What Shoe Size is 38? A Complete Guide

Shoe shopping can be tricky when sizing varies across brands, countries, and measuring systems. If you wear a European size 38, what does that translate to in other parts of the world? This comprehensive guide breaks down all you need to know about the common yet perplexing size 38.

A European shoe size 38 corresponds to different sizes globally, with key differences between men’s and women’s sizing. Proper measurement and fit are essential for comfort.

At first glance, determining your shoe size seems simple – you just convert between the sizing scales used in different countries. A European size 38 equals a UK 5.5 and US women’s 7 in most cases. However, inconsistent sizing standards and design variations mean finding the ideal size 38 shoes remains an inexact science.

This guide provides tips on measuring feet properly, converting sizes accurately, and getting the perfect fit in a 38, whether you are a man, woman or child. Read on for a full breakdown of this enigmatic footwear figure!

How Does Shoe Sizing Vary Between Countries?

Shoe sizing differs across the globe due to the lack of universal standards. Here’s how a European 38 generally converts to other regions:

• UK: 5.5 for both genders
• US: 7 for women, 6.5 for men
• Japan: 24.5 for women, 24 for men
• China: 245 for men, 240 for women
• Australia: 7 for men, 9 for women

However, conversion charts provide rough estimates only. Sizing can fluctuate up or down by a half or full size between brands and shoe types.

For example, many US brands size men’s shoes around 1.5 sizes smaller than the UK/European scale. So a US men’s 6.5 could equal a UK 8, not 7.5. Women’s shoes tend to follow more true-to-size conversions between sizing systems.

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What’s the Difference Between Men’s and Women’s Size 38 Shoes?

The same European shoe size translates to different US sizes for men and women due to key structural variations.

• Women’s feet are typically narrower, so a US women’s 7 equals about a men’s 6.5.
• Women’s feet also tend to be shorter for the same foot volume. A US 7 men’s shoe will be longer than a US 7 women’s even though both are a European 38.
• The toe box in men’s shoes is wider to account for broader forefeet. So men may size down in women’s styles for a better fit.

Always check size charts to confirm the US men’s or women’s size equal to your usual European 38 before purchasing. And remember that factors like heel height can also impact fitting between genders.

What Size 38 Shoes Should Children Wear?

Choosing shoes for growing kids poses added challenges. At a European size 38, the appropriate age and gender becomes key:

• Girls who are around 10-11 years old typically fit a EU 38 or US kids 6.
• Boys of about 7-8 years old normally match a size 38/US 6.
• Try children’s sizing over adult shoes for the right proportions.
• Allow ample toe room for growth when fitting kids’ shoes.
• Stick to your child’s measured size – don’t size up to save money.
• Have your child’s feet measured every few months as they rapidly change.

Consult your pediatrician if concerned about development issues impacting shoe size requirements.

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How Should I Measure My Feet for Size 38 Shoes?

Rather than guessing your size, measuring feet correctly ensures shoes fit well. Follow these pro tips:

• Use a Brannock device or printable measuring tool. Tape measures can misjudge length.
• Always measure bare feet in the afternoon or evening when feet are largest.
• Stand with full weight on the foot being measured.
• Follow device instructions for heel placement and reading the size.
• Capture both length and width for EU/UK sizes to get your size 38 right.
• Measure both feet – they are often slightly different sizes. Buy for the larger foot.
• Consider having a shoe fitter take professional measurements if unsure.

Accurately measuring feet prevents discomfort from ill-fitting 38s. Record your size and use it for conversion across regions.

Converting a European 38 to Other Shoe Sizing Systems

Once you have your precise European size 38 measurements, use this cheat sheet to find the well-fitting equivalent sizes in other regions:

• UK sizing: Simply match your EU 38 to a UK 5.5 in the same gender shoe. Women’s and men’s sizes align between these two scales.
• US sizing: A women’s EU 38 equals a US women’s 7; for men’s shoes, the same EU 38 converts to a US men’s 6.5.
• Japan: EU sizes are roughly equivalent to CM measurements used in Japan. A 38 translates to 24.5 cm for women and 24 cm for men.
• China: Chinese sizes are 2-3 sizes smaller than European ones for women, and 1-2 sizes bigger for men. So a women’s 38 is about size 240, while men take a 245.
• Australia: Similar to the UK, Australia uses a unisex sizing system. A EU 38 equals about an Australian 7 in men’s styles and 9 in women’s.

Getting your regional size conversions right ensures shoes branded with your local sizing fit as expected when ordering online internationally.

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Do International Shoe Size Standards Exist?

