CN vs US vs EU Shoe Sizes: The 2026 Fit Architecture Guide

Stop guessing with online orders. Sasha Vane breaks down the mechanics of converting Chinese (CN), US, and European footwear sizes to ensure your 2026 wardrobe investments actually fit.

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ProductAction
Shoe Sizer for Baby, Toddler & Kids | Home Foot Measuring Device From Baby to Big Kid (2T-6Y)

Shoe Sizer for Baby, Toddler & Kids | Home Foot Measuring Device From Baby to Big Kid (2T-6Y)

Squatchi is a versatile children's shoe sizer that measures kids' feet at home

Foot Measurement Device for Kids & Adults | Accurate Shoe Sizer Measuring Tool with High-Contrast Scale & Bonus Soft Tape Ruler, US EU Sizes for Home Store Use

Foot Measurement Device for Kids & Adults | Accurate Shoe Sizer Measuring Tool with High-Contrast Scale & Bonus Soft Tape Ruler, US EU Sizes for Home Store Use

⚫️ 【ALL-IN-ONE FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY】 Why buy two bulky devices? Our innovative foot measurement device accurately fits everyone from babies to adults (US 1-13). The jet-black high-contrast scale delivers Brannock-accurate readings, eliminating the guesswork from kids' fittings and online shoe shopping for the whole family. 📏 【BONUS SOFT TAPE FOR WIDTH & INSTEP】 Get the perfect fit beyond length! Includes a flexible tape ruler for measuring foot width and instep, ensuring complete compatibility with any shoe brand. It's your ultimate shoe measuring tool for mastering Squatchi-compatible sizing at home. 🚪【ULTRA-PORTABLE & SPACE-SAVING DESIGN】 Weighing only 100g, this lightweight and compact shoe sizer slips effortlessly into any bag. Its single-device design means no more clutter—take it to the store or use it at home as a growth tracker for your toddlers, all without the bulk of multiple tools. 🛡️ 【BUILT TO LAST & GROW WITH YOUR KIDS】 Crafted from 30% thicker, heavy-duty ABS plastic, our foot measuring device survives even the most energetic toddler stomps. Document precious milestones from first steps to teen years—it’s not just a tool; it's a durable keepsake of your child's growth. 🎯 【SHOP WITH CONFIDENCE - 30-DAY TRIAL】 Heel-aligned design guarantees a perfect measurement every time. Backed by our worry-free 30-day trial. If you are not completely satisfied, simply contact us for a complete refund. Never order the wrong shoe size again!

2 Pcs Shoes Size Measuring Devices, Foot Measurement Device For All Ages (1 Black Classic, 1 Yellow Bear)

2 Pcs Shoes Size Measuring Devices, Foot Measurement Device For All Ages (1 Black Classic, 1 Yellow Bear)

【Perfect Package】This package includes 1 piece of black classic foot measuring device for all ages and 1 piece of small yellow bear foot measuring device for boy and girls, which provides convenient shoes size measurement for you and your family in online shopping. 【Accurate Foot Measurement】The black classic foot measuring device has separate men's size, women's size and children’s size to get accurate measurements, so you and your family can buy more suitable and accurate shoes. 【Essential Foot Care Tool】The small foot measuring device for children with a lovely yellow bear ensures precise foot length tracking, helping parents monitor their children’s foot growth and select the right size shoes. This essential tool guarantees a healthy foot development and providing comfort as they grow. 【Easy to Use】Just place feet in this shoes size measuring device and push measuring board to read accurate size. 【High-Quality & Durable Material】This package of foot measuring device is made of lightweight and sturdy ABS plastic with smooth edges and clear scale markings. This durable and reliable shoe sizer is designed for regular use, providing long-lasting accuracy.

