Usually, the standard half-size in the US women’s shoe sizes is 0.5 cm and 0.4 cm in the men’s. On the other hand, there are no half-size options in European shoes.
Sometimes, shoe sizes are not always as easy as we usually think they are, particularly with a wide range of shoe sizing systems all over the world. Not to mention some small differences in sizes for individual brands of shoes, which include both women’s and men’s shoe sizes. So, with all these doubts, the chances are high that you can choose the wrong size.
This is even more difficult for people having half-size feet. So, how much bigger is a half size in shoes? When it comes to the accuracy of measurement, there is not much larger. However, there are a lot more elements to consider in terms of half-size measurement in shoe sizes. And those I will be discussing throughout this article. Of course, it is really bad when the shoes are either too large or tight. But apparently minor changes might determine the fit of your shoes.
Different Shoe Size Systems in the World
Shoe sizes vary around the world, and just like many other products, there hasn’t been any universally recognized standard system for shoe sizing. But most of the time, you will see three major different shoe sizes labeled on your shoes, including US, UK, and EU sizing.
In fact, this is not a sign of the shoe manufacturer’s location, but it is simply the shoe measurements in accordance with different measurement systems. For example, in the US, the standard half-size for men’s shoes is 0.4 cm and 0.5 cm for women’s.
Now, let’s go into more detail about the US and European shoe size systems.
The US Shoe Size System
In most cases, women’s shoe sizes in the US sizing system range between 4 and 12 inches, and from 6 to 16 inches for men’s shoe sizes. Of course, there will always be exceptions in everything, and you can also purchase large shoes.
Again, in general, men’s shoes seem to be produced a little bit wider than women’s shoes. But the children’s shoe sizes in the US are really different from the general US shoe sizing system.
One standard for any kind of shoes to be federally accepted as diabetic or medical is that shoes must come in a wide option of widths (related: wide shoe size charts explained). In particular, US shoes’ widths now can come in different widths, such as narrow, standard/medium, wide, and extra wide. However, the same can’t be applied to European shoes. Accordingly, the shoe size remains the same, increasing by 0.5cm and 0.4cm for men and women, respectively, independent of the width.
The European Shoe Size System
Unlike the US shoe sizing system, both children’s and adults’ shoe sizes in Europe share the same sizing system. Alternatively, the range usually goes from tiny shoe sizes, mostly worn by kids, to bigger shoe sizes, mostly worn by men. In addition, the European shoe sizing system is a unisex system that, unlike the separate US shoe sizing system, applies to all shoes.
For example, if you typically wear a 38 men’s shoe, then you might be fit with the women’s 38-size shoes too. Although the detailing and design can be different, the size will be the same. What’s more, shoes in Europe never increase in half sizes, but use the entire numbers. And this is also the key difference between the US and European shoe size systems.
You might also find it surprising that lots of adults in Europe are wearing shoes without the right fit.
While most of us are about the same size, which is around half a size for most of our adulthood, various shoe manufacturers will offer a relatively different fit. And, of course, a pair of wider shoes will feel completely different from a narrower pair. So, it is paramount always to maintain good foot support besides the right fit.
Women’s Shoe Size Chart
| US Size | UK Size | EU Size | Foot length (cm), approx. | Foot length (inches), approx. |
| 6 | 4 | 36-37 | 22.5 | 8.75 |
| 6.5 | 4.5 | 37 | 23 | 9 |
| 7 | 5 | 37-38 | 23.5 | 9.25 |
| 7.5 | 5.5 | 38 | 23.8 | 9.375 |
| 8 | 6 | 38-39 | 24 | 9.5 |
| 8.5 | 6.5 | 39 | 24.6 | 9.75 |
| 9 | 7 | 39-40 | 25 | 9.875 |
| 9.5 | 7.5 | 40 | 25.4 | 10 |
| 10 | 8 | 40-41 | 25.9 | 10.2 |
| 10.5 | 8.5 | 41 | 26.2 | 10.35 |
| 11 | 9 | 41-42 | 26.7 | 10.5 |
If you’re looking for a pair of comfortable work shoes that fit for women, you may check out the link.
Men’s Shoe Size Chart
| US Size | UK Size | EU Size | Foot length (cm), approx. | Foot length (inches), approx. |
| 7 | 6 | 40 | 24.4 | 9.6 |
| 7.5 | 6.5 | 40-41 | 24.8 | 9.75 |
| 8 | 7 | 41 | 25.2 | 9.9 |
| 8.5 | 7.5 | 41-42 | 25.7 | 10.125 |
| 9 | 8 | 42 | 26 | 10.25 |
| 9.5 | 8.5 | 42-43 | 26.5 | 10.4 |
| 10 | 9 | 43 | 26.8 | 10.6 |
| 10.5 | 9.5 | 43-44 | 27.3 | 10.75 |
| 11 | 10 | 44 | 27.8 | 10.9 |
| 11.5 | 10.5 | 44-45 | 28.3 | 11.125 |
| 12 | 11 | 45 | 28.6 | 11.25 |
| 13 | 12 | 46 | 29.4 | 11.6 |
And if you want to look for tennis shoes that fit for men, you can check the link.
