Understanding International Shoe Sizes

Buying shoes from overseas retailers or while traveling can be tricky because sizing standards differ widely. A men’s US size 9 does not correspond to the same number elsewhere. This converter clears up the confusion. The tool uses common international size charts so you can confidently match sizes across US, UK, EU, and Japanese scales.

Shoe sizing systems historically evolved independently. In the United States and United Kingdom, lengths were derived from the barleycorn, an old English unit equal to one third of an inch. European sizing counts the number of Paris points, each roughly two-thirds of a centimeter. Japan, meanwhile, measures the actual foot length in centimeters. Despite attempts to harmonize measurements, regional differences persist in manufacturing and labeling.

To use the converter, simply choose the region that matches the size you know, type in that size, and press the Convert button. You’ll get a table displaying approximate equivalents in all four regions. We built the table using average values from major brand charts to give a reliable starting point. Keep in mind shoe lasts vary slightly from brand to brand, so trying on footwear when possible is ideal.

Conversion Table Logic

The converter relies on two simple arrays. Each index represents a standard size progression. For example, the women’s US sizes of 5 through 11 align with UK sizes 3 through 9 and EU sizes 36 through 42. We included Japanese sizes to show foot length in centimeters:

US	UK	EU	JP (cm)
5	3	36	22
6	4	37	23
7	5	38	24
8	6	39	25
9	7	40	26
10	8	41	27
11	9	42	28

When you enter a size, the script locates the closest match in the selected region’s column and prints the corresponding values from the other columns. This approach covers the majority of adult footwear. If your size falls between entries, the converter rounds to the nearest available option, which typically works for most brand charts.

How to Measure Your Foot

If you’re unsure of your size, measuring your foot can help. Stand on a sheet of paper with your heel against a wall. Mark the longest toe, then measure from the wall to the mark. In centimeters, this gives you an approximate Japanese shoe size. Many shoe boxes list the centimeter measurement inside, so even if the numbering system differs, you can find a comfortable fit. Keep in mind that one foot may be slightly larger; in that case, go with the larger measurement.

For greater accuracy, measure your feet later in the day when they’re slightly swollen, and wear the type of socks you’ll pair with the shoes. Add a little extra room—about half a centimeter—to ensure comfort, especially for athletic shoes where toe splay is important. Proper fit helps avoid blisters and other foot issues.

Using the Converter

Once you input your size, the converter displays a small table showing the equivalents in other regions. You can then decide which size to purchase from international retailers. Clicking the Copy Result button places the output text on your clipboard for easy reference while shopping online.

Beyond Numbers: Width and Style

Although length is the main factor in shoe size, width and style also influence fit. Some brands offer narrow, regular, and wide options, often indicated by letters. If you have particularly narrow or wide feet, check if the retailer provides width conversions as well. Additionally, certain styles like pointed-toe dress shoes may require sizing up for comfort.

Ultimately, the goal is to find a pair that feels great rather than obsess over a specific number. Use the converter as a guide, but trust how the shoe feels on your foot. When shopping online, read reviews or try on a similar model in a local store if possible.

Conclusion

This shoe size converter makes international shopping easier by taking the guesswork out of sizing differences. Whether you’re ordering limited-edition sneakers from abroad or planning a shopping trip overseas, you’ll know exactly which size to choose. Bookmark this tool so you always have a handy reference when buying shoes across regions.

Although we focus on four major sizing systems, the same concept applies to other regional scales as well. Many countries in South America and Asia adapt either US or European numbering, and specialty brands sometimes introduce half sizes or unique labels. Understanding the basic conversions empowers you to decipher those variations with confidence.

Online commerce continues to expand, and being able to interpret size charts accurately saves time and prevents costly returns. Keep experimenting with the converter whenever you encounter unfamiliar measurements, and consider recording your own experiences in a sizing journal. Over time you’ll develop an intuition for how different brands fit and which adjustments work best for your feet.