UK vs EU vs US Women's Shoe Size Conversion Guide: How to Get the Perfect Fit in Kenya
By More Kollektion Team | Updated for 2026
Shopping for women's shoes online can be tricky when different brands use different sizing systems. If you are used to Kenyan or European shoe sizes but come across UK or US sizing, knowing how to convert between them can save you from ordering the wrong size.
This guide explains the differences between EU, UK, and US women's shoe sizes, provides a practical conversion chart, and shows you how to measure your feet at home before buying shoes online in Kenya.
Quick Answer
When shopping for women's shoes online in Kenya, European (EU) sizing is commonly used, with many women's shoes available from approximately EU 36 to EU 42.
For example:
EU 38 = UK 5 = US 7
EU 39 = UK 6 = US 8
EU 40 = UK 7 = US 9
EU 41 = UK 8 = US 10
As a general guide, EU 38 corresponds to a foot length of approximately 24 cm, while EU 39 corresponds to approximately 24.5 cm.
However, shoe sizing can vary slightly between brands and shoe styles. Measuring your foot in centimeters is one of the best ways to choose the right size, especially when ordering pointed heels, loafers, or other closed shoes online.
Women's Shoe Size Conversion Chart
Use the following chart as a general reference when converting between EU, UK, and US women's shoe sizes.
Foot Length
EU Size
UK Size
US Size
Fit Guide
22.5 cm
EU 36
UK 3
US 5
Suitable for petite feet, narrow heels and flats
23.0 cm
EU 37
UK 4
US 6
Common fit for low heels and sandals
24.0 cm
EU 38
UK 5
US 7
Popular size for standard pumps and heels
24.5 cm
EU 39
UK 6
US 8
Consider sizing up for narrow pointed-toe shoes
25.5 cm
EU 40
UK 7
US 9
Suitable for loafers, block heels and many closed shoes
26.0 cm
EU 41
UK 8
US 10
Suitable for wider footbeds and everyday flats
26.5 cm
EU 42
UK 9
US 11
Extended sizing with additional toe-room
Important: Shoe sizing is not perfectly standardized across every manufacturer. Use this chart as a guide and check the individual retailer's size information whenever available.
Why Shoe Size Conversions Can Be Tricky in Kenya
Have you ever ordered a pair of heels online in Nairobi only to discover that they are too tight or too loose?
You are not alone.
Shoes sold in Kenya can come from manufacturers and suppliers using different sizing systems. Understanding the differences between EU, UK, and US sizes can make online shopping much easier.
European (EU) Shoe Sizes
European sizing is widely used by footwear retailers in Kenya. Many women's shoes are listed using sizes such as EU 36, EU 37, EU 38, EU 39, EU 40, EU 41, and EU 42.
For example, an EU 39 women's shoe is commonly equivalent to approximately UK 6 or US 8.
UK Shoe Sizes
UK sizing is commonly found on shoes from British brands and suppliers.
As a general conversion:
UK 5 ≈ EU 38 ≈ US 7
UK 6 ≈ EU 39 ≈ US 8
UK 7 ≈ EU 40 ≈ US 9
US Shoe Sizes
US women's shoe sizing is commonly encountered when shopping for American brands and athletic footwear.
As a general guide:
US 7 ≈ UK 5 ≈ EU 38
US 8 ≈ UK 6 ≈ EU 39
US 9 ≈ UK 7 ≈ EU 40
Because manufacturers can differ slightly, always check the specific shoe's sizing information where possible.
How to Measure Your Foot at Home
If you are buying shoes online, measuring your foot in centimeters can help you choose a more accurate size.
What You Need
You only need:
A sheet of paper, preferably A4
A ruler or measuring tape
A pen or pencil
A flat wall
Step 1: Place the Paper on the Floor
Put the paper on a flat surface with one edge against a wall.
Stand on the paper with your heel lightly touching the wall.
Step 2: Mark the Longest Point
Mark the point where your longest toe ends.
