When shopping for shoes abroad, understanding the European shoe size system can be tricky, especially if you’re familiar with US or UK sizes. This can lead to confusion, as the systems differ in how they measure sizes. It’s important to consider these differences to avoid sizing mistakes and ensure a perfect fit.
European Shoe Size Chart
Women’s Shoe Sizes
| US Sizes | Euro Sizes | UK Sizes | Inches | CM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 35 | 2 | 8.1875″ | 20.8 |
| 4.5 | 35 | 2.5 | 8.375″ | 21.3 |
| 5 | 35-36 | 3 | 8.5″ | 21.6 |
| 5.5 | 36 | 3.5 | 8.75″ | 22.2 |
| 6 | 36-37 | 4 | 8.875″ | 22.5 |
| 6.5 | 37 | 4.5 | 9.0625″ | 23 |
| 7 | 37-38 | 5 | 9.25″ | 23.5 |
| 7.5 | 38 | 5.5 | 9.375″ | 23.8 |
| 8 | 38-39 | 6 | 9.5″ | 24.1 |
| 8.5 | 39 | 6.5 | 9.6875″ | 24.6 |
| 9 | 39-40 | 7 | 9.875″ | 25.1 |
| 9.5 | 40 | 7.5 | 10″ | 25.4 |
| 10 | 40-41 | 8 | 10.1875″ | 25.9 |
| 10.5 | 41 | 8.5 | 10.3125″ | 26.2 |
| 11 | 41-42 | 9 | 10.5″ | 26.7 |
| 11.5 | 42 | 9.5 | 10.6875″ | 27.1 |
| 12 | 42-43 | 10 | 10.875″ | 27.6 |
Men’s Shoe Sizes
| US Sizes | Euro Sizes | UK Sizes | Inches | CM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 39 | 5.5 | 9.25″ | 23.5 |
| 6.5 | 39 | 6 | 9.5″ | 24.1 |
| 7 | 40 | 6.5 | 9.625″ | 24.4 |
| 7.5 | 40-41 | 7 | 9.75″ | 24.8 |
| 8 | 41 | 7.5 | 9.9375″ | 25.4 |
| 8.5 | 41-42 | 8 | 10.125″ | 25.7 |
| 9 | 42 | 8.5 | 10.25″ | 26 |
| 9.5 | 42-43 | 9 | 10.4375″ | 26.7 |
| 10 | 43 | 9.5 | 10.5625″ | 27 |
| 10.5 | 43-44 | 10 | 10.75″ | 27.3 |
| 11 | 44 | 10.5 | 10.9375″ | 27.9 |
| 11.5 | 44-45 | 11 | 11.125″ | 28.3 |
| 12 | 45 | 11.5 | 11.25″ | 28.6 |
| 13 | 46 | 12.5 | 11.5625″ | 29.4 |
| 14 | 47 | 13.5 | 11.875″ | 30.2 |
| 15 | 48 | 14.5 | 12.1875″ | 31 |
| 16 | 49 | 15.5 | 12.5″ | 31.8 |
Big Kid Shoe Size Conversions (7 – 12 years)
| US Sizes | Euro Sizes | UK Sizes | Inches | CM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 | 35 | 2.5 | 8.625″ | 21.9 |
| 4 | 36 | 3 | 8.75″ | 22.2 |
| 4.5 | 36 | 3.5 | 9″ | 22.9 |
| 5 | 37 | 4 | 9.125″ | 23.2 |
| 5.5 | 37 | 4.5 | 9.25″ | 23.5 |
| 6 | 38 | 5 | 9.5″ | 24.1 |
| 6.5 | 38 | 5.5 | 9.625″ | 24.4 |
| 7 | 39 | 6 | 9.75″ | 24.8 |
Little Kid Shoe Size Conversions (4 – 7 years)
| US Sizes | Euro Sizes | UK Sizes | Inches | CM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10.5 | 27 | 9.5 | 6.625″ | 16.8 |
| 11 | 28 | 10 | 6.75″ | 17.1 |
| 11.5 | 29 | 10.5 | 7″ | 17.8 |
| 12 | 30 | 11 | 7.125″ | 18.1 |
| 12.5 | 30 | 11.5 | 7.25″ | 18.4 |
| 13 | 31 | 12 | 7.5″ | 19.1 |
| 13.5 | 31 | 12.5 | 7.625″ | 19.4 |
| 1 | 32 | 13 | 7.75″ | 19.7 |
| 1.5 | 33 | 14 | 8″ | 20.3 |
| 2 | 33 | 1 | 8.125″ | 20.6 |
| 2.5 | 34 | 1.5 | 8.25″ | 21 |
| 3 | 34 | 2 | 8.5″ | 21.6 |
What is the European Shoe Size System?
The European shoe size system, also known as EU sizes, uses a numerical scale that differs greatly from other countries, such as the US, UK, or Japan. Unlike the US system, which measures foot length in inches, EU sizes are based on a unit called the Paris point, representing 2/3 cm.
While this system offers consistency across European countries, it can be challenging for shoppers used to different sizing methods. Understanding these differences is crucial to avoid potential fit issues when purchasing shoes internationally.
Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider size charts before making a decision to ensure comfort and accuracy.
How European Shoe Sizes Are Measured
European shoe sizes are measured using the Paris point, a unit that represents 2/3 cm. This differs from the US system, which measures foot length in inches. While the Paris point system offers a more standardized approach across Europe, it can be challenging for those familiar with other systems.
The tradeoff is that, although EU sizes are consistent, they can lead to confusion when converting from US or UK sizes. Therefore, it’s essential to pay attention to detailed size charts and consider individual foot measurements to ensure a proper fit when shopping internationally.
How to Convert Your Shoe Size from US or UK to European Sizes
To make your shopping experience smoother, here’s a quick guide on how to convert your US or UK shoe size into its corresponding European size. First, keep in mind that there isn’t an exact one-to-one conversion, and it can vary slightly by brand.
For example, if you’re a US men’s size 9, your European size will typically be 42, but this can differ by half a size depending on the brand. While conversion charts can help, it’s essential to consider individual brand sizing and foot measurements to ensure accuracy.
By being aware of these nuances, you can make more informed choices when buying shoes internationally.
Common European Shoe Size Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Many shoppers make common mistakes when buying shoes from European brands, such as assuming that size charts are universally accurate or ignoring brand-specific variations. While size charts provide a helpful guide, they don’t always account for slight differences between manufacturers.
For instance, one brand’s size 40 may fit differently than another’s. Furthermore, foot width and shape can affect how a shoe fits, making it even more important to consider individual sizing needs.
To avoid these issues, always check the brand’s specific size chart and, if possible, try the shoes on or read customer reviews to gauge fit. By taking these factors into account, you can ensure a better fit and avoid the frustration of returns.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between European and US shoe sizes?
European shoe sizes are based on a numerical system that measures the foot length in Paris points (2/3 cm), while US shoe sizes are typically based on foot length in inches. The systems are not directly interchangeable, so conversions are necessary when buying shoes internationally.
2. How can I know my European shoe size?
To find your European shoe size, measure your foot from heel to toe in centimeters, then use a conversion chart to match that measurement with the corresponding EU size. Keep in mind that brand-specific sizing may differ slightly, so always refer to the manufacturer’s size guide for accuracy.
3. Can shoe sizes vary between European brands?
Yes, shoe sizes can vary slightly between different European brands. Although the EU system provides a standardized measurement, factors like shoe width, style, and manufacturer-specific sizing can lead to differences. Always check the brand’s specific size chart and consider customer reviews for better insight.