Shoe Size Conversion Guide [Instant Calculator + Charts]
It is pretty difficult to find the right shoe size with such a variety of measurement systems from around the world. Knowing the conversion from US shoe sizes to UK, EU or AU ensures you have a comfortable fit.
Why Shoe Sizes Vary Internationally
While the variety in footwear design and style is universally acknowledged, what often goes unnoticed is the significant difference in shoe sizing systems across different regions. The United States and the United Kingdom, for instance, follow distinct sizing systems. While the EU sizing system is quite similar to that of the US. This can often lead to confusion and inconvenience, especially when purchasing shoes from international brands or while travelling.
US shoe sizes
In the United States, shoe sizes are calculated based on the length of the foot. The sizes start from a base size, usually a child’s size zero, and increase by 1/3 of an inch for each size increment. This system also includes half sizes to provide a more precise fit.
In simple terms, A US size 10 shoe, for example, is approximately 10 inches long from heel to toe.
UK shoe sizes
On the other hand, the United Kingdom follows a slightly different system. UK shoe sizes are based on the length of the last, a form used by shoemakers, which is measured in barleycorns, an old English unit of length. One barleycorn is approximately 1/3 of an inch, and each shoe size increases by one barleycorn.
For the UK shoe sizing system, sizes start at 4 and increase by thirds, i.e. 4, 4.5, 5, etc.
EU shoe sizes
Just like US shoe sizing, The EU system also calculates based on the length of the foot. Instead of inches, they use centimetres. So, a size 43 EU, for instance, is for a foot that measures 43 cm.
So, Why Does All This Size Stuff Matter?
Understanding the conversion between US, UK and EU shoe sizes is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures a comfortable and accurate fit, which is essential for foot health. Wearing ill-fitting shoes can lead to a host of foot problems, including blisters, bunions, and even long-term damage to the foot structure.
Secondly, it allows for greater flexibility and variety in shoe shopping. With the knowledge of shoe size conversion, you can explore and purchase footwear from international brands that follow different sizing systems. This opens up a wider range of styles and designs that may not be available in your home country.
Lastly, understanding shoe size conversion is particularly useful when travelling or living abroad. It eliminates the guesswork and potential inconvenience of trying to find the right shoe size in a foreign country.
Men’s, Women’s, Kids Shoe Size Conversion Chart
Our guide aims to simplify the process of understanding shoe size conversion by providing a comprehensive conversion chart for men’s, women’s, and kids’ shoe sizes. Use our tool to convert sizes quickly and accurately.
Men’s shoe size conversion
Men’s shoe sizes can vary significantly across different countries and shoe brands. Our conversion tool helps you to understand these differences and choose the right size every time.
- Enter your current shoe size in the tool.
- Select the country or shoe brand for which you want the conversion.
- Click on ‘Convert’ to get the equivalent shoe size.
Women’s shoe size conversion
Women’s shoe sizes can be particularly tricky to convert due to the wide range of styles and fit. Our tool simplifies this process, ensuring you always find the perfect fit.
- Input your current shoe size into the tool.
- Choose the country or shoe brand you are interested in.
- Hit ‘Convert’ to see your equivalent shoe size.
| AU Size | UK Size | EU Size | US Size | Japan | Foot Length (MM) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 2 | 35 | 4 | 21 | 212 |
| 5 | 3 | 36 | 5 | 22 | 220 |
| 6 | 4 | 37 | 6 | 23 | 229 |
| 7 | 5 | 38 | 7 | 24 | 237 |
| 8 | 6 | 39 | 8 | 25 | 246 |
| 9 | 7 | 40 | 9 | 26 | 254 |
| 10 | 8 | 41 | 10 | 27 | 262 |
| 11 | 9 | 42 | 11 | 28 | 270 |
Kids’ shoe size conversion
Children’s shoe sizes can be the most challenging to convert because they grow so quickly. Our conversion tool takes the guesswork out of this process, helping you to keep up with their growth and ensure their comfort.
- Enter the current shoe size of your child in the tool.
- Select the country or shoe brand for the conversion.
- Click ‘Convert’ to find the equivalent shoe size.
How to measure foot size?
Place your foot on a piece of paper lying on a flat surface and have someone trace the outline. Alternatively, you can simply mark two spots, one at your heel and the other at the tip of your big toe.
It is important to do this for both your feet since foot sizes can sometimes differ between your left and right feet. For an even more accurate measurement, we suggest measuring your feet at the end of the day. Feet tends to swell a bit throughout the day, so it will be better to opt for shoes that are comfortable even with a bit of swelling.
Tips for Purchasing Shoes with International Sizing
- Always measure the foot size of the person for whom you are buying the shoes. This will ensure the most accurate conversion.
- Remember that shoe sizes can vary between different brands. Always refer to the specific brand’s size chart when available.
- When in doubt, it’s better to choose a size larger. This is especially true for children, as their feet grow rapidly.
With our shoe size conversion tool, you can navigate the world of shoe sizes with ease. Whether you’re shopping for men’s, women’s, or kids’ shoes, our guide will help you find the perfect fit every time.
