What is a Women's Size 12 in Men’s Shoes?
In general, a US women's size 12 translates to a men's size 10.5 to 11, depending on the brand. For example;
- Nike: Women’s size 12 corresponds to a men’s size 10.5.
- Adidas: For this brand, a women’s size 12 is closer to a men’s size 11.
- Allbirds: Similar to Nike, a women's size 12 equates to a men’s size 10.5.
The only reason behind this variation is that there are two systems of US men's shoe sizing.
The most followed system aligns women’s size 12 with men’s size 10.5. But, some brands adopt a customary sizing system, leading to the equivalence of a women’s size 12 to a men’s size 11.
Understanding Shoe Width Differences
One of the notable differences between men’s and women’s shoes is width. Normally, men’s shoes are wider than women’s shoes, so when transitioning from women’s to men’s sizes, it is essential to consider this width disparity:
- Medium Width: Women who wear medium width shoes should consider sizing down when purchasing men’s shoes.
- Wide Width: If a woman usually wears wide-width shoes, she may find that medium-width men’s shoes fit comfortably.
- Extra Wide Width: Those who wear extra wide shoes might need to look at men’s wide options.
A rule of thumb is that if a woman wears a size 12 in women’s shoes, she may need to downsize to approximately a men’s size 9.5 to 10 to account for the difference in width.
A Guide to Brand-Specific Shoe Sizing
Different brands have different unique sizing systems. Here are 5 popular brands along with their size conversions.
Nike - Nike offers women's shoes in size 12 across various styles, including sneakers, running shoes, and casual wear. With a size difference of 1.5 between women’s and men’s shoes, a women’s size 12 will convert to a men’s size 10.5.
Adidas - Adidas provides women's shoes in size 12 in categories such as running, casual sneakers, and performance footwear. The size difference is also 1.5, so a women’s size 12 translates to a men’s size 10.5.
New Balance - New Balance is known for offering a wide range of sizes and widths, including women's size 12. Here, a women’s size 12 will be equal to a men’s size 10.5.
Link to New Balance sizing chart
ASICS - ASICS, a popular brand for runners and athletes, offers women's shoes in size 12. A women’s size 12 in ASICS matches a men’s size 10.5.
Clarks - Clarks provides casual and professional shoe options in women's size 12. In this brand, a women’s size 12 converts to a men’s size 10.5.
Cole Haan - Cole Haan offers high-end and business-casual shoes in women’s size 12. A women’s size 12 in Cole Haan equals a men’s size 10.5.
Link to Cole Haan sizing chart
Vans - Vans carries classic styles, such as slip-ons and sneakers, in women's size 12. A women’s size 12 matches a men’s size 10.5.
Dr. Martens - Dr. Martens offers their boots in women’s size 12. In this brand, a women’s size 12 converts to a men’s size 10.5.
Link to Dr. Martens sizing chart
Converse - Converse makes Chuck Taylors and other styles available in women’s size 12. A women’s size 12 in Converse translates to a men’s size 10.5.
Puma - Puma offers a range of athletic and lifestyle shoes in women’s size 12. A women’s size 12 converts to a men’s size 10.5 in Puma.
Allbirds - Most Allbirds shoes are unisex. So, for women’s size 12, the equivalent in men’s sizes is 10.5, although they don't offer half sizes.
Veja - Veja follows a unique sizing method. A women’s size 12 would be a men’s size 10. Their sizing varies slightly across different models, so it would make sense to follow their specific size chart for the style you desire.
Cariuma - Cariuma’s shoes are mostly unisex, with a women's size 12 being equivalent to a men’s size 10.5.
TOMS - Lastly, TOMS men’s shoes run one size larger than their women’s equivalents. So, a women’s size 12 will be more or less a men’s size 11.
Comparing the European and UK Sizing Systems
The UK and European (EU) shoe sizing systems are different in a few key ways:
UK Sizes: This system is mainly used in the UK and countries that historically followed British standards (e.g., India, Australia, New Zealand). If you're purchasing shoes in these regions, you’ll commonly encounter UK sizing. UK sizes also account for narrower and wider foot widths, offering more options for fit customization.
EU Sizes: European sizes are widely used in most of mainland Europe and adopted in many other regions worldwide. EU sizing can sometimes be perceived as simpler because it applies universally for both men and women. The lack of half-sizes, however, may present challenges for those who require a more precise fit.
Sizing Chart Comparison
| UK Size | EU Size | Approximate Foot Length (in cm) |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 35.5 | 22.8 |
| 4 | 37 | 23.5 |
| 5 | 38 | 24.1 |
| 6 | 39.5 | 24.8 |
| 7 | 41 | 25.4 |
| 8 | 42 | 26.0 |
| 9 | 43 | 26.7 |
| 10 | 44.5 | 27.3 |
| 11 | 46 | 27.9 |
| 12 | 47 | 28.6 |
Off late, some manufacturers offer half-sizes (in increments of about 0.33 cm) to bridge the gap between full sizes, but this hasn't picked up on a larger scale as yet and it's quite uncommon too.
Takeaway
Understanding the conversion from women’s size 12 to men’s sizes is crucial for women looking to explore a wider range of footwear options.
A women’s size 12 generally corresponds to a men’s size 10.5 to 11, influenced by the specific brand’s sizing system.
Also, the width of men’s shoes being wider than women’s can affect overall comfort and fit.
Knowing this not only improves your shopping experience but also guarantees a better fit and more satisfaction with the footwear you select.