The Ultimate Guide to Shoe Size Conversion Calculator: Everything You Need to Know About Finding the Perfect Fit

You have found the perfect pair of shoes online. They are stylish, durable, and exactly what you have been looking for to complete your wardrobe. You are ready to click “Add to Cart,” but there is just one problem: the size is listed in “EU 42” or “UK 8,” and you are used to US sizing. Or perhaps you are shopping for your growing child, buying sneakers for the new school year, and you find yourself completely baffled as to why a “Size 13” suddenly disappears and becomes a “Size 1”?

Shoe sizing is widely considered one of the most confusing and frustrating aspects of modern clothing and fashion. Unlike a kilogram, a liter, or a meter—which are standard, scientifically defined measurements used globally—shoe sizes are a fragmented mix of medieval historical traditions, regional preferences, and proprietary manufacturing variations. A size 10 in the US is not a size 10 in the UK. A size 40 in Europe is not a straightforward integer in inches. To make matters worse, even two shoes of the same “size” from the same brand can fit differently depending on their design purpose.

This comprehensive guide is here to solve that problem once and for all. Below the Shoe Size Conversion calculator you just used, we have compiled the most detailed resource on the web for understanding how shoe sizing works. From converting American shoe size to European to understanding the nuances of width sizing and how to measure your feet like a professional cobbler, we cover it all.

Why Is Shoe Sizing So Complicated?

To understand why you need a shoe size conversion chart in the first place, we have to look back at history. Before the industrial revolution and mass manufacturing, shoes were custom-made by local cobblers. You didn’t walk into a shop and ask for a “size 9”; you simply sat on a stool, had your foot measured with a tape or a piece of leather, and a shoe was built specifically around your unique anatomy.

As mass production began in the 19th century, factories needed a way to produce shoes in bulk that would fit the “average” person. However, because there was no global communication or international trade organization at the time, different regions developed their own completely separate systems for standardizing sizes. These systems developed in isolation, based on the measurement units available to them at the time.

The Barleycorn System (UK and USA)

In 1324, King Edward II of England signed a royal decree stating that three barleycorns placed end-to-end equaled one inch. While this might sound like a quaint fairy tale, it became the actual legal basis for the British shoe sizing system. A “size” was defined mathematically as the length of one barleycorn (which is exactly 1/3 of an inch, or 8.46 mm).

This system is still in use today. The reason US and UK sizes don’t make intuitive sense to modern users accustomed to the metric system is that they are literally based on a medieval grain measurement.

• The Difference: While both US and UK systems use the barleycorn unit (1/3 inch per size), they start counting from different points. The UK system starts its “zero point” at 4 inches (a hand’s breadth), while the US system starts its count slightly earlier. This offset is why a US size is numerically higher than its UK counterpart for the exact same foot length.

The Paris Point (Europe)

Continental Europe took a completely different approach, ignoring the imperial inch entirely. They developed the “Paris Point” in the mid-19th century. One Paris Point is defined as equal to 2/3 of a centimeter (6.67 mm).

This creates a mathematical headache for conversion. Because 6.67 mm (EU step) does not align with 8.46 mm (US/UK step), European shoe size to American conversions are rarely whole numbers. They are almost always approximations.

• The Math: A US size 9 might correspond to a foot length that sits perfectly between an EU 42 and EU 43. This is why you will often see conversion charts listing fractions, or why a shoe box might say “US 9.5 / EU 42.5”.

The Mondopoint (Asia and Military)

Japan, China, Korea, and most of the world’s military organizations use what is arguably the most logical system: Mondopoint. Developed in the 1970s by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), this system simply measures the foot length in millimeters or centimeters.

If your foot is 260mm (26cm) long, your shoe size is 260 (or 26). This eliminates the need for arbitrary numbers or “decoding” sizes. While this is the standard for ski boots and military gear, it has yet to fully replace the legacy systems in the global fashion footwear market, though Japanese sneaker releases often use it exclusively.

Detailed Shoe Size Conversion calculator & Charts

While our calculator above does the math for you instantly, it is often helpful to see the data laid out in a feet size chart to understand the progression of sizes. Below, we break down the conversions for every major category, providing context on how these sizes generally compare.

Men’s Shoe Size Chart

One of the most common searches is for a mens shoe size chart. Men’s sizes in the US and UK differ by roughly one full size. A US Men’s 10 is typically a UK Men’s 9. However, the jump to European sizes is more complex due to the “Paris Point” mismatch.

Note: The inch and CM measurements below refer to the recommended foot length, not the length of the shoe itself.

