If you’re thinking about picking up a pair of Jim Green boots, there’s one thing you need to get right first: sizing.
Jim Green has built a reputation for rugged, go-anywhere boots that can handle rough trails, long days on your feet, and everything in between.
But figuring out how Jim Green sizing can be tricky, especially since their different models vary quite a bit in shape, width, and break-in feel.
That’s where our Jim Green sizing guide comes in.
Plus, we’re going to talk about how the African Ranger, Numzaan, Stockman, Shoellie, 719, or one of their moc toes fit, what to expect during the break-in, and how to find the right size for your feet.
Oh, and if you’re also looking for something like a handmade boot with a similar vibe, you might want to check out our Russell Moccasin sizing guide, too. It’s got some overlap in feel and fit.
Let’s get into it.
Jim Green Sizing
View this post on Instagram
Jim Green Size Chart
| Foot Length (Inch) | Foot Length (CM) | US | UK/SA | EU |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9.65" | 24.50 | 7 | 6 | 39.5 |
| 9.75" | 24.75 | 7.5 | 6.5 | 40 |
| 9.85" | 25.20 | 8 | 7 | 40.8 |
| 10.125" | 25.50 | 8.5 | 7.5 | 41.3 |
| 10.24" | 26.00 | 9 | 8 | 42 |
| 10.4375" | 26.50 | 9.5 | 8.5 | 42.6 |
| 10.63" | 27.00 | 10 | 9 | 43.3 |
| 10.75" | 27.50 | 10.5 | 9.5 | 43.9 |
| 11.02" | 28.00 | 11 | 10 | 44.5 |
| 11.125" | 28.50 | 11.5 | 10.5 | 45.2 |
| 11.42" | 29.00 | 12 | 11 | 45.9 |
| 11.81" | 30.00 | 13 | 12 | 47.2 |
| 12.20" | 31.00 | 14 | 13 | 48.5 |
Related:
If you’re comparing rugged boots and wondering how they stack up, you might also want to check out how Redback boots fit.
How South African Shoe Sizing Works
Jim Green boots follow South African sizing, which is basically the same as UK sizing, which is Kind of like how Australia does it too. Commonwealth countries stick together, I guess.
Now, if you know your UK size, figuring this out is super easy. Let’s say your UK size is 7.5 in a regular width. That would make your US size an 8.
So if you’re ordering from the US or you’re just used to US sizing, go one size up from your UK size, and you’re good.
And if you ever need to convert US sizes to European sizing, here’s a quick US to EU size conversion guide that explains it all in plain English.
How Do Jim Green Boots Fit?
Once you know your Brannock size, you’re already halfway there.
From my experience, Jim Green boots run pretty true to size. If you’re a US 10 on the Brannock or you wear a size 10 in sneakers like Nike or Adidas, a Jim Green size 10 should fit you just right.
Here’s the thing, though: Jim Green builds their boots on wide lasts, so you get extra room in the toe box. For folks with wide feet, that’s a dream.
But if your feet are on the narrow or low-volume side, you might feel like there’s a little too much room up front.
Jim Green themselves say that if your feet are extra wide or you plan on wearing thick socks, go up half a size. I agree.
It gives you more volume without messing with the overall fit. The last thing you want is to lace them up and feel your forefoot getting squeezed.
If you’re an insole person, maybe you like a bit of extra cushioning or arch support, stick with your Brannock size if you want that snug, glove-like feel. But if you want plenty of wiggle room for a thicker insole, go up a full size.
Here’s a quick example. Let’s say you measure US 10 on the Brannock:
- Size 10: Best for no insole and a standard fit.
- Size 10.5: Room for thicker socks or a more relaxed feel.
- Size 10.5 with an insole: Snug but comfortable.
- Size 11 with an insole: Maximum space and comfort.
So in short:
- True to size if your feet are average.
- Half size up for wide feet or thick socks.
- Half to full size up if you’re adding an insole.
Related:
If you’re curious how these compare to other heritage-style boots, check out how Oak Street boots fit. They’ve got a different vibe, but it’s interesting to see how their lasts stack up, especially if you’re bouncing between brands.
