How to convert EU shoe size to centimeters: sizing guide
Comparing European shoes across brands requires converting European numbers to anatomical centimeter measurements. Understanding how metric Paris Points relate to bare foot length eliminates sizing errors.
European sizing: Paris points and centimeters
Unlike the American and British shoe systems based on the barleycorn (1/3 of an inch), European footwear is grounded in the metric Paris Point system. One Paris Point equals two-thirds of a centimeter (6.67 millimeters). Read our guide on shoe sizes in inches and barleycorn measurements for comparison.
To calculate the shoe last length from a European shoe number, multiply the EU size by 2/3. For example, a shoe stamped EU 42 has an internal last length of 28.0 centimeters (42 × 2/3 = 28.0 cm). Accounting for 1.0 cm of toe clearance, an EU 42 fits a 27.0 cm anatomical foot length.
Converting European sizes to US sizes
Standard offsets convert European sizes to American sizes:
- For men: subtract 33 from the European size (EU 42 − 33 = US Men 9.0 for a 27.0 cm foot length; EU 44 − 33 = US Men 11.0 for 29.0 cm).
- For women: subtract 30.5 from the European size (EU 38.5 − 30.5 = US Women 8.0 for 25.0 cm).
- In reverse, men add 33 to their US size (US 9.0 + 33 = EU 42), while women add 30.5 (US 8.0 + 30.5 = EU 38.5).
Understanding 10.5 in European sizing
The number 10.5 can refer to distinct sizing metrics:
- An American Men's US 10.5 corresponds to EU 44.5 (28.5 cm foot length).
- An American Women's US 10.5 corresponds to EU 42.0 (27.5 cm foot length).
- A British UK 10.5 corresponds to EU 45.0 (29.0 cm foot length).
- A foot length of 10.5 inches (26.7 cm) corresponds to EU 41.5 to 42.0.
Centimeter measurements across footwear brands
Nominal European sizes can vary between brands. Italian leather shoes from formal makers frequently use generous lasts, while French and German athletic models use closer fittings.
Referencing foot length in centimeters provides a consistent baseline across manufacturers. Footwear boxes often print this metric as the Japanese (JP) or Mondopoint number.
Measuring foot length
To measure your foot length accurately in centimeters, measure both feet from heel to longest toe. See our step-by-step instructions on measuring shoe size by foot length. A foot measuring 27.0 cm corresponds to EU 42.