European Shoe Sizes Explained: Converting EU to US Sizes

Many of the comfort brands we carry come from Europe, and their sizes show up as numbers like EU 38 or EU 42. If you have worn US sizes your whole life, that can make ordering feel like guesswork. Here is how we explain European sizing to customers at the fitting bench, along with the charts we use.

How do European shoe sizes work?

European sizes are based on a unit called the Paris point, which is two-thirds of a centimeter. Each full EU size is one Paris point longer than the last. US sizes step up by about a third of an inch per full size, which is a slightly larger step.

Because the two systems use different step sizes, they never line up perfectly. That is why conversion charts, including ours, often show a US size sitting between two EU sizes, such as 38/39. One other difference: the EU scale is the same for men and women, while US men's and women's sizes are numbered differently.

What is my EU size if I wear a US women's size?

These are the approximate conversions from the size guide on our product pages:

What is my EU size if I wear a US men's size?

Treat these charts as a starting point, not a guarantee. Conversions are approximate and vary by brand.

Why do European brands fit differently from each other?

Every brand builds its shoes on its own lasts, the foot-shaped forms a shoe is made around. Two pairs marked EU 39 from different makers can differ in length, toe shape, and volume. Some general patterns we see:

• Rieker and Remonte, which use EU sizes, can run slightly narrow.
• Naot tends to run true to size for most of our customers.
• Birkenstock offers Regular and Narrow fits, so check which one you are ordering.
• A contoured footbed takes up room inside the shoe, which affects how a size feels.

Brands we carry that use EU sizes include Naot, Birkenstock, Rieker, Remonte, Pikolinos, and some Taos styles.

What if I wear a half size?

Many European brands make whole EU sizes only. Because EU sizes step up in smaller increments than US full sizes, the nearest whole EU size is often close to a US half size. If you fall between two EU sizes in a shoe with a contoured footbed, we generally recommend going up. If the shoe feels long but fits well across the foot, an insole or a different lacing pattern can sometimes take up a little extra room, but a shoe that is clearly too big or too small should be exchanged.

How do widths work in European sizes?

European brands often make each style in a single standard width, with some exceptions. On our site, when a style comes in more than one width, you will see it listed as Narrow, Medium, Wide, or Extra Wide (4E/6E), and you can filter collections by width. If you have wide feet, a wider shoe is usually a better answer than a longer one.

How can I order European sizes online with confidence?

1. Measure both feet. Most people have one foot slightly larger than the other. Fit the larger foot. Our guide to arch length explains why heel-to-toe length is only part of the story.
2. Use the size guide on the product page. It uses the conversions above.
3. Compare with a shoe you already own. If you have a pair from the same brand that fits well, order that EU size.
4. Call us. We can tell you how a particular style tends to fit compared with others.
5. Use free exchanges. Shipping is free over $100, and unworn shoes can be returned or exchanged free within 30 days. Details are on our Shipping & Returns page.

Frequently asked questions

What is a US women's size 8 in European sizes?

A US women's 8 is approximately EU 38/39. Conversions are approximate and vary by brand, so check the size guide on the product page or call us for help with a specific style.

What is a US men's size 10 in European sizes?

A US men's 10 is approximately EU 43. Conversions are approximate and vary by brand.

Are European shoe sizes different for men and women?

No. The EU scale is the same for men and women. US sizing uses separate men's and women's numbers, which is why the same EU size converts to different US sizes for men and women.

Should I size up or down in European shoes if I am between sizes?

For comfort shoes with contoured footbeds, we generally recommend sizing up when you are between sizes. A shoe that is too short is harder to fix than one with a little extra length.

What if my European size does not fit?

Unworn shoes in original condition can be returned or exchanged free within 30 days. You can return in store or contact us for a prepaid return label.

Let us find your EU size

If you are near South Windsor, the simplest answer is an in-store fitting: we measure both feet on a Brannock device, scan them, and have you try your size in the brands you are considering. Disibio Shoes is at 200 Evergreen Way, Suite 216, South Windsor, CT 06074, in The Shops at Evergreen Walk, with free parking. We are open Monday through Saturday 10 to 7 and Sunday 11 to 5. Call (860) 791-2248 or email customercare@disibioshoes.com. Shopping from farther away? Browse our women's comfort shoes and men's collection and call us with any sizing questions before you order.