UK to EU Shoe Size Conversion Guide
Need to convert UK shoe sizes to EU (European) sizes? You're in the right place! This guide provides clear UK to EU conversion charts for Men, Women, and Kids, along with a simple converter tool and helpful tips to ensure you find the correct European shoe size.
UK to EU Shoe Size Converter Tool
Enter a UK shoe size below to see its approximate EU equivalent. For best results, select the shoe type (Men's, Women's, or Kids').
UK <-> EU Shoe Size Converter
Select shoe type, then enter either the UK or EU size to convert.
Results use standard conversions. Brand sizing varies significantly!
Remember that conversions are approximate. Shoe sizing varies between brands, so always check the specific brand's size chart if possible. Using your foot length in CM or MM is the most reliable way to find your true size.
Understanding UK vs. EU Shoe Sizing
Converting between UK and EU shoe sizes can sometimes be confusing because they use different numbering systems and increments:
- UK Sizes: Typically based on barleycorns (1/3 inch increments). Kids' sizes start over after reaching size 13.5.
- EU Sizes: Based on the Paris Point system, where one Paris Point is 2/3 of a centimeter. EU sizes generally increase consistently without restarting for kids.
- No Exact Universal Formula: While general conversion rules exist (e.g., EU size is roughly UK size + 33 for adults), this isn't universally precise due to half-sizes and manufacturing differences.
- Brand Variations: This is the biggest factor! Some brands may have their own unique conversion or fit slightly larger or smaller than standard.
Pro Tip: Use CM/MM
The most reliable way to compare sizes, especially across UK and EU systems or different brands, is to measure your foot in Centimeters (CM) or Millimeters (MM) and compare this to the brand's CM/MM sizing information. Our measurement guide below can help!
How to Measure Feet Accurately (+ Printable Tool Info)
Knowing your precise foot length in CM (Centimeters) or MM (Millimeters) is key for accurate UK to EU shoe size conversion, especially when checking brand-specific charts.
Measurement Steps:
- Gather Supplies: Find a hard floor, a wall, a piece of paper larger than your foot, a pen or pencil, and a ruler or tape measure (with CM & IN).
- Position Foot: Place the paper on the floor against the wall. Stand on the paper with your heel firmly against the wall. Wear the type of socks you'd normally wear with the shoes. Ensure your weight is evenly distributed.
- Trace Outline: Have someone else trace the outline of your foot, keeping the pen held vertically (at a 90° angle) to the paper. If alone, trace carefully, ensuring the pen stays snug against your foot.
- Measure Length: Remove your foot. Draw a straight line from the back of the heel mark to the tip of the mark for your longest toe. Measure this line using your ruler in **Centimeters (CM)**.
- Repeat for Other Foot: Feet are often slightly different sizes. Repeat steps 2-4 for your other foot.
- Use the Longer Measurement: Always use the measurement from your *longer* foot. You can then compare this CM/MM value to brand charts or use it with conversion tools.
- Consider Comfort Room: Most size charts account for *shoe* length, not exact foot length. Unless a brand guide says otherwise, add about 1cm (approx. ⅜ inch) to your foot measurement *before* comparing to size charts to allow for necessary wiggle room.
Using a Printable Measurement Tool
For very precise foot measurement at home, you can search for a "printable foot ruler PDF" online. If you use one, it's crucial to print it at 'Actual Size' or '100%' scale.
This ensures the ruler markings on the printed tool are accurate for a reliable measurement.
UK to EU Shoe Size Conversion Charts
Use these charts as a guide to convert between UK and EU shoe sizes. For the most accurate fit, also consider your foot length in CM/MM. Remember, brand sizing can vary!
Men's UK to EU Shoe Size Chart
| UK Men | EU | CM (Foot Length Approx.) | Mondo (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5.5 | 39 | ~23.9 | 239 |
| 6 | 39.5 | ~24.4 | 244 |
| 6.5 | 40 | ~24.8 | 248 |
| 7 | 40.5 | ~25.3 | 253 |
| 7.5 | 41.5 | ~25.7 | 257 |
| 8 | 42 | ~26.1 | 261 |
| 8.5 | 42.5 | ~26.5 | 265 |
| 9 | 43 | ~26.9 | 269 |
| 9.5 | 44 | ~27.3 | 273 |
| 10 | 44.5 | ~27.7 | 277 |
| 10.5 | 45 | ~28.1 | 281 |
| 11 | 45.5 | ~28.6 | 286 |
| 11.5 | 46 | ~29.0 | 290 |
| 12 | 47 | ~29.8 | 298 |
| 13 | 48 | ~30.6 | 306 |
| 14 | 49 | ~31.4 | 314 |
| 15 | 50 | ~32.0 | 320 |
Women's UK to EU Shoe Size Chart
| UK Women | EU | CM (Foot Length Approx.) | Mondo (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5 | 35 | ~21.5 | 215 |
| 3 | 35.5 | ~21.9 | 219 |
| 3.5 | 36 | ~22.3 | 223 |
| 4 | 36.5 | ~22.7 | 227 |
| 4.5 | 37 | ~23.2 | 232 |
| 5 | 37.5 | ~23.6 | 236 |
| 5.5 | 38 | ~24.1 | 241 |
| 6 | 38.5 | ~24.5 | 245 |
| 6.5 | 39 | ~24.9 | 249 |
| 7 | 40 | ~25.3 | 253 |
| 7.5 | 40.5 | ~25.7 | 257 |
| 8 | 41 | ~26.1 | 261 |
| 8.5 | 42 | ~26.5 | 265 |
| 9 | 42.5 | ~26.9 | 269 |
| 9.5 | 43 | ~27.3 | 273 |
| 10 | 43.5 | ~27.7 | 277 |
Kids' & Toddler UK to EU Shoe Size Chart
| UK Kids' | EU | CM (Foot Length Approx.) | Mondo (mm) | Approx. Age |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 K | 19 | ~11.1 | 111 | ~1 yr |
| 4.5 K | 20 | ~12.0 | 120 | ~1-1.5 yrs |
| 6.5 K | 23 | ~14.0 | 140 | ~2 yrs |
| 9.5 K | 27 | ~16.5 | 165 | ~3-4 yrs |
| 13.5 K | 32 | ~19.9 | 199 | ~6 yrs (End of Kids 'K' sizes) |
| 1 (Youth) | 33 | ~20.4 | 204 | ~6-7 yrs (Start of Youth sizes) |
| 3.5 (Youth) | 36 | ~22.5 | 225 | ~8-9 yrs |
| 6.5 (Youth) | 39.5 | ~25.1 | 251 | ~11+ yrs |
Brand-Specific Shoe Sizing (UK & EU)
While our charts provide general UK to EU conversions, individual brands can have unique sizing. Always check the brand's official size chart, especially if they provide EU and CM/MM measurements.