Shoe Size is All About the Fact
Have you ever thought about the last time you measured your foot or discussed the fit of your types of sneakers with an expert? With so much involved in proper footwear and the biomechanics of walking, I highly encourage anyone who is reading this article to take the time to measure your foot again or consult a professional next time you buy a new pair of footwear.
As you might know, most of us have asymmetrical feet, with one foot being a little bit bigger than the other. But it is usually only half or half the American size. While some people, in rare cases, some people’s feet might be around 3 or 4 inches dissimilar from one foot to another. So, to avoid problems later on, it is best to make sure you choose the right sized shoes for your feet’ measurements.
In case the variance is minor, the smaller under foot sole occupies enough space to restrict your movement. As a result, it can cause rubbing and blisters.
While a raised and supportive insole might shorten the foot’s length a little bit, it can help people with flat feet a lot in supporting the arch of their feet.
And when the arch sags, your foot tends to roll inwards that puts lots of pressure on the ankle inside the area. Then, this might put an unequal strain on the knee and might even affect your back – causing pain in seemingly irrelevant areas.
Should I Wear Half-Size Bigger Shoes?
In fact, this depends on different factors. For example, if you are going to purchase nike running shoes that fit for women, it is great to go a half size larger. As when you are running, blood flow to your foot muscles tends to increase to keep them aerated. This might lead to swelling of the feet. In addition, you are always wearing socks with your running shoes. Therefore, it is ideal to allow for some extra room when you are looking for new running shoes.
However, if you’re gonna buy dress shoes, it is not recommended to buy a half-size larger one. Instead, you should choose your actual size to enjoy the ultimate comfort and fit.
For children, their feet are still growing and have a tendency of growing out of their shoes at a faster speed. Therefore, I highly recommend getting them shoes with the right fit but offering a growing space. Another great idea is to buy them full-size bigger shoes and get them extra comfy inserts to make up for the added space while their feet are growing.
Another major element to consider is the boot brand. As you might know, each shoe or boot brand will have a small variation in shoe sizes. This is because different brands have their own manufacturing facilities and standards that vary in different countries. And those nations use separate shoe sizing systems.
Therefore, you should refer to the specific brand’s shoe size chart so that you will know for sure the correct size of the shoes to buy.
How to Measure Your Shoe Size At Home?
If you are unable to see an expert to get your shoe size correctly measured, you should review the shoe size (e.g Adidas Shoe Size) you are buying. You can also measure your shoe size at home on your own with the following instructions:
Firstly, you need a measuring tape/a ruler, a pencil, and a piece of paper bigger than your foot.
Stand straight on the paper on the flat surface. Make sure to stand comfortably with your foot flat on the floor.
Use a pencil to mark on the paper in the front of the longest toe and behind your foot.
Repeat the measurement with the other foot
Measure the distance between the two marks of your feet in centimeters or inches.
The longest of the two measurements will be used. If you are not sure, measure again.
Refer to the above sizing charts and find the right size for your foot measurements.
In case your foot measurements are not on the chart, round up and use the bigger size.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to measure the right shoe size?
You can measure your correct shoe size by yourself using a piece of paper. Make sure that the paper should be placed on an even surface. Next, use a pen to draw a straight line from your longest toe to the rear of your foot. Then measure the distance between the two marks using a ruler. Your perfect shoe size will be the longest measurement.
Will a half size in shoes make lots of differences?
In fact, individual shoe manufacturers will have a minor variation in shoe sizes and fitting. A pair of tight shoes will have a different fitting compared to the larger ones. Therefore, the difference of half size in shoes is highly dependent on each brand.
Is it better to wear a shoe half size bigger or smaller?
Your shoes might have different fitness. For example, they can get too narrow or too loose. If they are too tight, your feet might suffer from lots of problems, such as the lack of breathability, frictions, etc. Too big shoes, on the other hand, will constantly rub against your feet’ skin as your feet are moving side to side. They are also not secured enough to keep you stable while walking or running.
What is the difference between each measurement of half-size shoes?
There will be an obvious difference in size, which is usually known as barleycorn. It usually measures 8.46 mm and is equivalent to ⅓ inch. To get a better fit, half sizes were therefore introduced, with a 4.23 mm variation between each sequential half size.
Conclusion
Having slightly bigger feet than others is a completely natural and common phenomenon. Therefore, it is really crucial to know your true shoe size. You can do this either by following the instructions I gave or by having your feet measured by an expert.
Once you finish the measurement steps, you can refer to the shoe size charts I put above to pick the best possible fit. As a result, there is no more discomfort and pain when you are trying to break in shoes that are either too narrow or large.