Women’s Shoe Size Chart

When converting mens to womens shoe size in the US, there is typically a 1.5 size difference. A man wearing a size 7 would wear a woman’s size 8.5. This differs from the UK system, where men’s and women’s sizing scales are often identical, just covering different ranges. In Europe, the size is unisex; a size 40 is a size 40 regardless of gender, though the width of the shoe last may differ.

Kids’ Shoe Size Chart

Kids’ shoe sizing is notoriously difficult because the numbering system loops back on itself. In the US/UK system, sizes start at Infant 0 and count up to 13.5 (Little Kid). After 13.5, the numbers do not continue to 14; instead, they reset back to 1 (Big Kid). This “Big Kid” size 1 is effectively the next step after size 13.5.

Pro Tip for Parents: A “Big Kid” (Youth) size 3.5 to 7 is roughly equivalent to Men’s sizes 3.5 to 7. This is why you often see “Grade School” (GS) shoes that fit both children and women with smaller feet. If you are a woman with size 6 feet, you can often save money by buying a Youth Size 6GS!

How to Measure Your Feet at Home

Using a feet size chart is useless if you don’t know your actual foot measurements. While you can go to a shoe store and use a Brannock Device (that metal slider tool), you can get a highly accurate measurement at home with a piece of paper and a ruler.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Gather Supplies: You need a piece of paper larger than your foot, a pencil, a ruler, and tape.
2. Tape the Paper: Secure the paper to the floor right up against a wall. Hard floors (tile, wood) are much better than carpet for accuracy, as carpet can allow the pencil to slip underneath the foot.
3. Stand Firm: Place your heel firmly against the wall and stand on the paper. It is crucial to stand, not sit. Your foot expands, flattens, and spreads when it bears your body weight. Measuring while sitting can result in a shoe that is too tight when walking.
4. Trace: Draw a line at the very tip of your longest toe. Note: For many people, the second toe is actually longer than the big toe (this is called “Morton’s Toe”). Measure to whichever toe is longest.
5. Measure: Step off the paper and measure the distance from the edge of the paper (where your heel was) to the line you drew.
6. Repeat: Measure both feet. It is very common for humans to have one foot slightly larger than the other. Always buy shoes to fit the larger foot; you can add an insole to the smaller shoe, but you cannot stretch a shoe that is too small.

The “Swell” Factor

Human feet swell throughout the day due to walking, gravity, and heat. A shoe that fits perfectly at 8:00 AM might feel painfully tight by 6:00 PM. For this reason, always measure your feet in the afternoon or evening. This ensures your new shoes will remain comfortable all day long, even after a long day of walking.

Understanding Width: The Missing Dimension

Most Shoe Size Conversion calculator focus exclusively on length, but width is equally important for comfort. A shoe that is the right length but too narrow will cause blisters, bunions, and numbness. Conversely, a shoe that is too wide will cause your heel to slip, leading to instability and blisters on the heel.

In the US system, width is denoted by letters. While “Medium” is the standard, many people unknowingly need a different width.

• AAA, AA, A: Narrow to Extra Narrow. (Commonly found in specialized running or dress shoes).
• B: The standard width for Women. It is considered a Narrow width for Men.
• D: The standard width for Men. It is considered a Wide width for Women.
• E, EE, EEE (2E, 3E): Wide, Extra Wide, and Extra-Extra Wide.

Standard vs. Wide: Most shoes sold in standard retailers are “D” width for men and “B” width for women. If you frequently find that your toes feel squashed or the sides of your feet spill over the sole, you likely need a Wide (E) or Extra Wide (EE) shoe. If you see shoes labeled “Unisex,” they are almost always a Men’s “D” width, which may be too wide for many women.

International Conversion Deep Dive

Let’s break down the specific conversions that cause the most confusion.

US vs. UK Sizing

The relationship between US and UK sizes is generally consistent, but it differs for men and women.

• Men: UK size is generally 1 size smaller than US. (US 10 = UK 9).
• Women: UK size is generally 2 sizes smaller than US. (US 8 = UK 6).
• Kids: UK size is generally 0.5 to 1 size smaller than US.

This discrepancy is why it is vital to check if you are looking at a “Unisex” chart or a gender-specific chart. A US woman buying a “Unisex” UK shoe needs to be very careful with the conversion math.

European to English Shoe Size

Converting European to English shoe size is tricky because the intervals are different. A UK size increases by 8.46mm per full size (barleycorn). An EU size increases by 6.67mm per full size (Paris Point). Because the “step” sizes are smaller in Europe, you get a more precise fit, but it makes direct conversion harder.