Jim Green African Ranger Sizing
Jim Green calls it the boot designed by rangers for rangers, and I get why. This thing is built for punishment: sand, rocks, scrubland, you name it.
And the funny part is it still works just as well in a workshop, the garden, or when you’re grabbing a pint at the pub.
How’s the Fit?
Here’s the good news: the African Ranger runs true to size. If you’re a 9D on the Brannock, grab a size 9 and you’ll be good.
Now, let me prepare you for something. Straight out of the box, you might feel a little pressure on your big toe and think, “Uh-oh, did I go too small?”
I thought the same. But it’s not the length; it’s that super stiff toe cap messing with you.
When I say stiff, I mean really stiff. You have two thick layers of leather plus a hidden stiffener inside. It’s not going to flex much at first, so every step can feel like it’s pushing back on your toes. But that’s totally normal, and that’s just how these boots start out before they loosen up.
The rest of the boot fits snug in a good way. The sides of the vamp hug your foot, keeping it locked in place, but you still get that big, airy toe box so your toes aren’t crammed together. Over a long day hiking on a trail or on the job, that really pays off.
Breaking Them In
Here’s the truth: the African Ranger is not one of those “out of the box” comfort boots. The ankle area, especially, can dig in at first.
That’s because the lacing system is made of four layers of leather, and the upper collar needs a few solid wears before it starts playing nice.
After a week or two of daily use, the ankle eases up. But the toe box is going to take longer. Expect another two to three weeks of real-world wear, walking, bending, and working, before it starts to soften.
Trust me. Wearing them around the house won’t cut it.
By week four or five, they hit that sweet spot. Still firm, but in a way that feels supportive rather than stubborn.
Related: If you’re curious how another heritage boot brand compares, check out my Chippewa sizing guide. It walks you through their fit, sizing tips, and what to expect right out of the box.
Comfort + Insert Room
Even when they’re stiff up front, there’s plenty of room for an insole if you want one. I’ve slipped a couple in just to test, and it didn’t mess with the fit at all.
Once they’re broken in, the wide toe box really starts to make sense. It lets your toes spread naturally, which means less fatigue after hours on your feet.
Will You Like the Fit?
Honestly? This is a love-it-or-leave-it kind of boot. Some people are going to swear by that roomy toe and solid build. Others will say the toe looks too chunky or that the stiffness up front is a dealbreaker.
But if you value function over fashion, or you just want a boot that can take a beating and still treat your feet right at the end of the day, the African Ranger delivers.
Related:
If you’re leaning more toward work-ready boots with a modern build, you might want to see how Brunt boots fit. They’ve got their own sizing system, and some models even let you adjust the width.
Jim Green Numzaan Sizing
The Numzaan is one of those boots that stops people mid-sentence. And once you see it, you’ll understand why.
The toe cap doesn’t just cut straight across like most boots. Instead, it curves back over the toe, almost like it’s wrapping around it. It’s a small design detail, but it makes the boot look completely different.
And then there’s the last shape. It’s super round. The kind of round that makes some folks say, “Those look like clown shoes.” But they’re unbelievably comfortable.
Toe Room for Days
That wide, rounded toe box gives your toes all the room they need. You can flex, spread, and move your toes without feeling a hint of pressure up top.
Whether you’re walking, kneeling, or standing around, you’re not going to feel any pressure up top, unlike the African Ranger, which can press down a bit until it breaks in.
How Do They Fit?
True to size. That’s the quick answer.
Let’s say you measure a US 8.5 on the Brannock. You probably wear a 9 in Nike and maybe size down to an 8 in brands like Red Wing, Grant Stone, Parkhurst, or Nicks. With the Numzaan, you stick to your Brannock size: US 8.5 (UK 7.5 in this case).
That said, if you’ve got a narrow midfoot or low-volume feet, true to size might feel a little generous. If your feet are on the wider side or you prefer a relaxed, roomy fit, staying true to size works perfectly.
Here’s a detail worth paying attention to…
They’re Wide. Like, Really Wide.
