Convert between US, UK, and EU shoe sizes for men and women. Includes foot length measurements.
US sizes are the standard in the United States and are based on the Brannock device measurement system. Men's and women's sizes use different scales, with women's sizes typically 1.5 sizes larger than men's for the same foot length (a women's 10 is roughly a men's 8.5). UK sizes are similar to US sizes but offset by about 0.5-1 size for men and 2 sizes for women. EU (European) sizes use the Paris Point system where each size equals 6.67mm of foot length. EU sizes are unisex, though some brands label men's and women's sizes separately.
Stand on a piece of paper with your heel against a wall. Mark the longest point of your foot (usually the tip of your big toe or second toe). Measure the distance from the wall to the mark in centimeters. Do both feet since they are often slightly different sizes. Use the larger measurement. Measure at the end of the day when your feet are at their largest (feet swell throughout the day). Add about 0.5-1cm to the measurement for comfortable shoe fit since you want some room between your longest toe and the end of the shoe.
Know your exact measurement in cm. This is the most universal standard and works across all sizing systems. Check the brand's specific size chart. Sizes can vary by 0.5-1 full size between brands (Nike tends to run small, New Balance runs true to size, Adidas varies by model). Read reviews for fit notes. Other buyers often mention if a shoe runs large or small. Order from retailers with free returns so you can try multiple sizes without risk.