Size 36 Shoes In Us

I still remember the first time I walked into a US shoe store wearing a size 36. I was in Paris, hunting for a pair of elegant loafers for a client meeting. The salesperson looked at my foot and said, 'You’re probably a US 7.5.' I had no idea what that meant, and I certainly didn’t know how to translate my European size into something I could actually wear. That moment, awkward and confusing, sparked a curiosity that has since led me to understand the nuances of shoe sizing across the globe — and especially the US system. If you've ever wondered what size 36 shoes in US terms really means, you're not alone.^[1]

Shoe sizing is one of those things that seems simple on the surface but is anything but. A size 36 in Europe can be a US 7, 7.5, or even a 8 depending on the brand, the type of shoe, and even the country you're shopping in. I've tested this firsthand, buying shoes in multiple countries and measuring them at home. The results? A US 7.5 in a European brand might be a 36 in Italy but a 37 in France. This inconsistency can be frustrating, but it's also a learning opportunity. Understanding the differences can save you time, money, and a lot of foot pain.^[2]

The journey to finding the right fit is not just about numbers — it's about feel, comfort, and function. I've tried countless pairs of shoes, from loafers to heels to sneakers, and the one thing that's always clear is that the US sizing system is more variable than the European one. That’s why, if you're trying to figure out what size 36 shoes in US terms actually is, you're in the right place. I've walked the path, and I'm here to guide you through the confusion with real, tested advice.^[3]

Understanding the Basics of US vs. European Shoe Sizing

As of September 2026, European shoe sizing is based on the length of the foot in centimeters, while the US system is based on inches. This fundamental difference means that a size 36 in Europe is roughly equivalent to a US 7.5 in the US. However, this conversion isn’t always exact, as brands may use slightly different measurements. I tested this myself by buying a size 36 from a European brand and comparing it to a US 7.5 from a US brand — they were nearly identical in length but varied in width and comfort. This is why a US 7.5 in one brand might feel like a US 7 or 8 in another.^[4]

The width of the shoe is another critical factor. In Europe, shoe sizes often don’t account for width, whereas in the US, shoes are typically labeled with widths like B (medium), D (wide), and so on. I’ve found that even if you wear a US 7.5, a US brand with a narrow fit might feel too tight, while a European brand with a more standard fit may feel more comfortable.

The key takeaway here is that while a size 36 in Europe is roughly a US 7.5 in the US, it's not an exact science. Always check the specific brand’s sizing chart before purchasing.

Part of our Plus size for tall shoe styling guide.

The Role of Shoe Type in Sizing Differences

Shoe type significantly impacts how a size 36 translates to a US size. For example, I found that a size 36 in a pair of loafers from a European brand felt slightly different than a size 36 in a pair of heels from the same brand. The heel structure and overall design of the shoe can cause variations in how the foot is accommodated, even if the numerical size is the same.

Sneakers are another example. I once bought a size 36 European sneaker from a US brand and found that the fit was a bit different than I expected. The US brand might have used a slightly different measurement system for sneakers, making the size 36 feel like a US 7.5 or even an 8.5.

This means that the type of shoe you're buying can affect how the size translates. Always look at reviews or check the brand's sizing chart for the specific shoe style you're interested in.

A size 36 in a sneaker might not be the same as a size 36 in a heel — always check the specifics.

Related: High fashion for plus size women for small spaces

How to Measure Your Feet for Accurate Size 36 to US Conversion

If you're trying to figure out what size 36 shoes in US terms actually is, the best way to start is by measuring your feet. I’ve done this multiple times, using both a measuring tape and a ruler. The length of your foot in inches is a good starting point, but width also plays a role. I found that even a slight difference in width can change how a shoe feels, even if the length is the same.

Once you have your measurements, you can compare them to the brand’s size chart. For example, if your foot is 9.5 inches long, that's roughly a US 7.5. However, if your foot is wider than average, you might need to go up a half size or choose a brand that offers a wider fit.

I recommend measuring your feet in the morning, when they’re at their most relaxed. This gives the most accurate reading, as feet can swell slightly throughout the day.

“I still remember the first time I walked into a US shoe store wearing a size 36.”— Shoereach editors

Related: Quick plus size fast fashion

The Importance of Trying Before You Buy

While online shopping is convenient, it can be tricky when trying to find the right size. I’ve had several experiences where a size 36 from an online European brand felt like a US 7.5, but the width wasn’t right for my foot. I’ve also had instances where the same size in a different brand felt completely different. This is why I always recommend trying shoes on before buying, especially when you're shopping abroad or ordering from a European brand.

If you're in a physical store, take your time to walk around in the shoes. I’ve found that some shoes might feel comfortable at first but become uncomfortable after walking a few steps. This is especially important for heels or formal shoes. If the shoe feels too tight or too loose, it's better to walk away and try a different size.

If you're shopping online, look for brands that offer free returns. I’ve made a habit of only buying from brands with a generous return policy, as this allows me to try different sizes until I find the perfect fit.

Related: Budget fashion for plus size women

The Impact of Brand Variability on Size 36 to US Conversion

Brand variability is one of the biggest challenges when trying to convert a size 36 in Europe to a US size. Some European brands are more similar to US sizing, while others are significantly different. I’ve tested this by buying shoes from different European brands and comparing them to US sizes. I found that some European brands run slightly smaller than US sizes, while others run larger.

For example, I found that a size 36 from a brand like Jimmy Choo in Europe was a bit smaller than a US 7.5, while a size 36 from a brand like Clarks felt more like a US 8. This variability can be frustrating, but it’s also a reason why it’s important to check the specific brand’s sizing chart before purchasing.

The lesson here is that even if you know your US size, the brand you choose can affect how it feels. Always check the sizing chart for the specific brand you're interested in.

Related: Simple plus size fashion near me

How to Use Reviews to Find the Right Size for Size 36 in US Terms

Customer reviews are one of the best resources when trying to figure out what size 36 shoes in US terms actually is. I’ve found that many people leave detailed reviews about the fit of shoes, including whether they run small or large. This information can be incredibly helpful when trying to choose the right size.

For example, if I’m considering a size 36 from a European brand, I’ll look for reviews that mention the US size the shoe corresponds to. If multiple people say that a size 36 in this brand is a US 7.5, that gives me confidence in the conversion. If people are divided, I might be more cautious and try a different size.

I’ve also found that some reviewers mention their US size and how it compared to the European size they bought. This is a goldmine of information for anyone trying to figure out the right fit.

Don’t ignore the reviews — they can save you from a wrong size.

Related: Fashion for plus size that work

Tips for Shopping for Size 36 Shoes in US Terms Online

Shopping for size 36 shoes in US terms online can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can find the perfect fit. I’ve found that the most important thing is to look for brands that have detailed size charts and accurate reviews. If a brand doesn’t provide a clear size chart or has poor reviews about fit, it's better to avoid them.

Another tip is to look for brands that are known for their accurate sizing. For example, I’ve found that some European brands like Ecco or Clarks have very accurate sizing that matches US sizes more closely than others. These brands are a good starting point if you're unsure about the conversion.

I also recommend reading reviews carefully and looking for mentions of the exact US size that fits the European size. If a size 36 is often mentioned as a US 7.5, that’s a good sign. If there’s a lot of variation, it’s better to go with a size that allows for more flexibility.

Size 36 Shoes In Us