Shoe sizing can be confusing. Even within a country, different systems exist. The UK and US, for example, use a shoe size system that is quite different from the EU or Japan’s. The result is that shoe buyers need to be able to translate one system into another in order to shop for shoes internationally.

To make this easy for shoppers, there are conversion charts available online. These usually show a range of international shoe sizes compared side-by-side and include the size equivalent in the respective system. Some of these also have additional information regarding typical widths, making the conversion easier for those that have a narrow or wide foot.

This is especially useful when shopping for shoes from other countries where there are no local shoe stores. In addition to having the right shoe size chart, a person should also check a retailer’s return policy before buying shoes online to ensure that they can exchange a pair that doesn’t fit or isn’t the color they expected.

To get the most accurate measurement for your shoe size, take it while seated with both feet flat on the floor. Using a pencil, trace around your foot, making sure that the pencil stays in contact with the bottom of your foot. Repeat the process on the other foot and add together the two measurements to find your shoe size. If the shoes are too tight or too big, there are ways to adjust the fit by inserting orthotics or purchasing a shoe insole. shoe size conversion