How do we measure our feet at home to find the right sneaker size?

Measure at the end of the day while standing with your heel against a wall on a sheet of paper, mark the longest toe, then measure from the wall to that mark in millimetres or centimetres; repeat for both feet and use the larger measurement when choosing a size.

What conversion rule should we use if a brand only shows UK, EU or US sizes?

Compare your measured foot length to the brand’s size chart on the product page; as a rough rule 1 centimetre equals about one-third to one-half of a size, but we should rely on the manufacturer’s chart rather than guessing.

How do we check sneaker width and shape to avoid pinching or slippage?

When trying sneakers on, look for even pressure across the forefoot so toes aren’t pinched at the sides, consider that leather or suede may stretch while knit uppers are firmer, and seek wide-fit options or a half-size up if you consistently need extra room.

What practical fit tests should we do when trying sneakers?

After lacing, press the heel counter - there should be about a thumb’s width (≈1-1.5 cm) of space at the back; ensure toes can wiggle without pressing the toe cap; and walk 10-20 steps to check for excessive forward slip (more than a finger’s width).

When buying sneakers online in South Africa, what steps should we follow to reduce sizing errors?

Match your longest-foot measurement to the product size chart, check whether the listing uses UK, EU or US sizing and use the site’s converter if provided, and review the returns policy in case you need a different size.

Men sneakers size guide - South Africa: measure, fit and choose the right size

Measure your feet, check width, and choose the right men’s sneaker size for South Africa with practical, step-by-step fit tests and shopping tips.

Published:July 11, 2026

Updated:August 27, 2026

5 min read

Photo by Joaquin Reyes Ramos on Pexels

Measure both feet

Always measure while standing and use the larger foot for sizing.

Sources

ISO 9407:2019 - Shoe sizes - Mondopoint system
NHS - How to measure your feet
South African Bureau of Standards (SABS)

Why a proper fit matters

Sneakers that fit well feel better, last longer and protect your feet during everyday life - from the commute to the weekend. We focus on practical steps you can do at home, plus realistic fit checks for common sneaker styles. This guide treats "sneakers" as the product category: if you want to browse options after measuring, start with our Sneakers collection.

What you’ll need

Clean sheet of paper, pen and a ruler or tape measure.
A wall or straight edge and a chair to sit on.
An existing pair of well-fitting socks (the kind you wear with sneakers).
Time: 10-15 minutes for both feet.

Step 1 - Measure both feet (the reliable method)

Measure feet at the end of the day when they’re slightly larger. Place the paper flat against a wall, heel to the wall, stand upright with weight on the foot and mark the longest toe. Measure from the wall (heel) to the mark in millimetres or centimetres. Repeat for the other foot - always use the larger measurement when you choose a size.

How to convert your measurement

Most South African retailers use standard international sizing (UK or EU) or brand-specific charts. As a practical rule: 1 centimetre roughly equals one-third to one-half size, depending on the sizing standard. To avoid guesswork, compare your measured length to the size chart supplied by the sneaker manufacturer or the product page. If you don’t have a chart, measure and then use our recommended fit checks below.

Step 2 - Check width and shape

Length alone doesn’t guarantee comfort. Some feet are narrow, average, or wide. When trying on sneakers look for even pressure across the foot - toes should not be pinched at the sides. Leather or suede uppers often stretch a little; knit or technical fabrics can be snugger. If you consistently need extra room, search the product filters for wide-fit options or try a half-size up.

Consideration: Insoles and socks. A cushioned insole or thicker sock adds about 3-5 mm of effective thickness. If you use orthotics, measure foot with the orthotic in place or allow a larger toe box when selecting size.

Step 3 - Try these practical fit tests

Thumb test at the heel: after lacing, press the heel counter. You should have about a thumb’s width (≈1-1.5 cm) of space at the back when standing.
Toe wiggle: toes should move freely and not press the toe cap when standing and walking.
Walk test: walk 10-20 steps on a flat surface. Your foot should not slide forwards more than a finger’s width; slipping means the shoe may be too large or need a tighter lace lock.

Sizing notes for common sneaker types

Casual low-top sneakers generally fit true to length but vary by brand. Performance running sneakers sometimes recommend a half-size up for downhill or longer runs. Retro/heritage styles may run slightly narrow - try them on with the socks you’ll wear. If you prefer a roomier feel for daily walking, allow an extra half-size. For narrower feet, sizing down risks pinching; instead, look for narrow-fit lines.

When to use UK vs EU vs US sizes

South African shoppers will see UK, EU and US sizes. UK sizes are commonly used for men’s shoes in South Africa, but many brands display EU. Always check the product page’s size selector or the size chart on the product listing. If you need further context or brand-specific advice, our Sneakers articles collection explains differences and common brand tendencies.

Common measurement mistakes to avoid

Measuring only one foot - many people have a larger left or right foot.
Measuring while seated - weight-bearing changes the shape; measure standing.
Using worn-out shoes as a fit reference - soles compress and shape changes over time.

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How to pick a size when buying online

When shopping online, always check the product size chart and the returns policy. If a brand lists foot length to size mapping, match your longest-foot measurement. If the site lists both UK and EU sizes, use the provided converter rather than guessing. We keep size recommendations on product pages clear, and many listings include customer-fit notes - check those before you buy.

If you’re between sizes

Choose based on how you wear sneakers: for a snug, performance feel choose the smaller size; for everyday comfort or thicker socks choose the larger half-size. If you plan to add an insole, account for that extra volume and consider the larger size. When in doubt, check if the product has free returns - that makes testing two sizes at home easier.

South Africa-specific tips and pricing examples

Measuring tools like a simple measuring tape or a basic foot gauge cost little - expect about R50-R200 for a small tape or foot ruler at local hardware or online marketplaces. For durable insoles, budget R150-R500 depending on cushioning and brand. If you live in a city, trying on at a store helps, but for many of us shopping from home, careful measuring plus product-size notes work reliably.

Careful returns and exchange checklist

Try sneakers indoors on a clean surface and keep the box and tags for returns.
Test walk for at least 10-20 steps before removing tags or packaging.
Record the product code and size you ordered - that speeds up exchanges.

Final fit checks and next steps

When you’re ready to shop, filter by style and size on our Men pages and use the size guidance on each product. Remember: measure both feet, test with the socks you’ll wear, and prefer the larger measurement when choosing a size. If you follow the checks above, you’ll reduce returns and find a pair that wears comfortably day after day.

Last updated: August 27, 2026

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Men sneakers size guide - South Africa: measure, fit and choose the right size

Measure both feet

Sources

Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Check length and width

Use product charts

Why a proper fit matters

What you’ll need

Step 1 - Measure both feet (the reliable method)

How to convert your measurement

Step 2 - Check width and shape

Step 3 - Try these practical fit tests

Sizing notes for common sneaker types

When to use UK vs EU vs US sizes

Common measurement mistakes to avoid

How to pick a size when buying online

If you’re between sizes

South Africa-specific tips and pricing examples

Careful returns and exchange checklist

Final fit checks and next steps

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