Complete Guide to Shoe Size Conversion
Shopping for shoes internationally can be confusing with different countries using different sizing systems. Our Shoe Size Conversion Calculator helps you find your equivalent size in US, European (EU), UK, and other international sizing standards. Whether you're buying shoes from overseas retailers or helping someone find their size, this tool provides accurate conversions.
Understanding Different Shoe Size Systems
US Sizing System
The United States uses a Brannock Device-based system, with separate scales for men, women, and children. The key difference between men's and women's US sizes is that women's sizes are 1.5 sizes larger than men's for the same foot length. For example, a US men's size 8 equals a US women's size 9.5.
European (EU) Sizing System
European sizing uses the Paris Point system, where each size represents approximately 6.67mm (2/3 cm) of foot length. EU sizes are unisex—a EU 42 is the same size whether labeled for men or women. The formula to convert from US men's to EU is:
UK Sizing System
The UK system is similar to the US system but starts from a different baseline. UK sizes are approximately 1 size smaller than US men's sizes and 2 sizes smaller than US women's sizes. Like the US, the UK has different scales for men and women, though the gap is smaller.
Korean Sizing System
Korea (and some other Asian countries) uses millimeter-based sizing that directly corresponds to foot length. A Korean size 270 means the shoe is designed for a foot that is 270mm (27 cm) long. This is often called "Mondopoint" sizing.
Conversion Formulas
| Conversion | Formula |
|---|---|
| US Men's → EU | EU = (US × 1.27) + 29.94 |
| US Women's → EU | EU = (US × 1.27) + 28.67 |
| US Men's → UK | UK = US - 1 |
| US Women's → UK | UK = US - 2 |
| US Men's → Women's | Women's = Men's + 1.5 |
| Foot Length → Korean | Korean (mm) = Foot Length (cm) × 10 |
Foot Length to Shoe Size
The most accurate way to determine your shoe size is by measuring your foot length. Here's how to do it:
- Stand on paper: Place a piece of paper against a wall and stand on it with your heel against the wall
- Mark the longest point: Mark where your longest toe ends
- Measure the distance: Measure from the wall to the mark in centimeters
- Measure both feet: Most people have slightly different-sized feet—use the larger measurement
- Add room: Add 0.5-1 cm for comfort (shoes should have some space at the toe)
Men's vs Women's Size Differences
There are key differences between men's and women's shoe sizes beyond just the number:
- Width: Men's shoes are typically wider (D width) while women's are narrower (B width)
- Size offset: Women's US sizes are 1.5 larger than men's (Men's 8 = Women's 9.5)
- Heel design: Women's shoes often have a narrower heel cup
- Arch: Women's shoes may have a slightly different arch position
Quick Conversion Tip
To convert men's to women's US sizes: add 1.5
To convert women's to men's US sizes: subtract 1.5
Example: Men's size 8 = Women's size 9.5
Difficulties in Shoe Size Conversion
While our calculator provides accurate mathematical conversions, there are several factors that can affect actual fit:
Brand Variations
Different shoe brands use slightly different lasts (foot-shaped forms) to make their shoes. Nike, for example, tends to run small, while New Balance often runs true to size. Dress shoe brands like Allen Edmonds may run large. Always check brand-specific sizing guides.
Shoe Type Differences
The same brand may size athletic shoes differently from dress shoes or boots. Athletic shoes often have more flexible sizing, while dress shoes tend to be more precise.
Width Considerations
Shoe sizes only represent length. If you have wide (W, 2E) or narrow (N, 2A) feet, you may need a different size than the conversion suggests. Wide-footed people sometimes size up, while narrow-footed people may size down.
Children's Shoe Sizes
Children's sizes use different scales than adult sizes. In the US, children's sizes typically go from 0 (newborn) to 13, then reset for "youth" sizes 1-7 before transitioning to adult sizes. Key points:
- Children's sizes often have 'C' suffix (e.g., 10C)
- Youth sizes may have 'Y' suffix (e.g., 4Y)
- Youth size 7 is approximately equal to adult men's size 7
- Always measure children's feet—they grow quickly!
International Shopping Tips
Buying from European Retailers
When shopping from European websites, remember that EU sizes are unisex. A EU 42 is the same whether in the men's or women's section. However, the shoe design (width, shape) will still differ.
Buying from UK Retailers
UK retailers sometimes list sizes as "UK/EU" which shows both. Always check if the size listed is UK or EU, as the numbers are quite different.
Buying from Asian Markets
Korean, Japanese, and Chinese markets often use centimeter or millimeter sizing. This is actually more precise since it directly relates to foot length. A 270 Korean size fits a 27cm foot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is my EU size if I'm US 10?
A US men's size 10 is approximately EU 43-44. A US women's size 10 is approximately EU 41-42. Use our calculator above for exact conversions.
How do I convert men's to women's sizes?
Add 1.5 to convert from men's to women's US sizes. For example, men's 8 = women's 9.5. For UK sizes, add 1. EU sizes are unisex, so no conversion is needed (but check the width).
Are UK and US sizes the same?
No. UK sizes are approximately 1 size smaller than US men's sizes and 2 sizes smaller than US women's. A US men's 10 is a UK 9, while a US women's 10 is a UK 8.
Why do my shoes fit differently in different brands?
Brands use different lasts (shoe forms), and there's no universal standard enforcing exact sizing. Manufacturing variations and different target markets also contribute to size discrepancies between brands.
Should I size up or down when buying online?
If between sizes, most experts recommend sizing up for athletic shoes (your feet swell during activity) and going true to size or down for dress shoes (leather stretches). Always check the return policy before ordering.