Getting the right shoe size is important for comfort. If you’re buying shoes online, it’s even more important to pay attention to sizing.
Shoe sizes vary quite a bit between different systems. For example, a US size 8 is different than a UK size 8. And both are different from a European size 40. The Mondopoint system, which uses centimeters (CM), is more consistent than other systems.
This article will explain how to convert shoe sizes, focusing on CM measurements.
Decoding shoe sizing systems
Shoe sizes are all over the place, aren’t they? Here’s a look at some of the systems that are most commonly used.
Common systems
- United States (US) sizing: There are different scales for men, women, and children’s shoes. Women’s sizes tend to be about two sizes larger than men’s.
- United Kingdom (UK) sizing: This system is different from the U.S. system, so you’ll need a conversion chart to figure out what size you need.
- European (EU) sizing: This system is commonly used, but sizes can vary from brand to brand. As a rough estimate, you can add 31 to your U.S. size to get your European size.
- Mondopoint (CM) sizing: This system uses your foot length in centimeters or millimeters as the basis for the shoe size. Many people consider this to be the most accurate and reliable system.
Centimeters and shoe size
The number of centimeters is supposed to represent the interior length of the shoe. Measuring your foot accurately in centimeters can give you a universal standard to use when you’re shopping for shoes.
How to measure your feet in centimeters
Measuring your feet is an important first step in finding the right shoe size. Keep in mind that foot shape and shoe construction will affect how a shoe fits. A ruler can only approximate your shoe size.
To measure your foot length:
- Place your foot on a piece of paper, with your heel against a wall.
- Mark the longest point of your foot on the paper.
- Measure the distance from the wall to the mark in centimeters.
- Measure both feet, as they may be slightly different sizes.
Tips for getting an accurate measurement:
- Measure your feet at the end of the day, when they’re most swollen.
- Wear the socks you’d normally wear with the shoes you’re planning to buy.
- Stand while measuring to ensure your foot is fully expanded.
Converting CM to Other Shoe Sizes
Once you’ve measured your feet in centimeters, you can use that measurement to figure out your shoe size in other systems, like US, UK, or EU sizing. Keep in mind that these conversions are approximate, and there can be some variation between brands.
CM to US Shoe Size Conversion
The best way to convert centimeters to US shoe size is to use a conversion chart. Just be aware that there are different charts for men’s, women’s, and children’s sizes.
In general, women’s sizes tend to run about 1.5 to 2 sizes larger than men’s sizes for the same foot length. So, a woman who wears a size 8 would likely wear a size 6 or 6.5 in men’s shoes.
Children’s shoe sizes are different, too, so be sure to use a chart specifically for kids’ shoes. You’ll also want to factor in the child’s age, since their feet are constantly growing.
CM to UK and EU Shoe Size Conversion
UK and EU shoe sizes are different from US sizes, so you’ll need to use a conversion chart to find the right size. Again, keep in mind that these conversions are approximate, and it’s always best to try shoes on before you buy them.
Brand-Specific Shoe Sizing and CM
Unfortunately, shoe sizes aren’t consistent. The shoe size you wear can vary a lot, even from shoe to shoe from the same company. That’s why brand-specific sizing charts are so important.
Before you buy shoes online, check the manufacturer’s website or even the product page on the retailer’s site. Companies like Hoka provide size charts that show the relationship between foot length (in CM) and US sizes.
One group of researchers even compared over 190 brand size charts to improve conversion accuracy between different sizing systems! So, it’s a real problem.
Don’t forget shoe width, either. That can affect how a shoe fits, too. Women’s shoes, for example, tend to be narrower than men’s.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is my shoe size from cm?
Determining your shoe size from centimeters (cm) requires a bit of conversion, as sizing varies between regions (US, UK, EU). Start by measuring the length of your foot from heel to longest toe. Then, refer to a shoe size chart. For example, a foot length of 25 cm typically corresponds to a US women’s size 8 or a US men’s size 7. However, it’s always a good idea to consult the specific brand’s size chart, as they can differ slightly. You can also use our shoe size calculator on this page to get a more accurate estimate!
How many cm is a 42 shoe size?
A size 42 shoe in the European (EU) sizing system generally corresponds to a foot length of approximately 26.5 to 27 centimeters. However, this can vary slightly between manufacturers, so it’s always wise to check the specific brand’s size chart. If you’re unsure, it’s best to measure your foot length in centimeters and compare it to the brand’s chart to ensure the best fit. This will prevent the need to return ill-fitting shoes.
Putting It All Together
Measuring your feet in centimeters is the best way to find the right shoe size, but you still need to check the manufacturer’s size chart. Shoe sizes can vary significantly from brand to brand, so knowing your foot length in centimeters is only part of the battle.
If you can, find out the internal length of the shoe in centimeters. This will give you the best shot at finding a good fit, but always double-check against the brand’s size chart before you buy.