• UK 5 is often listed as EU 38.
• UK 9 is often listed as EU 43.

EU Shoe Size to US

This is perhaps the most common conversion query.

• Women: A US 7 is roughly an EU 37-38.
• Men: A US 10 is roughly an EU 43-44.

The “Half Size” Problem: Because EU sizes don’t use half sizes in the same way US sizes do, a US half size often lands “between” two EU sizes. If you are a US 9.5 Men’s, you might find an EU 42 too tight and an EU 43 slightly loose. In these cases, checking the brand’s specific CM (centimeter) chart is the safest bet, or looking for brands that offer specific half-step EU sizes (like 42 2/3).

Ultimate Guide to Indian Shoe Sizes

One of the most frequent questions online shoppers in India ask is about the difference between UK and India shoe sizes. You are on Amazon, Flipkart, or Myntra, you have found the perfect pair of sneakers, and you see the size option: UK 7. But you know your foot size is India 7. Do you buy it? Do you size up?

The confusion is understandable because the world of shoe sizing is messy. However, for Indian shoppers, there is one golden rule that simplifies everything.

The Golden Rule: India Size = UK Size

For 99% of brands sold in India, the Indian shoe size is exactly the same as the UK shoe size.

If you wear a Size 8 in Bata or Action (classic Indian brands), you are a UK Size 8 in Nike, Adidas, or Puma. The historical reason for this dates back to the British era, where the United Kingdom’s measurement system was adopted as the standard for India. While the US and Europe developed their own distinct systems, India retained the UK system.

Answering the Big Question: “UK 7 Size in India”

If you are looking for UK 7 size in india, the answer is simple: It is an India Size 7.

• Foot Length: Approximately 25.4 cm to 25.8 cm.
• US Equivalent: US Men’s 8.
• Euro Equivalent: EU 40 to 41 (depending on the brand).

If a shoe box says “UK 7,” it fits an Indian foot that is size 7. You do not need to do any math.

India Shoes Size Chart (Men & Women)

While the rule is simple, it helps to see the numbers side-by-side, especially when international brands list US or EU sizes on the box.

Men’s Size Chart (India)

Women’s Size Chart (India)

Buying Tips for Indian Shoppers

While the India shoes size chart is generally standard, there are exceptions you should be aware of when shopping on Indian e-commerce sites:

1. The “US” Brand Exception: Some American brands (like Nike or Skechers) highlight the US size on the box. If you ask for a “Size 8” at a store selling US brands, check if they mean US 8 or UK 8. A US 8 is actually a UK/India 7. Always verify the “UK” or “CM” label.
2. Decathlon Sizing: Decathlon often uses EU sizing (e.g., 42, 43). If you are an India Size 9, do not guess; look for the EU equivalent (usually EU 43).
3. Traditional Footwear (Juttis/Kolhapuris): Unlike sneakers, traditional Indian footwear needs to be snug initially as leather stretches. However, the sizing scale remains consistent with the UK system.

Brand Discrepancies: Why Your Nike Size Isn’t Your Adidas Size

Even with a perfect shoe size conversion chart, you might find inconsistencies between brands. This is due to the “Last.”

A “Last” is the 3D mold upon which a shoe is constructed. Every brand uses its own proprietary lasts, which dictate the volume, width, and arch height of the shoe.

• Nike: Generally runs slightly narrow and small. Many users size up 0.5 sizes, especially in models like the Huarache or Air Max.
• Adidas: Tends to run true to size or slightly large. Their “Ultraboost” line is known for a snug, sock-like fit, while the “Superstar” runs big.
• Converse (Chuck Taylors): Famous for running very large. Most people size down 0.5 to 1 full size. A US 9 in Nike might need a US 8 in Converse.
• New Balance: Known for wider toe boxes and true-to-size fit. They are one of the few brands that consistently offer multiple width options (2E, 4E) for the same model.
• Dr. Martens: Often do not offer half sizes. Their boots run large, and because the leather is stiff, getting the right size is critical to avoid painful break-in periods.

Because of these variations, the feet size chart based on centimeters is your best friend. Ignore the arbitrary number on the box (9, 10, 42) and look at the CM or MM measurement on the tongue of your current favorite shoes. If your favorite Nikes are 27cm, buy the 27cm size in Adidas, regardless of what “US Size” they call it.

Tips for Buying Shoes Online

Buying shoes without trying them on can be risky, but you can minimize returns by following these rules:

1. Know Your Measurement in CM: As mentioned above, centimeters are the universal language of shoe sizing. Japanese sizing is literally just the length in centimeters. This is the most accurate metric to cross-reference.

