Why should we measure our feet in millimetres before buying men’s sneakers on Bash?

Measuring in millimetres gives a precise foot length that matches most brand charts and avoids rounding errors, making it easier for us to pick the correct SA/EU size and reduce returns.

What’s the simplest method we can use at home to measure foot length correctly?

Place paper on a hard floor, stand with your heel against a wall, mark the longest toe and heel with weight on the foot, then measure heel-to-toe in centimetres or millimetres and use the larger foot if they differ.

How do we choose between two sizes when a brand’s chart isn’t available on Bash?

Use a reliable general chart and match the larger foot length; if between sizes choose the smaller for narrow or performance styles and the larger for roomy leather or chunky styles, and check returns and reviews before buying.

Should we add extra length for orthotic insoles or thicker socks when selecting a size?

Yes - allow about 5mm-8mm when using orthotic insoles or thicker socks to ensure comfort without making the shoe feel too long.

Where on Bash can we find size guidance and fit information for men’s sneakers?

We surface size information on the Sneakers category and individual brand pages, and we recommend reading 2-3 customer reviews on the product page for practical fit notes before buying.

Men’s sneaker size charts for South Africa: how to find the right fit

Measure at home, read size charts the right way and choose men’s sneakers that fit-practical South Africa-focused advice for shopping on Bash.

Published:July 11, 2026

Updated:August 27, 2026

4 min read

Photo by Uwukuri Emery on Unsplash

Why size charts matter for men’s sneakers (and why they don’t all match)

We know buying sneakers online can feel uncertain-sizes vary by brand, last and country of origin. A "size 42" in one maker can feel roomy while another fits snug. Size charts are a tool, not a promise: they translate foot length and width into the numbers different brands use. Using them correctly reduces returns, saves time, and helps us choose the right style for real use-workdays, weekend walks or a day out with the kids.

Short checklist: what you need before you start

Paper, pen and tape (or a ruler) for measuring.
A pair of socks like the ones you’ll wear with your sneakers.
Time later in the day-feet swell slightly by evening.

Measure your foot the right way: a simple three-step method

We recommend a practical method anyone can do at home without special tools. Measure both feet and use the larger measurement when checking charts-most people have one foot that’s slightly bigger.

Step-by-step

Place the paper on a hard, flat floor and stand with your heel against a wall.
With weight on the foot, mark the longest toe and the back of the heel. Repeat for the other foot.
Measure from heel to toe in millimetres or centimetres (convert to mm by multiplying cm by 10). Record the largest value.

Why millimetres help

Many brand charts list foot length in millimetres which avoids rounding errors. When we compare charts, using mm or cm keeps us precise-especially useful if you fall between two sizes.

How to read common elements of a men’s sneaker size chart

A size chart typically shows foot length, the corresponding South African/European size, and sometimes the UK/US equivalent. Some charts add width guidance (narrow, regular, wide). Here’s how we interpret each column:

Foot length: Your measured heel-to-toe value. Match this first.
SA/EU size: The number you’ll see when shopping on category pages like Sneakers or browsing brand pages.
Width: If available, use width to decide between two neighbouring sizes-move up in length if your foot is wide.

When we show size guidance for a brand, we always recommend checking that brand’s own chart first; if it’s missing, use a reliable general chart and choose the size that matches your largest foot length.

Tip: If you plan to use orthotic insoles add about 5mm-8mm when choosing a size. For thicker socks in winter, consider the same allowance.

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Choosing between brands and styles: practical rules we use

Different sneaker designs need different allowances. Lightweight training shoes often need a snugger fit while casual sneakers and leather styles benefit from a little extra length as the material relaxes. We follow three simple rules when a chart leaves us unsure:

If you’re between sizes and the style is narrow or performance-oriented, pick the smaller size.
If you’re between sizes and the style is roomy (chunky sole, leather upper), pick the larger size.
When in doubt, check the brand’s return policy and customer reviews on the product page-comfort comments are often the best fit signal.

Real South African scenarios

For weekday commuters who walk between taxi ranks and the office, a stable midsole and accurate length are priority. If you spend weekends on light trails, a half-size up with a trail-ready outsole can reduce blisters. Families buying for growing teens should measure every three months-teen feet can change quickly.

Quick practical checks before you buy

Compare your measurement to the product’s listed foot-length in millimetres where available.
Read 2-3 customer reviews on the product page for fit notes (narrow, true to size, runs large).
Confirm the return window and whether returns are free-this lowers risk when trying a new brand.

Where to find sizes and extra guidance on Bash

We make size information easy to find on our Sneakers category and across brand pages. If you want broader reading on styling and fit, check our editorial collection in Men articles.

We’ve kept this post practical so you can measure confidently at home and match that measurement to the right men’s sneaker size on Bash. When you’re ready, explore our Sneakers selection and use the product’s size guide for the best match.

Last updated: August 27, 2026

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Men’s sneaker size charts for South Africa: how to find the right fit

Sources

Why Choose Bash?

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Nationwide Support

Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Measure in mm

Match style to fit

Use Bash size info

Why size charts matter for men’s sneakers (and why they don’t all match)

Short checklist: what you need before you start

Measure your foot the right way: a simple three-step method

Step-by-step

Why millimetres help

How to read common elements of a men’s sneaker size chart

Choosing between brands and styles: practical rules we use

Real South African scenarios

Quick practical checks before you buy

Where to find sizes and extra guidance on Bash

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