How do we measure foot length at home to pick the right sneaker size?

We stand on a flat, hard floor with the socks we’ll wear, trace heel and longest toe or use the wall method, then measure heel-to-toe in millimetres; record the larger foot and do this in the evening when feet are slightly swollen. We always round up to the larger measurement when comparing to size charts.

Why do we recommend using millimetres or Mondopoint instead of an EU/UK number?

A metric length (mm or cm) is the most objective way to express foot size and underpins conversion systems like Mondopoint, so matching your millimetre measurement to the brand’s chart reduces guesswork compared with relying on a remembered EU/UK number. We tell shoppers to use the seller’s chart rather than a generic converter because brand shapes vary.

How should we interpret a brand’s size chart and differences between models?

We compare our measured mm length to the specific brand or product chart because last shape, intended fit (for example a racing-flat versus a cushioned trainer) and manufacturing tolerances affect feel. When in doubt we choose the size that gives about a thumb’s-width (roughly 1-1.2 cm) of toe room and a secure heel hold, and consider sizing a half-size up for snug performance lasts.

How do we size sneakers for children to allow for growth and safety?

We measure children at least every 8-12 weeks for toddlers and before school terms for older kids, allowing roughly a thumb’s-width of growth room for active children while avoiding excessive space that causes tripping. When ordering on Bash we check the product’s specific size guidance and return options so we can swap sizes if needed.

What should we do if a foot is wide or has a high instep?

We measure foot width across the ball and note whether the foot feels narrow, regular or wide, and use a Brannock device in store when available for reliable length and width readings. For wide feet or high insteps we look for labelled wide fits or styles with adjustable lacing to improve comfort and heel hold.

Sneaker Factory: How to choose the right sneaker

Why sizing matters - and where things go wrong

A well-fitting sneaker protects feet, reduces rubbing and lasts longer. Many sizing problems start before we even click to buy: feet change during the day, sizing systems differ by region, and brands build different last shapes. We begin with straightforward measurement so sizing becomes something we control, not guesswork.

The most objective way to express foot size is a metric measurement (millimetres or centimetres) rather than relying on someone else's "EU 42" or "US 9" label. An international standard called the Mondopoint system captures foot length in millimetres and underpins modern conversion tables. Using a length-first approach reduces the chance of buying the wrong number online. ([iso.org](https://www.iso.org/fr/standard/71594.html?browse=ics))

Quick tools we use at home

Paper-and-pen trace: stand on paper, mark heel and longest toe, measure heel-to-toe in mm.
Wall method: heel against the wall, mark longest toe, then measure - easy and accurate.
Brannock device (in store): reads length and width reliably; excellent when available.

Practical measurement rules we follow: measure both feet (one is often larger); do it in the evening when feet are slightly swollen; wear the socks you plan to use with the sneakers; and always round to the larger measurement when comparing to size charts. Podiatrists and footwear professionals make the same recommendations because weight-bearing measurements reflect real fit.

Step-by-step: how we measure for the right sneaker size

Prepare: stand on a flat, hard floor with a sheet of paper under each foot; wear your usual socks.
Trace: press your heel to the wall or keep it flat on the floor, mark the longest toe and the back of the heel.
Measure: use a ruler or tape to measure heel-to-toe in millimetres; record the larger foot.
Measure width: measure across the ball of the foot (widest point) and note if the foot feels narrow, regular or wide.
Cross-check: compare the mm length to the brand's size chart rather than converting a remembered EU/UK number.

When we teach shoppers this method in store or online, the conversion step is the most important: match your centimetre measurement to the brand chart, because a brand's "EU 40" may vary slightly from another brand's shape.

If you want to browse sneaker models with confidence, start in the right category at Bash: Sneakers for men, or the equivalent ranges for women and kids further below.

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Interpreting size charts, lasts and brand differences

Once you have a millimetre measurement, the next step is practical interpretation. Brands publish size charts that map centimetres to EU/UK/US sizes (and some use Mondopoint directly). Use the chart the seller provides - don’t rely on a generic converter - because last shape, intended fit (racing-flat vs cushioned trainer) and manufacturing tolerances change how a numbered size feels.

