Why Sizing Differs Between Italian and Spanish Boots
If you've ever ordered a pair of Soho Italy boots and a pair of Soho Spain boots, you may have noticed they fit quite differently — even in the same labelled size. This isn't a quality issue; it's a reflection of distinct European shoemaking traditions, lasts, and foot-shape assumptions baked into each country's craft.
At Soho Boots, we stock both ranges and field sizing questions every day. This guide will help you find your perfect fit before you buy.
Italian Sizing: Soho Italy
Soho Italy boots are crafted in Italy on a last that offers a comfortable, standard fit — true to size or running up to half a size larger than your usual shoe size. Key things to know:
- True to size or slightly generous: Most customers find Soho Italy boots fit true to their standard UK size, with some finding them up to half a size large. If you're between sizes, size down.
- Standard width fit: Soho Italy boots offer a comfortable width that suits most foot shapes — neither narrow nor wide.
- Leather softens with wear: Premium calf leather will mould to your foot over 2–3 wears. Any initial stiffness will ease naturally.
- Ankle fit: Soho Italy Chelsea boots are designed to grip the ankle well. If you can slip your heel out easily, size down half a size.
Spanish Sizing: Soho Spain
Soho Spain boots are handcrafted in Spain using a wider, more rounded last rooted in Western and equestrian boot traditions. Key things to know:
- Run wider: Soho Spain boots offer more room in the toe box and across the ball of the foot — ideal for wider feet.
- Size down half a size: Most customers with a standard UK foot find Soho Spain boots run slightly large. A UK 9 wearer often fits best in EU 42.
- Shaft height matters: Soho Spain's taller shaft (particularly on cowboy and biker styles) can feel snug around the calf. Check the shaft circumference in the product details if you have wider calves.
- Break-in period: Soho Spain's full-grain leather is robust and requires a short break-in. Wear with thick socks for the first few outings.
How to Measure Your Foot at Home
- Place a sheet of paper on a hard floor and stand on it with your heel against a wall.
- Mark the tip of your longest toe with a pencil.
- Measure the distance from the wall to the mark in centimetres.
- Use the chart below to find your EU size: (25.5cm = EU 40), (26cm = EU 41), (26.5cm = EU 42), (27cm = EU 43), (27.5cm = EU 44), (28.5cm = EU 45), (29.5cm = EU 46).
- Always measure both feet — most people have one foot slightly larger than the other. Fit to the larger foot.
Still Unsure? We're Here to Help
Every pair of boots at Soho Boots is stocked and shipped from London. If you're unsure about sizing, contact us before ordering — we know our stock intimately and can advise based on your usual shoe size and foot shape. Exchanges are straightforward if the fit isn't right.