And I’m not just talking about the toe box. The whole boot is wide: heel, midfoot, toe. If you’ve got standard or slim feet, the fit can feel a bit loose unless you tweak it.
So here’s what works:
- If you have narrow feet, try going down half a size from your Brannock.
- Even sized down, you’ll still have plenty of toe room.
- Still feel a bit sloppy? Slip in an insole and it’ll tighten right up.
Quick Sizing Recap:
- Runs true to Brannock size.
- Wide across the entire foot, not just the toe.
- Roomy toe box = zero top pressure.
- Size down half if you’ve got slim or narrow feet.
- Add an insole if it still feels roomy.
Related:
If you’re thinking of jumping from rugged boots to something more refined, here’s how Crockett & Jones sizing works. Their lasts are a whole different game.
Jim Green Razorback Sizing
The Razorback is built tough. When it comes to sizing, the good news is simple: they run true to size. Length-wise, your Brannock measurement is your best bet.
Now here’s the part that might catch you off guard: they’re wide, especially up front in the forefoot.
If you’ve worn boots on the Grant Stone Leo last, imagine that, but with more breathing room in the toe. Grant Stones might feel sleeker, but the Razorback gives you that extra spread-out comfort, even though Grant Stones usually run a bit longer overall.
(And if you’re curious about Grant Stone sizing, I’ve got a full guide where I discuss their lasts, widths, and how they compare to other brands.)
Now, that generous width is actually part of the Razorback’s charm. If you’ve got high-volume feet or you just like some space to move up front, you’ll love it.
For most people, I’d still say go true to size. The length is dialed in, and the width feels natural once you’re on the move.
If your feet are narrow, then yeah, maybe go down half a size.
How Do They Compare to Other Boots?
In my experience, a size 9 in Jim Green Razorbacks feels about like:
So if you’re used to sizing down in those brands, don’t do it here. Stick with your Brannock size and you’ll be set.
Related:
If you’re considering something a bit more refined, our Cordobes Boot Sizing Guide walks you through how their boots fit and what to know before you buy.
Jim Green Shoellie Sizing
The Shoellie is a bit of a character, and if you’ve got flat feet, you’ll notice it right away.
If your arches are low or basically non-existent, you might find yourself cranking the laces tighter than normal just to take up the slack.
There’s more vertical room inside than you’d expect, especially up front. Even if the length and width are spot on, your toes might still feel like they’ve got a little extra wiggle space.
Now, that doesn’t mean the fit is sloppy. Far from it.
Once the midfoot and heel are locked in, the boot feels secure and stable whether you’re on a trail or just running errands. The build is solid where it matters.
Here’s the funny part: that extra space above your toes can actually cause pressure. It sounds backwards, but when your foot isn’t filling that top area completely, it can shift just enough to rub or press in ways you wouldn’t notice in a snugger fit.
I’ve had it happen. It’s more about movement than tightness.
So, if you’ve got flat, wide feet, you’ll probably get along just fine with the Shoellie. Just be ready to play with the lacing and maybe drop in an insole to really dial things in.
Now for the Stockman fit…
Jim Green Stockman Sizing
Like all Jim Greens, the Stockman uses UK sizing, which runs one full size down from US sizing. So if you’re a true US 8.5, you’re looking at a UK 7.5.
Here’s where it gets tricky: in a lot of US-made boots, you’d size down from your Brannock measurement.
So if you’re an 8.5, you might wear a US 8. But with the Stockman, that rule doesn’t apply. These run true to your Brannock size, which means a US 8.5 equals UK 7.5, plain and simple.
What About the Fit?
The Stockman is built on Jim Green’s ASHM last, which runs a bit narrow. If you’ve got wide feet, expect a snug feel in the forefoot until the leather loosens up.
When you first lace them up, don’t be surprised if you get some heel slip. That thick, stiff outsole doesn’t flex much at first, so it’ll feel a bit rigid until you’ve put in some miles. Once it starts to break in, the fit smooths out nicely.
Jim Green Baobab, Moc Toes, and 719 Sizing
Baobab
The Baobab looks like a wide boot, and by most standards, it is, but compared to other Jim Green models, it’s actually a little on the sleeker side.
