Shoe Size Converter
Convert shoe sizes between US, UK, EU, Japan, China, and centimeter measurements. Get accurate conversions for men's, women's, and kids' shoes.
Converted Sizes
How to Measure Shoe Size Accurately
Accurate foot measurement is the foundation of finding the right shoe size, especially when shopping internationally. While our CM to US shoe size converter handles the math, getting an accurate measurement starts with proper technique.
Step-by-Step Foot Measurement in CM
- Prepare your workspace: Find a hard, flat surface (not carpet) and place a piece of paper against a wall. The paper should be large enough to accommodate your entire foot.
- Position your foot: Stand on the paper with your heel firmly against the wall. Distribute your weight evenly—stand naturally as you would when walking.
- Mark the longest point: Using a pencil held perpendicular to the paper, mark the tip of your longest toe. For most people, this is the big toe, but for some it may be the second toe.
- Measure in centimeters: Remove your foot and use a ruler or measuring tape to measure from the wall to your mark. Record this measurement in centimeters (CM).
- Measure both feet: Repeat the process for your other foot. Feet are often slightly different sizes—always use the larger measurement for shoe sizing.
Why CM is the Most Reliable Reference
Centimeter measurements provide a universal standard that eliminates the confusion of regional sizing systems. Unlike US, UK, or EU sizes which use different scales and can vary by brand, a centimeter measurement is objective and consistent. When you know your foot length in CM, you can confidently convert to any regional sizing system using our CM to US shoe size converter. This is why professional shoe fitters and international retailers rely on CM measurements as the baseline.
Foot Width Considerations
While length is the primary factor in shoe sizing, width also plays an important role. If you have wide feet, you may need to size up even if the length measurement suggests a smaller size. Some brands offer wide-width options (designated as W, 2E, 4E in US sizing), which can accommodate wider feet without going up a full size. When shopping internationally, check if the brand offers width variations, as this can significantly impact fit.
Best Time to Measure
Measure your feet at the end of the day when they're at their largest. Feet naturally swell throughout the day due to activity, gravity, and fluid retention. By measuring in the evening, you ensure your shoes will fit comfortably even after a long day. Also, wear the type of socks you typically wear with the shoes you're planning to buy—thick athletic socks require more room than thin dress socks.
Adding Comfort Allowance
When converting your CM measurement to a shoe size, most sizing systems already include a small comfort allowance (typically 0.5-1.5cm). However, if you prefer a roomier fit or have wide feet, you may want to round up to the next half or whole size. For athletic shoes, consider going up slightly more to accommodate foot expansion during activity. Use our converter above to see all size equivalents, then choose based on your fit preference.
Differences for Men, Women, and Kids
Men's, women's, and kids' shoe sizing uses different scales even within the same regional system. Men's sizes are typically 1.5-2 sizes larger than women's for the same foot length. Kids' sizes have their own progression that transitions to adult sizes around age 12-13. When using our converter, always select the correct gender category to ensure accurate conversion. For kids, use the "Kids" option which accounts for the different sizing scale.
Understanding Shoe Size Systems
Each region has developed its own shoe sizing system based on historical standards and local manufacturing practices. Understanding these differences helps you make better conversion decisions.
US Sizing
US shoe sizing uses whole and half sizes, with separate scales for men's and women's shoes. Men's sizes typically range from 6 to 14, while women's sizes range from 4 to 12. The US system is based on the English system but has diverged over time. Half sizes provide more precise fit options, which is why many US brands offer extensive half-size selections.
UK Sizing
UK shoe sizes are typically one size smaller than US sizes. For example, a US men's size 9 is equivalent to a UK size 8. The UK system also uses whole and half sizes and maintains closer ties to historical English measurement standards. UK sizing is consistent across men's and women's shoes in terms of the scale, though the actual sizes differ.
EU Sizing
EU (European Union) sizing uses a metric-based system that's typically 1-1.5 sizes larger than US sizing. EU sizes are more standardized across countries due to metric system adoption. Most EU brands primarily offer whole sizes, though some premium brands offer half sizes. EU size 42 is a common men's size, roughly equivalent to US 9.
Japan & China Sizing
Japanese and Chinese sizing systems are based on centimeter measurements, similar to the CM system we recommend. However, they often run smaller than US/EU equivalents due to different average foot proportions in Asian populations. Japanese sizes are typically labeled in centimeters (e.g., 25cm, 26cm), while Chinese sizes follow a similar pattern but may have slight variations.
CM (Centimeters) - The Universal Standard
Direct foot length measurement in centimeters is the most accurate and universal method. CM measurements eliminate regional variations and provide a consistent reference point. This is why we recommend starting with CM measurements when using our converter tools.
Common Shoe Size Conversions
Here are some common shoe size conversions to help you get started:
- US Men's 9 = UK 8 = EU 42 = JP 28 = CN 42 = 27.0 cm
- US Women's 7 = UK 5 = EU 38 = JP 25 = CN 38 = 24.0 cm
- EU 42 = US Men's 9 = UK 8 = JP 28 = CN 42
- UK 8 = US Men's 9 = EU 42 = JP 28 = CN 42
Use our converter above for precise conversions based on your specific measurements.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shoe Size Conversion
What is EU shoe size 42 in US?
EU size 42 typically converts to US men's size 9 and US women's size 10–10.5 depending on the brand. Use our shoe size converter above for precise regional conversions.
Why do shoe sizes differ between regions?
Shoe sizes vary because each region uses different measurement systems and historical sizing standards. The US, UK, EU, and Asian markets developed independent sizing scales, which is why conversion tools are necessary.
Is measuring in centimeters more accurate?
Yes. Measuring your foot length in centimeters provides the most universal and accurate reference. CM measurements remove regional variation and allow reliable size conversion globally.
Do men's and women's shoe sizes use the same scale?
No. Men's sizes are typically 1.5–2 sizes larger than women's sizes for the same foot length. Always choose the correct gender when converting sizes.
Should I size up when buying international shoes?
Consider sizing up if the brand runs small, if you have wide feet, or when buying athletic shoes that require extra room. Checking measurements in CM is the safest approach.
Related Converters
GlobalSizeChart.com is an independent utility for size conversion. Our content is educational and our sizing data is compiled from public standards.
- Independent Utility Tool — Free converters and charts, not affiliated with any retailer or brand.
- No brand affiliation — We are not owned by or paid by any clothing or shoe brand.
- Educational content — Guides and explanations are for information only; always check the brand's size chart when possible.
- Sizing data compiled from public standards — Conversions are based on widely published international sizing standards; individual brands may differ.