What should we read first on a sneaker product page before buying online?

Start with photos (side, top and outsole), the materials and care section, and any size notes; listings that give width, last type or insole length are the most useful predictors of fit.

How do we convert sizing when a listing shows UK or EU sizes?

Confirm which sizing system the listing uses, measure the insole of a pair we already own (heel-to-toe) and compare to the seller’s chart, and only convert when necessary to avoid mistakes.

What practical measurement method can we use at home to pick the right size?

Place a ruler on a flat surface, stand barefoot with the heel against a wall, measure to the longest toe and add 8-12 mm for toe clearance depending on activity, then match that length to the listing’s size chart if available.

Which material and construction details should we check for comfort and durability?

Note upper material (leather, knit or synthetic), insole removability, and sole construction (stitched versus glued); leather tends to be durable and mould to the foot, knits are flexible but may sag, and stitched soles generally outlast glued ones.

What seller and delivery policies should we confirm before ordering sneakers in South Africa?

Read the returns policy for sneakers (some may be final sale), check who pays return postage and the return window, and confirm expected delivery times and local distribution to avoid customs or long courier delays.

What to check when buying online sneakers: a

Why a focused checklist matters when buying online sneakers

Buying sneakers without trying them on is an everyday task for many of us - especially when we want a specific style, size or price. We’ve learned the most common problems: wrong fit, surprise materials, a returns process that’s slow, or missing local sizing context. This piece gives a practical, detail-rich checklist so you can decide with confidence and avoid repeated returns and wasted time.

Start with the product page - what to read first

Before anything else, treat the product page like a short inspection. Look for clear photos (including side, top and outsole shots), a materials breakdown, and a detailed size note. If the page lists width, last type (narrow/standard/wide) or recommended size adjustments, that information is often the best single predictor of a good fit.

Check the Material and Care section: full-grain leather, synthetic knit, canvas - each changes stretch, breathability and break-in time.
Look for measurement guidance: some listings include insole length in mm or recommend ordering a half-size up/down.
Confirm the model name and colourway with photos - sellers sometimes group similar variants under one listing.

Sizing: the single trick that saves most returns

South African shoppers often see UK or EU sizes from global brands; know which system the listing uses and convert only when necessary. When a brand provides an insole length or a size chart, measure a pair you already own (heel-to-toe on the insole) and compare. If you’re between sizes, prefer the larger size for knit or technical trainers that compress under load; prefer the smaller size for rigid leather models that don’t compress.

Practical check: place a ruler on a flat surface, stand barefoot with your heel against a wall, measure to your longest toe and add 8-12mm for toe clearance depending on activity (more for running). Use that measurement against the listing’s chart if provided.

Materials and build: what affects comfort and longevity

Materials tell a reliable story about how a sneaker will feel and age. Knit uppers are flexible and light but can sag after long wear; leather is durable and moulds to the foot but needs care. Look at descriptions for reinforced toe boxes, glued vs stitched soles, and whether the midsole uses foam types named in the listing (e.g. EVA, PU, proprietary foams). Expect differences in break-in time and cleaning instructions.

What to check	Why it matters
Upper material (leather/knit/synthetic)	Affects stretch, breathability and cleaning method
Sole construction (stitch/glue)	Stitched soles usually last longer; glued soles can de-bond in heat if not well made
Insole type and removability	Removable insoles let you swap orthotics or check internal length

Where we link product detail to real life use

Match the listing’s claims to how you’ll use the sneakers. If a listing highlights a cushioned midsole and responsive foam, it’s likely better for longer runs or daily walking. If the description emphasises a flat sole and canvas upper, that style suits casual wear and short commutes rather than heavy training.

When you’re ready to look at options, we recommend browsing curated selections on our Sneakers category to compare similar models and sizes directly. Sneakers

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Policies, returns and local logistics to check

A good product page is only part of the picture. Before you commit, read the returns policy for sneakers (some sellers classify shoes as final sale), check who covers return postage, and how long you have to return unused pairs. In South Africa, shipping times and courier choice matter more than overseas listings suggest - confirm expected delivery windows and whether local distribution is used to avoid customs delays.

Photos, reviews and trusted signals

Look past staged studio photos. User photos and recent reviews tell you whether colours match the listing, how sizing trends look across buyers, and whether build issues appear after a few months. If reviews mention a specific fit issue (e.g., "runs narrow"), treat that as high-signal. For deeper read, check related articles like our Sneakers articles for buying guidance and style advice. Sneakers articles

South Africa-specific tips and price awareness

When comparing prices, note that local listed prices may already include import costs and local warranty - an item that looks cheaper abroad can become more expensive once shipping, duties and long return postage are added. Expect mid-range brand trainers to sit broadly between R800 and R2 500 depending on construction and brand; bespoke or limited-release models can be notably higher. If you value local warranty and easier returns, buying through local listings or Bash’s local partners often saves hassle even if the sticker price is slightly higher.

Final checks before you click "Buy"

Confirm size system (UK/EU/US) and any size-conversion notes on the page.
Check the seller’s rated delivery time and return window; make sure returns are free or affordable.
Scan reviews for repeated issues (delamination, incorrect colours, fit problems).
Confirm whether the insole is removable and whether the shoe has internal measurements listed.

If you want hands-on comparison while keeping things simple, browse our brand pages and category filters to narrow to trusted suppliers and local delivery options. For example, explore our brand collections for size-consistent choices in the same brand family: Brands

When to accept uncertainty - and how to manage it

Some releases or limited editions come with less reliable sizing notes. If a pair is a special release you really want, factor in a possible second purchase for a different size and check return rules closely first. We prefer listings that offer easy returns and local distribution because they lower the cost of that experiment.

Quick recap: a usable buying checklist

Measure your foot, compare to the listing’s insole length, read the materials and construction notes, check recent user photos and reviews, confirm returns and delivery, and prefer local listings where warranty and returns are clearer. For browsing and side-by-side comparisons, our Sneakers category and Sneakers articles are helpful starting points. Sneakers

Sources

Consumer Protection Act - Government of South Africa
South African Bureau of Standards (SABS)
Which? - Consumer rights and buying online guidance

What to check when buying online sneakers: a practical checklist for South Africans

Measure first

Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Check materials & build

Confirm returns & delivery

Why a focused checklist matters when buying online sneakers

Start with the product page - what to read first

Sizing: the single trick that saves most returns

Materials and build: what affects comfort and longevity

Where we link product detail to real life use

Policies, returns and local logistics to check

Photos, reviews and trusted signals

South Africa-specific tips and price awareness

Final checks before you click "Buy"

When to accept uncertainty - and how to manage it

Quick recap: a usable buying checklist

Sources

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