Frequently Asked Questions

Stand on a piece of paper on a hard floor and trace around your foot. Measure the distance from the back of your heel to the tip of your longest toe in centimetres. Do this for both feet and use the larger measurement. Always measure at the end of the day when feet are at their largest.

Different countries developed their own sizing systems independently. UK sizes are based on barleycorns (1/3 inch increments), US sizes follow a similar but offset scale, and EU sizes use Paris points (2/3 cm increments). Japan uses foot length in millimetres. Our shoe size charts and converter tool help you navigate these differences.

No. In the US system, women’s sizes run approximately 1.5 sizes larger than men’s for the same foot length. UK and EU sizes are generally unisex, though some brands apply slight differences. Always check the specific brand’s size chart when in doubt.

Children’s shoe sizes follow a separate scale from adult sizes. In the UK, children’s sizes typically run from size 0 (newborn) up to size 13, after which they transition to adult sizes starting at size 1. Use our kids’ shoe size chart for a full conversion table including approximate age ranges.

Each brand creates its own sizing standards based on their target customer and fit philosophy. A size 12 at one retailer may correspond to a size 14 at another. We recommend always checking the brand-specific size chart and taking your own body measurements rather than relying on label sizes alone.

Use a soft measuring tape and wear minimal clothing. Key measurements are:

• Chest/Bust: measure around the fullest part, keeping the tape parallel to the floor.
• Waist: measure around your natural waistline, about 2 cm above your navel.
• Hips: measure around the fullest part of your hips, roughly 20 cm below your waist.
• Inseam: measure from the crotch to the floor along the inside of your leg.

See our full measurement guide for detailed instructions.

UK women’s sizes (e.g. 8, 10, 12) run 4 sizes higher than US sizes (4, 6, 8) for the same garment. EU sizes (e.g. 36, 38, 40) are based on body measurements in centimetres. Men’s clothing sizes are more standardised but still vary. Use our clothing size charts for full conversion tables.

Plus sizes typically start at UK size 16 (US 12, EU 44) and extend upwards. Sizing conventions vary between brands, so always refer to the individual brand’s size chart. Our plus size chart provides a general conversion guide.

A well-fitting school shoe should have roughly a thumb’s width (about 1–1.5 cm) of growing room between the longest toe and the end of the shoe. The heel should be snug without slipping, and the shoe should bend where the foot naturally flexes. Children’s feet grow quickly, so check fit every 6–8 weeks.

Both feet should be measured at the end of the day using a measurement guide, then compared against the brand’s own size chart. Key things to remember:

• Always measure both feet — one is often slightly larger
• Measure length and width; many school shoe brands offer half sizes and wide fits
• The kids’ shoe size chart can help convert between UK, EU, and US sizes
• Brand-specific charts for Clarks, Start-Rite, Geox, and others are available in the brand directory

ShoeList.uk is a platform where schools publish their approved shoe lists so parents know exactly which styles, brands, and colours are allowed. Parents can search by school name or postcode, view the approved shoes, and find local retailers that stock them.

Ideally, school shoes should be purchased 2–3 weeks before the start of term. Buying too early in the summer holidays is best avoided as children’s feet can grow half a size over six weeks. When shopping online, feet should be measured as close to the purchase date as possible, allowing time for exchanges.

ShoeList.uk features a retailer directory where parents can search by postcode to find verified local shoe shops that offer professional fitting services. Getting shoes fitted in person is always recommended for growing feet.

Our conversions are based on official brand size charts and widely accepted international sizing standards. However, fit can still vary due to fabric, cut, and individual body proportions. We always recommend checking the specific brand’s size chart and, where possible, trying items on before purchasing.

Yes. We maintain size charts for hundreds of popular UK and international brands. Browse our brand directory or use the search to find a specific brand’s size chart.

Visit the Size Converter Tool, select the converter type (clothing, shoes, or measurements), choose your gender and sizing system, select your size, then choose the target system. The equivalent size will be displayed instantly.

Use our contact page to get in touch. We welcome corrections, brand suggestions, and general feedback.