US vs EU Shoe Sizes: Complete Conversion Guide

Introduction to International Shoe Sizing

Shopping for shoes internationally can be frustrating. You find the perfect pair online from a European retailer, but the size reads "42" instead of the familiar US number you know. What does that even mean? Understanding how shoe sizes work across different countries is essential for anyone who shops online, travels frequently, or simply wants to ensure the best fit.

This comprehensive guide breaks down the three major shoe sizing systems - US, EU, and UK - and gives you the knowledge to convert between them confidently.

Why Do Shoe Sizes Differ by Country?

Shoe sizing systems developed independently in different regions during the 19th century, before global trade made standardization practical. Each country created its own measurement method based on local customs and unit preferences.

The US System

The American shoe sizing system originated in the 1880s. It uses a barleycorn unit (approximately 1/3 inch or 8.46mm) as its base measurement. US sizing is unique because it maintains completely separate scales for men and women, with women's sizes typically running 1.5 to 2 sizes higher than men's for the same foot length.

The European System (Paris Points)

The EU system, also called Continental sizing, uses "Paris Points" as its unit of measurement. One Paris Point equals 2/3 of a centimeter (6.67mm). Unlike the US system, EU sizing is unisex - the same number applies to both men and women with identical foot lengths.

The UK System

British shoe sizes also use barleycorns like the US system but start from a different baseline. UK sizes run approximately one size smaller than US men's sizes and 1.5 to 2 sizes smaller than US women's sizes.

US Men's vs Women's Sizing Explained

One of the most confusing aspects of American shoe sizing is the gender difference. Here's what you need to know:

• Women's sizes are 1.5 to 2 sizes larger than men's for the same foot length
• A women's size 9 equals approximately a men's size 7.5
• Some brands use a 1.5-size difference, others use 2 sizes
• Children's sizing is separate from adult sizing and ends around size 13

Practical Example

If a woman wears size 8.5 and wants to buy men's running shoes, she should look for size 7 (subtracting 1.5). Similarly, a man wearing size 10 who wants to try women's sneakers would need size 11.5 or 12.

Complete Conversion Tables

Men's Shoe Size Conversion

Women's Shoe Size Conversion

Understanding Shoe Width

Shoe sizes only tell part of the story. Width is equally important for proper fit, yet many people ignore it or don't know their width.

US Width Designations

In the US, widths are designated by letters:

For Men:

• A or 2A: Extra narrow
• B: Narrow
• D: Standard/regular (most common)
• E or 2E: Wide
• EE or 3E: Extra wide
• 4E or EEEE: Extra extra wide

For Women:

• 2A or AA: Narrow
• B: Standard/regular (most common)
• C or D: Wide
• E or 2E: Extra wide

Note that women's standard width (B) corresponds to men's narrow width. If you're buying across gender lines, account for this difference.

European Width System

European manufacturers less commonly mark widths, but when they do, they use letters F through K or H, with G or H being standard width. Some brands also use descriptive terms like "slim," "regular," and "wide."

How to Measure Your Foot Correctly

Getting an accurate measurement is the foundation of finding your true size.

Step-by-Step Measurement Guide

1. Measure at the right time: Feet swell throughout the day. Measure in the afternoon or evening when your feet are at their largest.

2. Gather materials: You'll need a piece of paper larger than your foot, a pencil, a ruler or tape measure, and optionally a wall.

3. Position your foot: Stand on the paper with your heel against a wall or straight edge. Put your full weight on the foot being measured.

4. Trace your foot: Have someone trace around your foot while you stand, keeping the pencil perpendicular to the paper.

5. Mark the extremes: Draw a straight line at the 💡 Definition:A voluntary payment given to service workers in addition to the bill amount, typically based on quality of service.tip💡 Definition:A voluntary payment to service workers, typically a percentage of the bill, given as thanks for good service. of your longest toe (not always the big toe) and at the back of your heel.

6. Measure length: Measure the distance between these two lines in centimeters or inches.

7. Measure width: Mark the widest part of your foot tracing (usually at the ball) and measure that distance.

8. Repeat for both feet: Your feet are often different sizes. Always buy shoes to fit the larger foot.

Converting Measurements to Sizes

Once you have your measurements, you can match them to size charts. Remember:

• Add 0.5-1 cm (about 0.2-0.4 inches) for toe room
• Athletic shoes often require more space than dress shoes
• Different shoe types may fit differently even in the same size

Brand Variations and Fit Tips

No universal sizing standard exists, so brands interpret sizes differently.

Brands That Run Large

• Converse Chuck Taylors: Size down 0.5-1 size
• Vans: Often run 0.5 size large
• Nike (some models): Can run slightly large

Brands That Run Small

• Adidas (especially Originals): Size up 0.5 size
• Common Projects: Size down one full EU size
• Dr. Martens: Many recommend sizing down

Brands That Run True to Size

• New Balance: Generally accurate
• Brooks: Consistent sizing
• ASICS: Reliable true-to-size fit

Tips for Online Shopping

1. Check the brand's size guide: Most retailers have brand-specific charts
2. Read reviews: Customers often mention sizing issues
3. Look for foot length in cm: This is the most accurate comparison
4. Know the return policy: Always verify you can exchange if the fit is wrong
5. Order two sizes: When in doubt, order your regular size plus one up or down

Quick Conversion Formulas

While conversion charts are most accurate, these formulas provide quick estimates:

US Men to EU: EU = (US Men + 31.5) rounded to nearest 0.5

US Women to EU: EU = (US Women + 30) rounded to nearest 0.5

US Men to UK: UK = US Men - 0.5

US Women to UK: UK = US Women - 2

EU to cm (foot length): Length (cm) = (EU size + 2) x 0.667

Children's Shoe Size Differences

Children's shoe sizing adds another layer of complexity.

US Children's Sizes

US children's sizes range from 0 (newborn) to 13, then restart at 1 for youth sizes. Children's size 13 is followed by youth size 1, which can confuse parents.

EU Children's Sizes

EU children's sizes use the same Paris Point system as adults, typically ranging from 16 (newborn) to 39 (older children). The consistency with adult sizing makes transitions easier.

Age-Based Guidelines

Special Considerations for Different Shoe Types

Athletic Shoes

Running shoes and athletic footwear often require 0.5 to 1 size larger than dress shoes. This extra room accommodates foot swelling during exercise and thicker athletic socks.

Dress Shoes

Dress shoes typically fit more snugly. Many people wear the same size in dress shoes as their measured foot length suggests, without adding extra room.

Boots

Winter boots and hiking boots may need to be sized up to accommodate thicker socks and allow for proper circulation in cold weather.

Sandals

Open-toed shoes are more forgiving with sizing. Many people can wear their exact measured size or even size down slightly.

Conclusion

Understanding shoe size conversions empowers you to shop confidently from anywhere in the world. Remember that the EU system uses Paris Points and is unisex, while US and UK systems differ by gender and use barleycorn measurements. Always measure your feet properly, consider width as well as length, and account for brand variations.

When in doubt, rely on actual foot measurements in centimeters rather than converting between arbitrary sizing systems. Your feet and your comfort will💡 Definition:A will is a legal document that specifies how your assets should be distributed after your death, ensuring your wishes are honored. thank you.

Use our Shoe Size Converter for quick, accurate conversions between all major sizing systems.