As a brand that makes highly technical footwear for demanding activities, La Sportiva has a more meticulous approach to sizing.
It is an Italian company that relies on the European half sizes to offer more size options within one size run. As the company itself states: ‘More sizes = Better fit.’ For example, in between the US sizes like 8, 8.5, and 9, you will find an additional 8.5+ size. This is true for both men's and women's sizes (US 6.5+, 7.5+, 8.5+, etc. are available as well).
That’s why the very first step in figuring out the right La Sportiva size for you is to measure your precise foot length.
La Sportiva men's and women's size chart
Fit and sizing of La Sportiva hiking boots
Unfortunately, the heel-to-toe foot length is not the only determining factor when sizing a boot. But it's the primary one when you have to purchase online.
Here is what the brand suggests:
Find the EU size that corresponds to your foot length in the chart above. Then add another half-size in EU. Example:
| Your foot length | EU size in La Sportiva | Add 1/2 EU size |
| 262 | 41 | 41 1/2 |
Please note: Given that La Sportiva boots are handmade, there can be slight differences in the way each pair feels even in the same size.
When trying on a pair of boots, pay attention to the following:
- Wear the same socks, insoles, and orthotics that you plan to use with your future pair.
- Try in the afternoon/evening when your feet are at their fullest.
- With the boot unlaced and toes touching the front, you should be able to slip your index finger behind the heel. Alternatively, your heel is touching the back and there is a thumb-width space inside the shoe, in front of the toes.
- The lacing should be able to lock your midfoot down securely, leaving no wobbling.
- The heel should not slip out or feel like it may slip out.
- Toes have some splay room and are not squished on the sides.
- Do not walk outside in them or throw out the packaging before you make sure the size and fit are perfect. That way you can still return them.
For more detailed information on the size and fit of each La Sportiva model, please see our detailed lab reviews below. You will find measurements like internal length, toebox width at the widest part, and toebox width at the big toe along with other notes on the fit and sizing of each shoe and boot we've tested:
Do La Sportiva hiking boots come in wide?
Starting in spring 2021, La Sportiva began releasing some of its boots in Wide. The most popular one has been the Ultra Raptor Mid II GTX.
In a rush to find out your La Sportiva size without measuring your feet? Use the calculator below to cross-reference the size that fits you well in another brand with the one from La Sportiva. It's quick but it doesn't guarantee the best size 100%:
