International Shoe Size Converter
Convert between US, EU, UK, Japan, China, and Australia shoe sizes. Free tool with foot measurement ruler, width guide, and complete size charts for men, women, and kids.
Converted Sizes
Visual Foot Ruler
This represents your foot length measurement
Your Shoe Sizes
📏 How to Measure Your Foot Correctly
- Prepare: Place a piece of paper on a hard floor against a wall.
- Position: Stand barefoot with your heel against the wall.
- Mark: Have someone mark the longest part of your foot (usually the big toe).
- Measure: Use a ruler to measure from the wall to the mark in centimeters or inches.
- Repeat: Measure both feet and use the larger measurement.
- Timing: Measure in the evening when feet are slightly larger.
- Tip: Add 0.5-1 cm (0.2-0.4 in) for comfort, especially for athletic shoes.
| US | EU | UK | Japan (cm) | China (mm) | Australia | Foot Length (cm) |
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Shoe width is just as important as length for a proper fit. Width measurements vary by brand and region, but here are the standard US width categories:
Men's Width Sizes
Narrow
Narrower than standard. For slim feet.
Standard
Most common width. Average foot width.
Wide
Wider than standard. For broader feet.
Extra Wide
Widest option. For very broad feet.
Women's Width Sizes
Narrow
Narrower than standard. For slim feet.
Standard
Most common width. Average foot width.
Wide
Wider than standard. For broader feet.
Extra Wide
Widest option. For very broad feet.
💡 Width Fitting Tips
- If shoes feel tight across the widest part of your foot, you may need a wider width.
- If your foot slides side-to-side, you may need a narrower width.
- Width can vary between brands - always try shoes on when possible.
- Athletic shoes often run wider than dress shoes.
- Feet can change width over time due to age, weight, or pregnancy.
Complete Guide to Shoe Sizing
Understanding shoe sizes across different countries can be confusing. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate international shoe sizing systems and find your perfect fit every time.
How Shoe Sizing Systems Work
United States (US) Sizing: Based on the Brannock Device measurement system. US men's sizes typically range from 6-16, while women's sizes range from 5-12. The system uses a formula where each full size represents 1/3 of an inch (8.47mm) difference in foot length.
European (EU) Sizing: Also known as the Paris Point system, European sizes are based on foot length in centimeters multiplied by 1.5, plus 2. EU sizes are unisex and typically range from 35-48. Unlike US sizing, there are no separate men's and women's scales - the numbers represent the same foot length regardless of gender.
United Kingdom (UK) Sizing: Similar to US sizing but uses a different baseline. UK sizes are typically 1 size smaller than US men's sizes and 2 sizes smaller than US women's sizes. The UK also uses a "barleycorn" measurement (1/3 inch) between sizes.
Japan (JP) Sizing: Japanese shoe sizes are simply the foot length in centimeters. A size 25.5 means your foot is 25.5 cm long. This makes Japanese sizing one of the most straightforward systems, though it's less commonly used outside Japan.
China (CN) Sizing: Chinese sizing uses foot length in millimeters. A size 250 means 250mm or 25cm. This system is gaining popularity and is used by many international shoe manufacturers.
Australia (AU) Sizing: Australian sizing is nearly identical to UK sizing for most brands. However, some Australian brands may use their own sizing systems, so always check the specific brand's size chart.
How to Measure Your Feet for Perfect Shoe Sizing
Accurate foot measurement is essential for finding shoes that fit properly, especially when shopping online. Follow this step-by-step guide to measure your feet correctly.
Step-by-Step Measurement Guide
- Prepare Your Materials: You'll need a blank sheet of paper (larger than your foot), a pen or pencil, a ruler or tape measure, and a wall with a flat floor surface.
- Choose the Right Time: Measure your feet in the evening when they're slightly swollen to their largest size. This ensures your shoes will be comfortable throughout the day.
- Wear Appropriate Socks: Put on the type of socks you'll wear with the shoes. Thick socks for boots or athletic shoes, thin socks for dress shoes.
- Position the Paper: Place the paper on a hard floor against a wall. Carpet can affect accuracy, so avoid soft surfaces.
- Stand and Mark: Stand barefoot with your heel against the wall. Have someone mark the longest point of your foot (usually your big toe, but sometimes your second toe).
- Measure Both Feet: Repeat for both feet. It's common for one foot to be slightly larger - always use the measurement of your larger foot when selecting shoe sizes.
- Measure Length and Width: Measure from the wall to your toe mark for length. For width, measure the widest part of your foot (usually across the ball).
