When I first ordered my Oliver Cabell Low 1 sneakers, I got the wrong size.
Returns can be a lengthy and annoying process with any brand, and after reading through the available information on Oliver Cabell sizing, there’s a lot of confusion out there.
Oliver Cabell doesn’t offer half sizes. If you’re a half size, order a size up. The Low 1 fits low and narrow, which is part of its style. You should get your true Brannock size (likely your most common sneaker and dress shoe size), and if you’re a half size or have wide feet, get the next size up.
I’m going to break down how Oliver Cabell’s sneakers fit, including how the sizing compares to other brands like KOIO and GREATS.
But I’m not just discussing the Oliver Cabell Low 1 sizing. I’ve also included some guidance on their loafers, so if you’re interested in their non-sneaker line, keep scrolling for specifics.
Let’s just make our order once, shall we?
Table of Contents
How Do Oliver Cabell Low 1 Fit?
The Oliver Cabell Low 1 has a sleek look to it, which can get you into some trouble finding the right size.
Originally when I was shopping with Oliver Cabell, I used their sizing calculator they have on their site. Don’t use that calculator—it’s irrelevant.
I popped in that I was a size 10.5 in most sneakers and dress shoes, and it recommended me a size 10.
But my size 10 Oliver Cabell Low 1 sneakers were too small and I had to make an exchange.
When I ordered the size 11, I was much more pleased.
Despite the fact that I don’t own any other shoes that are a size 11, I think because of the low profile and the narrow toe box, the larger size works much better for me.
I have standard-width feet (that’s a D width if you’re familiar with different foot widths), but I can imagine the narrow toe box becoming an issue if you have wider feet.
If you’re about to get a pair of Oliver Cabell Low 1’s, you should first try to get your standard sneaker or dress shoe size is—whatever is most common in your closet: get that.
If you’re like me and you have a half size foot: order the next size up (i.e. I’m a 10.5 and the 11 fits me well).
The iconic Low 1 is Oliver Cabell's most well known shoe, and for good reason. We think they're your best value-for-money dress sneaker choice if you want to go top-end on quality, provided they’re on sale.
Oliver Cabell Loafer Sizing
Oliver Cabell’s driving loafers are a bit more forgiving than their Low 1. Because the suede is less structured and the shape isn’t as narrow, you won’t experience as much discomfort if you get a size that isn’t absolutely perfect.
I mentioned that I ordered the size 10 in Low 1 to start, but had to exchange for the size 11. For the loafer, I probably could’ve kept the size 10 and just rocked it anyway.
That said, still follow the same guidance as above: get the half size larger if you’re in between sizes. The Oliver Cabell Driver also only comes in full sizes, so opt for the larger of the two.
The OC Driver makes the trip to the post office just that little bit more enjoyable. With a 3oz suede leather upper from Marche, Italy, and hand stitched and lasted in Portugal, this ticks all the Euro-luxe boxes you want in a quality driving shoe.
However, if you’re a size 9 in most sneakers and dress shoes, stick with the size 9 in loafers.
While their loafers are more forgiving and relaxed than the Low 1, they’re still quite slim and narrow. That’s the style.
Also note that the suede will stretch a little as you wear them in. Suede often has a lining because the hide can become quite thin, and the lining is thin (1mm or less), it stretches. I don’t think it’ll stretch to the point where you’ll end up with a completely different size, but there’s definitely a little wiggle room if you feel like your loafers are just a little snug.
How Oliver Cabell Sizing Compares to Other Brands
Oliver Cabell vs GREATS Sizing
If you have wider feet, I think GREATS are a better choice (I would make the same recommendation with KOIO as well).
GREATS has a more bulbous toe and allows for some more room in the instep (top of your foot).
That said, I prefer the style of the Oliver Cabell Low 1 to the GREATS Royale. Between the two, I almost always choose the Oliver Cabell Low 1.
The Royale is a cool looking shoe, but there’s so much going on with the design that I hesitate to call it a minimalist sneaker. It’s more like if Common Projects and Air Jordan sneakers had a shoe-baby. The design is cool and the quality is ok for GREATS. But compared to the Thursday Premier, it’s no contest: get Thursdays.
For both brands, I recommend getting the same size—there isn’t really a difference in sizing, but there is a difference in fit.
The GREATS Royale has a bit more room, especially in the forefoot and toe. GREATS also offers half-sizes, so that makes it a little easier to find the perfect fit.
Still, because Oliver Cabells are more narrow and have a shorter instep, I don’t think you’d need a half size (if you’re in between). Getting the next half size up is all you’d need.
Oliver Cabell vs KOIO Sizing
KOIO fits a bit larger than Oliver Cabell, and they also offer wide sizes, so comparing these brands is tricky.
Stylistically, I think the KOIO Capri and the Oliver Cabell Low 1 are quite similar. They both have a very low instep and a narrow toe—I think this is what most people are looking for when they’re eyeing a minimalist sneaker (more so than GREATS).
The KOIO Capri is an incredible sneaker. It demolishes the Common Projects Achilles in my opinion. That said, I don’t know if it’s worth the nearly $300 price tag---I think you're better off with the Thursday Premier for value. You may want to consider the KOIO Capri if budget isn’t a big determining factor for you and you just want the best possible quality.
KOIO also carries only full sizes. But they offer wide sizes, too.
Like I said, I’m a 10.5 in most sneakers and dress shoes. When I got my KOIO Capri’s, I ordered a size 10, and while they fit snug, they don’t cramp my toes as much as my Oliver Cabell Low 1.
Lace Up
Getting the right fit for your Oliver Cabell Low 1 is simple, but with all the confusion out there, it’s easier than you’d think to pick up a pair that’s either too tight or too loose.
The iconic Low 1 is Oliver Cabell's most well known shoe, and for good reason. We think they're your best value-for-money dress sneaker choice if you want to go top-end on quality, provided they’re on sale.
But now you have everything you need to know to shop confidently.
Again, you should get the next size larger in the Oliver Cabell Low 1 and Driver if you’re a half size.
Otherwise, get your regular sneaker size.
The OC Driver makes the trip to the post office just that little bit more enjoyable. With a 3oz suede leather upper from Marche, Italy, and hand stitched and lasted in Portugal, this ticks all the Euro-luxe boxes you want in a quality driving shoe.
So if the most common sneaker size in your closet is a 10, get a size 10 Oliver Cabell Low 1. If your most common sneaker size is a 10.5, then get a size 11 Oliver Cabell Low 1.
If you have wide feet, I’d get a KOIO wide fit sneaker. It’s an easier choice than trying to make a standard width sneaker fit a wide foot.
So, are you ready to unbox that shiny new pair of sneakers?
FAQs
Do Oliver Cabell run large?
No, Oliver Cabell sneakers are true to size. Because the Low 1 has a lower instep and a narrow toe, you should order the larger size if you’re in between sizes (i.e. a 10.5 should order 11). Otherwise, get your standard sneaker or dress shoe size (i.e. if you’re a 10 in most sneakers, get a 10 for Oliver Cabell).
Do Oliver Cabell shoes squeak?
No, in general, Oliver Cabell’s Low 1 sneakers don’t squeak. The shape of your foot might cause a problem area with minimal squeaking, but it will dissipate as the sneakers break in.
How long do Oliver Cabell shoes last?
I’ve had my Oliver Cabell Low 1 sneakers for 3 years and they’re still going strong.
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