Euro Foot Sizing: A Comprehensive Guide to European Shoe Sizes

The European shoe sizing system, often referred to as the Paris Point, is a metric system used across mainland Europe and commonly labeled as EU size. Unlike UK and US shoe sizes, which are based on inches, the EU system relies on centimeters, making it easier to understand and convert for those familiar with the metric system.

The Paris Point system originated in 19th-century France and is based on a unit of measurement equal to two-thirds of a centimeter (approximately 6.67 mm). This unit likely stems from the stitch length of sewing machines of the time. The system starts at a children’s size 15, equivalent to a 10 cm inner shoe length, and extends up to a men’s size 50, equivalent to a 33.3 cm inner shoe length. This provides a consistent and unified scale for both children and adult shoe sizes.

EU shoe sizes are calculated by taking the last length in centimeters (foot length plus 1.5 cm for movement within the shoe) and dividing it by 0.667. Half sizes are rare in the EU system, resulting in a consistent 6.67 mm difference between each full size.

The additional 1.5 cm added to the foot length accounts for the natural movement of the foot inside the shoe while walking. This ensures sufficient space and prevents discomfort. When measuring your foot, remember to include this extra length for a proper fit.

In contrast, the UK sizing system, the oldest in the world, uses barleycorn as its unit of measurement, with three barleycorns equalling one inch (2.54 cm). This system originated in 1324 under King Edward II. Today, a barleycorn still represents 1/3 of an inch (8.46 mm).

The UK system differentiates between children’s and adult’s sizes, starting with a children’s size 0 at 12 barleycorns (10.16 cm inner shoe length). Adult sizes begin after children’s size 13 ½ (approximately 22 cm inner length), with the largest men’s size reaching 14 (33 cm inner length). Half sizes were introduced in the UK system around 1880 for a more precise fit.

UK adult shoe sizes are calculated by taking the last length in centimeters, dividing by 2.54, multiplying by 3, and then subtracting 25. Alternatively, the last length in inches can be multiplied by 3 and then have 25 subtracted from the product.

The US shoe sizing system mirrors the UK system but with a slight variation in the starting point. Originating in the mid-19th century, the US system begins at 3 11/12 inches instead of 4 inches. Similar to the UK system, it utilizes half sizes with a 4.233 mm difference between each size.

US men’s shoe sizes are calculated by using the same formula as the UK system but subtracting 24 instead of 25. For women’s sizes, 23 is subtracted. It’s important to note that US sizes generally run smaller than European sizes. A US men’s size 10 corresponds to a UK size 8 and a European size 42, while a US women’s size 5 equals a UK size 4.

Furthermore, athletic shoes often utilize US sizing and tend to fit smaller than standard outdoor shoes. It’s generally recommended to purchase athletic shoes 1.5 to 2.5 sizes larger than your regular shoe size, depending on the sizing system used. When comparing shoe sizes across different regions, remember that variations can exist due to manufacturing differences and individual shoe models. Direct comparison and utilizing size charts provided by manufacturers are crucial for ensuring a proper fit.