Chinese shoe sizes use a metric system based on foot length in millimeters (mm) or centimeters (cm), typically ranging from 34 to 48 for adults. Unlike US or EU sizes, China’s standard is straightforward: size 36 means foot length of 36cm? No, it’s actually 230mm (23cm). Common confusion, but here’s the breakdown.
When sourcing from wholesale market stalls in cities like Guangzhou, you’ll see sizes labeled in Chinese sizes (e.g., 36, 37, 38). But many export-ready shoes now include EU or US equivalents. Still, if you rely on Western conversions at a bustling market, you could end up with the wrong stock.
How Chinese Shoe Sizes Work
China uses a simple millimeter system. For example, a men’s size 42 in China corresponds to foot length 260mm (26cm). Women’s sizes: 36 = 230mm, 37 = 235mm, etc. The rule: subtract 20 from Chinese size and you get approximate EU size? Not exactly. Chinese size 40 = foot 250mm, which is EU 39 (men’s) or EU 40 (women’s). Table:
| Chinese Size | Foot Length (mm) | EU (approx.) | US (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 36 | 230 | 36 | 5 |
| 37 | 235 | 37 | 6 |
| 38 | 240 | 38 | 7 |
| 39 | 245 | 39 | 8 |
| 40 | 250 | 40 | 9 |
| 41 | 255 | 41 | 10 |
| 42 | 260 | 42 | 11 |
| 43 | 265 | 43 | 12 |
| 44 | 270 | 44 | 13 |
Sourcing at Wholesale Markets: Tips for Buying by Size
1. Always Check Actual Foot Measurement
Don’t trust the label alone. Many Chinese factories produce shoes slightly smaller than Western standards. Bring a foot measuring device or ask for a sample using a 尺寸表. At market stalls, ask for 鞋垫 (insole) measurement – it’s the most reliable.
2. Look for Stock Flexibility
Top stalls at Soudangkou typically stock sizes 37-44 for women and 39-46 for men. Need half sizes? Most Chinese shoes don’t offer half sizes, but you can find some export models. For width, Chinese shoes tend to be narrower. If targeting Western buyers, request a wider last.
3. One Hand Feel: Fabric & Stitching Tell All
At the booth, run your hand inside for seams. Bad stitching? Pass. Good 走线 (stitching) should be uniform with no loose threads. Fabric: ask for 面料样品 – common materials are genuine leather (真皮) and synthetic (PU). For leather, check the grain: natural pores indicate real leather.
FAQ: Chinese Shoe Sizes
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is Chinese size 42 the same as US 11? | Yes, foot length 260mm. But width may differ. |
| Do Chinese shoes run small? | Sometimes yes. Always measure insole. |
| Why do some Chinese shoes have US/EU size tags? | Export orders; but convert with caution. |
| Can I find large sizes (US13+) in China? | Rare in domestic markets; check Soudangkou for export stock. |
| What’s the best way to convert? | Use mm length: your foot length + 5-10mm comfort. |
Quick Conversion Table (Men’s/Women’s)
| Your foot length (cm) | Chinese size | EU | US M/W |
|---|---|---|---|
| 22.5 | 35 | 35 | 4/5 |
| 23.0 | 36 | 36 | 5/6 |
| 24.0 | 38 | 38 | 7/8 |
| 25.0 | 40 | 39 | 8/9 |
| 26.0 | 42 | 42 | 11/12 |
| 27.0 | 44 | 44 | 13/14 |
In short, use foot length in mm as your anchor. When sourcing from wholesale markets, platforms like Soudangkou can connect you with verified stalls that provide accurate sizing info and even customization. But the key is to always double-check with a physical sample. Happy sourcing!
广州服装档口相关入口
继续查看相关市场和品类入口，方便对比档口微信、货源范围、拿货方向和试单前需要核实的信息。
