Shoe Size Converter

Why Shoe Sizes Are So Confusing

There is no universal shoe sizing standard. The US, UK, EU, and Asian markets all use different scales based on different measurement principles, and even within the same system, sizes vary between manufacturers by as much as a full size. A US men's 10 from Nike fits differently than a US men's 10 from New Balance, which fits differently than one from a dress shoe brand like Allen Edmonds. The number on the box is a starting point for trying shoes on, not a guarantee of fit.

US and UK sizes are based on the "barleycorn" — a unit equal to one-third of an inch. Each full size represents one barleycorn (8.47mm) of additional foot length. Half sizes split the difference. European sizes use the "Paris point," equal to two-thirds of a centimeter (6.67mm). Asian sizes typically use centimeters of foot length directly, which is the most logical system but the least familiar to Western shoppers.

How to Actually Get the Right Size Online

Measure your foot in centimeters — this is the most universal and reliable way to find your size in any system. Stand on a piece of paper, mark the heel and longest toe, and measure the distance. Your foot is probably longer than you think because you have been wearing shoes that are slightly too small (most people do). Add 1-1.5 cm to your measurement for comfortable fit with walking room.

Always check the brand's specific size chart rather than relying on generic conversion tables. Nike runs about half a size small. Adidas is true to size. New Balance runs wide. European brands (Zara, H&M) vary wildly. The 10 minutes spent checking the brand's chart saves the days-to-weeks hassle of returning and exchanging shoes ordered in the wrong size.

Width Matters as Much as Length

Standard shoe widths in the US run from B (narrow) through D (standard for men, wide for women) to EE and EEE (extra wide). Most shoes are sold in standard width only, which means roughly 30% of the population — those with narrow or wide feet — are wearing shoes that do not fit properly in width even when the length is correct. If you experience toe cramping, bunions, or blisters on the sides of your feet, you likely need a different width, not a different length.

What is my EU size if I wear US men's 10?

A US men's 10 typically converts to EU 43. However, this varies by brand — always check the specific brand's size chart. When in doubt, measure your foot in centimeters (approximately 28cm for a US 10) and match to the brand's CM-based chart.

Are women's sizes different from men's?

Yes. Women's US sizes run approximately 1.5 sizes larger than men's for the same foot length. A women's US 8.5 is roughly equivalent to a men's US 7. UK and EU sizes are the same for both genders, which simplifies cross-gender shopping in those systems.