Foot length is the honest measurement
Convert shoe sizes between EU, UK and US systems, with the foot length in centimetres that actually determines the fit.
Shoe sizing is a mess of incompatible national systems, and the same nominal size varies between brands anyway. Foot length in centimetres is the one measurement that means something.
Note that men's and women's US sizes are offset by roughly 1.5 sizes, which is why a straight number conversion between them goes wrong so often.
What this calculator shows
- Equivalent EU, UK and US sizes
- Foot length in centimetres
- Separate handling of men's and women's sizing
What to keep in mind
- Conversions are approximate — brands vary by up to a full size in either direction.
- Measure your foot in the evening, standing, when it is at its largest.
FAQs
How do I measure my foot properly?
Stand on paper against a wall, mark the longest toe, and measure heel to mark. Do it in the evening, when feet are at their largest.
Why is UK sizing lower than US?
The two systems start counting from different base lengths. Men's US is about one size above UK; women's is about two.
Why do brands differ so much at the same size?
Because each uses its own last — the mould a shoe is built around. Sizing is a label, not a standard, which is why the centimetre figure is worth knowing.
Should I size up for running shoes?
Usually about half a size. Feet swell over distance, and toes need room at the front to avoid losing toenails on long runs.
Worked example
A common European size
Input: EU 42, men's
Output: About 27 cm · UK 8 · US 9
Note: Measure your foot and compare with the brand's own chart before ordering — that beats any generic table.