Weewooday 2 Pcs Foot Measurement Devices Shoes Size Measuring Devices with Tape and Ring Sizer, US Size(Blue,Classic)

Weewooday 2 Pcs Foot Measurement Devices Shoes Size Measuring Devices with Tape and Ring Sizer, US Size(Blue,Classic)

Package Content: the package comes with 1 piece of black adult foot measuring device, 1 piece of small blue shoe feet measuring ruler sizer, a piece of ring sizer and a piece of measuring tape, a complete combination for you and your family in online shopping to provide convenient measurement Widely Applied: our set of measurement tools products are suitable for the whole family; Separate men's, women's sizes and cm against, to get accurate measurements, so you and your family can buy more suitable and accurate clothes or shoes Trustworthy Material: adult foot measuring device is made of reliable ABS material, light in weight, not easy to break, clear scale markings, measuring soft tape is mainly made of PVC and fiberglass, soft and detailed Interesting Growth Record: our blue shoe feet measuring ruler can record the growth process of feet, accurate size, do not worry about buying the wrong size shoes, not only to bring you and your family convenience, but also to become a witness to your family's step by step growth Practical measurement accessories: soft ruler can measure waist, bust, leg, hip, height, etc., to assist you to buy accurate clothes, but also to record your body data at different times to help you determine whether to grow fat or become thin, ring ruler can accurately help you select jewelry

Foot Measurement Device | Kids Foot Length Measure Gauge Shoe Sizer Measuring for Infants Kids Men Women Adults | US Standard Shoe Size

Foot Measurement Device | Kids Foot Length Measure Gauge Shoe Sizer Measuring for Infants Kids Men Women Adults | US Standard Shoe Size

The foot measurement device Applicable to Man Woman and Youth,US Size,and accurate way to keep track of your child's foot size. NEVER BUY THE WRONG SIZE SHOE AGAIN: This shoe sizer measuring devices will make sure you never buy the wrong size shoes for your kids. You can skip the traffic and the lines by buying kids shoes online. Shoe measuring devices for your family : Using it as a foot measuring tool is a great keepsake for your family. It is a growth chart and a time-saving tool. Our sturdy plastic Foot measuring for kids is designed to last through your child’s quick growing phase. easy to store as a memoir and keepsake. Shoes measurement device is easy and convenient to carry anywhere. You can easily carry it to shoemakers or in the shoe stores for the perfect measurement of your child's shoe.

Combination measuring device - US sizes…

Combination measuring device - US sizes…

Picture may be different from product-ask if your not sure The Brannock Device Company BDC01 Brannock Device Comb Ea

Navigating an international footwear conversion table without a strategy is the quickest way to ruin your cost-per-wear ratio. We are in Q1 2026, and while virtual try-on tech has improved, the discrepancy between Chinese (CN), US, and European (EU) sizing standards remains the biggest pitfall for global shoppers. Whether you are eyeing a pair of architectural heels or limited-run sneakers, understanding the geometry of your foot against these conflicting grids is non-negotiable.

Most consumers assume a 41 is a 41 is a 41. It isn't. A CN41 fits entirely differently than a Parisian EU41. To build a functional wardrobe, you need to master the mechanics of these conversions. For a deep dive into the specific math behind Asian sizing, check out our Chinese Shoe Size Guide: Converting CN to US Fit Mechanics. Below, we break down exactly how to translate these numbers so you never have to deal with the hassle of international returns again.

The 2026 Sizing Cheat Sheet

Key Takeaways

If you are skimming between meetings, here is the brass tacks on how the market sits right now.

  • The Golden Rule: CN sizes are millimeter-based. If a shoe is listed as CN255, it is designed for a foot that is exactly 255mm long.

  • The "41" Trap: A CN41 is not an EU41. A CN41 typically aligns with a US Women's 9 or 9.5 (approx. 25.5cm). An EU41 is closer to a US Women's 10 or 10.5 (approx. 26.7cm). If you wear EU41 and order CN41, you will crush your toes.

  • Width Warning: The 2026 standard for mass-market CN footwear still runs narrower (B width) compared to the standard US C or D width. If you have wide feet, mathematically add 5mm to your length requirement.

Best For:

  • Narrow Feet: Stick to your calculated CN size.

  • Wide Feet: Size up one full CN step (e.g., 40 to 41).

  • Arch Support: Ignore the size chart; buy based on the Shoe Size Converter (Intl) and plan for aftermarket insoles.

CN vs EU vs US: The Master Matrix

Visualizing the disparity is the only way to minimize risk. This table represents the current 2026 average across major manufacturing hubs. Note the drift in centimeters as you move between regions.

