Navigating shoe sizes across different countries can be confusing, especially when you’re trying to convert European sizes to US sizes. Whether you’re shopping online, planning a trip to Europe, or simply curious, understanding shoe size conversions is essential for finding the perfect fit. This comprehensive guide provides you with accurate shoe size charts, helpful tips for measuring your feet, and answers to frequently asked questions, ensuring you confidently find your correct shoe size every time.
Understanding Shoe Size Systems: US, Euro, and UK
Before diving into conversions, it’s helpful to understand the primary shoe size systems you’ll encounter:
- US Sizes: Predominantly used in the United States, these sizes are numerical and distinct for men, women, and children.
- Euro Sizes: Also numerical, European sizes (EU) are widely used across Europe and are based on the metric system, specifically the Paris Point.
- UK Sizes: Used in the United Kingdom, these sizes are also numerical, but different from both US and Euro sizes.
Knowing these differences is the first step in accurately converting your shoe size. Let’s explore the conversion charts to find your equivalent US size from your Euro size.
Women’s Shoe Size Conversion Chart: Euro to US
This chart provides a detailed conversion from Euro shoe sizes to US women’s shoe sizes, along with corresponding UK sizes, and foot length in inches and centimeters.
| Euro Sizes | US Sizes | UK Sizes | Inches | CM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 35 | 4 | 2 | 8.1875″ | 20.8 |
| 35 | 4.5 | 2.5 | 8.375″ | 21.3 |
| 35-36 | 5 | 3 | 8.5″ | 21.6 |
| 36 | 5.5 | 3.5 | 8.75″ | 22.2 |
| 36-37 | 6 | 4 | 8.875″ | 22.5 |
| 37 | 6.5 | 4.5 | 9.0625″ | 23 |
| 37-38 | 7 | 5 | 9.25″ | 23.5 |
| 38 | 7.5 | 5.5 | 9.375″ | 23.8 |
| 38-39 | 8 | 6 | 9.5″ | 24.1 |
| 39 | 8.5 | 6.5 | 9.6875″ | 24.6 |
| 39-40 | 9 | 7 | 9.875″ | 25.1 |
| 40 | 9.5 | 7.5 | 10″ | 25.4 |
| 40-41 | 10 | 8 | 10.1875″ | 25.9 |
| 41 | 10.5 | 8.5 | 10.3125″ | 26.2 |
| 41-42 | 11 | 9 | 10.5″ | 26.7 |
| 42 | 11.5 | 9.5 | 10.6875″ | 27.1 |
| 42-43 | 12 | 10 | 10.875″ | 27.6 |
Men’s Shoe Size Conversion Chart: Euro to US
For men’s footwear, use this chart to convert your European shoe size to its US equivalent. You’ll also find UK sizes and foot measurements for reference.
| Euro Sizes | US Sizes | UK Sizes | Inches | CM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 39 | 6 | 5.5 | 9.25″ | 23.5 |
| 39 | 6.5 | 6 | 9.5″ | 24.1 |
| 40 | 7 | 6.5 | 9.625″ | 24.4 |
| 40-41 | 7.5 | 7 | 9.75″ | 24.8 |
| 41 | 8 | 7.5 | 9.9375″ | 25.4 |
| 41-42 | 8.5 | 8 | 10.125″ | 25.7 |
| 42 | 9 | 8.5 | 10.25″ | 26 |
| 42-43 | 9.5 | 9 | 10.4375″ | 26.7 |
| 43 | 10 | 9.5 | 10.5625″ | 27 |
| 43-44 | 10.5 | 10 | 10.75″ | 27.3 |
| 44 | 11 | 10.5 | 10.9375″ | 27.9 |
| 44-45 | 11.5 | 11 | 11.125″ | 28.3 |
| 45 | 12 | 11.5 | 11.25″ | 28.6 |
| 46 | 13 | 12.5 | 11.5625″ | 29.4 |
| 47 | 14 | 13.5 | 11.875″ | 30.2 |
| 48 | 15 | 14.5 | 12.1875″ | 31 |
| 49 | 16 | 15.5 | 12.5″ | 31.8 |
Kid’s Shoe Size Conversion Charts: Euro to US
Finding the right shoe size for children requires extra attention. Here are two charts for big kids and little kids to help you convert Euro to US shoe sizes accurately.