The width is trimmed down, and the toe is shaped into more of an almond style. So while you still get a decent amount of room up front, it’s not that super-wide, round-toe fit you’d get from something like the African Ranger.
If you’ve got a wide forefoot, it should still feel comfortable. The difference is, it won’t feel sloppy or overly boxy. For most people, the Baobab fits true to size.
Moc Toes (Workhorse + Meander)
View this post on Instagram
For the moc toes, Jim Green actually went the extra mile and created a special last just for them. It’s a blend of their standard JG last with the toe height from the STC last, which means you get a wider forefoot plus a bit more vertical space in the toe box.
Like most moc toes, these give your toes room to breathe. Sizing is straightforward: if you’re a 9 on the Brannock, stick with a 9.
719
View this post on Instagram
The 719 plays in a different lane. It’s built on the ASHM last, which runs narrower and has a more almond-shaped profile.
If you’ve got wider feet, you might notice a snugger fit across the forefoot compared to the Baobab or the moc toes.
It’s not going to pinch, but it definitely feels more streamlined and form-fitting. Think of it as Jim Green’s sleeker, less bulky option.
Sizing is still true to your Brannock, but if you’re between sizes or have extra-wide feet, going up half a size could save you some break-in frustration.
Jim Green Lasts: Which One’s Right for You?
Before we discuss all the different Jim Green lasts, let’s answer the question you might be too polite to ask: What even is a last?
A last is basically the foot-shaped mold that every boot is built around. It decides the boot’s shape, volume, and fit.
Think of it like the skeleton under the leather. The Greeks and Romans were using them over 2,000 years ago; back then, they were carved from wood. These days, most are made of plastic or even 3D printed.
Alright, history lesson over. Let’s talk about Jim Green’s different lasts and how to pick the one that’ll actually work for your foot.
The JG Last
This is the OG that put Jim Green on the map. You’ll find it on classics like the Razorback and Stockman.
It’s wide. We’re talking a 3E width with a big, round toe box that gives your toes a lot of space up front.
But some people feel a bit of pressure from the vamp (that’s the leather over your toes) when they’re brand new.
But don’t worry. It goes away once they break in. Jim Green once tried raising the vamp to avoid this, but it just made feet slide forward. So they left it as-is.
If you’ve got wide feet and want maximum toe room, this is your last.
The ASHM Last
This one’s newer. Jim Green made it because people wanted something a little sleeker than the JG, less chunky, and more office-friendly. Think of it as the almond-shaped version of the JG.
It still keeps that wide natural fit Jim Green is known for, but with a more tapered toe. So if you’ve got an average-width foot or just want something that feels less bulky, this is a great pick.
You’ll find this last on the Baobab and Shoellie boots.
The STC Last
STC stands for Steel Toe Cap, and you’ll find it on workhorses like the African Ranger.
It’s a 2E width, so it’s a little narrower than the JG, but still roomy where it counts. The toe is nice and round to make space for a steel toe.
If you have big toes or are planning to wear thick inserts, this one holds up well over long days. It molds to your foot over time and gets more comfortable the more you wear it.
The Zero Drop Last
This one’s kind of wild but in a good way. Jim Green took their JG last and turned it into a zero-drop version, meaning there’s no heel lift and no toe spring. The sole sits totally flat from heel to toe.
Oh, and they also widened it just a touch, wider than even the 3E JG last, to let your toes splay naturally. But don’t worry, it doesn’t look cartoonish. Just a couple of extra millimeters here and there for that barefoot-friendly fit.
Perfect if you’re into minimalist or barefoot-style boots.
Heads up if you’re into Jim Green’s barefoot boots as there’s a big update coming. They’ve just finalized their new anatomical barefoot last, which means by the end of 2025, you’ll see a wider, more foot-shaped fit that stays true to the barefoot feel. And yep, they’re also cooking up a barefoot moccasin. Stay tuned.
The TC Last
This is their narrowest and most stylish last. It’s only used on the Town and Country boot because that boot uses a Blake stitch construction, which needs a totally different last.
This one’s not for wide feet; it’s for people who want something sharp, dressy, and more fitted.
