How to convert EU to UK shoe sizes: fit guide
Converting continental European footwear to British sizes requires understanding how Paris Points relate to British barleycorns. European sizing is unisex in length, while British sizing uses distinct width conventions across men's and women's models.
Measurement systems: Paris points and barleycorns
Continental European shoe sizing uses the Paris Point (2/3 of a centimeter, or 6.67 millimeters). British footwear sizing increments by one barleycorn (1/3 of an inch, or 8.46 millimeters). For historical details on the barleycorn, consult our guide on shoe sizes in inches and barleycorn measurements.
Because 6.67 mm is smaller than 8.46 mm, European sizes scale faster numerically. One full British step covers approximately 1.27 European steps.
Core formulas: converting European sizes to UK
Standard linear conversion formulas approximate British equivalents:
- For men: subtract 33.5 to 34 from the European size. EU 42 − 33.5 = UK 8.5 (27.0 cm foot length); EU 44 − 34 = UK 10 (28.5 cm foot length).
- For women: subtract 32.5 to 33 from the European size. EU 38.5 − 32.5 = UK 6 (25.0 cm foot length); EU 37.5 − 32.5 = UK 5 (24.0 cm foot length).
- For EU 42, European EU 42 corresponds to UK 8.5 (27.0 cm footbed).
- For EU 44, European EU 44 corresponds to UK 9.5 to 10 (28.0 to 28.5 cm footbed).
Handling half sizes
Because increment rates differ, some European sizes fall between British half sizes:
- EU 40 corresponds to UK 6.5 (25.0 cm foot length).
- EU 41 corresponds to UK 7.5 (26.0 cm foot length).
- EU 42.5 corresponds to UK 9.0 (27.5 cm foot length).
Width differences: British welted shoes and Continental lasts
Last proportions differ between British and European makers:
- British lasts: Northamptonshire shoemakers (including Loake, Barker, and Tricker's) use lettered widths: E (standard), F (medium-wide), and G (wide).
- Continental lasts: Italian and French designer footwear tends toward narrower toe boxes and lower instep profiles. German brands like Birkenstock and Lowa feature wider toe boxes.
Measuring foot length
To confirm your exact size, measure your foot length from heel to longest toe in centimeters. See our step-by-step instructions on measuring shoe size by foot length. A foot length of 27.0 cm aligns with EU 42 and UK 8.5.