2. Check the “Fit” Reviews: Most major retailers have reviews that say “Runs Small,” “True to Size,” or “Runs Large.” Trust the aggregate data of thousands of buyers. If 80% of reviews say “Size Up,” you should definitely size up.

3. Account for Socks: If you are buying winter boots, measure your feet while wearing thick wool socks. If you are buying running shoes, wear your athletic socks. Measuring barefoot for a shoe you will wear with thick socks will result in a fit that is too tight.

4. Leave “Wiggle Room”: A proper fitting shoe should have about 0.5 inches (roughly 1.2 cm) of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. This prevents your toes from hitting the front when you walk downhill or stop suddenly. This is popularly known as the “thumb width” rule.

5. Order Two Sizes: If a retailer offers free returns, order your estimated size and a half-size up (or down). Try them both on at home in the evening, keep the one that fits, and return the other.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is EU shoe size the same for men and women? A: Generally, yes. The EU system is unisex. An EU 40 is the same length whether it is a men’s shoe or a women’s shoe. However, the width and shape of the shoe will likely differ. A women’s EU 40 will be narrower (B width) than a men’s EU 40 (D width).

Q: What is the difference between Big Kid and Little Kid sizes? A: “Little Kid” sizes range from roughly 10.5 to 13.5. “Big Kid” sizes start at 1 and go up to 7. The confusion arises because 13.5 is actually smaller than 1. The scale resets. A Big Kid size 3.5 to 7 is effectively the same as Men’s 3.5 to 7.

Q: Does weight affect shoe size? A: Yes. Significant weight gain or pregnancy can cause feet to flatten and spread, effectively increasing your shoe size. The ligaments in your feet relax, causing the arch to lower and the foot to lengthen. It is recommended to remeasure your feet every year.

Q: What is a Brannock Device? A: A Brannock Device is the standard metal measuring tool found in shoe stores. It measures foot length, arch length, and width simultaneously. It is considered the gold standard for measurement. If you have difficult feet, visiting a store to use one is highly recommended.

Q: I am between sizes. Should I size up or down? A: In almost all cases, it is better to size up. You can fix a shoe that is slightly too big by adding a thicker insole or wearing thicker socks. You cannot fix a shoe that is too small; it will simply cause pain and potential foot damage.

Conclusion

Finding the right shoe size doesn’t have to be a guessing game. While the systems for american shoe size to european or mens to womens shoe size can be perplexing, they follow predictable rules.

By measuring your feet in centimeters and using the Shoe Size Conversion calculator at the top of this page, you can shop confidently across borders and brands. Remember that comfort is king—no matter what the number on the box says, the right size is the one that feels good on your feet.

Bookmark this page and reference our feet size chart whenever you are shopping for your next pair of sneakers, boots, or dress shoes. Happy shopping!

