How to Measure Your Foot Length
Accurate foot measurement is essential for finding the right shoe size, especially when shopping internationally. Follow this simple guide to measure your feet at home.
What You'll Need
- A blank sheet of paper (larger than your foot)
- A pen or pencil
- A ruler or measuring tape
- A hard, flat surface
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare Your Surface
Place the paper on a hard floor against a wall. Tape it down if needed to prevent sliding.
Position Your Foot
Stand on the paper with your heel against the wall. Make sure your weight is evenly distributed on both feet. Wear the type of socks you'd normally wear with shoes.
Mark Your Longest Toe
Have someone mark the tip of your longest toe on the paper. Hold the pen straight up and down, not at an angle. Your longest toe may not be your big toe.
Measure the Length
Use a ruler to measure from the wall (heel) to the mark (toe). This is your foot length. Write it down in centimeters.
Repeat for Both Feet
Measure both feet. If they're different sizes (which is common), use the larger measurement when converting to shoe size.
Tips for Accurate Measurement
- Measure in the evening — Feet swell throughout the day, so measuring later gives you a more accurate "largest" size.
- Stand, don't sit — Your foot expands when bearing weight, so always measure while standing.
- Wear socks — If you plan to wear socks with your shoes, wear them during measurement.
- Measure both feet — Most people have one foot slightly larger than the other.
Converting Your Measurement
Once you have your foot length in centimeters, you can use our conversion charts to find your size in different systems:
Remember: Shoe sizes are based on foot length, but fit can vary by brand and style. When in doubt, try before you buy or check the brand's specific size guide.
Common Foot Lengths Reference
| Foot Length (cm) | EU | US Men | US Women | UK |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24.0 | 38 | 6 | 7.5 | 5 |
| 25.0 | 39 | 7 | 8.5 | 6 |
| 26.0 | 41 | 8 | 9.5 | 7 |
| 27.0 | 43 | 9.5 | 11 | 8.5 |
| 28.0 | 44 | 10 | — | 9 |
| 29.0 | 45 | 11 | — | 10 |