical guidance for measuring your feet and testing sneaker fit-measurements, simple fit tests, and South Africa-aware advice to shop with confidence on Bash.

Published:July 11, 2026

Updated:August 18, 2026

5 min read

Photo by Damian Barczak on Pexels

Measure standing, use the larger foot

Always measure both feet while standing and size to the larger one.

Why measuring matters before you buy

Sneakers should feel comfortable from the first wear and still fit across weeks of use. Shoes that are too tight cause rubbing and blisters; shoes that are too large let your foot slide and can lead to sore toes or ankle strain. We focus on practical checks you can do at home-no specialist tools needed-so you shop smarter on Bash and avoid returns.

What you’ll need

a sheet of paper larger than your foot
a ruler or tape measure (cm is easiest)
a pen or pencil
the type of socks you usually wear with sneakers

Step 1 - measure your foot length (the reliable baseline)

Stand with your heel against a wall and the paper under your foot. Make sure you’re wearing the socks you’ll use with the sneakers. Mark the longest toe (not always the big toe) and the back of the heel. Measure the straight-line distance in centimetres. Record the measurement for each foot-one is often slightly larger. Use the larger number when choosing size.

Step 2 - measure width and volume (why length isn’t the whole story)

With the same paper trace, draw the widest part of your foot across the forefoot and measure the width at that point. If your foot has a high instep or fuller midfoot, note that as 'high volume'. Many sneaker models vary by last (narrow, regular, wide) so knowing both length and width helps you pick a better fit.

Step 3 - translate centimetres to the brand size

Most size charts ask for foot length in centimetres. When a brand provides a size chart, compare your foot length to the chart and pick the size where your foot length falls into the recommended range. If your measurement falls between sizes, choose the larger size for sneakers-they perform better with a thumb’s width (about 1-1.5 cm) of space at the toe for running or active wear.

Step 4 - try a simple at-home fit test

When you first try the sneaker:

Stand up and lace the shoe as you normally would.
There should be about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the toe box when standing.
Your heel should sit comfortably with minimal lift when walking-some 1-2 mm lift is normal, but more suggests the shoe is too big.
The shoe should feel secure across the midfoot and not pinch the arch; you should be able to wiggle your toes freely.

Special considerations by activity

Different sneaker uses change the fit priority. For running or long walks, allow slightly more room for foot swelling. For casual lifestyle sneakers, a closer but comfortable fit is fine. If you’re unsure which model suits your needs, look through the Sneakers category for style notes and filters that show fits and use-cases: Sneakers.

Sizing tips for children and teens

Children’s feet grow quickly-measure them every 6-8 weeks for toddlers and every 2-3 months for older kids. When buying, allow about 1 cm extra length for growth in children under 8; older teens can be sized similarly to adults. Browse age-appropriate styles in the Kids sneakers section to compare fits and adjustable closures that help with growth changes: Sneakers.

Sizing across brands and when to read product notes

Brands fit differently-some run narrow, some generous. Before you order, read the product notes and customer reviews for clues about whether to size up or down. If you’re considering a specific brand range, our overview on particular brand fits can help-start with our brand-focused piece on adidas models if that’s one you often choose: Adidas sneakers: styles, fit and how we shop them on Bash.

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Practical adjustments and troubleshooting

If a sneaker feels almost right but has one problem, small adjustments often fix fit without a return. Use padded insoles for minor looseness, thinner socks for tightness, or heel grips where lift is the issue. For wide feet, seek models with a roomier toe box or look for 'wide' variants listed on product pages.

When to exchange instead of adapt

Swap the shoes if you feel persistent pressure points, numb toes, or if the shoe requires extreme lacing to feel secure. These are signs the last (shape) and your foot aren’t compatible-no pad or insole will fully fix that. Check return windows and size-exchange options on the product page before you buy so you know the practical next steps.

A short checklist before you complete a purchase

Did you measure both feet and use the larger measurement?
Have you compared your cm length to the brand’s size chart?
Did you read product notes or reviews about fit?
Do you know the return/exchange window for that seller on Bash?

Quick practical note: feet tend to swell slightly through the day. If possible, measure in the afternoon and measure while standing-this gives a truer working length than sitting.

How Bash helps you choose

On product pages we show size charts and often note if a model runs narrow or wide. Filters let you compare sneakers by activity and fit. If you want a place to start, search our Sneakers sections to compare everyday options and technical trainers. Use the product filters to narrow by width, closure type, and intended activity to match how you measured and what you need.

Final checklist - fit that keeps you comfortable

Length: ~1-1.5 cm clearance at the toe when standing.
Width: no pinching across the forefoot; midfoot feels secure.
Heel: minimal slip when you walk; no painful rubbing.
Volume: instep feels comfortable when laced normally.

Measure carefully, compare to the brand chart, and use the at-home test. When you need inspiration or want to try different fits, our Sneaker collections make it easy to compare options by style and use. We’re here to help you find a pair that suits the way you move.

Sources

NHS - How to measure your shoe size
Brannock Device - official sizing reference
American Podiatric Medical Association - foot health resources

Last updated: August 18, 2026

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How to measure fit for sneakers: a clear, step-by-step method

Measure standing, use the larger foot

Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Check length, width and volume

Use brand charts & reviews

Why measuring matters before you buy

What you’ll need

Step 1 - measure your foot length (the reliable baseline)

Step 2 - measure width and volume (why length isn’t the whole story)

Step 3 - translate centimetres to the brand size

Step 4 - try a simple at-home fit test

Special considerations by activity

Sizing tips for children and teens

Sizing across brands and when to read product notes

Practical adjustments and troubleshooting

When to exchange instead of adapt

A short checklist before you complete a purchase

How Bash helps you choose

Final checklist - fit that keeps you comfortable

Sources

Mmaphefo

Ukhona

Sambesiwe

Kamo

"Micayla"

Sabelo

Meagan

Bat

Anotha

Tshepiso

Elisa

Nqobile

Nicky

Melaney

Thina

Gwayimane

Phumelelo

Fenkie

Roxanne

Charlize

Refilwe

Dimane

Seth

Neil

Kirsti

Fatima

Nicolette

Ronel

Inge

Valerie

Adri

Chadley

Makhosonke

Mabel

Simo

Sharon

Nobuhle

Angelique Davis

Thabile

Arlene

Kgomotso

Kgosi

Steven

Kago

Reitumetse

Anina

Azwihangwisi

Marlene

Nkensane

Moreblessings

Palesa

Nonkasazana

Talifhani