A few fit patterns we’ve seen with Sneaker Factory and similar brands: some running or performance models offer a snug, performance last and need a half-size up for casual wear; leather or structured sneakers can feel tighter on the first wear and relax slightly with use. When in doubt, pick the size that gives a thumb’s-width (about 1-1.2 cm) of toe room for walking and a secure heel hold - this is a reliable rule across adult and kids sizes.

Sizing children - what we do differently

Children’s feet grow quickly and unevenly. We measure at least every 8-12 weeks for toddlers and check before term starts for school-age kids. Allow roughly a thumb’s-width of growth room for active kids, but avoid excessive space that causes tripping or rubbing. When ordering for kids on Bash, check the product’s specific size guidance and return options so you can swap sizes if needed. Visit our kids sneakers range to compare styles and size notes. Sneakers

If a child has a high instep or wide foot, look for labelled wide fits or adjustable lacing patterns. A proper in-person fitting is ideal, but careful measurement plus brand chart checks work well for online purchases.

When to size up, when to size down - a short checklist

If the model is performance running or narrow: consider a half-size up for comfort in everyday walking.
If the shoe is soft-knit or stretchable: your true measurement converted on the brand chart is often fine.
If you have wide feet or bunions: prioritise width-first and choose models offering wide fittings or roomy toe boxes.
If buying between seasonal sales (cool vs hot months): remember feet swell more in summer - size choices should reflect the season you’ll wear them most.

If you’re unsure for a specific model, check product notes for "runs small/large" comments and read user reviews for fit clues. When available, a Brannock-derived measurement or an official Mondopoint label on the shoe gives the clearest indication of intended fit.

Practical buying tips and our Bash-friendly checklist

Measure both feet in mm, choose the larger measurement.
Compare that number to the shoe’s size chart (use the brand chart when possible).
Factor in width and foot shape - add a half or full size where the model’s last is narrow.
Keep packaging until you’ve tried the shoes at home - Bash returns/exchanges make swapping sizes easier when needed.
For kids, measure more often and check growth room; for adults with foot conditions, consult a podiatrist if fit is unclear. Studies from South African podiatry research show local foot shape variation matters for design and fit choices. ([s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com](https://s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/eu-st01.ext.exlibrisgroup.com/27UOJ_INST/storage/alma/D6/E1/D6/43/61/E2/DE/19/6F/58/E2/D6/FE/F2/9D/BC/uj_10478%2BCONTENT2%2BCONTENT2.2.pdf?X-Amz-Algorithm=AWS4-HMAC-SHA256&X-Amz-Credential=AKIAJUYRSPBSIJGGDX6A%2F20260605%2Feu-central-1%2Fs3%2Faws4_request&X-Amz-Date=20260605T105337Z&X-Amz-Expires=86399&X-Amz-Signature=63c5ad986cbcdf7c6f89292c6307bdb1353e0f3ac60410fc7882933d253c4572&X-Amz-SignedHeaders=host&response-content-disposition=attachment%3B+filename%3D%22uj_10478%252BCONTENT2%252BCONTENT2.2.pdf%22%3B+filename%2A%3DUTF-8%27%27uj_10478%252BCONTENT2%252BCONTENT2.2.pdf&response-content-type=application%2Fpdf))

We also recommend saving your foot measurements in millimetres somewhere handy. The next time you shop - whether in our men’s or women’s sneaker collections - you will skip guesswork and make a confident choice. Explore related ranges at Bash: Sneakers.

If you want a quick recap: measure late, record mm, check the brand chart, prioritise width where necessary, and use returns when sizing surprises happen. Those few minutes of measurement save time, discomfort and returns in the long run.

Sources

ISO - ISO 9407: Mondopoint footwear sizing system
The Brannock Device Company - instructions & fitting tips
NHS - Foot health and footwear advice
University of Johannesburg - footwear/podiatry research (sample local study)

Sneaker Factory: How to choose the right sneaker size for South African shoppers

Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Measure in millimetres

Mind width and last

Measure late, check returns

Why sizing matters - and where things go wrong

Quick tools we use at home

Step-by-step: how we measure for the right sneaker size

Interpreting size charts, lasts and brand differences

Sizing children - what we do differently

When to size up, when to size down - a short checklist

Practical buying tips and our Bash-friendly checklist

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

Thandi

Vuyo

Elanie

Steady

Samokelisiwe

Kamohelo

Matseleng