Few things cause more uncertainty when buying shoes online than sizing — especially with handcrafted styles from Italy. Here's how Italian shoe sizes actually work, which conversion is correct, and how to confidently find your size at THE COAST.
The myth of the "Italian shoe size"
Contrary to popular belief, there's no separate "Italian shoe size" — Italy uses the same EU sizing system (also known as Paris point) as Germany, France and most European countries. A size 42 from an Italian maker is therefore, in principle, the same foot length as a German size 42. The difference many people perceive as "runs big" or "runs small" almost always comes down to the last (the form a shoe is built on), not a different unit of measurement.
Why handcrafted shoes still fit differently
Handcrafted leather shoes — like every THE COAST style — are built on Italian lasts, which tend to be narrower and more anatomically fitted than many mass-produced shoes. That means the same size number can feel noticeably different from brand to brand, even though the size scale itself is identical. If you've mainly worn wider-cut sneaker brands so far, it's worth keeping that in mind when ordering.
Conversion table: EU, UK and US
For reference, a rough conversion between the common systems for men's shoes (women's sizing runs roughly 1–1.5 sizes smaller):
- EU 40 ≈ UK 6.5 ≈ US 7
- EU 41 ≈ UK 7 ≈ US 7.5
- EU 42 ≈ UK 8 ≈ US 8.5
- EU 43 ≈ UK 9 ≈ US 9.5
- EU 44 ≈ UK 9.5 ≈ US 10.5
- EU 45 ≈ UK 10.5 ≈ US 11.5
- EU 46 ≈ UK 11 ≈ US 12
These figures are guidelines. Since fit varies slightly by last, material thickness and shoe style (loafer, sneaker, boot), we always recommend matching your actual foot length against our size chart rather than relying solely on a conversion from another brand.
How to measure your foot length correctly
- Place a sheet of paper on the floor with your back against a wall.
- Stand on it barefoot or in thin socks (however you plan to wear the shoe), heel against the wall.
- Mark the longest point of your foot (usually the big toe) on the paper.
- Measure the distance from the wall to the mark in centimetres — ideally in the evening, when your foot is at its largest.
- Measure both feet and use the larger value to choose your size.
You can match this measurement directly against the centimetre figures in our size chart to find the right EU size for the model you want.
Half sizes and how leather breaks in
If you're between sizes, we generally recommend sizing up — especially for smooth-leather styles. Genuine leather adapts slightly to the shape of your foot over the first few weeks of wear, easing gently as the footbed forms. This effect is somewhat smaller with suede and velour leather styles, so the exact measured size is often the right call there. If you're unsure between two sizes, feel free to contact us before ordering — we know the fit of every single style from experience and are happy to advise individually.
Tips for the first days of wear
- Wear new leather shoes for short periods only over the first few days, so the material breaks in gently.
- With loafers and slippers, wear them at home on carpet first to break in the sole before heading outside.
- Thin cotton socks help prevent pressure points during the break-in period — for sneakers too.
- If a shoe still feels noticeably uncomfortable after two weeks of regular wear, it's usually the size rather than the material — in that case, an exchange is worth it.
Our recommendation
Whether loafers, boots or sneakers like our Sophia Runner — the right size is the foundation for comfort and long-term enjoyment of handcrafted shoes. Browse our current styles in the Men's Sneakers and Women's Sneakers collections, and find the full measurements in our size chart.
Unsure about sizing for a specific style? Contact our team — we'll help you find the right size before you order.
