China uses the metric system, measured in centimeters (CM) based on foot length, not EU/USA sizes. A Chinese size 42 equals 26.5cm foot length. This is the first thing you need to know as a wholesaler. At Soudangkou market, we see buyers every day confused about sizing – here’s the cheat sheet.
China Shoe Size Conversion Chart (CM to US, EU, UK)
Think of Chinese sizes as foot length (mm) divided by 10. For example: 265mm = 26.5 CM = Chinese size 42. Below is an approximate conversion table (averages – always verify with supplier).
| Foot Length (CM) | China Size | US Men | EU | UK |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24.5 | 39 | 6.5 | 40 | 5.5 |
| 25.0 | 40 | 7 | 41 | 6 |
| 25.5 | 41 | 7.5 | 42 | 6.5 |
| 26.0 | 42 | 8 | 43 | 7 |
| 26.5 | 43 | 8.5 | 44 | 7.5 |
| 27.0 | 44 | 9 | 45 | 8 |
| 27.5 | 45 | 9.5 | 46 | 8.5 |
How Chinese Shoe Sizing Works (For Wholesale Buyers)
Chinese factories produce shoes adhering to national standard GB/T 3293.1-1998, which uses the mondopoint system (foot length in CM). No weird EU or US numbers. This is critical when you’re at a market stall: always measure the insole or ask for the CM length. Don’t rely on EU or US labels – they often get translated wrong. At Yiwu or Guangzhou wholesale markets (like Soudangkou), the sign says “Size 42 (26.5cm)”, but a sneaker labeled EU 43 might actually fit a 42. Why? Because many factories size up or down for export. The safest bet: request a foot measurement chart from your supplier.
Pro Tips for Market Sourcing
- Insist on CM-based sizing – it’s the only consistent measurement.
- Test the stock – walk the rows, pick up a sample, measure the insole length.
- Check workmanship – run your finger inside the shoe; rough edges mean poor construction.
- Negotiate by size mix – ask for 70% core sizes (39-43 men’s) and 30% demand sizes (44+).
FAQ: China Shoe Size
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What shoe size is US 8 in China? | China size 41 (25.5cm foot length). |
| What shoe size is EU 40 in China? | China size 39 (24.5cm). |
| Do Chinese shoes run small or large? | Most run small – order one size up from your usual. But always check CM. |
| How to convert US women’s size to China? | US 7 women = China 37 (23.5cm). Standard conversion: US women’s + 31 = China size (e.g., 7+31=38? No, approximate). |
| Is Chinese shoe size same as Japan? | Similar (both use CM), but Japan sometimes adds 0.5cm. China is strict to foot length. |
| Where to buy shoes wholesale in China? | Major markets: Yiwu (city), Guangzhou (Guangyuan Lu), and online platforms like Soudangkou. Check sample quality before bulk. |
| Why do Chinese brands have different sizing? | Brands targeting domestic market use CM strictly, while export brands may convert to US/EU but inconsistently. |
The Bottom Line: For Wholesale Buyers
Don’t overcomplicate. China shoe size is simple: foot length in centimeters. When sourcing at Soudangkou, always confirm the CM measurement. If a supplier says “size 42 (26.5cm)” but the shoe insole measures 27cm, that’s a size 43. This 0.5cm difference can kill your return rate. Insist on a physical measurement of the goods you’re buying. Good luck – and happy sourcing.
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