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How to Convert Women’s to Men’s Shoe Size

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How to Convert Women’s to Men’s Shoe Size

Mar 20, 2026

The hyped launch the entire sneakersphere has been buzzing about since last year is finally arriving. Unfortunately, it’s offered exclusively in men’s sizes. Can’t a sneakerista catch a break? But before we launch into a rant on the scarcity of inclusive sizing in the sneaker world, we’ll share an insider secret. 

Just convert men’s shoe sizes to women’s sizes.

It’s really that simple. Why limit yourself to a specific section when you can easily find your perfect fit anywhere in the store or online? We’ve got all the details on how to measure your foot, and the women’s to men’s shoe size conversion chart to take with you while shopping or scrolling.

The Simple Math: How to Convert Men’s Shoe Sizes to Women’s

First, measure your feet to ensure you’re wearing the right size in women’s styles. To do this, you’ll need a few things you probably have lying around the house. It’s time to gather:

 

  • Socks
  • A wall and hard-surfaced floor
  • A piece of paper larger than your foot
  • Scotch tape
  • Ruler

Now, let's get started measuring:

  1. Put on the pair of socks and stand on the piece of paper with your back and ankles against the wall.
  2. Mark the longest part of both feet with the pencil.
  3. Use the ruler to measure each foot’s length, heel to toe, and the width.
  4. Repeat with the other foot. If your feet are slightly asymmetrical, go with the size that fits your larger foot.

Once you have your measurements in inches, check the instructions for how to measure your shoe size to convert to sizes for men and women. 


 

A general rule of thumb is that men’s and women’s shoes differ by about 1.5 sizes. For example, what size is a men's 7 in women's shoes? The answer is typically a women’s 8.5, although minor variations can occur depending on brand and model. 

Women’s to Men’s Shoe Size Conversion Chart

If you already know your number, use this chart to determine your converted shoe size. 


Men’s

Women’s
4 5.5
5 6.5
6 7.5
7 8.5
7.5 9
8 9.5
8.5 10
9 10.5
9.5 11
10 11.5
10.5 12
11 12.5
12 13.5

If you have a smaller foot and don’t see your shoe size on the above conversion chart, learn how to convert women’s shoe sizes to kids. As a bonus, kids’ shoe styles are a little easier on the wallet.

International Conversions

Luckily, EU sizing is often identical across genders. A men’s EU 42 is typically the same as a women’s EU 42. When shopping online internationally, EU sizing is usually the most accurate way to avoid returns.

UK sizing is different, and UK men’s and women’s are closer but still not identical. Always double-check brand charts. Use this US, UK and EU shoe size conversion guide to help. 

Beyond the Length: Understanding Width and Fit Differences

The biggest reason people think conversions like this don’t work is actually because of width, not size. Shoe width varies. So when you convert sizes, the shoe length may match, but the fit can feel different. 

Men’s vs. women’s shoe widths are not the same:

  • Standard men’s width = D
  • Standard women’s width = B

That means men’s shoes are built wider by default. If you have wide feet, then men’s sizing often fits better. If you have narrow feet, they may feel loose. 

When ordering online, choose retailers with easy returns. And remember that small adjustments like thicker socks or an insole can fix 99% of minor fit issues.

Sizing Hacks for Unisex Sneakers and Popular Brands

Many shoes sold today are unisex, and the unisex shoe size conversion is simple. They’re usually labeled in men’s sizing, so women can simply subtract 1.5. For example, a size 9 in women's shoes is a unisex or men's 7.5. 


Here’s a tip. Many sneakers are released in “Big Kids” sizing. Those pairs are often cheaper to buy but identical in build. If you wear women’s 7.5-9, you can often shop youth sizes and save money. A youth 6 is a women’s 7.5.


Keep in mind that different brands fit slightly differently even after conversion:

  • Nike runs narrow, so a women’s 7 may be a men’s 5.5 or 6.
  • Adidas are usually true to size and slightly roomier in the toe box than Nike. 
  • Jordan varies by model, so you really need to try them on. 

Find Your Perfect Fit With Hibbett

Sizing conversion is easy once you know the formula. The 1.5-size rule gets you close, and understanding width gets you accurate.

After you find your size, comfort and longevity matter as much as fit. Good insoles, cleaning kits and protectants help sneakers last longer and stay comfortable. Use Hibbett’s size chart and explore accessories for a better fit and shoe care.

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