Education
How shoe sizes differ around the world
A clear breakdown of US, UK, EU and Japanese shoe sizing systems — what they measure and why they don't match.
Three measurement systems, three answers
US and UK sizes are based on the Barleycorn system, where each size equals 1/3 of an inch. EU sizes use the Paris Point, where each size is 2/3 of a centimeter. Japan and Korea use Mondopoint, which simply measures foot length in millimeters or centimeters.
Why US and UK aren't the same
Both descend from the Barleycorn system, but the starting point differs. UK sizing begins at size 0 for a four-inch foot; US men's adds an offset, and US women's adds another. The result: a UK 9 is roughly a US 10 in men's.
EU is decimal-friendly but not linear
EU sizes change in larger increments. There is no half size in many EU charts, so a US 9.5 might land between EU 42 and 42.5 depending on the brand.
Use length in cm whenever possible
When in doubt, ignore the local label and look for foot length in centimeters. Every brand, in every country, ultimately makes shoes for feet of a specific length.
Frequently asked questions
- Are EU sizes the same across Europe?
- Yes. EU sizes are standardized on the Paris Point system, so an EU 42 is the same in France, Italy and Germany — though manufacturer tolerances vary.
- Is a US 9 the same as a UK 9?
- No. A US men's 9 is roughly a UK 8.5. For women's, the offset is larger.
Last updated June 17, 2026 · Reviewed by the SizeAtlas editorial team