CN Shoe Size: How to Measure & Convert Like a Pro!

Buying shoes online can be a gamble, especially when you run across unfamiliar sizing systems.

CN shoe sizes are commonly used by Chinese retailers and online marketplaces, and they can be difficult to translate to US, UK, or European sizes.

Since shoe sizes vary so much from country to country and brand to brand, it’s easy to make mistakes when you order shoes online.

That’s why I’ve created this guide to understanding and converting CN shoe sizes, so you don’t end up with a pair that pinches your toes or slips off your heels.

Demystifying CN shoe sizes: What does “CN” stand for?

If you’re shopping online, you may have noticed shoe sizes labeled “CN.” The letters stand for China, and it refers to the Chinese shoe-sizing system.

CN shoe sizes are based on metric measurements, specifically the length of your foot in millimeters (mm). Often, the CN size refers to the length of the insole in millimeters.

To choose the right CN shoe size, you need to measure your foot length accurately. But there’s another wrinkle: there are both new and old Chinese shoe-sizing standards. So, it’s important to check the specific size chart provided by the manufacturer.

Converting CN Shoe Sizes to US, UK, and EU Equivalents

Navigating shoe sizes across different countries can be tricky. CN shoe sizes, which represent the foot length in millimeters, don’t directly translate to US, UK, or EU sizes. Generally, Chinese shoes tend to run smaller than their US counterparts.

CN to US Shoe Size Conversion

Here are some example conversions to help you find your US shoe size:

Women’s Sizes (Examples)

• CN 230 mm ≈ US Women’s Size 6

Men’s Sizes (Examples)

• CN 260 mm ≈ US Men’s Size 8

CN to UK Shoe Size Conversion

The UK sizing system is also different from the CN system. Here are some examples of how CN sizes translate to UK sizes:

Women’s Sizes (Examples)

• CN 230 mm ≈ UK Women’s Size 4

Men’s Sizes (Examples)

• CN 260 mm ≈ UK Men’s Size 7.5

CN to EU Shoe Size Conversion

The EU system is yet another sizing standard. Use these examples as a guide:

Women’s Sizes (Examples)

• CN 230 mm ≈ EU Size 36

Men’s Sizes (Examples)

• CN 260 mm ≈ EU Size 41

Important Note: These are just examples. Always consult a specific shoe brand’s size chart for the most accurate conversion, as sizes can vary slightly between manufacturers. Measure your foot length in millimeters for the best results!

How to measure your foot accurately for CN shoe sizing

When you’re buying Chinese shoes, it’s really important to get your foot measurement right. You need that measurement to find the right size on the brand’s size chart.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Trace your foot on a piece of paper.
2. Measure the length and width of the tracing.
3. Measure both feet, and use the larger measurement.

Measure your feet later in the day, since your feet tend to swell as the day goes on.

One thing to note: The Chinese shoe sizing system doesn’t include width measurements. If your feet are on the wide side, it’s a good idea to go up a half-size.

Navigating Brand Variations and Online Shopping for CN Sizes

Even within the same country, shoe sizes aren’t always consistent. A size 38 in one brand may not be the same as a size 38 in another, so it’s important to take these variations into account when shopping for shoes, especially online.

Brand-Specific Sizing

The best way to ensure an accurate fit is to refer to the specific brand’s size chart. Don’t assume that you wear the same size in every brand. Some global shoe brands, like Clarks and Cole Haan, have their own specific sizing guidelines, so it’s always a good idea to do some research.

Online Shopping Tips

Online shoe shopping requires careful planning. Here are some tips to help you get it right:

• Check the return policy: Make sure you understand the return policy before you buy. Can you return the shoes if they don’t fit? How long do you have to return them?
• Read customer reviews: Customer reviews can be a goldmine of information about sizing. Do the shoes run true to size, or do they tend to be larger or smaller than expected?
• Measure the insole: If possible, measure the insole of the shoe and compare it to your foot measurement.

CN shoe sizes for kids: A simple approach

The good news is that CN shoe sizing is commonly used for children’s shoes. The bad news? Kids’ feet grow fast, so you need to be especially careful to measure their feet accurately and often.

Here’s how to make sure your kiddo’s shoes fit:

1. Have your child stand on a piece of paper.
2. Trace around their foot.
3. Measure the length of the tracing from heel to longest toe.
4. Add about 1 cm (0.4 inches) for wiggle room.
5. Use a CN size chart to find the corresponding shoe size.

Remember, kids’ feet grow in spurts, so you can’t just assume they’re still the same size they were last month. Regularly check their shoe size to ensure a comfortable and healthy fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Closing Thoughts

CN shoe sizes are based on the length of your foot in centimeters, and they’re used in China and other parts of Asia. When you’re buying shoes online, it’s essential to know your CN shoe size and how it relates to U.S. and European sizes.

Accurate foot measurement is key to finding the right fit. Always check the brand’s specific size chart before you buy, because sizes can vary among manufacturers.

Understanding CN shoe sizes will help you make informed choices when buying shoes from international retailers. With a little preparation, you can avoid the hassle of returns and get the perfect fit the first time.