Buying shoes online can be tricky, especially when you’re dealing with sizes from different countries. Shoe sizes can vary wildly from brand to brand and region to region, so you can’t always rely on what you “usually” wear. This is particularly true when you’re buying shoes online, since you can’t just try them on to see how they fit.
One of the most common challenges is figuring out the right size when converting Australian shoe sizes to US sizes. Australian sizes aren’t always the same as US or UK sizes, so you can’t just assume they’ll line up.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you get the right fit when converting. We’ll cover shoe size conversions for men, women, and children so you can shop with confidence.
Decoding Shoe Size Systems: Australia, US, and Beyond
Shoe sizes are one of those things that seem like they should be universal, but they aren’t. At all. If you’re trying to figure out your shoe size, you’ll quickly run into a bewildering array of systems, including US, UK, EU, and Australian.
Understanding Common Shoe Size Systems
Shoe sizing varies a lot by region, and you’ll see different systems used in the US, the UK, Europe, and Asia. Keep in mind that European sizes are unisex, and they’re measured in something called Paris Points.
Asian sizes are often based on the length of your foot in centimeters.
The Nuances of Australian Shoe Sizing
Australian shoe sizes are similar to UK sizes for adults, but not for children. Also, Australian sizes may vary from US sizes.
Converting Women’s Australian to US Shoe Sizes
The following chart can help you convert women’s Australian shoe sizes to US sizes. But remember, these are only approximate. Sizes can vary a lot between brands and even between different styles from the same brand.
To use the chart, find your Australian size and then look across to find the corresponding US size.
For the best fit, measure your foot. Length is the most important measurement, but width and instep height also matter. If you can’t get to a shoe store to have your feet professionally measured, trace your foot on a piece of paper and measure the length from heel to longest toe.
Also, keep in mind that women’s US sizes are usually about two sizes larger than men’s US sizes.
Converting Men’s Australian to US Shoe Sizes
Here’s a conversion chart to help you find your US shoe size, if you know your Australian size. Keep in mind, though, that these conversions are approximate. Shoe sizes can vary depending on the brand and even the shoe style.
| Australian Men’s | US Men’s |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.5 |
| 7 | 7.5 |
| 8 | 8.5 |
| 9 | 9.5 |
| 10 | 10.5 |
To use this chart, find your Australian size in the first column, and then look across the row to find the corresponding US size.
For the most accurate fit, measure the length, width, and instep height of your foot. Also, remember that US men’s sizes are usually about two sizes smaller than US women’s sizes.
Converting children’s shoe sizes
Kids’ feet grow fast! It’s a good idea to measure their feet every few months to make sure they’re wearing the right size. Here’s a general guide to converting Australian children’s shoe sizes to U.S. sizes. Keep in mind that sizes can vary slightly by brand, so it’s always best to check the specific brand’s size chart when possible.
To use this chart, find the Australian size your child measures, and then look across the chart to find the corresponding U.S. size.
[Insert conversion chart here]
Measuring your feet for accurate conversions
To get the right fit, you’ll need to measure your feet. Here’s how:
- Place a piece of paper on the floor and stand on it.
- Trace your foot, keeping the pen or pencil vertical.
- Measure the length of the tracing from heel to the longest toe.
Make sure to measure both feet and use the larger measurement. It’s also a good idea to measure your feet later in the day since they tend to swell as the day goes on.
Don’t forget to consider the width of your foot as well. Shoe widths are often indicated by letters like AA (extra narrow), B (narrow), C/D (medium), E (wide), M (medium), N (narrow), and W (wide).
Tips for Buying Shoes Online
Buying shoes online can be risky, especially if they’re coming from another country. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Read the return policy. Make sure you can return the shoes if they don’t fit or you don’t like them.
- Read customer reviews. See what other people say about the fit. Do they run big or small? Are they narrow or wide?
- Consider socks. If you plan to wear thick socks with your new shoes, try them on with thick socks when you receive them.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to measure shoe size in Australia
Measuring your shoe size at home in Australia is easier than you might think! Start by placing a piece of paper against a wall. Stand on the paper with your heel against the wall. Then, trace the outline of your foot, making sure to keep the pen or pencil vertical. Finally, measure the distance from the back of your heel to the tip of your longest toe in centimeters. Use this measurement to find your corresponding Australian shoe size using a shoe size chart – many retailers provide them online.
Are US and Aus shoe sizes the same?
Nope! U.S. and Australian shoe sizes are definitely not the same. While there are some similarities, the sizing systems are different, and a direct conversion isn’t always straightforward. Generally, Australian shoe sizes for women are about two sizes smaller than U.S. sizes. So, if you’re a U.S. women’s size 8, you’d likely be an Australian size 6. For men, the difference is usually around the same size. Using a conversion chart is always the safest bet to ensure you get the right fit when buying shoes online or from a different country.
Putting It All Together
Getting the right shoe size is important, especially if you’re buying shoes online or from another country. To make sure your shoes fit well, measure your feet carefully, check a conversion chart, and keep in mind that sizes can vary from brand to brand.
Think of the information here as a guide, and don’t hesitate to get professional help from a shoe fitter if you need it. Taking these steps can help you get shoes that fit comfortably and support your feet.