When buying Japanese leather shoes from overseas, sizing can be the hardest part. Even if a pair is marked “25 cm,” leather shoes can fit differently from sneakers, while lasts and widths vary between brands. Since you cannot try them on, check not only your foot length but also your foot girth, width and each brand’s sizing information before ordering.
Start with Foot Length and Width
First, measure from your heel to the tip of your longest toe. If your feet differ in size, use the larger measurement as your reference. Width designations such as “EE” and “EEE” are also important. Do not simply convert from your usual sneaker size. Compare your measurements with the brand’s official measuring instructions and size chart.
Japanese Leather Shoes for Comparing Sizes
REGAL “811R Straight-Tip Oxford”
A classic straight-tip leather shoe made in Japan. It comes in sizes from 23.0 to 27.0 cm with an EE width, a cowhide upper and semi-McKay construction. Multiple sizes are listed as available on the official online store. If you are considering REGAL shoes from overseas, check whether the EE width suits your feet as well as the length.
View the REGAL 811R at the official REGAL online store
SCOTCH GRAIN “Assurance 3526BL”
Made in Japan with Japanese calf leather, this classic cap-toe Oxford comes in sizes from 23.5 to 27.0 cm, with an EEE width and Goodyear welt construction. The REGAL 811R is marked EE, while this model is EEE, showing why you should not compare Japanese leather shoes by centimeter size alone. Check the width and last as well.
Find the SCOTCH GRAIN Assurance 3526BL on Rakuten Japan
Do Not Choose by Centimeters Alone
When choosing leather shoes, look beyond the length in centimeters. Width, last and toe shape can all affect the fit. If you already own a comfortable pair of leather shoes, note the brand, size, width and fit and use them as a reference. When ordering internationally, also check the retailer’s return and exchange policy and whether international shipping is available.
Feet can also swell later in the day, so measuring them in the afternoon or evening can give you a useful reference for real-world fit. The socks you wear matter too: thin dress socks and thicker socks can change how a shoe feels. Measure with the type of socks you plan to wear. If you are still unsure, consider contacting the retailer with your foot length, foot girth and information about leather shoes that already fit you well.
