Why International Shoe Sizes Exist
Every major shoe-producing region developed its own sizing system independently — the US, UK, and European systems all measure foot length but use different scales and starting points. Today, buying shoes across borders means navigating three or four systems simultaneously.
Good news: the conversions are consistent enough to rely on, with a caveat — brand-specific lasts and fit styles mean the same "size" can feel different between manufacturers.
Men's Shoe Size Conversion Chart
| US | EU | UK | Japan/Korea (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 38–39 | 5.5 | 24.5 |
| 7 | 40 | 6.5 | 25 |
| 7.5 | 40–41 | 7 | 25.5 |
| 8 | 41 | 7.5 | 26 |
| 9 | 42–43 | 8.5 | 27 |
| 10 | 43–44 | 9.5 | 28 |
| 11 | 44–45 | 10.5 | 29 |
| 12 | 45–46 | 11.5 | 30 |
| 13 | 47 | 12.5 | 31 |
Women's Shoe Size Conversion Chart
| US | EU | UK | Japan/Korea (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 35–36 | 3 | 22.5 |
| 6 | 36–37 | 4 | 23 |
| 7 | 37–38 | 5 | 24 |
| 8 | 38–39 | 6 | 25 |
| 9 | 39–40 | 7 | 25.5 |
| 10 | 40–41 | 8 | 26.5 |
| 11 | 42 | 9 | 27.5 |
How to Measure Your Foot
The most reliable way to get the right size when buying online:
- Stand barefoot on a piece of paper against a wall
- Trace around your foot, keeping the pencil vertical
- Measure the distance from heel to the longest toe in centimeters
- Measure both feet — use the larger measurement
- Cross-reference with the brand's specific chart
Tip: Measure in the afternoon. Feet swell slightly during the day and after standing. Wearing the socks you'll use with the shoes during measurement gives the most accurate result.
Tips for Buying Shoes Internationally Online
- Always check the brand's own size chart — conversions are starting points, not guarantees
- Read reviews for fit notes — "runs small," "narrow fit," "true to size" are worth more than the size chart
- When between sizes, consider the shoe type: go up for closed-toe shoes, running shoes, and boots; go half-size down for sandals and open-toed styles
- Japanese and Korean brands use foot length in centimeters, which is the most precise system — use your foot measurement directly
For quick conversions, our shoe size converter handles US, UK, EU, Japan, and Korea in one tool.