- Add Comfort Space: Add 0.5-1 cm (0.2-0.4 inches) to your measurement for comfort, especially for athletic or hiking shoes where your feet may swell during activity.
Common Measurement Mistakes to Avoid
- Measuring while sitting instead of standing (feet compress when bearing weight)
- Using old shoes as a size reference (shoes stretch over time)
- Measuring in the morning when feet are at their smallest
- Forgetting to measure both feet (they're often different sizes)
- Not accounting for the type of socks you'll wear
Frequently Asked Questions About Shoe Sizing
What is my shoe size in EU if I wear a US 9?
For men's shoes, a US size 9 is approximately EU 42-42.5. For women's shoes, a US size 9 is approximately EU 40. Use our converter tool above for precise conversions based on gender and to see all international size equivalents.
Why do women's and men's shoe sizes differ?
Women's shoe sizes in the US system are typically 1.5-2 sizes larger than men's for the same foot length. This historical difference dates back to when women's shoes were primarily made in smaller sizes. A women's size 8 equals approximately a men's size 6.5. However, in European sizing, there's no gender distinction - a EU 40 is the same foot length whether it's marketed as men's or women's.
Should I size up or down when between sizes?
Generally, it's better to size up if you're between sizes. Shoes that are too tight can cause blisters, bunions, and foot pain, while shoes that are slightly too large can be adjusted with insoles or thicker socks. However, consider the shoe type: athletic shoes should fit snugly, dress shoes can be slightly roomier, and hiking boots need extra toe room for downhill walking.
Do shoe sizes vary by brand?
Yes, significantly. Each brand uses their own lasts (foot molds) and sizing standards. Nike often runs small, Adidas tends to run large, New Balance is true to size but wider, and European luxury brands often run narrow. Always check each brand's specific size chart and read customer reviews about fit before purchasing.
How do I convert my foot length in cm to a shoe size?
Use our Foot Measurement tab above to convert your exact foot length in centimeters or inches to all international shoe sizes. Simply enter your measurement and select your gender to see your size in US, EU, UK, Japan, China, and Australia sizing systems. Remember to add 0.5-1 cm for comfort space when measuring.
What's the difference between D and EE width shoes?
In men's shoes, D is standard width while EE (or 2E) is wide width. Each width grade represents approximately 3/16 of an inch difference. For women, B is standard and D is wide. If your feet feel squeezed at the sides or if you have bunions, you likely need a wider width. If your feet slide side to side, you may need a narrower width.
Can I use this converter for children's shoe sizes?
Yes! Select "Kids'" in the category selector to get accurate conversions for children's shoe sizes. Children's sizing works differently than adult sizing and typically ranges from size 1 (infant) to size 7 (youth). It's especially important to measure children's feet regularly as they grow quickly - check every 2-3 months for young children.
Why don't my shoe sizes match across different shoe types?
Different shoe types fit differently even in the same size. Running shoes are designed with extra toe room (called toe box), dress shoes often fit narrow and sleek, boots account for thicker socks, and sandals depend more on width adjustments. You might be a size 9 in sneakers but a 9.5 in dress shoes. Always try on each shoe type and don't assume your size is universal across all footwear categories.
Brand-Specific Shoe Sizing Guide
Understanding how different brands size their shoes can save you time and returns when shopping online. Here's what you need to know about popular shoe brands.
Athletic Shoe Brands
Nike: Generally runs small to true-to-size. Many customers recommend going up half a size, especially in running shoes. Nike uses narrow lasts, so if you have wide feet, consider sizing up or looking for models in wide widths.
Adidas: Tends to run large and wide. Many people size down half a size from their normal size. Adidas uses European sizing, which can add to confusion. Their Boost technology shoes often fit roomier than their classic models.
New Balance: Runs true to size with generous width options. Known for accommodating wide feet better than most brands. Available in narrow (B), standard (D), wide (2E), and extra-wide (4E) for men, making them ideal if you need specific width sizing.
ASICS: Generally true to size but runs narrow. If you have wide feet, always order wide width. Their Gel-Kayano and GT-2000 models are particularly narrow in the midfoot and toe box.
Brooks: True to size with medium width as standard. Brooks provides accurate sizing guides and their shoes typically match the size you'd wear in other athletic brands. Good option if you're between standard and wide widths.
Fashion and Casual Brands
Converse: Runs large by about half to a full size. Most people size down from their normal shoe size. The Chuck Taylor All-Stars have a particularly roomy fit in the toe box.
