What size is 39 in women's shoes?

European Size 39 in Women's Shoes

A European size 39 in women's shoes converts to approximately a US size 8.5 Shoe Size Conversion | Zappos.com. Here's a detailed conversion table:

💡 Important Note: Shoe sizing can vary between brands and manufacturers, even within the same sizing system. This conversion is a guide, and the actual fit may differ depending on the shoe's last (the mold used to construct the shoe) and the brand's specific sizing standards. Always try shoes on when possible or check the specific brand's size chart for the most accurate fit.

Quick Conversion Reference:

• EU 39 = US Women's 8.5

• EU 39 = UK Women's 6.5

• Foot length: approximately 9.7 inches or 24.6 cm

Since you're working with Atoms shoes, they actually use a unique quarter-size system (which is great for your "atomic details" brand message!), so their sizing might be even more precise than traditional whole and half sizes.

How Shoe Sizes Are Made

Shoe sizing systems developed differently across regions, which is why conversions can be confusing. Here's how the major systems work:

European (EU) Sizing System

• Based on: Paris Points

• Measurement: Length of the shoe's interior (the "last")

• Formula: One Paris Point = 2/3 of a centimeter (6.67mm)

• How it works: They measure the internal cavity of the shoe mold, not your actual foot

• Example: EU size 39 = 39 Paris Points = 26 cm of internal shoe length

US/Canadian Sizing System

• Based on: Barleycorns (an old English unit)

• Measurement: 1 barleycorn = 1/3 inch (8.47mm)

• Starting point: Size 0 begins at a specific foot length, then each size up adds one barleycorn

• Gender difference: Women's sizes are offset from men's by approximately 1.5-2 sizes

• How it works: More focused on foot length progression rather than absolute measurements

UK Sizing System

• Based on: Also uses barleycorns

• Starting point: Begins at a smaller baseline than US sizing

• Measurement: Each full size = one barleycorn (1/3 inch)

• Result: UK sizes run about 1-1.5 sizes smaller than US sizes

The Brannock Device: The Standard Measuring Tool

The Brannock Device (that metal foot-measuring tool you see in shoe stores) measures:

1. Heel-to-toe length - Your overall foot length

2. Arch length - From heel to the ball of your foot

3. Width - The widest part of your foot

⚠️ Key Challenge: Shoe sizes are based on the internal shoe cavity (the last), not your actual foot measurement. This is why sizing varies so much between brands! A size 39 shoe might have an internal length of 26cm, but your foot might be 24.6cm, with the extra space accounting for toe room and comfort.

Why Sizing Varies Between Brands