Big Kid Shoe Size Conversions (7 – 12 years)
| Euro Sizes | US Sizes | UK Sizes | Inches | CM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 35 | 3.5 | 2.5 | 8.625″ | 21.9 |
| 36 | 4 | 3 | 8.75″ | 22.2 |
| 36 | 4.5 | 3.5 | 9″ | 22.9 |
| 37 | 5 | 4 | 9.125″ | 23.2 |
| 37 | 5.5 | 4.5 | 9.25″ | 23.5 |
| 38 | 6 | 5 | 9.5″ | 24.1 |
| 38 | 6.5 | 5.5 | 9.625″ | 24.4 |
| 39 | 7 | 6 | 9.75″ | 24.8 |
Little Kid Shoe Size Conversions (4 – 7 years)
| Euro Sizes | US Sizes | UK Sizes | Inches | CM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 27 | 10.5 | 9.5 | 6.625″ | 16.8 |
| 28 | 11 | 10 | 6.75″ | 17.1 |
| 29 | 11.5 | 10.5 | 7″ | 17.8 |
| 30 | 12 | 11 | 7.125″ | 18.1 |
| 30 | 12.5 | 11.5 | 7.25″ | 18.4 |
| 31 | 13 | 12 | 7.5″ | 19.1 |
| 31 | 13.5 | 12.5 | 7.625″ | 19.4 |
| 32 | 1 | 13 | 7.75″ | 19.7 |
| 33 | 1.5 | 14 | 8″ | 20.3 |
| 33 | 2 | 1 | 8.125″ | 20.6 |
| 34 | 2.5 | 1.5 | 8.25″ | 21 |
| 34 | 3 | 2 | 8.5″ | 21.6 |
How to Measure Your Foot for Accurate Shoe Sizing
While conversion charts are helpful, accurate foot measurement is crucial for the best shoe fit. Here’s how you can measure your foot length at home:
- Prepare: Wear the socks you’d typically wear with the shoes you intend to buy. Place a piece of paper larger than your foot on the floor against a wall.
- Position Your Foot: Stand on the paper with your heel against the wall.
- Mark the Longest Point: Use a pencil to mark the longest point of your foot, which is usually the tip of your big toe.
- Measure the Length: Use a ruler or measuring tape to measure the distance from the edge of the paper (where your heel was) to the mark you made. This is your foot length.
- Compare to Charts: Compare your foot length in inches or centimeters to the charts above to find your corresponding US and Euro shoe size.
Remember to measure both feet, as one foot is often slightly larger than the other. Use the measurement of the larger foot when choosing your shoe size.
Brannock device used to measure foot length and width for accurate shoe sizing
For even more accurate measurements, especially for shoe width, consider using a Brannock device, a tool commonly used in shoe stores.
FAQ & Tips for Choosing the Right Shoe Size
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What if I’m between shoe sizes? It’s generally recommended to size up, particularly for athletic or sports shoes like running shoes and hiking boots. This allows for foot swelling and prevents discomfort during activity.
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Does a 0.5 size difference matter? Yes! A half size can significantly impact comfort. Shoes that are too small can lead to blisters, lost toenails, and bunions, especially common issues for runners.
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Is it normal for one foot to be bigger? Absolutely. Most people have one foot slightly larger than the other. Always choose shoe size based on the larger foot.
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How should shoes fit – tight or loose? Shoes should be neither too tight nor too loose. Aim for about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the shoe’s end. You should also be able to fit an index finger snugly between your heel and the back of the shoe.
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When is the best time to try on shoes? For runners, try shoes on at the end of the day. Feet swell throughout the day, especially after being on your feet or exercising. Trying shoes on when your feet are largest ensures a comfortable fit even during activities.
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Is this shoe size chart a guarantee? While these charts are a great guide, variations can occur between brands and shoe types. Whenever possible, especially for important footwear like running or hiking shoes, try shoes on in person.
Conclusion
Understanding shoe size conversions, particularly from Euro to US sizes, is crucial for online shopping and ensuring comfortable footwear. By using these comprehensive charts and following our measurement tips, you can confidently select the right shoe size. Remember that these charts are a starting point, and trying shoes on whenever possible is always the best way to guarantee a perfect fit. Happy shoe shopping!
