Navigating the world of shoe sizes can often feel like deciphering a secret code. Different countries use different sizing systems, and what’s a perfect fit in one system might leave you puzzled in another. If you’ve ever stared at a shoe size chart wondering “What exactly is a size 42 in US shoes?”, you’re definitely not alone. This guide will demystify shoe size conversions, specifically focusing on converting Euro size 42 to US sizes for both men and women, ensuring you find the perfect fit every time you shop online or across borders.
Understanding European Shoe Sizes
The European shoe sizing system, often abbreviated as EU or Euro sizing, is widely used across Europe and in many other parts of the world. Unlike the US system which uses a base of approximately 1/3 inch increments, the European system is based on a French point, where one French point is equal to 2/3 of a centimeter. This difference in measurement units is a primary reason for the confusion when converting between EU and US shoe sizes.
Converting Euro Size 42 to US Size
So, let’s get straight to the point: What is Size 42 Euro To Us? A Euro size 42 generally translates to different US sizes for men and women due to variations in foot dimensions between genders.
Size 42 Euro to US for Women
For women, a Euro size 42 typically corresponds to a US women’s size 11. If you are a woman looking for shoes and know your EU size is 42, you should generally look for a US size 11.
Size 42 Euro to US for Men
For men, a Euro size 42 is equivalent to a US men’s size 9. Therefore, if you are a man and wear a Euro size 42, you’ll likely need a US size 9.
It’s important to remember that these are general conversions. Shoe sizes can vary slightly between brands and shoe types. Always consult a specific brand’s shoe size chart when available, especially when purchasing online.
Comprehensive Shoe Size Conversion Charts
To provide a broader context and help with other conversions, here are detailed shoe size conversion charts for women, men, and kids, including US, Euro, UK sizes, and measurements in inches and centimeters.
Women’s Shoe Size Conversions
| 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 Size Conversions
| 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 |
How to Measure Your Shoe Size for Accurate Conversion
While conversion charts are helpful, the most accurate way to determine your shoe size is by measuring your feet. Here’s how:
- Measure your feet in the afternoon or evening: Your feet tend to swell throughout the day, so measuring later in the day provides a more accurate size for all-day comfort.
- Wear the socks you’ll typically wear with the shoes: The thickness of socks can affect shoe size.
- Place a piece of paper against a wall: Stand with your heel against the wall and the paper under your foot.
- Mark the longest point of your foot: This is usually the tip of your big toe, but it could be another toe for some people. Mark this point on the paper.
- Measure the length: Use a ruler or measuring tape to measure from the edge of the paper (where your heel was) to the mark you made. Measure both feet and use the measurement of the larger foot.
- Consult the inch/CM columns in our charts: Find your measurement in inches or centimeters in the charts above to determine your US and Euro size.
For even greater accuracy, especially when buying specialized footwear like running shoes, consider using a Brannock device, a tool commonly found in shoe stores.
Measuring shoe size with a Brannock device, showing foot length and width being assessed.
Image: A Brannock device accurately measures foot length and width for precise shoe sizing.
Tips for Choosing the Right Shoe Size
- Size Up if Between Sizes: If your measurement falls between two sizes, it’s generally recommended to choose the larger size, especially for athletic or outdoor shoes where foot swelling during activity is common.
- Consider Shoe Type: Different types of shoes might fit differently. For example, running shoes often require a thumb’s width of space at the toe to accommodate foot movement, while dress shoes might have a snugger fit.
- Brand Variations: Be aware that shoe sizes can vary slightly between brands. Always check the brand’s specific size chart if available. Some brands, like Altra, Brooks, and Oboz, mentioned earlier, are known to have slight variations in sizing.
- Try Shoes On at the End of the Day: As mentioned earlier, feet swell during the day. Trying on shoes later in the day helps ensure a comfortable fit even when your feet are at their largest.
- Check for Width: Beyond length, foot width is also crucial. If you experience tightness on the sides of your feet, you might need wider shoes. Some brands offer shoes in various widths (narrow, medium, wide, extra-wide).
Conclusion
Understanding shoe size conversions, particularly knowing what size 42 Euro translates to in US sizes, is essential for comfortable and accurate shoe shopping. By using the charts provided, measuring your feet correctly, and considering our helpful tips, you can confidently choose the right shoe size, whether you are buying Euro-sized shoes in the US or vice versa. Remember to prioritize comfort and always refer to brand-specific size charts when available for the best possible fit.
