adminFor those of you who enjoy shopping for shoes online, especially from brands or stores based abroad, understanding the differences in size designations is very important. Errors in converting sizes can result in ill-fitting shoes that end up unused. This article will thoroughly explore the common differences in size designations for shoes used in various countries, so you can shop with more confidence and accuracy.
One of the most commonly used shoe sizing systems is the European (EU) system. This system is based on the length of the shoe last in millimeters. For example, an EU size 42 is generally equivalent to a last length of about 280 mm. On the other hand, the United States (US) and the United Kingdom (UK) have their own sizing systems that differ significantly from the European system and from each other. The differences in size designations between these systems are often a source of confusion for international consumers.
For example, a US men’s size 9 is generally equivalent to an EU size 42, but a UK size 8 also has similarities to EU 42. The same applies to women’s sizes, where a US 7 is often equivalent to an EU 37.5 or 38, while a UK 5 has a similar range. According to a shoe size guide issued by the International Shoe Manufacturers Association on May 1st, 2024, these differences in size designations do not have a consistently accurate conversion formula due to variations in the standards applied by each manufacturer.
In addition to the EU, US, and UK systems, some other countries or regions also have their own shoe sizing systems. Japan uses a sizing system based on foot length in centimeters. For example, a Japanese size 26 cm is generally equivalent to an EU 41 or a US 8. Meanwhile, some other countries in Asia may have their own variations of sizing systems. Therefore, it is important to always refer to the specific size guide of the brand or store where you are shopping to avoid errors in converting the differences in size designations.
To facilitate conversion, many online stores provide size conversion charts that can help buyers find the right size based on the sizing system they use. However, it should be remembered that these conversion charts are general and there may be slight differences in size designations between brands. If possible, measuring your foot length in centimeters and matching it with the size guide of the brand in question is the most accurate way to avoid errors.
In conclusion, understanding the differences in size designations for shoes across countries is a crucial key when shopping for shoes internationally. Different sizing systems such as EU, US, UK, and Japan have unique standards. Always check the specific size guide of the brand you are interested in and consider measuring your foot length to get the most suitable shoe size.