Foot Length (MM)CN SizeEU Size (Approx)US Women'sUS Men'sUK Size
2253535.55.543
2303636.564.53.5
2353737.56.554
2403838.57.565
245393986.55.5
25040408.576
2554140.59 / 9.57.56.5
26042411087
265434210.58.58

Note: Notice the CN41 vs EU41 discrepancy? An EU41 usually accommodates a 260-267mm foot, whereas a CN41 caps out at 255mm. This is where 90% of buyers lose money.

The Mechanics of Fit: Why The Numbers Clash

Understanding the why saves you from future headaches. The Chinese system is literal. It is based on the length of the foot the shoe is intended to fit, measured in millimeters. It is a direct translation of the physical world.

European sizing (Paris point) is more abstract, based on 2/3 of a centimeter intervals, but crucially, it includes "functional allowance"—the empty space at the toe box required for the foot to roll while walking. US sizing is based on barleycorns (an old English unit), which is archaic but familiar.

The Conflict: When a factory translates a US design to a CN mold, they often strip away that functional allowance. A US 9 sneaker might have an internal length of 260mm to fit a 250mm foot. A CN 40 is exactly 250mm. If you buy the CN 40, you lose that 10mm buffer zone. Your toes hit the front immediately.

Pro Tip: For boots or running shoes where toe splay is critical, always reference our Sneaker Drop List for specific model sizing advice, as performance wear often deviates from these standard charts.

Material Physics and Sizing Up

In 2026, material science dictates size just as much as length does. We are seeing a surge in bio-leathers and recycled knits. These materials behave differently under tension.

  • Rigid Structures (Patent Leather, Hard Plastics): These have zero give. If your measurement falls between CN sizes (e.g., 243mm), you must go to CN 39 (245mm). Do not hope for a "break-in" period. It won't happen.

  • Knits and Mesh: These allow for volume displacement. You can often get away with your exact mm measurement here.

  • Heels: High heels push the foot forward, artificially lengthening the required space. A CN41 heel will feel tighter than a CN41 flat. Consult the Heel Height Guide before purchasing anything over 3 inches.

Who Should Avoid CN Sizing?

Not every shoe is for every foot. As a stylist, I have to be honest about body geometry. You should be wary of direct-market CN sizing if:

  1. You have a D-width or wider foot. The standard lasts (molds) used for domestic Chinese footwear are narrower at the metatarsals. You will experience pinching.

  2. You have a high instep. Many slip-on styles in CN sizing have lower vamp clearance. You simply won't be able to get your foot inside.

  3. You wear above a US Women's 10. Finding true-to-size CN equivalents above CN43 (265mm) is incredibly difficult. Most "extended sizes" in this category are just scaled-up versions of smaller molds, which leads to awkward proportions and poor heel lock.

Real-World Measuring Guide (No Printer Needed)

Forget the downloadable PDFs that you have to scale perfectly. Here is the pragmatic way to get your number right now.

  1. Wall Method: Stand with your heel flush against a wall.

  2. Mark It: Place a book or heavy box against your longest toe.

  3. Measure: Step away and measure the distance from the wall to the object in millimeters. Do not use inches; the conversion creates rounding errors.

  4. The Buffer: Add 5mm to this number for flats. Add 8-10mm for running shoes or boots.

  5. Find Your Match: Take this final number and look for the "MM" or "CHN" column on the size chart. Ignore the US/EU columns entirely.

The difference between a polished look and a painful mistake usually comes down to 5 millimeters. By ignoring the arbitrary US/EU labels and focusing strictly on the millimeter data provided in CN charts, you take control of the transaction. In 2026, smart shopping isn't just about finding the item; it's about ensuring the asset works for you the moment you unbox it. Measure in mm, account for material stretch, and when in doubt, size up for width.

