Understanding Shoe Size Conversion
Shoe sizes are simply a coded way of expressing foot length, but the code differs by country and by shoe category. This calculator converts a measured foot length into the three sizing scales most shoppers run into — US, UK, and EU — using the standard offsets that show up across modern shoe-brand size charts.
The formula
The starting point is a widely used reference anchor: a 26 cm foot corresponds to US Men's size 8, UK size 7, and EU size 41. From that anchor, each sizing scale moves at a fixed rate relative to foot length:
- US Men's size = foot length (cm) − 18 — each whole size is about 1 cm of foot length.
- US Women's size = US Men's size + 1.5 — women's US sizing runs about a size and a half above the equivalent men's number.
- UK size = US Men's size − 1 — UK uses a single unisex scale, not separate men's and women's numbering.
- EU size = US Men's size + 33 — the Paris point / Continental European scale.
Results are rounded to the nearest half size, since that is the finest increment most shoe lines actually stock. You can choose to round up instead if you prefer extra room.
How to measure your foot length
Stand on a sheet of paper against a wall, wearing the socks you'd wear with the shoe, later in the day when feet are at their largest. Mark the wall at your heel and at the tip of your longest toe, then measure the distance between the marks in centimeters. Measure both feet — they are rarely identical — and base the conversion on the longer one.
Reference points
- 24 cm ≈ US Men's 6 / US Women's 7.5 / UK 5 / EU 39
- 26 cm ≈ US Men's 8 / US Women's 9.5 / UK 7 / EU 41
- 28 cm ≈ US Men's 10 / US Women's 11.5 / UK 9 / EU 43
- 30 cm ≈ US Men's 12 / US Women's 13.5 / UK 11 / EU 45
Why exact matches aren't guaranteed
Shoe sizing isn't governed by one universal physical standard the way a kilogram or a meter is, so these formulas are widely used approximations rather than physics. Expect a result to land within about half a size of any specific brand's own chart, and defer to that brand's official size guide or an in-person fitting whenever one is available — especially for athletic shoes, boots, and children's footwear, which follow their own numbering conventions not covered here.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is US shoe size calculated from foot length?
How do UK and EU sizes relate to US sizes?
Why do shoe sizes vary between brands even at the same labeled size?
Should I round up or down when I land between half sizes?
Common Tip Percentages
| Service | Typical Tip Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurant (sit-down) | 15–20% | 20%+ for exceptional service |
| Food delivery | 10–20% | Consider extra for long distances |
| Taxi / rideshare | 10–20% | More for assistance with luggage |
| Hotel housekeeping | $2–5/night | Leave daily, not just at checkout |
| Barber / hair salon | 15–20% | On pre-discount total |
| Pizza delivery | 10–15% or $3–5 minimum | Higher in bad weather |
General Household Budget Ratios (50/30/20 Rule)
| Category | % of Net Income | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Needs | 50% | Rent, groceries, utilities, insurance |
| Wants | 30% | Dining out, entertainment, hobbies |
| Savings / Debt | 20% | Emergency fund, retirement, extra payments |
Common Measurement Conversions for Everyday Use
| Quantity | US / Imperial | Metric Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| 1 cup | 8 fl oz | 237 mL |
| 1 pint | 16 fl oz | 473 mL |
| 1 quart | 32 fl oz | 946 mL |
| 1 gallon | 128 fl oz | 3.785 L |
| 1 lb | 16 oz | 453.6 g |
| 1 ft | 12 in | 30.48 cm |