When it comes to converting women’s shoe sizes to men’s, there can be a bit of variation due to different sizing systems and the natural difference in shoe width.
In the U.S., a general rule of thumb is that there is about a 1.5 size difference between men’s and women’s shoe sizes. For instance, a women's size 14 typically converts to a men’s size 12.5 or 13, depending on the brand and shoe model.
However, this isn’t always a straightforward conversion. Some brands use two sizing systems, where a women’s 14 could either convert to a 12.5 or 13 in men’s.
Nike, for example, sizes a women’s 14 as a men’s 12.5, whereas a brand like Adidas often considers a women’s 14 equivalent to a men’s 13.
This difference stems from how brands define shoe length and width, which may vary slightly depending on their standard measurements.
What is Women's Size 13 in Men's Shoes? Everything You Need to Know
Why is a Women's Size 14 Not Always a Men's 12.5?
The reason for this discrepancy is that U.S. shoe brands operate on two main systems. One system treats women’s size 14 as men’s size 12.5, while the other uses a different measurement scale, resulting in a men’s size 13 conversion for the same women’s size. This difference in sizing can make it challenging to find a perfect fit when switching between men’s and women’s shoes, especially if you’re shopping across different brands.
Are Men's Shoes Wider than Women's Shoes?
Generally, men’s shoes are built slightly wider than women’s. This doesn’t impact unisex styles like sneakers as much, but for other types of shoes, women might need to consider width adjustments. If you typically wear a women’s medium-width shoe, you may want to try a narrower men’s shoe to avoid excess room. For women who wear wide or extra-wide sizes, men’s medium-width shoes may offer a closer fit without needing to adjust length.
Men's to Women's Width Conversion Guide
Here’s a quick width guide if you're considering a men’s shoe for a women’s size:
- Medium Width (Women’s) → Narrow Width (Men’s)
- Wide Width (Women’s) → Medium Width (Men’s)
- Extra Wide Width (Women’s) → Wide Width (Men’s)
For example, if you typically wear a wide width in women’s shoes, a men’s medium width is likely to be comfortable. If you’re used to a medium-width women’s shoe, you may find that men’s shoes feel a bit wider and could size down if needed.
5 Stores That Offer Women’s Size 14 in Men’s Shoes
Several stores and brands carry larger women’s sizes, including unisex options that cater to women’s size 14 or men’s size 12.5-13. Here are some of the best stores and brands that accommodate these sizes:
Nike
Nike’s sizing for women’s shoes generally caps at size 12, but their unisex and men’s options extend up to men’s size 18 (equivalent to women’s size 19.5). In most cases, if you're looking at a Nike shoe in women’s size 14, the equivalent men’s size will be 12.5.
- Women’s size 14 = Men’s size 12.5 (Nike specific)
- Unisex sizes available up to women’s size 19.5
- Perks: Free shipping, free returns, and a 60-day satisfaction guarantee for online purchases.
Allbirds
Allbirds sizing structure is simplified and most styles are fully unisex, designed to fit comfortably across both men’s and women’s foot shapes. For a women’s 14, you’ll want to look at men’s size 12.5 in Allbirds styles.
- Women’s size 14 = Men’s size 12.5
- Unisex sizing available up to women’s size 15.5 in some styles
- Perks: Free returns, 30-day wear test, and friendly customer service.
Veja
Veja’s sizing uses a slightly unique system, where a women’s 14 can correspond to a men’s size 12 in U.S. sizing. When shopping for Veja shoes, it’s best to use European sizes for accuracy.
- Women’s size 14 = Men’s size 12
- Sustainable materials and ethical production
- Perks: Half sizes available; European sizing for better fit accuracy.
Cariuma
Cariumas men’s sizes follow the 1.5 size difference rule from women’s sizes, so a women’s size 14 would correspond to a men’s 12.5. Their sneakers come in various colors and styles, often featuring half sizes for a better fit.
- Women’s size 14 = Men’s size 12.5
- Unisex sneakers with half sizes up to women’s 14.5
- Perks: 60-day free returns and colorful, limited edition options.
TOMS
TOMS men’s shoes usually run one size larger than women’s, making it possible to find a women’s size 14 equivalent to a men’s size 13 in TOMS shoes. This brand’s shoes may run slightly narrow, so sizing up is sometimes recommended.
- Women’s size 14 = Men’s size 13
- Unisex options available, primarily in neutral colors
- Perks: Free 30-day returns and a reputation for comfortable, everyday styles.
Takeaway
Converting women’s size 14 to men’s sizes can seem challenging, but with the right information, it’s manageable.
When buying online, make sure to review the brand’s size chart, especially if the brand doesn’t follow traditional U.S. sizing.
Many stores have flexible return policies, so don’t hesitate to exchange for a better fit if needed.
Also Read
What Is Women’s Size 9 in Men’s Shoes? A Guide to Finding the Right Fit