The MO Last
The MO last is only used on the Monster Waterproof Boot. It’s similar to the TC in that it’s built for a different construction. The Monster boot has a waterproof sock inside, and the MO last is designed to make space for that.
It’s still a wide and rounded last, but it’s also longer to make sure the waterproof lining doesn’t mess with the fit. So yeah, don’t expect to see this last used anywhere else.
Here’s a quick cheat sheet to make things easier:
- JG Last: 3E width, round toe, best for wide feet, break-in needed.
- ASHM Last: Almond shape, still wide, sleeker for everyday wear.
- STC Last: 2E width, round toe, roomy for inserts or big toes.
- Zero Drop Last: Ultra-wide, flat sole, barefoot feel.
- TC Last: Narrowest, stylish, only for Town and Country.
- MO Last: Wide and long, only for Monster Waterproof Boot.
So, which last sounds most like your foot? Or your lifestyle? Are you more of a Razorback trail stomper or a Baobab office cruiser?
How to Break In Jim Green Boots
When your Jim Greens first arrive, they feel stiff. You should not expect slipper-like comfort straight out of the box. You will probably lace them up, take a few steps, and think, “Oh wow, these need some work.”
The good news is that you can speed up the break-in process and make them more comfortable without damaging the leather.
1. Start with Some Mink Oil Love
You are not soaking your boots like Rose Anvil did with his Doc Martens. Just pour a small amount onto your fingers and rub it generously into the leather.
Do this three times over six days. Let the boots dry overnight between each application and wear them the next day. This gives the leather time to absorb the oil while slowly softening with use.
xxx
2. Bring Out the Ball-Peen Hammer
This step sounds unusual, but it works. Take the rounded part of a ball-peen hammer, slide it inside the boot, and gently press and rub the areas where your feet feel the most pressure.
These spots are often around the little toe or the outer knuckle joint. You are not hitting the leather. You are massaging it from the inside.
You can also flex the leather with your hands. Focus on the forefoot and heel. Bend the heel back and forth or roll the shaft a little to loosen the stiff spots.
3. Then, Just Wear Them
Once the oil has soaked in and the leather feels more flexible, wear them every day for a week. This is when the real change happens.
By the middle of the second week, you will notice a difference. The boots will start to feel much more comfortable. By the end of that week, they may even feel fully broken in.
Break-In Time Depends on the Boot
Not every Jim Green model breaks in at the same pace.
Double-lasted boots like the Razorback, Stockman, or Slip-On Outback take longer. They have two layers of leather, which means four millimeters of tough hide between your foot and the ground.
That is a lot of material to soften. You will need to put in more miles before they mold to your feet.
Single-lasted boots like the Vellie, Philly, or African Ranger break in faster. They have less material, so they flex more easily right from the start.
If you want a quicker break-in with less work, you should look at the single-lasted models.
How to Measure Your Feet for Jim Green Boots
A half-size off might not sound like a big deal, but with rugged leather boots, especially ones that need a break-in period, measuring your feet the right way really matters.
Here’s how to do it the right way:
1. Get Fitted In-Store (If You Can)
The best way to get an accurate size is to head to a store and ask for a professional fitting. Most quality footwear stores have someone trained to use a Brannock device.
They’ll measure your length, arch length, heel-to-ball measurement, and foot width.
Why this matters:
Your “true size” isn’t just about how long your foot is. The arch length (the distance from your heel to the ball of your foot) tells you where your foot flexes, and it should line up with the flex point of the boot. That’s a big deal for all-day comfort and proper break-in.
They’ll also check things like:
- Whether one foot is slightly bigger than the other (super common)
- If you have flat feet, high arches, or wide forefeet
…. all things that matter for Jim Green models like the Shoellie or African Ranger.
2. Using a Brannock Device (If You Have One)
If you have access to a Brannock device (maybe at home or at a gear shop), here’s what to measure:
- Heel to Toe Length: Your standard foot length.
- Heel to Ball Length: This tells you where your arch naturally bends.
- Width: Measured across the ball of your foot (this is where D, E, EE widths come in).
- Both Feet: Always measure both feet. Go with the size of the larger one.
