UK, EU and US Kids' Shoe Size Conversion Explained
Why UK, EU and US children's sizes don't line up neatly, and how to convert between them with confidence.
Children’s shoe sizes use 3 main systems: UK, EU and US. The systems don’t line up exactly, so you need a chart when you shop abroad.
The three systems
- UK sizes count in barleycorns, a third of an inch each. Children’s sizes run from 0 to 13.5, then restart at 1 for junior sizes.
- EU sizes count in Paris points, two thirds of a centimetre each. They run in one sequence from about 16 upwards.
- US children’s sizes sit about 1 size above UK, and switch to “youth” sizes (1Y, 2Y and so on) after 13.
Quick reference
| UK | EU | US | Approx. foot length |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 20 | 5 | 12.2 cm |
| 7 | 24 | 8 | 14.8 cm |
| 10 | 28 | 11 | 17.3 cm |
| 13 | 32 | 1Y | 19.9 cm |
| 2 (junior) | 34 | 3Y | 21.6 cm |
You’ll find the full table on our home page size chart.
Why conversions vary
Each brand builds its shoes on its own lasts (the foot-shaped moulds for shoes). Rounding between systems adds more drift, so 2 charts can differ by half a size. Treat any conversion as a starting point.
Width is separate
Most conversion charts cover length only. Countries use different width letters, such as the F in 5 F. Measure with a gauge and use the calculator to get both.
