How to never get the wrong size again

Sizing is the number one pain point in Kenyan online shoe shopping. Review after review says the same thing: "Ordered the exact product but not the size."

Here's what most buyers miss.

The problem: EU sizes aren't universal

A size 42 from one brand is not a size 42 from another. A Vans-style canvas shoe runs narrow and short. A chunky retro trainer runs wide and sometimes long. Brands don't standardise, so a chart alone isn't enough.

What actually works: the foot measurement + the fit note

1. Measure your foot length in centimetres (heel to longest toe, standing up).
2. Find your CM size on our size chart.
3. Read the fit note on the listing — "runs half a size large," "true to size," "size up for a relaxed fit."
4. If unsure, WhatsApp us with your CM measurement and the shoe you want. We tell you exactly which size to order.

This takes under 5 minutes and eliminates almost every sizing failure.

The rule of thumb when in doubt

For court shoes and leather styles: half size down is almost always right if you're between sizes.

For chunky runners and retro silhouettes: true to size or half size up — the toe-box is usually wider.

For canvas high-tops: true to size.

When you order from OpenKicks, we include the fit note in the confirmation message and send you a photo of your pair before it ships. If the size still looks wrong, we sort it before dispatch — not after.