The Complete Guide to Buying Thrifted Boots Online
By The Thrifty Closets · 24 May 2026
Buying secondhand boots online can feel risky — you can’t try them on. But with the right information, thrifted boots are one of the best-value purchases you can make. Here’s how to get the fit right every time.
Don’t trust the label — read the measurements
Shoe sizing varies wildly between brands and eras. A vintage “UK 8” might not match a modern UK 8. That’s why every pair of boots in our shop lists the insole length in centimetres — the single most reliable measurement.
To find your number: stand on a sheet of paper, mark heel to longest toe, and measure in cm. Add about 0.5–1cm of wiggle room. Match that to the insole length on the listing.
Quick shoe-size conversions
| UK | EU | US (men) | US (women) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 39–40 | 7 | 8 |
| 7 | 40–41 | 8 | 9 |
| 8 | 42 | 9 | 10 |
| 9 | 43 | 10 | 11 |
| 10 | 44–45 | 11 | 12 |
Use these as a starting point, then confirm with the insole measurement.
Judging condition
Leather boots age beautifully, but check the listing photos and condition grade for:
- Soles and heels — the most expensive part to replace. Light wear is fine; worn-through is not.
- Creasing and scuffs — character, not damage. Easily conditioned.
- Stitching and welt — intact stitching means the boot can be resoled and last years longer.
Every listing on The Thrifty Closets is graded NWT, Excellent, Good or Fair, so you always know what you’re getting.
Break them in the smart way
Secondhand boots are often already broken in — a bonus. For any stiff spots, wear them with thick socks around the house for short sessions, and condition the leather to keep it supple.