At present, there are no mandatory international shoe sizing standards that all manufacturers follow. However, some organizations have created optional guidance:

• ISO 9407 outlines preferred European shoe sizing that many brands use as a reference.
• Mondopoint provides a universal sizing system based on foot length and width in mm that works across genders.
• Global shoe brands aim for consistency, but often subtly tweak fits by market.
• Consider sizing systems as starting guides only – trying shoes on is essential.

Until universal shoe size regulations exist, it’s smart to focus on brands known for accurate, true-to-size fits when shopping for a 38 online.

How to Get the Perfect Size 38 Shoe Fit

Beyond accurate sizing, other factors affect how a European 38 fits your feet. Follow these top tips for ideal comfort and support:

• Focus on brands that offer narrow, standard and wide width options to get an exact fit.
• Choose lace-up, buckle or velcro fastenings adjust to fine tune the fit.
• Opt for leather or textile uppers with some give to accommodate feet.
• Have both feet professionally measured – don’t assume they are the same.
• Try shoes on at the end of the day when feet are largest.
• Walk around the store to check toe room, arch support and slippage.
• Consider custom orthotics if you need medical support.
• Buy for your larger foot to avoid pain from tight shoes.
• Judge fit on how shoes feel standing and walking – not just sitting.

Finding well-fitting shoes in a tricky size like 38 takes diligence. But the right pair provides comfort for years to come.

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Special Considerations for Fitting Size 38 Shoes

Some additional factors impact achieving an optimal shoe size 38 fit:

Wide or Narrow Feet

Always have width measured alongside length. Seek brands offering multiple width options in a 38, or go up/down a half size as needed.

High Heels vs. Flats

Heel height alters fit – a 38 may be loose in flats but perfect in 3″ pumps. Try on shoes with your typical heel height.

Material and Style

Leather, textile or synthetic uppers flex differently. Laced shoes adjust more than slip-ons. Consider shape and fastenings that accommodate your feet best.

Orthotics and Insoles

Add orthotics or insoles into the shoe when testing size to ensure the 38 still fits comfortably.

Purpose

Sizing and fit differs between athletic shoes, work footwear and formal styles. Try shoes on for your specific intended use.

Recommended Online Resources for Finding Size 38 Shoes

• Zappos: Huge selection with advanced search filters like size/width/fit. Free shipping and returns.
• Nordstrom: Detailed size charts and reviews. Helpful online fit experts. Free returns.
• ASOS: Size guide and fit assist tool. Recommends size based on brands you wear.
• Amazon: Search by exact size and brand. Check reviews mentioning fit and sizing. Free returns on eligible items.
• DSW: Fit finder quiz gives personalized size recommendations. Rewards program.
• Retailer sites like Nike, Clarks, Dr Martens, Timberland – many now offer virtual fit tools.

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FAQs About European Shoe Size 38

What is the average foot length for a size 38?

A women’s 38 typically fits a foot length between 240-245 mm. Men’s feet average around 245-250 mm.

Is a 38 a small shoe size?

For women, 38 is very common – around average. For men, it falls on the smaller side of the average adult male shoe size.

What age is a European size 38 for kids?

Girls around age 10-11 years and boys age 7-8 years normally fit into a European children’s size 38.

What is a US size 7 equivalent to in Europe?

A US women’s size 7 converts to European size 38 in most brands. For men’s sizing, it equals around a European 39.

Will a UK 5.5 fit the same as a EU 38?

Yes, UK and EU sizes align for both genders so a UK 5.5 is equivalent to an EU 38 in the same brand/style of shoe.

How can I find wide and narrow size 38 shoes?

Look for brands that manufacture different width options. Also consider sizing up/down a half size in certain styles if needed.

Should I buy leather or synthetic shoes in a size 38?

Leather often molds to feet over time, whereas synthetic materials have less give. Try on both types to decide what fits best.

What size should I get children’s size 38 shoes?

Stick to your child’s measured size 38 as shoes should fit snugly without room to grow to prevent injury.

Will size 38 heels fit the same as 38 flats?

Not always – consider going down a half size in flats if you normally wear a 38 in heels, which typically fit more generously.

How can I find true-to-size European 38 shoe brands online?

Check reviews and sizing charts for brands praised for consistent fits. Ones like Clarks, Ecco and Vans tend to run true-to-size.

Conclusion

Shoe sizing can seem straightforward until differences between regions, measuring systems, styles and brands come into play. For those who take a European size 38, truly nailing fit means going beyond rough size conversions and considering all the elements that make a shoe “fit” just right.

While manufacturers work towards alignment, for now it takes a bit more savvy to locate those coveted shoes that are perfectly sized 38s. Following the guidance in this guide empowers you to measure up and achieve footwear comfort and confidence.