International Shoe Size Conversion Guide: US, UK, EU, and Japan

Shopping for shoes internationally can be confusing because the US, UK, Europe, and Japan all use different sizing systems. This guide explains the differences and helps you find your size in any system.

Popular Shoe Size Conversions

How Sizing Systems Differ

US Sizes use a numbered scale that differs between men and women. Women's sizes are typically 1.5 sizes higher than men's for the same foot length - a men's 8 is roughly a women's 9.5.

UK Sizes follow a similar numbered scale to the US but are offset. US men's sizes are usually about 0.5-1 size larger than the corresponding UK size. For example, a US men's 10 is approximately a UK 9.5.

EU (European) Sizes use the Paris Point system, which measures in two-thirds of a centimeter. EU sizes are unisex - a size 42 is the same for men and women. A US men's 9 is roughly an EU 42.

Japanese (JP) Sizes are based on foot length in centimeters. A foot measuring 27 cm corresponds to a JP size 27. This straightforward system makes it easy to determine your size if you know your foot measurement.

Measurement Tips

For the most accurate fit when shopping internationally:

1. Measure your feet in the afternoon - feet swell slightly during the day 2. Stand while measuring - your foot spreads under body weight 3. Measure both feet - most people have one foot slightly larger 4. Use the larger measurement when selecting a size 5. Trace your foot on paper and measure from the heel to the longest toe in centimeters

Quick Reference - Men's Sizes

US 8 = UK 7.5 = EU 41 = JP 26
US 9 = UK 8.5 = EU 42 = JP 27
US 10 = UK 9.5 = EU 43-44 = JP 28
US 11 = UK 10.5 = EU 44-45 = JP 29
US 12 = UK 11.5 = EU 45-46 = JP 30

Quick Reference - Women's Sizes

US 6 = UK 4 = EU 36-37 = JP 23
US 7 = UK 5 = EU 37-38 = JP 24
US 8 = UK 6 = EU 38-39 = JP 25
US 9 = UK 7 = EU 39-40 = JP 26
US 10 = UK 8 = EU 40-41 = JP 27

Note that sizes can vary between brands and shoe types. Always check the specific brand's size chart when available, and consider ordering from retailers with easy return policies when buying international sizes.

Use our shoe size converters for accurate conversions!

Sources & References

ISO 9407:2019, *Shoe sizes — Mondopoint system of sizing and marking* — iso.org
Shoe sizes vary by manufacturer and style; always consult the specific brand's size chart for the most accurate fit