International Shoe Size Conversion Guide
Our shoe size converter helps you find the perfect fit across US, UK, EU, and CM (Japanese) sizing systems. Essential for buying shoes online from international retailers or when traveling abroad.
How Shoe Sizing Works
Shoe sizes are based on foot length but use different scales. US sizes use numbers with width letters (N, M, W), UK sizes are about 0.5-1 size smaller than US for the same foot, EU sizes use a continuous numbering system (35-50+), and Japanese sizes use centimeters directly.
Common Use Cases
Real-world applications for this calculator
International Shopping
Buy shoes from European brands like Adidas, Nike EU, or local retailers.
Travel Footwear
Know your size when shoe shopping during international trips.
Gift Shopping
Convert sizes when buying shoes as gifts for friends overseas.
Tips
- Measure feet in the evening when they're at their largest.
- Leave about a thumb's width of space at the toe box.
- Consider width as well as length for optimal comfort.
- Different shoe types (sneakers vs boots) may need different sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my UK shoe size different from my US size?
UK sizing starts at a different point and uses a slightly different scale. Generally, men subtract 0.5 and women subtract 2 from their US size to get UK size.
How do I measure my foot for shoe sizing?
Stand on a piece of paper, trace around your foot, and measure the longest point from heel to toe. Do this in the evening when feet are largest. Add 0.5-1 cm for wiggle room.
What do shoe width letters mean?
Width letters indicate foot girth: N (Narrow), M or D (Medium/Standard), W (Wide), and WW or XW (Extra Wide). Women's standard is B, men's is D.
Are shoe sizes the same for men and women?
No, there's approximately a 1.5-2 size difference. A women's size 9 is roughly equivalent to a men's size 7-7.5. Width standards also differ between genders.
Why do the same size shoes fit differently between brands?
Each brand uses different lasts (foot-shaped molds) and manufacturing processes. Athletic brands may fit differently than dress shoe brands. Always try on or check brand-specific sizing.