Shoe Size Converter – US, EU, UK, CM
Convert shoe sizes between US, EU, UK, and CM measurements.
Shoe Size Systems Worldwide
There is no universal shoe sizing standard. Major systems:
- US/Canada: Different scales for men and women (women's is ~1.5 sizes larger numerically)
- UK: Similar to US but offset by ~0.5–1 size
- EU (Paris points): Unisex scale, roughly (foot length cm × 1.5) + 2
- Japan/CM: Based directly on foot length in centimeters
Always measure your actual foot length rather than assuming your size transfers between brands or systems.
How to Measure Your Foot
Stand on paper, trace your foot outline, measure the longest point (heel to toe) in centimeters. Measure both feet — most people have one foot slightly larger. Use the larger measurement. Measure at the end of the day when feet are slightly swollen (their largest).
Width also matters: shoe widths range from narrow (AA/N) through standard (B for women, D for men) to wide (EE/W) and extra wide (4E). Ignoring width is the most common cause of uncomfortable shoes.
Conversion Quick Reference
Men's approximate conversions: US 9 = UK 8.5 = EU 42 = 27 cm. US 10 = UK 9.5 = EU 43 = 28 cm. US 11 = UK 10.5 = EU 44 = 29 cm.
Women's approximate conversions: US 7 = UK 5 = EU 37.5 = 24 cm. US 8 = UK 6 = EU 38.5 = 25 cm. US 9 = UK 7 = EU 40 = 26 cm.
These are approximate — always check the specific brand's size chart, as sizing varies between manufacturers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do shoe sizes vary between brands?
There is no enforced standard. Each brand uses its own last (foot model) and may interpret sizing differently. Nike tends to run small, New Balance true to size, and Adidas slightly large. Always try on or check the brand's specific size chart.
How do I convert women's to men's shoe sizes?
In the US system: subtract approximately 1.5 from women's to get men's size. Women's 9 ≈ Men's 7.5. In the EU system, sizing is unisex — a EU 40 is the same regardless of gender.
Do children's sizes follow the same system?
Children use a separate scale. US children's sizes go up to 13, then transition to adult size 1 (which follows size 13). UK children's sizes follow a similar pattern. EU children's sizes are on the same scale as adults but in smaller numbers (EU 28–35).