Shoe sizing has a widely used approximate conversion between the EU and US scales, though actual fit still varies somewhat by brand.
How it works
Subtracting a fixed offset (33 for men’s, 31 for women’s) from the EU size gives the approximate equivalent US size, based on commonly cited sizing-chart conventions.
What this does not include
This does not include brand-specific sizing, which can vary from this general approximation — always check a specific brand’s own size chart when possible for the most accurate fit.
How to use this calculator
- Choose men’s or women’s, then enter the EU size.
A worked example
Men’s EU size 43 converts to US size 10.
Women’s EU size 39 converts to US size 8.
What the variables mean
| Variable | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Category | Men’s or women’s sizing, since the two scales differ |
| EU size | European shoe size |
Edge cases worth knowing
Men’s and women’s EU-to-US conversions aren’t the same offset. The same EU size maps to a different US size depending on category, which is why this calculator asks for category before converting.
Shoe size conversions vary somewhat by brand — this uses the standard conversion, but individual manufacturers sometimes run slightly large or small compared to the nominal size.
Frequently asked questions
Why do men’s and women’s sizes use different offsets?
The US sizing scales for men’s and women’s shoes are calibrated differently relative to the EU scale, so a single offset wouldn’t work accurately for both.
Is this conversion exact?
No — it’s a widely used approximation; actual fit can vary by shoe brand, last shape, and style, so trying on shoes or checking a brand’s specific chart is more reliable.
What is the EU shoe sizing system based on?
It’s based on the Paris point system, where each size unit represents roughly two-thirds of a centimeter of foot length.
