Navigating the world of shoe sizes can often feel like deciphering a secret code. With various sizing systems used globally, it’s no wonder you might find yourself scratching your head trying to figure out your correct fit. If you’ve ever stared at a shoe labeled “Euro 39” and wondered what that translates to in US sizes, you’re definitely not alone. This guide will clearly break down the conversion, ensuring you find the perfect shoe fit every time, no matter where in the world the sizing originated.
Understanding shoe size conversions is crucial, especially when shopping online or purchasing shoes from international brands. Getting it wrong can lead to discomfort, blisters, and even foot problems down the line. Let’s demystify the process and get you confidently converting Euro sizes to US sizes.
To directly answer the burning question: A Euro size 39 typically converts to a US women’s size 8.5 or a US men’s size 6. However, like with any conversion, it’s not always perfectly straightforward. There can be slight variations between brands, and even between different shoe types within the same brand. Therefore, relying solely on a direct conversion might not always be the best approach. Let’s delve deeper into the nuances of shoe sizing and how to ensure accuracy.
Understanding Shoe Size Systems: US vs. Euro
Before we jump into charts, it’s helpful to understand the basics of these sizing systems. Both US and European shoe sizes are based on foot length, but they use different measurement scales. The European system, also known as the Paris Point system, is based on the French unit of measure called the “point,” where one point is equal to 2/3 of a centimeter. The US system, on the other hand, uses inches and fractions thereof.
Essentially, both systems aim to represent the length of the last, the foot-shaped form around which the shoe is constructed. However, the starting point and increments differ, leading to the need for conversion charts. Furthermore, the width of the foot, although less consistently addressed in standard sizing, also plays a crucial role in overall shoe fit.
Conversion Charts: Euro 39 to US Size and Beyond
While knowing that Euro 39 roughly translates to a US size is a good starting point, using a detailed conversion chart is always recommended for greater precision. Here are comprehensive charts for women’s, men’s, and kids’ shoe sizes, including Euro to US conversions:
Women’s Shoe Size Conversion Chart
| 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 Conversion Chart
| 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 Conversion Chart (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 Conversion Chart (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 |
These charts provide a comprehensive look at shoe size conversions across different systems. When looking at Euro size 39, you can clearly see its corresponding US sizes for men, women, and children. Remember to always double-check the specific brand’s size chart if available, as slight variations can occur.
Measuring Your Feet for the Best Fit
While conversion charts are incredibly useful, the most accurate way to determine your shoe size is by measuring your feet. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to measure your foot length at home:
- Time it Right: Measure your feet in the afternoon or evening. Your feet tend to swell throughout the day, and measuring later will give you a more accurate size for all-day comfort.
- Gather Supplies: You’ll need a piece of paper larger than your foot, a pencil, and a ruler or measuring tape.
- Trace Your Foot: Place the paper on a hard floor against a wall. Stand with your heel against the wall and place your foot on the paper. Make sure your weight is evenly distributed.
- Mark the Length: Using the pencil, trace the outline of your foot. It’s crucial to keep the pencil vertical and trace as closely to your foot as possible. Mark the longest point of your toes and the back of your heel.
- Measure the Distance: Use the ruler or measuring tape to measure the distance between the heel mark and the longest toe mark in inches or centimeters. This is your foot length.
- Compare to Size Chart: Refer to the inch or centimeter measurements in the size charts above to find your corresponding US and Euro size.
- Measure Both Feet: It’s common for one foot to be slightly larger than the other. Measure both feet and use the measurement of the larger foot to determine your shoe size.
Person measuring foot length with ruler and paper
Tips for Finding the Right Shoe Size
Beyond conversions and measurements, here are some additional tips to ensure you get the best shoe fit:
- Size Up if in Between: If your measurement falls between two sizes, it’s generally recommended to choose the larger size, especially for athletic shoes like running shoes or hiking boots. This allows for foot swelling during activity and prevents discomfort.
- Consider Shoe Width: While standard size charts primarily focus on length, width is also crucial. If you know you have wider feet, look for brands and styles that offer wider widths.
- Try Shoes On With Socks: When trying on shoes, especially for sports or outdoor activities, wear the type of socks you’ll typically wear with those shoes. This will affect the fit.
- Shop at the End of the Day: As mentioned earlier, feet swell throughout the day. Shopping for shoes later in the day can help you avoid choosing shoes that become too tight later on.
- Listen to Your Feet: Ultimately, comfort is key. Don’t rely solely on size numbers. Walk around in the shoes, flex your feet, and ensure there’s enough room in the toe box and no pinching or rubbing anywhere.
FAQ: Common Shoe Size Questions
What if I am between shoe sizes?
We recommend you should size up, especially in active & sports shoes. This includes running shoes and hiking boots.
Does 0.5 size make a difference in shoes?
Yes, it certainly does! Wearing shoes that are too small can cause pain and injuries. Blisters, loss of toenails, and bunions can all result from wearing shoes that are even 0.5 size too small. These are common ailments of beginner runners.
Is one foot bigger than the other?
It is common for people to have one foot that is slightly bigger than the other. Our tip is that you should buy shoes that fit the larger foot (buy pairs of shoes in the larger size of the two).
Should shoes be tight or loose?
Unfortunately, this is not a simple question. Shoes should not be too tight or too loose. You should be able to put a thumb’s width at the end of your toe box, between your big toe and the pointy end of the shoe. You should also be able to snugly fit your index finger between your heel and the back of the shoe. If you have not much (or not enough!) space in either of these areas, try a different size shoe.
When should I try on shoes?
A great tip for runners is to try on running shoes at the end of a workday. As you run, just like when you are on your feet for work, your feet swell. You will want to try on running shoes when your feet are at their largest. This allows them to still fit comfortably after a long-distance run.
What size shoe should I buy?
This shoe chart is not a guarantee your shoes will fit. If you are in the area of Memphis, Tennessee, run on in to one of our running specialty & gear stores and our experienced fit experts will help you out!
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Fit Across Sizes
Understanding shoe size conversions, particularly knowing what a Euro size 39 means in US sizing, is a valuable skill for any shoe shopper. By using conversion charts, accurately measuring your feet, and following our helpful tips, you can confidently choose shoes that fit comfortably and support your feet whether you are buying Euro-sized shoes online or US-sized shoes in a local store. Remember, a well-fitting shoe is an investment in your foot health and overall comfort.
