adidas size guide: EU, UK, US conversion and fit

Choosing the right adidas size is easier than it seems once you understand how the system works. As authorized adidas Originals retailers, this is the question we are asked most often in our boutique: here is the complete guide, with the conversion chart and model-by-model advice to help you make the right purchase.

How adidas sizing works

adidas bases its measurements on the UK system. Conversion to EU sizing is what creates the famous numbers “with thirds” - for example 38 ⅔, 39 ⅓, 40 ⅔. This is neither an error nor a whim: they are simply English half sizes converted into the European system, helping you find the perfect fit without being stuck “between two sizes”.

So, if you are used to a European 42, bear in mind that in the adidas world you may also find 41 ⅓ and 42 ⅔: these half sizes let you fine-tune the fit down to the millimetre.

adidas size conversion chart (EU · UK · US · cm)

The most reliable measurement is foot length in centimetres: measure your foot (from the heel to the tip of your big toe while standing) and look for the value in the chart. Here is the conversion for the most common range:

EU and UK sizes are the same for men and women; only the US size changes, with women's sizing approximately 1.5 sizes higher than men's (a woman wearing EU 40 would wear US women's 8.5). If in doubt, always refer to centimetres.

How do adidas shoes fit? Model-by-model advice

Not all adidas shoes fit the same way. Here is the practical rule for the most popular models:

• Samba, Gazelle, Spezial (terrace line) - they run narrow in the forefoot and slightly long. The safest advice is to stick to your usual size; those with a tapered foot sometimes size down by half a size because they run long, while those with wide feet generally prefer to size up by half a size. If in doubt, stick to your usual size.
• Superstar and Stan Smith - they fit true to size, perhaps slightly roomy. Choose your usual size.
• Campus 00s - true to size, with a comfortable fit: choose your usual size.
• XLG (Runner Deluxe, Samba XLG, Adistar) - the silhouette is oversized, but the internal fit is true to size: start with your usual size and go up half a size only if you prefer extra comfort or wear thick socks.
• Running models (Ultraboost and similar) - true to size and consistent with standard sizing.

Our boutique advice: for Samba or Gazelle, start with your usual size (they are narrow: those with wide feet may want to go up half a size, while those with tapered feet can go down half a size). For everything else, your usual size should be right.

adidas: what does your size correspond to?

The most frequently asked questions, with quick answers:

• What does EU 40 correspond to? → UK 6.5, US men's 7, 25,0 cm.
• What size is EU 42? → UK 8, US men's 8.5, 26,5 cm.
• What is EU 44 in UK sizing? → UK 9.5, US men's 10, 28,0 cm.
• What does 42 ⅔ mean? → It is a half size: UK 8.5, US men's 9, 27,0 cm.

You will find the fit and measurements indicated on each model's product page; if you are still unsure, write to us before ordering: we will help you choose the right size.

Discover adidas at Vittorio Citro

All adidas Originals sneakers - Samba, the XLG family and much more - are available in the adidas Originals collection from an authorized retailer, with guaranteed authenticity and fast shipping. Also explore the complete selection of men's sneakers and women's sneakers.

Frequently asked questions

How do adidas Samba fit - small or large? Samba (like Gazelle and Spezial) are narrow in the forefoot and slightly long. The safest advice is to stick to your usual size: those with wide feet may want to go up half a size, while those with tapered feet can go down half a size.

What does adidas EU 40 correspond to? EU 40 corresponds to UK 6.5, US men's 7 and a foot length of approximately 25 cm.

Why do adidas use sizes with thirds (e.g. 42 ⅔)? Because adidas uses the UK system as its starting point: converting English half sizes into the European system creates the numbers “with thirds” (⅓ and ⅔), allowing a more precise fit.

Are adidas sizes the same for men and women? EU and UK sizes are identical for men and women; only the US size changes, with women's sizing approximately 1.5 sizes higher than men's. The most reliable reference remains foot length in centimetres.

How do Superstar and Stan Smith fit? They fit true to size, perhaps slightly roomy: in most cases, your usual size will be right.

For conversions between European, UK and US sizes - and for the corresponding measurements in centimetres, the only reference that does not vary from one brand to another - you will find all the charts in our size converter.