Why UK Sizing Is So Confusing
The Historical Context
UK sizing is based on the 'barleycorn' measurement system dating back to the 14th century, where one barleycorn equals ⅓ inch. This creates a unique progression that doesn't neatly align with US or EU systems.
💡 Fun Fact: A barleycorn was literally the length of a grain of barley, making it one of the world's oldest standardized measurements.
Unlike standardized clothing sizes, sneaker sizing in the UK has evolved from centuries-old measurement systems, creating confusion for even the most dedicated collectors. Whether you're hunting for rare Jordan 4s, trying to navigate Yeezy's notoriously inconsistent sizing, or simply want to avoid the hassle of returns, understanding these differences is crucial.
UK System
Based on barleycorn measurements, ⅓ inch increments
US System
Similar base but different starting point, typically +1 from UK
EU System
Metric-based, measured in centimeters with different scaling
Quick Reference: UK, US & EU Conversion
Here's the essential conversion chart every UK sneakerhead needs. This covers the most common sizes with foot measurements for accuracy:
Quick Conversion Formulas
Pro Sizing Tip
The most reliable sizing method is measuring your foot in centimeters and comparing to the 'Foot Length' column below. This eliminates guesswork and brand variations.
📏 Always measure both feet and use the larger measurement
| UK Size | US Men's | US Women's | EU Size | Foot Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UK 3 | US 4 | US 5 | EU 36 | 22.0 cm |
| UK 3.5 | US 4.5 | US 5.5 | EU 36.5 | 22.5 cm |
| UK 4 | US 5 | US 6 | EU 37 | 23.0 cm |
| UK 4.5 | US 5.5 | US 6.5 | EU 37.5 | 23.5 cm |
| UK 5 | US 6 | US 7 | EU 38 | 24.0 cm |
| UK 5.5 | US 6.5 | US 7.5 | EU 38.5 | 24.5 cm |
| UK 6 | US 7 | US 8 | EU 39 | 25.0 cm |
| UK 6.5 | US 7.5 | US 8.5 | EU 39.5 | 25.5 cm |
| UK 7 | US 8 | US 9 | EU 40.5 | 26.0 cm |
| UK 7.5 | US 8.5 | US 9.5 | EU 41 | 26.5 cm |
| UK 8 | US 9 | US 10 | EU 42 | 27.0 cm |
| UK 8.5 | US 9.5 | US 10.5 | EU 42.5 | 27.5 cm |
| UK 9 | US 10 | US 11 | EU 43 | 28.0 cm |
| UK 9.5 | US 10.5 | US 11.5 | EU 44 | 28.5 cm |
| UK 10 | US 11 | US 12 | EU 44.5 | 29.0 cm |
| UK 10.5 | US 11.5 | US 12.5 | EU 45 | 29.5 cm |
| UK 11 | US 12 | US 13 | EU 46 | 30.0 cm |
| UK 12 | US 13 | US 14 | EU 47 | 31.0 cm |
Brand Overview: How UK Sizing Differs
Not all UK size 9s are created equal. Here's how major sneaker brands compare when it comes to their UK sizing tendencies:
Brand Sizing Comparison
| Brand | Sizing Tendency | Summary | Detailed Guide |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nike/Jordan | True to Size (Most Models) | Generally consistent across models, with Jordan 3s running slightly roomier and Jordan 1s slightly narrower. | Jordan Guide |
| Adidas Yeezy | Runs Small | Most Yeezy models run small, especially 350 V2s. Typically recommend going up 0.5 UK size. | Yeezy Guide |
| New Balance | True to Size (Wide Options) | Offers multiple width options (standard D, wide EE) making them ideal for wider feet. | New Balance Guide |
| ASICS | True to Size (Narrow) | Generally true to size but with a narrower fit, especially in the Gel-Lyte III with its split tongue. | ASICS Guide |
| Salomon | True to Size (Secure Fit) | Trail heritage creates a secure, performance-oriented fit. XT-6 models true to size for most. | Salomon Guide |
Nike & Jordan
true to-sizeGenerally follows standard UK sizing
Adidas (Regular)
true to-sizeConsistent with standard UK sizing
Yeezy
runs smallNotoriously inconsistent sizing
New Balance
variesVaries by model and width
Converse
runs largeConsistently runs large
ASICS
true to-sizeGenerally consistent sizing
Important Reminder
These are general tendencies—specific models within each brand may vary. Manufacturing changes, seasonal updates, and regional differences can all affect sizing.
For detailed model-by-model guidance, check our brand-specific guides linked below.
