EU Shoe Sizes Explained for US and UK Shoppers
Confused by EU shoe sizes? This guide explains how EU 36 to 41 compare to US and UK sizes, and how to order the right fit online.
If you shop from a European-sized store and normally buy in US or UK sizes, the number on the box can feel like a puzzle. Why does a 38 correspond to both a 5 and an 8? The answer is that the three systems start from different points and use different units. Here is how EU sizing works and how to translate it to your usual size.
Quick answer: EU 38 is US 7 and UK 5; EU 40 is US 9 and UK 7. The full women's chart for EU 36 to 41 is below.
How the three systems differ
EU sizes are based on a unit called the Paris point, which is two-thirds of a centimetre. So a full EU size step equals roughly 0.67 cm of foot length. UK and US sizes are based on barleycorns, an old unit of one third of an inch, and each starts from a different zero point. US women's sizes run about 2 to 2.5 numbers above UK sizes, which is why the same shoe has such different numbers.
EU to US and UK size chart for women (EU 36 to 41)
These are common approximations for women's sizes. Conversions vary between brands, so use them as a guide:
| EU size | US (women's) | UK |
|---|---|---|
| EU 36 | 5 | 3 |
| EU 37 | 6 | 4 |
| EU 38 | 7 | 5 |
| EU 39 | 8 | 6 |
| EU 40 | 9 | 7 |
| EU 41 | 10 | 8 |
Shop ADAMUMU flats in EU 36–41: Mary Janes, ballet flats, loafers, slingbacks and mules. Shipping is $3.99 worldwide and free on 2+ pairs, with 30 days to exchange or return.
Our size chart is the reference for ADAMUMU shoes, and it is better to follow it than a general table.
Why there are no half sizes
Many European sizes are only available in whole numbers. If you are normally a half size in US or UK, you will need to decide whether to go up or down. For flats, going up is often safer if you have a wider foot or wear socks, and going down is safer if your heel slips. A strapped style gives you extra adjustment room.
The most reliable method: measure your foot
Instead of converting numbers, measure your foot in centimetres and use the size chart. Place your heel against a wall, mark your longest toe, and measure the distance. Our guide on finding your flat shoe size has the step-by-step method, and our guide to measuring your foot at home adds a printable-style walkthrough. Add a little room for comfort.
Tips for US shoppers
- Check your own foot length rather than assuming a direct conversion.
- If you are a US half size, compare the options on either side and think about your foot width.
- Keep in mind that sizing in men's and women's differs; use women's conversions.
Tips for UK shoppers
- UK sizes tend to be lower than US sizes by about 2 to 2.5 numbers.
- If you are often between sizes, consider the larger one for slip-on styles.
- Remember that EU sizes may not include half sizes.
Width matters too
Sizing is not just about length. If you have wider feet, read our guide to flats for wide feet. Styles with adjustable straps, such as Mary Jane flats, can help you fine-tune the fit.
A final check
When your shoes arrive, try them on indoors with the socks you plan to wear. You should have a little room for your toes, a snug heel and no pinching. If something is off, you can exchange the pair rather than force it.
Common sizing questions
People often ask whether to size up or down when they are on the line between two numbers. A useful rule is to think about the shoe type: for slip-on styles that rely on a snug heel, a closer fit usually works better, while for strapped styles you have more room to adjust, so the larger size is often fine. Also think about the socks you will wear, the width of your foot, and whether you will be walking for many hours.
Shop with the right size
Now that you know your size, browse the styles. Shipping is a flat $3.99 worldwide, free when you order 2 pairs or more, and you have 30 days to exchange or return if the fit needs adjusting.
Frequently asked questions
What US size is EU 38?
US 7 for women (UK 5), though this can vary slightly between brands. Check the brand's size chart for the most accurate match.
Are EU sizes available in half sizes?
Often not. Many European sizes come in whole numbers, so decide whether to go up or down based on your foot.
Is it better to convert or to measure?
Measuring your foot and using the size chart is more reliable than converting numbers.
