Footwear

Sizing is the main risk, and it is manageable

Footwear has the highest return rate of any online category, almost entirely due to sizing. International conversions are inconsistent between manufacturers, so the printed size is a starting point rather than an answer.

The reliable method: measure your foot in centimetres, heel to longest toe, while standing, in the evening when feet are at their largest. Match that against the product's stated insole length rather than the size label.

• Internationally manufactured footwear commonly runs half to a full size small
• Width is rarely stated; if you normally need a wide fitting, size up
• Sports and dress styles from the same maker often fit differently

Materials and what they mean for wear

Synthetic uppers are lighter and dry faster but breathe less, which matters in hot weather. Genuine leather breathes better and moulds to the foot over a few weeks, but needs breaking in and does not like being soaked. Mesh is the most breathable and the least durable. Rubber outsoles grip better and last longer than EVA, which is lighter but compresses over time.

Delivery and returns

Footwear ships worldwide in 10–25 business days with 30-day returns. Measuring first is better than exchanging later, but the 30-day window gives you room either way.