For most people, this is the big toe, but for some people the second toe may be longer.
Step 3: Measure Your Foot
Measure the distance from the edge of the paper where your heel was positioned to the mark representing your longest toe.
Record the measurement in centimeters.
Step 4: Measure Both Feet
Your feet may not be exactly the same size.
Measure both feet and use the measurement of the larger foot when selecting your shoe size.
Step 5: Compare Your Measurement With the Size Chart
Use your measurement as a starting point when choosing between EU, UK, and US sizes.
If your measurement falls between two sizes, consider the shoe's design, material, and toe shape before deciding whether to size up or down.
Shoe Sizing Advice by Shoe Type
Different types of women's shoes can fit differently even when they have the same listed size.
1. Pointed-Toe Heels and Pumps
Pointed-toe shoes become narrower toward the front of the foot. This can make them feel tighter than rounded or open-toe shoes in the same size.
If you have wider feet or your measurement falls between sizes, you may find it more comfortable to go up by one EU size.
For example, someone who normally wears EU 38 may find EU 39 more comfortable in a narrow pointed-toe design.
Avoid choosing a larger size automatically, though. The shape of the particular shoe matters.
2. Block Heels and Slingbacks
Block heels generally provide a broader and more stable base than very narrow heels.
If the shoe fits true to size, your normal EU size should usually be a good starting point.
Pay attention to the width of the toe box and the position of the straps, especially when buying slingbacks.
3. Corporate Loafers and Closed Flats
Loafers and closed flats cover more of the foot than sandals.
Choose your normal size based on your foot measurement. If you regularly wear thicker socks or tights, check whether the shoe has enough room around the instep and toes.
4. Strappy Sandals and Open-Toe Shoes
Open-toe sandals generally allow more room around the toes than closed shoes.
Your measured foot length should therefore be a useful starting point when selecting your size.
Make sure your toes do not extend beyond the front edge of the sandal and that the straps hold your foot securely without digging into the skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size is EU 39 in UK women's shoes?
EU 39 is generally equivalent to UK 6 and US 8 in women's shoes.
A foot length of approximately 24.5 cm is commonly associated with EU 39, although sizing can vary between manufacturers.
What is EU 38 in UK women's shoe size?
EU 38 is generally equivalent to UK 5 and US 7.
A foot length of approximately 24 cm is commonly associated with EU 38.
Should I size up for pointed heels?
Not automatically.
Pointed-toe heels can feel tighter because the front of the shoe narrows. If you have wider feet or your foot measurement falls between sizes, going up by one EU size may provide more room.
However, the best choice depends on the specific shoe's shape and construction.
How do I know my shoe size when buying online in Kenya?
Start by measuring both feet in centimeters. Use the larger measurement and compare it with the retailer's size chart.
Also consider the shoe style. A pointed heel, closed loafer, sandal, and sneaker can all fit differently even when they have the same listed size.
Can I try on shoes before buying from More Kollektion?
Yes. You can visit the More Kollektion physical boutique at Shop 204, 2nd Floor, Meru South House on Tom Mboya Street, Nairobi CBD, where you can try on available sizes.
For Nairobi deliveries, doorstep rider delivery may also be available, allowing you to inspect the item upon arrival depending on the applicable delivery terms.
Find Your Perfect Shoe Size at More Kollektion
At More Kollektion, we offer a range of women's footwear, including executive heels, corporate loafers, flats, sandals, and other stylish designs suitable for different occasions.
Whether you are shopping for office shoes, everyday footwear, or something for a special occasion, knowing your correct size can make your shopping experience much easier.
Visit More Kollektion
Physical Store: Shop 204, 2nd Floor, Meru South House Tom Mboya Street, Nairobi CBD, Kenya
Online: Visit morekollektion.com to explore the latest women's footwear collection and shop online.
Before placing your order, measure your feet, check the available size chart, and remember that the fit can vary depending on the shoe design.
Your perfect fit starts with knowing your measurements.