• 
  Nike GT Future “Unseen Hours” Channels “Eggplant” Aesthetics in 2026 Release
• 
  Kith x Nike KD 18 ‘Air Max 95 black’ Unveiled: Ronnie Fieg Reveals Ultra-Exclusive Hybrid Silhouette
• 
  Air Jordan 7 “Miro” 2026 Release Date: The Olympic Grail Returns
• 
  JuJu Watkins Debuts Nike LeBron NXXT Gen ‘Silver Lining’ for Summer 2026
• 
  How to Clean Canvas Shoes (Converse/Vans) & Wash Sneakers in a Washer: The 2026 Expert Guide
• 
  How to Recycle Old Shoes in India: The Complete 2026 Sustainability Guide
• 
  How to Remove Ink Stains from Leather Shoes: An Expert’s Guide (2026)
• 
  Master Straight Bar Lacing: The Ultimate Guide for Men’s & Women’s Dress Boots (2026)
• 
  How to Clean Sheepskin Boots (Uggs) at Home in 2026: The Ultimate Suede Brush & Care Guide
• 
  How to Disinfect Second-Hand Shoes in 2026: Complete Sanitization Guide
• 
  How to Disinfect Second-Hand Shoes: A 2026 Guide to Sanitize Used Footwear Safely
• 
  How to Clean White Crocs: The Expert Guide to Restoring Shine (2026)
• 
  How to Remove Oil Stains from Suede Shoes: The Expert Guide (2026)
• 
  Official Look: The Nike Mind 001 “Sail” Brings Zen to the Streets
• 
  How to Clean Mesh Running Shoes (2026 Guide): Expert Tips for White Athletic & Gym Shoes
• 
  The Ultimate Guide to Wearing Ankle Boots with Jeans: Style Rules & Best Fits 2026
• 
  07 Best Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis in 2026 (Podiatrist Recommended)
• 
  How to Keep White Soles White 2026: The Ultimate Prevention & Sole Protector Guide
• 
  How to Fix Scuffed Leather Shoes: Expert Repair & Care Guide 2026
• 
  How to Clean Insoles of Smelly Shoes (And Whiten Soles): 2026 Expert Guide
• 
  How to Stop Heels from Clicking: The Expert’s Guide to Quiet Walking (2026)
• 
  How to Shorten Long Shoelaces Without Cutting (2026 Guide): Hacks to Hide & Anchor Laces
• 
  How to Handle Blisters on Feet: The Ultimate 2026 Guide to Prevention & Remedies
• 
  How to Clean Leather Sandals (Inside and Out): The Ultimate Care Guide 2026
• 
  How to Waterproof Your Canvas Shoes with Wax: A Complete DIY Guide & Leather Care (2026)
• 
  How to Clean Velvet Shoes Without Ruining Them: The 2026 Expert Guide (Do’s & Don’ts)
• 
  What Is Shoe Bite? Causes, Symptoms, and How to Treat It Effectively (2026 Guide)
• 
  I Refuse to Sell You “Comfort Shoes” Until You Stop Believing This Lie
• 
  Stop Buying “Cloud” Shoes: The 5 Comfort Myths I’ve Watched Destroy Knees for 20 Years (2026 Guide)
• 
  How to Dye Faded Shoes Like a Pro: 2026 DIY Restoration Guide
• 
  How to Remove Chewing Gum from Shoe Sole: Fast & Easy Fixes (2026 Guide)
• 
  How to Fix a Broken Heel While Walking: The Ultimate 2026 Guide to Shoe Repair & Best Glues
• 
  Why Do My Feet Hurt? The 2026 Guide to Choosing the Right Sole & Plantar Fasciitis Shoes
• 
  How to Check Nike Authenticity: The Expert Real vs. Fake Guide (2026)
• 
  UK 8 to US Shoe Size: Why You Always Buy the Wrong Nike (2026 Conversion Guide)
• 
  Indian Shoe Size vs UK Shoe Size: Are They the Same? Complete Sizing Guide (2026)
• 
  A unisex size shoes chart Conversion Guide (2026)
• 
  How to remove creases from shoes (Iron Method) & Prevention Guide 2026
• 
  Can You Wash Skechers in a Washing Machine? 2026 Guide to Safe Shoe Care
• 
  How to Break in New Leather Shoes Quickly: The Ultimate Comfort Guide (2026)
• 
  How to Store Shoes to Prevent Fungus and Mold: Best Shoe Cabinet Designs 2026
• 
  How to Repair a Separated Shoe Sole at Home: Best Glue & Fixes Guide 2026
• 
  Men’s to Women’s Shoe Size Conversion: The 1.5 Rule & Chart (2026)
• 
  childrens shoe size by Age: The Complete 0 to 12 Years Chart (2026 Guide)
• 
  How to Lace Shoes: 5 Cool Styles & Techniques for 2026
• 
  How to Stretch Tight Shoes: The Ultimate Freezer Method Guide (2026)
• 
  How to Whiten Yellow Soles on Sneakers (2026 Guide): Remove Stains & Restore Your Kicks
• 
  How to Clean Suede Shoes Without Water: The 2026 Expert Care Guide
• 
  how to stop shoe squeak: The Baby Powder Trick & 7 Pro Methods (2025 Guide)
• 
  How to Dry Shoes FAST Without Ruining Them (2026 Expert Guide)
• 
  US vs UK vs Euro Shoe Size: The Ultimate Conversion Guide & Feet Size Chart (2026)
• 
  How to Measure Foot Size at Home: The 2026 Ultimate Guide for Online Shoppers
• 
  How to Remove Bad Smell from Shoes Instantly: The Ultimate 2026 Guide to Odor Elimination
• 
  How to Clean White Sneakers with Toothpaste 5-Minute Hack
• Shoe Shop Near Me: What Chennai Buyers Should Look For in 2026
• 
  How to Find the Best Shoe Store Near Me in Chennai: The 2026 Shopper’s Guide
• 
  Why Urban Style Is a Trusted Footwear Shop in Chennai
• 
  Best Shoe Shop in Chennai for Quality & Comfort: Your 2026 Local Guide
• 
  MCR vs MCP Slippers: Which Is Better for Your Feet? 2026 Guide
• 
  What Is an MCR Slipper