Method requirements
Apply each step only to its relevant product category. A result may be labelled completed only with dated sample, equipment, observation and order records. Record incomplete stages and failed results; do not infer authenticity from these measurements.
Review methodology
A scored footwear review requires the following core sequence. The wear test protocol is adjusted based on shoe category, while measurement and order steps are consistent across all categories.
Step 1 — Order and timing. An editor selects a size from the seller's size chart and places the order through the agent. Reviewers must record timestamps for payment, seller confirmation, warehouse check, QC photos, export scan and last-mile handoff, then publish the observed timing range instead of a fixed value.
Step 2 — Arrival and packaging. The parcel is opened on camera. Reviewers must photograph the box, wrapping, extra laces and label, and note crush damage, tape quality and box condition after transit.
Step 3 — Measurement. Both shoes are measured with digital calipers at the heel, midfoot and toe box, checked with a Brannock device, and weighed individually and with the box on a 5kg kitchen scale. Insole thickness and midsole stack height are added to the measurement table.
Step 4 — Fit check. Two testers with different foot shapes try on the pair and score heel slip, toe box width, arch contact and ankle collar pressure. Half-size and wide-width fittings are logged separately if tested.
Step 5 — Wear test. Running and trail running shoes complete a 20km mixed route covering sidewalk, gravel and wet asphalt. Basketball shoes complete two 90-minute outdoor sessions and one indoor session on a sealed court. Lifestyle shoes are worn for seven consecutive days of daily commuting and office use.
Step 6 — Follow-up. Reviewers must re-check fit, outsole wear and midsole compression at 50km or 40 hours of play, photograph the wear pattern, and update the review if earlier findings change. Top-ranked models are re-checked every 90 days only where a maintained review archive and records support that schedule.
Step 7 — Scoring. Fit, comfort, traction/grip, finishing and value are each scored on the five-point scale. For each category, the review must explain how sub-scores are weighted to get the final overall hands-on score published at the top of the review. The comparison table shows all sub-scores so readers can weight them based on their own needs.