Vans: Generally true to size but can feel snug initially. They stretch slightly with wear. If you're between sizes, go with the larger size for immediate comfort.
Dr. Martens: Runs large and roomy. Most wearers recommend sizing down. The boots are designed to be worn with thick socks and have a generous toe box. Keep in mind they require a lengthy break-in period.
Luxury and Designer Brands
Italian Brands (Gucci, Prada, Ferragamo): Generally run small and narrow, typical of European luxury fashion. Often recommended to size up half to a full size from US sizing. These brands typically use EU sizing, so always check conversion charts.
French Brands (Christian Louboutin, Chanel): Run quite small and narrow. Many customers report needing to go up a full size or even 1.5 sizes. Always try on in-store if possible, as returns can be complicated.
📚 Helpful Sizing Guides
- How to Measure Your Feet - Step-by-step measurement guide
- Nike Shoe Size Guide - Nike sizing tips and charts
- Adidas Shoe Size Guide - Adidas sizing tips and charts
- Japan Shoe Size Guide - Understanding JIS sizing
- Kids Shoe Size Guide - Children's sizing by age
- Shoe Width Guide - Understanding width measurements
- Between Sizes Guide - What to do when you're in-between
Complete Guide to Buying Shoes Online
Shopping for shoes online can be tricky, but following these tips will help you find the perfect fit without the frustration of returns.
Essential Tips for Online Shoe Shopping
- Know Your Exact Measurements: Don't just rely on your "usual size." Measure your feet using our guide above and keep these measurements handy when shopping.
- Read the Brand's Size Chart: Every brand provides a size chart. Compare your foot measurements to their chart rather than just ordering your typical size.
- Check Customer Reviews: Look for reviews that mention sizing. Phrases like "runs small," "order half size up," or "true to size" are goldmines of information.
- Consider the Shoe Type: Running shoes, dress shoes, boots, and sandals all fit differently even within the same brand. Check sizing specific to the shoe category.
- Understand Return Policies: Before purchasing, verify the return policy. Free returns give you peace of mind to order multiple sizes if needed.
- Order Multiple Sizes: If you're unsure, order two sizes and return what doesn't fit. This is faster than waiting for an exchange and ensures you get the right fit.
- Shop from Retailers with Good Return Windows: Look for 30-60 day return policies that give you time to properly test the shoes.
- Try On Properly: When shoes arrive, try them on with appropriate socks, walk around your house for 10-15 minutes, and check for pressure points before removing tags.
Red Flags When Buying Shoes Online
- No size chart provided (major warning sign)
- Vague or no return policy
- Prices that seem too good to be true (potential counterfeits)
- Limited product photos or no customer reviews
- Unfamiliar websites without secure payment options
10 Common Shoe Sizing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
1. Assuming Your Size Never Changes
Your foot size can change due to age, weight gain/loss, pregnancy, and medical conditions. Remeasure your feet every few years, or anytime you notice shoes fitting differently.
2. Ignoring Width Measurements
Length isn't everything. Many foot problems come from wearing shoes that are the right length but wrong width. Use our Width Guide tab to understand proper width sizing.
3. Shopping in the Morning
Feet swell throughout the day. Shoes that fit perfectly in the morning may be too tight by evening. Always measure or try on shoes in the afternoon or evening.
4. Prioritizing Style Over Fit
Forcing your feet into shoes that don't fit properly leads to bunions, hammertoes, and chronic pain. Find stylish shoes in your actual size rather than sizing down for aesthetics.
5. Trusting "Breaking In" to Fix Poor Fit
While leather shoes do soften slightly, they won't stretch significantly. If shoes are uncomfortable in the store or when first trying them on, they're probably the wrong size.
6. Not Checking Both Feet
Most people have one foot slightly larger than the other. Always fit for your larger foot to ensure both feet are comfortable.
7. Forgetting About Toe Room
You need about 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) of space between your longest toe and the front of the shoe. This prevents toenail damage and allows for foot expansion during walking.
8. Buying the Same Size Across All Brands
As detailed in our brand guide above, sizing varies significantly between manufacturers. Always check brand-specific sizing before ordering.
9. Not Considering Sock Thickness
The socks you wear affect shoe fit significantly. Athletic shoes worn with thin socks need a different fit than winter boots worn with thick wool socks.
10. Keeping Shoes Too Long
Shoes lose cushioning and support over time. Athletic shoes should be replaced every 300-500 miles of use. Wearing worn-out shoes can lead to foot, knee, and back pain.