-
Nike Sizing: Often provides UK, EU, US, and CM. Use their CM values for the best cross-reference from UK to EU.
-
Adidas Sizing: Typically shows UK, EU, US, and JP (often CM). Compare their UK and EU directly, or use JP/CM as a baseline.
-
Dr. Martens Sizing: Primarily uses UK sizing. Their charts usually show EU equivalents. They often run large; consider foot measurement.
-
Clarks Sizing: Provides UK and EU sizes, and often width fittings. Good to check their specific UK to EU mapping.
Shoe Fit Tips for UK & EU Sizes
Finding the perfect fit between UK and EU sizes involves more than just chart conversion. Consider these tips:
- Measure Later in Day: Feet can swell. Measure in the afternoon or evening for a more accurate size.
- Wear Appropriate Socks: Try on shoes with the type of socks you'll typically wear with them.
- Check Both Feet: One foot is often slightly larger. Always fit to your larger foot.
- Thumb's Width Rule: Aim for about a thumb's width (approx. 1-1.5cm) of space between your longest toe and the shoe's end.
- Width Matters: EU sizes sometimes come in different widths, though less commonly than UK or US. If shoes often feel tight or loose side-to-side, look into width options.
- Try Before You Buy (If Possible): If buying online, understand the return policy. Different styles from the same brand can fit differently.
- Read Reviews: Customer reviews often mention if a particular shoe model (and its UK/EU sizing) runs true, small, or large.
UK to EU Shoe Size FAQ
How do I convert UK shoe size to EU?
While there's no single perfect formula, a common rough guide for adults is: EU Size ≈ UK Size + 33 (e.g., UK 7 ≈ EU 40). However, this varies. Using our UK to EU converter tool or the size charts above is more reliable. The best method is to check the specific brand's size chart or use your foot length in CM.
Is UK shoe size the same as US?
No, UK and US shoe sizes are different. Generally, for men, US size is UK size + 0.5 to 1 (e.g., UK 8 ≈ US 8.5 or 9). For women, US size is UK size + 2 to 2.5 (e.g., UK 5 ≈ US 7 or 7.5). This page focuses on UK to EU conversion.
What is EU shoe size 38 in UK?
An EU shoe size 38 is typically equivalent to a UK Women's size 5 or 5.5. For men, EU 38 is very small, around a UK 5. Always check context (men's/women's/kids') and refer to specific charts or our converter.
What is UK shoe size 7 in EU?
A UK men's size 7 is generally around an EU 40.5 to 41. A UK women's size 7 is typically an EU 40. Our charts and converter can give more precise estimates.
Are EU shoe sizes unisex?
The EU numbering system itself is unisex (e.g., an EU 40 is an EU 40 regardless of gender). However, shoe *styles* and *lasts* (the mold a shoe is made on) are designed differently for men's and women's feet, affecting width and overall shape. So, while the number is consistent, the fit won't be if you try a shoe designed for a different gender.
Why is it important to measure my foot in CM for UK to EU conversion?
Centimeters (CM) or Millimeters (MM - Mondopoint) provide a universal measurement of foot length. Since UK and EU sizing systems have different increments and starting points, and brands interpret these differently, your CM/MM foot length is the most consistent value to compare against brand-specific size charts. This helps bridge the gap between UK and EU sizing conventions.
Final Sizing Disclaimer
This UK to EU shoe size converter, charts, and guides are provided as reference tools only. Sizing standards, manufacturing processes, and last shapes vary significantly between brands and even different styles from the same brand.
Always prioritize measuring your foot accurately (CM/MM) and consulting the specific brand's official size chart and fit recommendations (especially for EU sizes) before purchasing footwear. Relying solely on conversion may lead to an incorrect fit.