Common UK Sneaker Sizing Questions
These are the questions our sneaker specialists hear most frequently from UK collectors:
Should I size up or down for Yeezys in the UK?
brand-specificFor most Yeezy models, size up 0.5 from your standard UK size. For Yeezy Slides, size up 1-2 full sizes. The 700 series is generally true to size, while Foam Runners typically need +1 size.
Do Jordan 1s run true to size in UK sizing?
brand-specificYes, Jordan 1s generally run true to UK size, but they have a narrow fit. If you have wide feet, consider sizing up 0.5. The toe box is also quite pointed, so ensure adequate toe room.
How do I convert my UK size to US for online shopping?
conversionFor men's shoes: US = UK + 1. For women's shoes: US = UK + 2. However, always check the specific brand's sizing chart as some brands vary from this standard formula.
Why do my feet measure different sizes?
measurementIt's completely normal for one foot to be slightly larger than the other (up to 0.5 size difference). Always size for your larger foot to ensure comfort. This asymmetry is natural and affects most people.
Should I buy sneakers in the morning or evening?
timingBuy in the evening when your feet are naturally swollen from daily activity. This ensures a comfortable fit throughout the day. Feet can expand up to 0.5 size from morning to evening.
Do leather sneakers stretch over time?
materialsYes, leather will stretch and conform to your foot shape over time, typically expanding 0.25-0.5 sizes. Synthetic materials and knit uppers have less give. Premium leather stretches more than corrected grain leather.
Measuring Your Feet: The Professional Method
The most reliable way to find your true size is to measure your feet properly. Here's our professional 3-step process that takes less than 5 minutes:
Gather Your Materials
You'll need: a piece of paper larger than your foot, pencil, ruler (or measuring tape), and the socks you typically wear with sneakers.
Use a hard floor surface, not carpet, for accurate measurements. Tile or hardwood floors work best.
Trace Your Foot
Place paper against a wall. Stand on it with your heel touching the wall. Have someone mark the position of your longest toe, or do it yourself while standing.
Measure in the evening when your feet are at their largest due to natural swelling. Keep your weight evenly distributed.
Measure and Compare
Measure the distance from the wall (heel) to the mark (toe) in centimeters. Compare this to our size chart above for your true UK size.
Measure both feet and use the larger measurement for sizing. Round up if you're between sizes for comfort.
Professional Measurement Services
Many UK shoe stores offer professional foot measuring services using Brannock devices. This is especially helpful if you have wide feet, high arches, or other fit considerations.
Which Guide Should You Read Next?
Now that you understand the basics, dive deeper with our specialized guides tailored to your specific needs:
Jordan UK Sizing Guide
Complete model-by-model sizing for every Jordan silhouette from 1s to 36s
Yeezy UK Sizing Guide
Navigate Yeezy's inconsistent sizing across all models including 350, 700, Slides
New Balance UK Sizing Guide
Understanding width options and model variations for the perfect NB fit
UK to US Size Conversion
Detailed conversion charts with foot measurements and brand exceptions
How to Measure Feet
Professional techniques for accurate foot measurement and width assessment
Women's Sneaker Sizing UK
Specific guidance for women's sneaker sizing and unisex model conversions
Finding Your Perfect Fit: Key Takeaways
Remember These Essential Points:
UK sneaker sizing doesn't have to be a mystery. By understanding the historical context, knowing brand-specific tendencies, and using proper measurement techniques, you can confidently find your perfect fit every time.
Remember that the perfect fit should feel comfortable from heel to toe, with about a thumb's width (1-1.5cm) of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. When in doubt, measure your feet in centimeters and compare to our charts—it's the most reliable method.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Size?
For brand-specific sizing guides and expert fit advice, explore our detailed articles on individual brands and sizing techniques.
Explore More Sizing Guides
Looking for Jordan sizing?
Jordan UK Sizing Guide
Detailed sizing for Jordan 1, 3, 4, 11 and other popular models
Read the guideNeed help with Yeezy sizing?
Yeezy UK Sizing Guide
Complete sizing for all Yeezy models including 350, 700, Slides & Foam Runners
Read the guideHave wide feet?
New Balance UK Sizing Guide
Width options explained for 990, 550, 327 and Made in UK series
Read the guideConfused about conversions?
UK to US Size Conversion
Complete conversion charts for all international sizing systems
Read the guideShopping for women's models?
Women's Sneaker Sizing Guide
Sizing for women's exclusives and unisex models
Read the guideExploring beyond mainstream brands?
Emerging Brands Sizing Guide
Sizing for ASICS, Salomon, HOKA and other trending brands
Read the guideCan't find what you're looking for?
Our sizing guides cover the most popular sneaker brands and models. For specific questions about sizing or fit, feel free to reach out to our team.
Contact Our Sizing ExpertsLast Updated: January 2025 - We regularly update our sizing guides as brands release new models and revise their sizing standards.