How to Choose Your Sneaker Size Online: A Simple Guide

Choosing a size online is the part of buying sneakers that worries people most. You cannot try the pair on, and sizing can differ from one brand or supplier to another. The good news is that a few simple steps remove most of the guesswork. Here is how to measure your foot and pick the right size before you order.

Step 1: Measure your foot

Do not rely only on the size printed in your current shoes. Measure your foot directly:

1. Place a sheet of paper on a hard floor, with the edge against a wall.
2. Stand on the paper with your heel touching the wall.
3. Mark the tip of your longest toe.
4. Measure from the wall to the mark, in centimetres.
5. Repeat with the other foot and use the larger measurement, since most people have one foot slightly bigger than the other.

Measure in the evening if you can. Feet swell slightly during the day, so an evening measurement gives a more realistic result for everyday wear.

Step 2: Compare it with the size chart

Every product page should show a size chart or a list of available sizes. Match your foot length to the chart for that specific pair, and do not assume that a size 9 in one brand equals a size 9 in another. Sizes are also expressed differently around the world (EU, US and UK numbers do not match), so always check which system the chart uses before choosing.

Step 3: Allow room for your toes

A good rule of thumb is about a thumb’s width (roughly 1 cm) of space between your longest toe and the front of the shoe. Your toes should move a little without your heel slipping. A shoe that is too tight at the front causes discomfort on longer walks, and one that is too loose lets your foot slide.

When to go up half a size

• You fall between two sizes. Choosing the larger one is usually safer, because you can add an insole or thicker socks, while a shoe that is too small cannot be fixed.
• You have wider feet. A slightly larger size gives more room across the front.
• The shoe has a slim or pointed shape. Narrow designs often feel tighter than the number suggests.
• You plan to wear thick socks. Allow a little extra room.

Soft, breathable uppers, like mesh, tend to be more forgiving, while stiffer materials have less give. Styles such as the Men’s Breathable Lightweight Mesh Sneakers and the Comfort Light Soles Sneakers are designed for easy, everyday comfort, but always check the size guidance on the product page before you choose.

Tips for ordering with confidence

• Use your own measurement, not a guess. It takes two minutes and prevents most sizing mistakes.
• Read the product description for notes on fit, such as “runs small” or “true to size”.
• Compare with a pair you own. If a chart gives an inside length, measure the inside of a shoe that fits you well and compare.
• Plan for delivery time. Overseas orders take a few weeks, so order early. Our shipping guide explains what to expect.
• Know the policy. If your item arrives damaged, defective or not as described, our Shipping & Returns Policy explains how to request a refund or replacement within 15 days of delivery.

When your pair arrives, use our buyer’s checklist for sneaker quality to check the fit and finish.

Ready to choose your pair?

Once you know your measurement, browsing gets easier. See all our sneakers, compare casual options such as the Hajink casual men’s shoes and the Walking Shoes Men’s Denim, or read our list of the best affordable sneakers under $40 for more ideas.