UK to US Shoe Size Converter

Easily convert shoe sizes between UK and US systems. Select your gender and enter your shoe size for accurate conversion with our comprehensive size charts.

Half sizes are supported (e.g., 9.5)

Size Conversion Result

🇬🇧
UK Size
9
→
🇺🇸
US Size
10
⚠️

Important: Shoe sizes can vary between brands and shoe types. This converter provides a general guide based on standard sizing. We recommend trying shoes on before purchasing, especially when buying from a new brand.

Complete Size Conversion Chart

UK US EU Foot Length (cm) Foot Length (in)

Understanding UK and US Shoe Sizes

Shopping for shoes internationally can be confusing, especially when dealing with different sizing systems. The UK and US both use numerical sizing systems, but they don't align perfectly. Understanding the differences and knowing how to convert between them is essential for anyone purchasing shoes from overseas retailers or international brands.

The Conversion Formula

The conversion between UK and US shoe sizes follows a simple pattern based on the traditional "barleycorn" sizing unit, which has been used in footwear manufacturing for centuries.

For Men: US Size = UK Size + 1

For Women: US Size = UK Size + 2

Examples

Why Are There Different Sizing Systems?

Shoe sizing systems developed independently in different countries, leading to the variety we see today. The UK and US systems are both based on the "barleycorn" unit—an old English measurement equal to 1/3 of an inch (8.47mm).

The Barleycorn System

In the barleycorn system, each full size represents a difference of one barleycorn (1/3 inch) in foot length. Half sizes, therefore, represent 1/6 of an inch. Both UK and US sizes use this incremental system, but they start from different reference points, which is why the offset exists.

Historical Note: The barleycorn measurement dates back to medieval England, where three barleycorns laid end-to-end were defined as one inch. King Edward II standardized this measurement in the 14th century, and it has been used in shoe sizing ever since!

Other International Size Systems

In addition to UK and US sizes, you may encounter other sizing systems when shopping internationally:

System Countries Measurement Basis
European (EU/Continental) Most of Europe Paris Point (2/3 cm)
Mondopoint ISO Standard, Military Foot length in mm
Japanese Japan Foot length in cm
Korean South Korea Foot length in mm

How to Measure Your Foot

For the most accurate shoe size, you should measure your feet properly. Here's a step-by-step guide:

FOOT LENGTH

Measure from heel to longest toe for accurate sizing

  1. Gather materials: You'll need a piece of paper larger than your foot, a pencil, a ruler or tape measure, and a wall.
  2. Position yourself: Stand on the paper with your heel against the wall. It's best to do this in the afternoon when feet are slightly larger.
  3. Trace your foot: Have someone trace around your foot while keeping the pencil perpendicular to the paper.
  4. Measure the length: Measure from the heel to the tip of your longest toe (not always the big toe!).
  5. Measure the width: Measure across the widest part of your foot tracing.
  6. Repeat for both feet: Feet often differ in size. Use the larger measurement when selecting shoes.

Width Sizing

In addition to length, shoe width is an important factor that many people overlook. Both UK and US systems use letter designations for width:

Width Code Men's Description Women's Description
AA / N Narrow Narrow
B / M Narrow Medium (Standard)
D / M Medium (Standard) Wide
E / W Wide Extra Wide
EE / WW Extra Wide Extra Extra Wide

Tips for Buying Shoes Internationally

  1. Check brand-specific size charts: Many brands provide their own conversion charts that may differ slightly from standard conversions.
  2. Read reviews: Customer reviews often mention whether shoes run large, small, or true to size.
  3. Consider the shoe type: Athletic shoes, dress shoes, and boots may all fit differently even within the same size.
  4. Account for socks: If you typically wear thick socks with certain shoes, factor this into your size selection.
  5. Check return policies: When buying internationally, ensure you can return shoes if they don't fit correctly.

Pro Tip: When in doubt, go half a size up rather than down. Shoes that are slightly too large can be adjusted with insoles, while shoes that are too small will be uncomfortable and can cause foot problems.

Children's Shoe Size Conversion

Children's shoe sizes follow a similar pattern but have their own scale. The conversion between UK and US children's sizes is typically:

Children's feet grow rapidly—about half a size every 2-4 months during the first few years. Always measure children's feet before purchasing new shoes.

Common Size Conversion Mistakes

Here are some common errors people make when converting shoe sizes:

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