Our Top Picks

Shoe Sizer for Baby, Toddler & Kids | Home Foot Measuring Device From Baby to Big Kid (2T-6Y)

Shoe Sizer for Baby, Toddler & Kids | Home Foot Measuring Device From Baby to Big Kid (2T-6Y)

Squatchi is a versatile children's shoe sizer that measures kids' feet at home

Key Features

  • Squatchi is a versatile children's shoe sizer that measures kids' feet at home

Specifications

Product Dimensionsclick here
Departmentunisex-child
Date First AvailableAugust 27, 2021
ManufacturerSquatchi Inc
ASINB09ZH5VVZS
$21.99
Buy Now on Amazon
Free delivery available • Prime eligible
Foot Measurement Device for Kids & Adults | Accurate Shoe Sizer Measuring Tool with High-Contrast Scale & Bonus Soft Tape Ruler, US EU Sizes for Home Store Use

Foot Measurement Device for Kids & Adults | Accurate Shoe Sizer Measuring Tool with High-Contrast Scale & Bonus Soft Tape Ruler, US EU Sizes for Home Store Use

⚫️ 【ALL-IN-ONE FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY】 Why buy two bulky devices? Our innovative foot measurement device accurately fits everyone from babies to adults (US 1-13). The jet-black high-contrast scale delivers Brannock-accurate readings, eliminating the guesswork from kids' fittings and online shoe shopping for the whole family. 📏 【BONUS SOFT TAPE FOR WIDTH & INSTEP】 Get the perfect fit beyond length! Includes a flexible tape ruler for measuring foot width and instep, ensuring complete compatibility with any shoe brand. It's your ultimate shoe measuring tool for mastering Squatchi-compatible sizing at home. 🚪【ULTRA-PORTABLE & SPACE-SAVING DESIGN】 Weighing only 100g, this lightweight and compact shoe sizer slips effortlessly into any bag. Its single-device design means no more clutter—take it to the store or use it at home as a growth tracker for your toddlers, all without the bulk of multiple tools. 🛡️ 【BUILT TO LAST & GROW WITH YOUR KIDS】 Crafted from 30% thicker, heavy-duty ABS plastic, our foot measuring device survives even the most energetic toddler stomps. Document precious milestones from first steps to teen years—it’s not just a tool; it's a durable keepsake of your child's growth. 🎯 【SHOP WITH CONFIDENCE - 30-DAY TRIAL】 Heel-aligned design guarantees a perfect measurement every time. Backed by our worry-free 30-day trial. If you are not completely satisfied, simply contact us for a complete refund. Never order the wrong shoe size again!

Key Features

  • ⚫️ 【ALL-IN-ONE FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY】 Why buy two bulky devices? Our innovative foot measurement device accurately fits everyone from babies to adults (US 1-13). The jet-black high-contrast scale delivers Brannock-accurate readings, eliminating the guesswork from kids' fittings and online shoe shopping for the whole family. 📏 【BONUS SOFT TAPE FOR WIDTH & INSTEP】 Get the perfect fit beyond length! Includes a flexible tape ruler for measuring foot width and instep, ensuring complete compatibility with any shoe brand. It's your ultimate shoe measuring tool for mastering Squatchi-compatible sizing at home. 🚪【ULTRA-PORTABLE & SPACE-SAVING DESIGN】 Weighing only 100g, this lightweight and compact shoe sizer slips effortlessly into any bag. Its single-device design means no more clutter—take it to the store or use it at home as a growth tracker for your toddlers, all without the bulk of multiple tools. 🛡️ 【BUILT TO LAST & GROW WITH YOUR KIDS】 Crafted from 30% thicker, heavy-duty ABS plastic, our foot measuring device survives even the most energetic toddler stomps. Document precious milestones from first steps to teen years—it’s not just a tool; it's a durable keepsake of your child's growth. 🎯 【SHOP WITH CONFIDENCE - 30-DAY TRIAL】 Heel-aligned design guarantees a perfect measurement every time. Backed by our worry-free 30-day trial. If you are not completely satisfied, simply contact us for a complete refund. Never order the wrong shoe size again!

