Converting UK to EU Shoe Size is something many shoppers encounter, especially in today’s global market where people buy footwear from different countries, travel often, and have access to international brands. Although the purpose of shoe sizing is universal — to ensure a comfortable fit — the methods used in different regions vary considerably. This difference often leaves buyers wondering whether they are making the right choice when selecting their size in a new brand or country.
In the United Kingdom, shoe sizes are traditionally based on the “barleycorn” measurement system, which is quite different from the Paris point system used in most of continental Europe. While these systems aim for precision, the numerical differences can cause confusion if you do not know the conversion. This guide explores every detail of the UK to EU shoe size conversion, covering men’s, women’s, and children’s sizes, along with the factors that affect sizing accuracy, practical tips for online shoppers, and a set of detailed tables for easy reference.
1. Understanding UK and EU Shoe Sizing Systems
Before diving into conversion charts, it’s important to understand the basis of each sizing system, because the difference lies not just in numbers but in the measurement principles themselves.
1.1 The UK Shoe Sizing System
The UK system uses an old unit called the “barleycorn,” where one barleycorn equals one-third of an inch. The formula for UK adult shoe sizes starts from a base size of zero (roughly a length of 4 inches) and adds one size for each barleycorn increase. For children, the scale starts at a smaller length and runs through half sizes more frequently to ensure a better fit for growing feet. The UK also measures width separately, with letters such as E, F, or G indicating foot width.
1.2 The EU Shoe Sizing System
The EU system, used in countries such as France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, is based on the Paris point, where one Paris point equals two-thirds of a centimetre. Unlike the UK, the EU system doesn’t have separate scales for men, women, and children — the numbers represent foot length in Paris points. EU sizes also typically run in whole numbers without half sizes, though some brands have introduced them.
2. Key Differences Between UK and EU Shoe Sizes
| Feature | UK System | EU System |
|---|---|---|
| Measurement Unit | Barleycorn (1/3 inch) | Paris point (2/3 cm) |
| Base Size | 4 inches (size 0) | Foot length in Paris points |
| Separate Scales | Yes (men, women, children) | No — one scale for all |
| Half Sizes | Common | Less common, mostly whole sizes |
| Width Measurement | Letter system (E, F, G, etc.) | Less standardised, varies by brand |
These differences mean that a UK size number will almost never match the EU size number directly. For example, a UK men’s size 9 typically corresponds to an EU size 43 — but depending on the brand, it might be listed as 42.5 or 43.5.
3. Conversion Principles: UK to EU Shoe Sizes
The general conversion for adult shoes is as follows:
- Men’s shoes: EU size ≈ (UK size + 1) × 1.27
- Women’s shoes: EU size ≈ (UK size + 1.5) × 1.27
- Children’s shoes: Slightly different due to smaller increments and more variation between brands.
However, because shoe manufacturing tolerances differ, these formulas serve only as guidelines — actual fit may vary.
4. UK to EU Shoe Size Conversion Charts
Below are detailed conversion charts for men, women, and children. These tables are designed to give you a quick reference without the need for calculation.
4.1 Men’s UK to EU Conversion Chart
| UK Size | EU Size | Foot Length (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 38 | 24.4 |
| 5.5 | 39 | 24.8 |
| 6 | 39.5 | 25.4 |
| 6.5 | 40 | 25.7 |
| 7 | 41 | 26.0 |
| 7.5 | 41.5 | 26.3 |
| 8 | 42 | 26.7 |
| 8.5 | 42.5 | 27.0 |
| 9 | 43 | 27.3 |
| 9.5 | 44 | 27.9 |
| 10 | 44.5 | 28.3 |
| 10.5 | 45 | 28.6 |
| 11 | 46 | 29.0 |
4.2 Women’s UK to EU Conversion Chart
| UK Size | EU Size | Foot Length (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 36 | 22.8 |
| 3.5 | 36.5 | 23.1 |
| 4 | 37 | 23.5 |
| 4.5 | 37.5 | 23.8 |
| 5 | 38 | 24.1 |
| 5.5 | 38.5 | 24.5 |
| 6 | 39 | 24.8 |
| 6.5 | 40 | 25.1 |
| 7 | 40.5 | 25.4 |
| 7.5 | 41 | 25.8 |
| 8 | 42 | 26.1 |
4.3 Children’s UK to EU Conversion Chart
| UK Size | EU Size | Foot Length (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| 0.5 | 16 | 8.5 |
| 1 | 17 | 9.1 |
| 2 | 18 | 9.7 |
| 3 | 19 | 10.3 |
| 4 | 20.5 | 11.0 |
| 5 | 22 | 11.6 |
| 6 | 23 | 12.3 |
| 7 | 24 | 12.9 |
| 8 | 25.5 | 13.5 |
| 9 | 27 | 14.2 |
| 10 | 28 | 15.0 |
| 11 | 29 | 15.6 |
| 12 | 30.5 | 16.3 |
5. Why Shoe Size Conversion Is Not Always Exact
It’s tempting to think a chart is all you need — but shoe sizes are influenced by far more than foot length alone.
- Brand Variation: Different manufacturers may have slightly different interpretations of the same size.
- Style Differences: Athletic shoes, formal shoes, and boots may be cut differently, leading to fit variations.
- Width Considerations: The UK width system is more formalised, while EU widths are less standardised.
- Material Stretch: Leather shoes may stretch with wear, while synthetic materials remain more rigid.
- Foot Shape: Some people have high arches, wider toes, or narrower heels, which may alter the best fitting size.
6. Practical Tips for Converting UK to EU Shoe Sizes
- Measure Your Feet in the Afternoon: Feet swell slightly during the day, so measuring them later gives a more accurate size.
- Use Both Length and Width: If possible, match both the length (EU size) and width (UK letter) for the best fit.
- Check Brand Size Guides: Always compare your measurements with the brand’s own chart.
- Consider Sock Thickness: Winter boots may require a slightly larger size to accommodate thick socks.
- Try Both Sizes if Between Measurements: If you fall between two EU sizes, order both and return the one that doesn’t fit.
7. UK to EU Shoe Sizes in Online Shopping
Online shopping has increased the need for accurate size conversion. Many websites display both UK and EU sizes, but it’s important to read their sizing notes carefully. Some UK-based retailers list EU sizes that differ from standard charts because they base them on their own manufacturing standards. Always check return policies before buying, especially from overseas sellers.
Conclusion
Converting UK to EU shoe sizes isn’t difficult once you understand the underlying measurement systems and have a reliable reference chart. However, personal comfort depends on more than just a number. Always combine conversion knowledge with personal measurements and brand-specific advice for the best results. This approach will ensure that whether you are shopping in London, Paris, or online, you’ll walk away with footwear that fits perfectly.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is EU shoe sizing unisex?
Yes, EU sizes are generally unisex, though certain brands may label them differently for men and women.
Q2: Why don’t UK and EU shoe sizes match exactly?
They are based on different measurement systems — barleycorn in the UK and Paris point in the EU.
Q3: Can I use a formula to convert UK to EU shoe sizes?
Yes, but it’s better to use a chart because brand variations can affect the fit.
Q4: Are half sizes common in EU shoes?
No, half sizes are less common in the EU, though some brands do offer them.
Q5: Should I buy a size larger when converting?
Not always. Choose based on your exact foot length and the brand’s sizing advice.