3. How to Measure at Home (If You Don’t Have a Brannock)
If you don’t have a Brannock, you can still get pretty close with a piece of paper, a pen, and a ruler.
Here’s how:
- Stand on a piece of paper (barefoot or with the socks you plan to wear).
- Trace around your foot. Hold the pen straight up and down, not at an angle.
- Measure from the tip of your longest toe to the back of your heel.
- Then measure the widest part of your forefoot.
- Repeat for your other foot.
Quick conversion tip: Take the length in centimeters or inches and use the Jim Green size chart below to find your US size. (Jim Green boots use UK sizing, so subtract one size from your US men’s size to find your UK size.)
4. Important Jim Green Sizing Tips to Know
Here’s what most people don’t realize until they try them on:
UK Sizing: Jim Green uses UK sizing. For men, that means you’ll usually need to size down one full size from your US size. If you wear a US 10, go for a UK 9.
Break-in space: These are firm leather boots with tough soles. Some initial snugness (especially around the vamp or toe cap) is normal. But you don’t want it to hurt, just snug enough to break in over time.
Toe box shape varies: The African Ranger has a wide, rounded toe box. The 719 is more almond-shaped and narrow. The Shoellie is roomy but can feel tall for low-volume feet. Know your foot shape and match it to the right model.
Flat feet: Choose models with more volume, like the Shoellie or African Ranger, but expect to lace them tighter.
Insoles: Yes, you can add one. Jim Green boots generally have enough room for an aftermarket insole, but test the fit carefully, especially if the boot already feels snug.
Fit check tips:
- You should have about a thumb’s width of space in front of your longest toe.
- Your heel should feel secure. Some slip is okay at first, especially in models with stiff soles.
- If your foot slides forward or your toes feel squished sideways, the width might be off.
Extra Foot Measuring Tips Most People Miss
Measure in the Afternoon or Evening
Your feet swell throughout the day. So if you measure in the morning, chances are your boots will feel tight by mid-afternoon. The best time is late afternoon or early evening, when your feet are at their “fullest.”
Wear the Right Socks
Measure your feet wearing the kind of socks you’ll actually wear with your boots. Thick wool socks or boot socks can change how the boot feels a lot. If you plan to wear thick wool socks with your Jim Greens, don’t measure barefoot. It’ll throw things off.
Stand Up When Measuring
Always measure your feet standing up. When you’re sitting, your feet don’t spread or flatten the way they do when you’re holding your full weight.
Have someone else help you trace or measure. It’s more accurate than bending over and trying to do it yourself.
Don’t Rely on Just One Foot
Most people have one foot that’s slightly bigger or wider. Always measure both feet and size based on the larger one.
It’s completely normal, and it’s better to have a slightly looser boot on one foot than a tight, blister-causing fit on the other.
Re-measure Every Couple of Years
Feet change over time. Weight fluctuations or just aging can subtly change your foot shape. If it’s been more than two years since you measured, take a fresh look before buying new boots.
Know Your Foot Volume
Length and width are just part of the equation. Foot volume (how much space your foot takes up vertically) really matters with Jim Green boots.
If you’ve got low arches or flat feet, you might need to lace tightly or add an insole to reduce volume. If you have high arches or bulky feet, look for models with more room across the instep.
Account for Break-In
Jim Green boots are built with thick leather and rugged outsoles. They’re meant to mold to your foot over time, not feel like sneakers on day one.
A snug fit (but not painful) is okay. The leather will stretch and flex as it warms up and breaks in.
Final Thoughts
Jim Green boots take a little time to settle in, but that’s part of the process. Each model has its own fit, its own feel, and knowing which last works for your foot makes all the difference.
Pay attention to the break-in steps, adjust the laces, and give the leather a chance to soften. Once they start to conform to your foot, the boots feel reliable and comfortable for long days
Choosing the right Jim Green is about length, width, and finding the model and last that match your foot and the way you move.
So there you have it. I hope our Jim Green sizing guide has been helpful. If you’ve got any questions regarding sizing, feel free to drop them down below in the comments.
I’ll see you in the next one.