How do we measure our feet at home for buying sneakers online?

Stand at the end of the day on a sheet of paper, trace both feet and measure the longest length from heel to the tip of the longest toe; record both lengths and use the longer value when choosing size. Also measure the widest point across the ball of the foot and note arch height to help assess fit for specific styles.

Which measurement should we trust on a product page: EU/UK/US size or centimetres?

We trust the centimetre or millimetre values on the product size chart over generic EU/UK/US numbers, and always match our measured foot length to that specific chart rather than a general conversion table.

What should we do if product notes or reviews say a sneaker "runs small" or is "roomy in the toe box"?

We take fit notes and reviewer comments at face value-if multiple sources say it runs small, we size up; if reviewers mention roomy toe boxes and our measurement sits at the lower end of a size range, we may stay true or size down cautiously.

How do socks, linings or orthotics affect the size we should choose?

We account for thick socks or lined sneakers by allowing extra internal space and measure with orthotics in place if we use them; for active running we usually allow about 1-1.5 cm (a thumb’s width) at the toe to avoid contact under load.

What checks should we do before finalising an online sneaker purchase to reduce returns?

We confirm the product’s specific size chart, re-read fit notes and reviewer width comments, measure both feet and use the larger measurement, decide on the extra toe allowance for intended use, and check the seller’s return window and return-postage rules before placing the order.

Sneaker sizing and fit tips for online shopping

Simple, South African-friendly tips for measuring feet, using size charts, and reading fit notes so you can buy sneakers online with confidence.

Published:July 11, 2026

Updated:August 27, 2026

5 min read

Photo by Sadiq Ali on Pexels

Measure first

Why sizing matters when buying sneakers online

Buying sneakers without trying them on can feel risky - but a few careful checks cut most returns and disappointment. We focus on fit that suits how you move: walking, running, daily wear or standing for long shifts. A well-fitting sneaker supports comfort, reduces blisters, and helps the shoe last longer. Below we share the practical checks and quick measurements we use before adding a pair to our cart.

Measure your feet simply at home

Stand on a sheet of paper at the end of the day (feet often swell slightly). Trace both feet and measure the longest length from heel to the tip of the longest toe. Record both lengths - use the longer value when choosing size. Also note the widest point across the ball of the foot.

Length: heel to longest toe (mm or cm).
Width: across the ball of the foot (compare to brand notes if available).
Arch and instep: note if you have a high arch or a very low one - that affects comfort but not always the raw size.

Understand size charts and conversions

Sizes differ between brands and regions. Always open the specific brand or product size chart on the product page and match your measured length to their table. When a chart lists centimetres or millimetres, trust that over generic EU/UK/US numbers. If a chart shows a range, pick the size where your foot measurement sits comfortably inside the range rather than at an edge.

Read product fit notes and reviewer clues

Product descriptions often say "runs small" or "roomy in the toe box" - take these at face value. We also read customer reviews for mentions like "I went half a size up" or "perfect true to size." If reviewers mention width specifically (narrow or wide), that helps more than a single-star rating. When uncertain, choose the next size up if you split the difference, especially for active use.

If you prefer to browse categories first, our Sneakers category is a good starting point for sizing reference and product details.

Check lining, socks and intended use

Thick socks change fit - if you plan to wear thick socks in winter or for hiking, try sizing with those socks in mind. Similarly, lined sneakers or those with thick insoles take up more internal space. For running shoes that compress under load, we sometimes allow a thumb’s width (about 1-1.5 cm) at the toe to avoid contact during the run.

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Practical fit checks before you buy

We use a short checklist when the size feels uncertain. These checks reduce guesswork and help decide between standard, half, or wide sizes.

Measure both feet and use the larger measurement.
Compare that measurement to the product's size chart (not a general chart).
Read fit notes in the product description; weigh reviewer comments.
Allow 1-1.5 cm (thumb width) in front for running/active use, less for casual fashion sneakers.

When to size up, down, or stay true

Size up when:

you have wide feet or the shoe is described as narrow;
you’ll use thick winter socks or add orthotic insoles;
the product page or several reviewers say "runs small."

Stay true when: the brand is consistent for you and reviews align with expected fit. Size down rarely - only when reviewers consistently say the shoe is roomy and your measurement sits at the lower end of a size range.

Special cases: kids, wide feet and orthotics

Kids' feet grow fast: measure each visit and prioritise a comfortable fit with about 1 cm of growing room for active children. For wide feet, look for models in wide fittings or styles with adjustable closures. If you use orthotics, measure with the orthotic in place and check the removable insole option in product details.

For more context on how prices and choices fit into budgets here, see our article on sneaker price bands in South Africa. That helps when choosing whether to try several sizes or select a trusted brand you know fits well.

Managing returns and final checks

Before you commit, confirm the return window, condition rules and whether return postage is charged. Photograph the shoe and its packaging on arrival - that speeds refunds if something is wrong. If you find a poor fit, note specific issues (length, toe-box, heel slip) when returning so we can improve product notes and help you choose differently next time.

Quick tip: when between sizes, prefer the larger for active wear and the smaller for purely fashion sneakers - comfort usually wins in the long run.

Where to go next

If you want to compare fits across styles, explore our Sneakers articles hub for brand-specific fit notes and product pages. For direct shopping, browse category pages by gender or kids where size filters and measurement details appear on product listings.

Sources

NHS - Buying healthy footwear
Consumer Reports - How to measure your foot
South African consumer advice on footwear (local context)

Last updated: August 27, 2026

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Sneaker sizing and fit tips for online shopping

Measure first

Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Trust product charts

Read fit notes

Why sizing matters when buying sneakers online

Measure your feet simply at home

Understand size charts and conversions

Read product fit notes and reviewer clues

Check lining, socks and intended use

Practical fit checks before you buy

When to size up, down, or stay true

Special cases: kids, wide feet and orthotics

Managing returns and final checks

Where to go next

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