Navigating the world of shoe sizes can often feel like deciphering a secret code. With various sizing systems used globally, finding the perfect fit, especially when shopping online or exploring international brands, can be challenging. If you’ve ever been puzzled by “Euro Sizes,” you’re not alone. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about European shoe sizes, ensuring you always step out in comfort and style.
Understanding Euro Shoe Sizes
The European shoe sizing system, often abbreviated as EU or Euro sizes, is a common standard used across Europe and in many other parts of the world. Unlike US or UK sizing, which use increments of shoe length that are not always consistent or easily understandable, Euro sizes are based on a system called Paris Points. A Paris Point is equivalent to 2/3 of a centimeter (approximately 6.67mm). Shoe length in the Euro system is measured by the insole, and each full Euro size increments by one Paris Point.
Why Euro Sizes Matter?
For international shoppers and those seeking consistency, understanding Euro sizes is invaluable. Here’s why:
- Global Standard: Euro sizes are widely recognized, making it easier to shop for shoes from European brands or websites. Many popular athletic and fashion brands utilize the Euro sizing system.
- More Granular Sizing: The slightly smaller increments between Euro sizes can sometimes offer a more precise fit compared to US or UK half sizes, potentially leading to greater comfort, especially for specialized footwear like running shoes or hiking boots.
- Reduced Confusion: While conversions are still necessary when comparing to US or UK sizes, understanding the base measurement in Paris Points provides a more logical foundation than some other systems.
Finding Your Euro Size: Conversion Charts and Measurement Tips
The most accurate way to determine your Euro shoe size is to measure your foot length and use a conversion chart. Here’s how:
- Measure Your Feet: Place a piece of paper against a wall and stand on it with your heel against the wall. Mark the longest point of your foot (usually the big toe or second toe) on the paper. Measure the distance from the wall to the mark in inches or centimeters. It’s best to measure both feet as one may be slightly larger than the other – use the measurement of the larger foot.
- Consult a Conversion Chart: Use the charts below to find your corresponding Euro size based on your foot measurement in inches or centimeters. Remember these charts are approximations, and slight variations can occur between brands.
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 |
FAQs About Euro Sizes and Shoe Fitting
- What if I’m between Euro sizes? Similar to US sizing, if you are between Euro sizes, especially for athletic or active footwear, it is generally recommended to size up. This allows for foot swelling during activity and ensures comfort.
- Does a Euro half size exist? The Euro system primarily uses whole sizes. However, the smaller increments between each whole size sometimes negate the need for half sizes as the fit can be more precise. If you typically wear a half size in US sizing, consult a conversion chart and consider trying both the closest Euro whole sizes to see which feels more comfortable.
- Are Euro sizes unisex? Euro sizes themselves are not gender-specific. However, shoe lasts (the foot-shaped forms shoes are built around) and size charts can differ between men’s and women’s styles. Always refer to the specific brand’s size chart when available.
- Why do some brands fit differently even within Euro sizes? Just like with US sizes, variations exist between brands due to different shoe lasts, designs, and manufacturing processes. A Euro size 40 from one brand might feel slightly different from a size 40 in another. Reading reviews and understanding brand-specific sizing information is always a good practice.
Image below: A Brannock device is a tool used by shoe experts to measure foot length and width, assisting in accurate shoe sizing across different systems, including Euro sizes.
Brannock device accurately measures shoe size for euro conversions
Step into the Right Fit
Understanding Euro shoe sizes is a key step towards ensuring comfortable and well-fitting footwear, especially in a global marketplace. By measuring your feet accurately and utilizing conversion charts, you can confidently choose the right Euro size and enjoy happy feet wherever your adventures take you.
