Navigating the world of shoe sizes can feel like deciphering a secret code. Especially when you’re dealing with European (EUR) sizes and trying to figure out their US equivalents. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “What exactly is a EUR size 36 in US shoe sizes?”, you’re definitely not alone. This guide is designed to clear up the confusion and provide you with everything you need to know about converting EUR 36 to US sizes, ensuring you find the perfect fit every time.
Understanding international shoe size conversions is crucial, particularly when shopping online or buying shoes from European brands. Different regions use different sizing systems, which can lead to frustrating guesswork. Let’s break down the key differences and get straight to the answer you’re looking for: EUR size 36 typically translates to a US women’s size 5.5.
However, shoe size conversion isn’t always a perfect science. Variations can occur between brands and even shoe styles. This guide will not only give you the direct conversion but also equip you with the knowledge and tools to measure your feet accurately and confidently choose the right shoe size, no matter where your shoes are from.
Understanding Shoe Size Systems: US, EUR, and UK
Before we dive deeper into EUR size 36, let’s briefly understand the common shoe size systems you’ll encounter:
- US Sizes: Primarily used in the United States, these sizes are numerically based and differ for men, women, and children.
- EUR Sizes: The European sizing system is widely used across Europe and many other parts of the world. It’s a unisex system, meaning the same numbering applies to both men’s and women’s shoes, although the actual foot size can differ.
- UK Sizes: The United Kingdom uses its own sizing system, which is also different from both US and EUR.
The challenge arises because these systems aren’t directly linear and don’t always align perfectly. Conversion charts are essential tools to bridge these gaps.
Women’s Shoe Size Chart: Finding Your US Size from EUR 36
For women’s shoes, EUR size 36 is a common size. Here’s a detailed conversion chart to help you find your corresponding US size and other equivalents:
| 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 |
As you can see from the chart, a EUR size 36 corresponds directly to a US women’s size 5.5. It’s also equivalent to a UK size 3.5. The foot length for this size is approximately 8.75 inches or 22.2 centimeters.
Men’s Shoe Size Chart: EUR 36 in the Context of Men’s Sizes
While EUR size 36 is more common for women, it can sometimes appear in smaller men’s sizes or unisex styles. Here’s the 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 |
For men’s sizes, EUR 36 is not typically listed. This chart starts at EUR 39 which is a US men’s size 6. If you encounter a men’s or unisex shoe in EUR size 36, it would still align with the foot length of approximately 8.75 inches or 22.2 cm, making it closer to a youth or very small men’s size if considering men’s sizing charts. However, it’s more reliably a women’s US 5.5. Always refer to the specific brand’s size chart when possible.
Kid’s Shoe Size Conversions: EUR 36 in Children’s Sizes
It’s also helpful to see where EUR size 36 fits within children’s shoe sizes. Here are charts for big kids and little kids:
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 |
In big kid’s sizes, EUR 36 corresponds to a US size 4. In little kid’s sizes, EUR 36 is beyond the range of this chart, indicating it’s generally too large for this age group.
How to Measure Your Feet for Accurate Shoe Sizing
While conversion charts are helpful, the most accurate way to determine your shoe size is to measure your feet. Here’s how:
- Time it Right: Measure your feet in the afternoon or evening, as they tend to swell throughout the day.
- Wear Socks: Wear the type of socks you’ll typically wear with the shoes you’re buying.
- Trace Your Foot: Place a piece of paper on a hard floor against a wall. Stand on the paper with your heel against the wall. Have someone trace the outline of your foot.
- Measure Length: Use a ruler to measure the longest distance from the heel to the longest toe in inches or centimeters.
- Compare to Charts: Use the inch or cm measurement and refer to the size charts above to find your corresponding US, EUR, and UK sizes.
Image below: Using a Brannock device to measure foot length and width for accurate shoe sizing.
Measuring shoe size with a Brannock device for accurate fit
For the most precise measurement, especially for shoe shopping, consider using a Brannock device, which is commonly found in shoe stores. It measures both the length and width of your foot, providing a more comprehensive sizing assessment.
Tips for Choosing the Right Shoe Size
- Size Up if Between Sizes: If your measurement falls between two sizes, it’s generally recommended to size up, especially for athletic shoes or hiking boots where you might wear thicker socks and need room for foot movement.
- Consider Shoe Type: Sizing can vary slightly depending on the type of shoe. For example, running shoes might fit differently than dress shoes.
- Account for Foot Swelling: Remember your feet swell throughout the day. Try on shoes in the late afternoon or evening to ensure a comfortable fit when your feet are at their largest.
- Width Matters: Don’t forget about shoe width! If you have wide feet, look for shoes specifically offered in wider widths for optimal comfort.
- Read Brand Specific Size Charts: Always check the brand’s specific size chart when available, as there can be slight variations between manufacturers.
FAQs About Shoe Sizes
- What if I am between shoe sizes? It’s generally best to size up, especially for active and sports shoes. This is crucial for running shoes and hiking boots to prevent discomfort and injury.
- Does 0.5 size make a difference in shoes? Absolutely! Even a half size difference can significantly impact comfort. Shoes that are too small can cause blisters, lost toenails, and bunions, common issues for runners and hikers.
- Is one foot bigger than the other? Yes, it’s very common. Always fit shoes to your larger foot.
- Should shoes be tight or loose? Neither! Shoes should be comfortably snug. You should have about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. You should also be able to fit an index finger snugly between your heel and the back of the shoe.
- When should I try on shoes? Try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are most swollen to ensure a comfortable fit throughout the day.
Conclusion: EUR Size 36 is US Women’s Size 5.5 – But Measure to Be Sure!
In conclusion, EUR size 36 generally converts to a US women’s size 5.5. However, remember that this is a general conversion. For the most accurate fit, always measure your feet and consult size charts, ideally brand-specific ones. Understanding shoe size conversions empowers you to shop confidently for footwear from anywhere in the world, ensuring comfort and performance. Use these charts and tips as your guide to finding the perfect fit, every step of the way!
