Why should we measure our foot before buying shoes online?

Measuring gives us actual foot length, width and volume so we can match a brand’s size chart rather than guessing from a size number; this reduces returns, saves time and helps avoid sore feet after the first walk.

What is the easiest way to measure foot length at home?

Place paper on a hard floor against a wall, stand with your heel lightly touching the wall wearing the sock you’ll use with the shoe, trace the foot upright, mark the longest toe and heel, then measure the straight-line distance in millimetres and round up to the nearest 5 mm.

When is the best time of day to measure our feet?

Measure in the afternoon or after a short walk because feet swell slightly during the day and this gives a length closer to how our feet will be when we’re active.

How do we use width and volume measurements when choosing a shoe?

Use forefoot width to decide between narrow, standard or wide fits and note whether your foot is high-volume (a high top-of-foot) because high-volume feet need more internal room even if the length matches the chart.

What common measuring mistakes should we avoid to get an accurate size?

Avoid tracing at an angle or measuring on carpet, don’t ignore the sock thickness you plan to wear, and don’t assume identical fit across brands - always check the product’s size chart and fit notes.

How to measure your foot for shoes: an easy step-by-step guide

Learn how to measure your foot at home for accurate shoe sizing. Step-by-step steps, common mistakes, and South African fit tips to help you buy with confidence.

Published:July 10, 2026

Updated:August 27, 2026

5 min read

Photo by Darina Belonogova on Pexels

Measure in mm

Record heel-to-longest-toe length in millimetres for the most reliable sizing.

Why measuring your foot matters

We often order shoes based on a size number and hope they fit. Sizes vary by brand and style, so knowing your actual foot measurements (length, width, and volume) helps you choose the right size every time. Accurate measurements reduce returns, save time, and mean fewer sore feet after the first walk.

What you'll need

Plain paper, ruler or tape measure, pencil and a chair.
A thin sock you plan to wear with the shoes (for everyday shoes use a regular thin sock; for boots use the thicker sock you would wear).
An honest helper if you prefer - measuring your standing foot is easier with someone to steady you.

Quick tip before you start

Feet change slightly through the day and with seasons. Measure in the afternoon or after a short walk to capture a size closer to how your foot will be when you're active.

Step 1 - Prepare and position your foot

Place the paper on a hard floor against a wall. Stand with your heel lightly touching the wall and distribute your weight evenly on the foot you are measuring. Keep your thin sock on. If both feet differ, measure the larger one - many people have a small asymmetry.

Step 2 - Trace and measure length

Have someone trace around your foot, holding the pencil upright. If alone, press the pencil vertically and rotate it slowly as you trace. Mark the longest toe and the back of the heel. Measure the straight-line distance between those two marks in millimetres - this is your foot length. Record the measurement and round up to the nearest 5 mm for safety.

Step 3 - Measure width and volume

Measure the widest part of your foot across the forefoot (ball area) using a ruler or tape. For arch/volume, note whether the top of your foot sits high or low when standing - high-volume feet need more internal room in the shoe. Record width in millimetres as well; many online product pages will list a fit description (narrow/standard/wide) rather than exact mm widths.

How to read these numbers

Foot length in millimetres is the most reliable single measurement to match against a brand's size chart. Width and volume help you decide between a regular, wide or high-volume version of the same size. When shopping for closed shoes or sneakers, prefer the size where your foot length sits comfortably within the brand's recommended range.

If you're ready to shop or compare styles after measuring, browse our Shoes collection to see sizes and fit notes. Shoes

Measured at home: if your length is 260 mm, many brands list that as a men's UK 8 / EU 42 roughly - but always check the product size chart for the brand and style.

Common measuring mistakes to avoid

Measuring from an angled trace instead of true heel-to-longest-toe length.
Measuring on carpet - soft surfaces distort foot position.
Ignoring the sock thickness you plan to wear with the shoe.
Assuming identical fit across different brands and styles - always consult the brand's size notes.

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Converting your measurements to shoe sizes

Once you have length and width in millimetres, use the brand or product size chart. Many product pages include a simple size chart or a fit note - for example, some sneakers run narrow and may advise selecting a half size up. If a product page lacks fit guidance, check the related Sneakers article for style-specific fit advice. Sneaker Factory N1 City - Find the right sneakers in Cape Town

Choosing the right fit for common shoe types

Running shoes: Allow 5-10 mm of space in front of the longest toe; snug at the midfoot to avoid sliding.
Casual sneakers: A small toe gap (about a thumb's width) is comfortable; width matters more for all-day wear.
Boots: Plan for a thicker sock and slightly more volume; consider half a size up if you buy without trying on.
Dress shoes: These are often narrower; order the size matching your foot length and check for wide options if needed.

If you fall between sizes

Many of us sit between two sizes. For active shoes or long walks, pick the larger size for comfort. For tighter-fitting styles or where a sockless look matters, choose the smaller and confirm there's no pinching across the forefoot.

Local considerations and practical examples

In South Africa, seasonal thickness of socks and the type of surface you walk on matter - a summer sneaker fit differs from a winter boot fit. If you plan to wear orthotic insoles, measure with the insole in place or expect to add roughly 4-6 mm to internal volume needs. If you want ready options after measuring, explore our Sneakers and Shoes collections to filter by fit and style. Sneakers

Tools and cost

A simple ruler and paper is usually enough. If you prefer a dedicated foot-measuring device, handheld gauges or Brannock-style tools are available - expect modest local prices around R200-R500 depending on quality and retailer (estimate). Using a tool won't replace checking brand size charts, but it gives repeatable accuracy if you shop online often.

Final checklist before you buy

Measured foot length (mm) and width (mm) recorded for your larger foot.
Planned sock thickness noted.
Checked product size chart and any brand-specific fit notes.
Review return policy if buying online - keep packaging until you confirm the fit.

We know measuring can feel technical at first. Start with the simple paper-and-ruler method, record your numbers, and keep them handy next time you shop. If you want shoes right away, browse our Shoes collection and use filters for fit and style to narrow choices. Shoes

Sources

ISO footwear sizing standards
NHS - Foot health and shoe advice
Practical shoe-fitting guidance and research

Last updated: August 27, 2026

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How to measure your foot for shoes: an easy step-by-step guide

Measure in mm

Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Check width & volume

Match brand charts

Why measuring your foot matters

What you'll need

Quick tip before you start

Step 1 - Prepare and position your foot

Step 2 - Trace and measure length

Step 3 - Measure width and volume

How to read these numbers

Common measuring mistakes to avoid

Converting your measurements to shoe sizes

Choosing the right fit for common shoe types

If you fall between sizes

Local considerations and practical examples

Tools and cost

Final checklist before you buy

Sources

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