Specifications

Package Dimensionsclick here
Departmentunisex-adult
Date First AvailableJune 26, 2025
ManufacturerSwuthy
ASINB0FFMLX1RX
$12.99
Buy Now on Amazon
Free delivery available • Prime eligible
2 Pcs Shoes Size Measuring Devices, Foot Measurement Device For All Ages (1 Black Classic, 1 Yellow Bear)

2 Pcs Shoes Size Measuring Devices, Foot Measurement Device For All Ages (1 Black Classic, 1 Yellow Bear)

【Perfect Package】This package includes 1 piece of black classic foot measuring device for all ages and 1 piece of small yellow bear foot measuring device for boy and girls, which provides convenient shoes size measurement for you and your family in online shopping. 【Accurate Foot Measurement】The black classic foot measuring device has separate men's size, women's size and children’s size to get accurate measurements, so you and your family can buy more suitable and accurate shoes. 【Essential Foot Care Tool】The small foot measuring device for children with a lovely yellow bear ensures precise foot length tracking, helping parents monitor their children’s foot growth and select the right size shoes. This essential tool guarantees a healthy foot development and providing comfort as they grow. 【Easy to Use】Just place feet in this shoes size measuring device and push measuring board to read accurate size. 【High-Quality & Durable Material】This package of foot measuring device is made of lightweight and sturdy ABS plastic with smooth edges and clear scale markings. This durable and reliable shoe sizer is designed for regular use, providing long-lasting accuracy.

Key Features

  • 【Perfect Package】This package includes 1 piece of black classic foot measuring device for all ages and 1 piece of small yellow bear foot measuring device for boy and girls, which provides convenient shoes size measurement for you and your family in online shopping. 【Accurate Foot Measurement】The black classic foot measuring device has separate men's size, women's size and children’s size to get accurate measurements, so you and your family can buy more suitable and accurate shoes. 【Essential Foot Care Tool】The small foot measuring device for children with a lovely yellow bear ensures precise foot length tracking, helping parents monitor their children’s foot growth and select the right size shoes. This essential tool guarantees a healthy foot development and providing comfort as they grow. 【Easy to Use】Just place feet in this shoes size measuring device and push measuring board to read accurate size. 【High-Quality & Durable Material】This package of foot measuring device is made of lightweight and sturdy ABS plastic with smooth edges and clear scale markings. This durable and reliable shoe sizer is designed for regular use, providing long-lasting accuracy.

Specifications

Package Dimensionsclick here
Departmentunisex-adult
Date First AvailableOctober 13, 2025
ASINB0FVX3QDX4
$9.99
Buy Now on Amazon
Free delivery available • Prime eligible
Weewooday 2 Pcs Foot Measurement Devices Shoes Size Measuring Devices with Tape and Ring Sizer, US Size(Blue,Classic)

Weewooday 2 Pcs Foot Measurement Devices Shoes Size Measuring Devices with Tape and Ring Sizer, US Size(Blue,Classic)

Package Content: the package comes with 1 piece of black adult foot measuring device, 1 piece of small blue shoe feet measuring ruler sizer, a piece of ring sizer and a piece of measuring tape, a complete combination for you and your family in online shopping to provide convenient measurement Widely Applied: our set of measurement tools products are suitable for the whole family; Separate men's, women's sizes and cm against, to get accurate measurements, so you and your family can buy more suitable and accurate clothes or shoes Trustworthy Material: adult foot measuring device is made of reliable ABS material, light in weight, not easy to break, clear scale markings, measuring soft tape is mainly made of PVC and fiberglass, soft and detailed Interesting Growth Record: our blue shoe feet measuring ruler can record the growth process of feet, accurate size, do not worry about buying the wrong size shoes, not only to bring you and your family convenience, but also to become a witness to your family's step by step growth Practical measurement accessories: soft ruler can measure waist, bust, leg, hip, height, etc., to assist you to buy accurate clothes, but also to record your body data at different times to help you determine whether to grow fat or become thin, ring ruler can accurately help you select jewelry

Key Features

  • Package Content: the package comes with 1 piece of black adult foot measuring device, 1 piece of small blue shoe feet measuring ruler sizer, a piece of ring sizer and a piece of measuring tape, a complete combination for you and your family in online shopping to provide convenient measurement
  • Widely Applied: our set of measurement tools products are suitable for the whole family; Separate men's, women's sizes and cm against, to get accurate measurements, so you and your family can buy more suitable and accurate clothes or shoes
  • Trustworthy Material: adult foot measuring device is made of reliable ABS material, light in weight, not easy to break, clear scale markings, measuring soft tape is mainly made of PVC and fiberglass, soft and detailed
  • Interesting Growth Record: our blue shoe feet measuring ruler can record the growth process of feet, accurate size, do not worry about buying the wrong size shoes, not only to bring you and your family convenience, but also to become a witness to your family's step by step growth

Specifications

ColorBlue
BrandWeewooday
Item Weight0.4 Pounds
Measurement Accuracy340MM
Case MaterialABS, PVC, Fiberglass
Package Dimensions13.78 x 4.72 x 1.57 inches; 6.4 ounces
$12.99
Buy Now on Amazon
Free delivery available • Prime eligible
Foot Measurement Device | Kids Foot Length Measure Gauge Shoe Sizer Measuring for Infants Kids Men Women Adults | US Standard Shoe Size

Foot Measurement Device | Kids Foot Length Measure Gauge Shoe Sizer Measuring for Infants Kids Men Women Adults | US Standard Shoe Size

The foot measurement device Applicable to Man Woman and Youth,US Size,and accurate way to keep track of your child's foot size. NEVER BUY THE WRONG SIZE SHOE AGAIN: This shoe sizer measuring devices will make sure you never buy the wrong size shoes for your kids. You can skip the traffic and the lines by buying kids shoes online. Shoe measuring devices for your family : Using it as a foot measuring tool is a great keepsake for your family. It is a growth chart and a time-saving tool. Our sturdy plastic Foot measuring for kids is designed to last through your child’s quick growing phase. easy to store as a memoir and keepsake. Shoes measurement device is easy and convenient to carry anywhere. You can easily carry it to shoemakers or in the shoe stores for the perfect measurement of your child's shoe.

Key Features

  • The foot measurement device Applicable to Man Woman and Youth,US Size,and accurate way to keep track of your child's foot size.
  • NEVER BUY THE WRONG SIZE SHOE AGAIN: This shoe sizer measuring devices will make sure you never buy the wrong size shoes for your kids. You can skip the traffic and the lines by buying kids shoes online.
  • Shoe measuring devices for your family : Using it as a foot measuring tool is a great keepsake for your family. It is a growth chart and a time-saving tool.
  • Our sturdy plastic Foot measuring for kids is designed to last through your child’s quick growing phase. easy to store as a memoir and keepsake.

Specifications

Product Dimensions‎6 x 2 x 8 inches
Item model number‎NBC practical
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer‎No
Number Of Items‎1
Batteries required‎No
Seat height‎2 Millimeters
$12.99
Buy Now on Amazon
Free delivery available • Prime eligible
Combination measuring device - US sizes…

Combination measuring device - US sizes…

Picture may be different from product-ask if your not sure The Brannock Device Company BDC01 Brannock Device Comb Ea

Key Features

  • Picture may be different from product-ask if your not sure The Brannock Device Company BDC01 Brannock Device Comb Ea

Specifications

Sole materialRubber
Inner materialFabric
Closure typeLace-Up
Is Discontinued By Manufacturerclick here
Product Dimensions14 x 8 x 2 inches; 1.7 Pounds
Item model numberCombination
$79.85
Buy Now on Amazon
Free delivery available • Prime eligible

Frequently Asked Questions

Is CN size 41 the same as EU 41?
No. This is the most common mistake. A CN 41 is typically smaller, fitting a foot length of roughly 25.5cm (US Women's 9). An EU 41 fits a foot length of roughly 26.5cm (US Women's 10). If you usually wear EU 41, a CN 41 will likely be too tight.
How do I convert my US shoe size to CN?
The most accurate method is to ignore the US size number and measure your foot in millimeters. However, a general rule is to look at the 'CM' or 'MM' on your current best-fitting sneaker tag. If your Nike tag says 25cm, order a CN 40 (250).
Do Chinese shoe sizes run small?
Generally, yes, especially in width. The standard width for CN footwear is narrower than the standard US 'B' width. If you have standard or wide feet, it is standard practice to size up one half to one full size to accommodate foot volume.
What does CN size 255 mean?
CN 255 is a direct representation of foot length in millimeters. It means the shoe is designed for a foot that is 255mm long. This usually translates to a CN 41 or a US Women's 9.