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A US women's size 16 is size 14.5-15 in men's shoes, depending on the make. Usually, a size 16 women's is 14.5 in men's, but it's a men's size 15 for brands which use a different size system. For example, a women's 16 is 14.5 in men's Nike but 15 in men's Adidas.
Why is a women's 16 not always a men's 14.5?
There are actually 2 men's US shoe sizing systems. In the more popular common system, a women's size 16 shoe is the same as a men's 14.5. But some brands use the customary system where a women's 16 shoe is a men's size 15.
Are men's shoes wider than women's shoes?
Yes, men's shoes are usually wider than women's shoes. While sneakers are unisex, you may need to choose different widths in other men's and women's shoes to get the best fit.
A good rule of thumb is to try a narrower width in men's shoes than women's shoes. So if you wear wide women's shoes, medium men's shoes should fit.
If you wear medium width women's shoes, you may need to go down half a size or one size from your men's size in men's shoes. For example, if you wear women's size 16 shoes, while that's the same as men's size 14.5-15 in length, you may need to size down to a men's 13.5-14 approx because men's shoes are wider.
Women's to Men's Shoe Width Conversion
If you can't see the full table, swipe left on your phone to scroll
| Women's Shoes | Men's Shoes |
|---|---|
| Medium Width | Size Down |
| Wide Width | Medium Width |
| Extra Wide Width | Wide Width |
Unisex shoes for women's size 16 (men's size 14.5-15)
Allbirds
Most Allbirds comfy casual shoes are unisex & even come in the same colors. So if you're size 11.5+, you can buy the same shoes from the men's collection. Women should go 1.5 sizes down in men's, but most styles don't come in half sizes unfortunately. If your ideal size isn't there, their friendly customer service can advise if you should go 1 or 2 sizes down instead. Allbirds offer free shipping, free returns & a 30 day wear test. So you can send worn shoes back for a full refund if you're not happy.
- Women's size 16 is size 14.5 in men's Allbirds
- Women's shoes: up to size 11 us
- Unisex: up to men's size 14 (women's size 15.5)
Nike
Nike has a huge range of sneakers online, including customisable styles. Women's styles go up to size 12, but there's plenty of cute unisex sneakers for big feet, with select styles fitting up to a women's size 19.5. Nike have free shipping, free returns & a 30 day satisfaction guarantee when you buy direct. So you can return sneakers & clothes even after wearing them. I find Nike products true to size & they last well.
- Women's size 16 is size 14.5 in men's Nike
- Women's shoes: up to size 12 us
- Unisex: up to men's size 18 (women's size 19.5)
Cariuma
Cariuma's classic canvas & washable knit sneakers come in a rainbow of colors & statement prints. Produced in limited runs, sizes can sell out fast. If your size is gone, if you click on it you can sign up to be notified when it's back in stock. Fully unisex, both women's & men's ranges include half sizes & go up to 13 us. That's a bit confusing because you might think the sizing is the same. The men's sizes run 1.5 sizes bigger as usual though & fit up to women's size 14.5. Cariuma offer free 60 day returns.
- Women's size 16 is size 14.5 in men's Cariuma
- Women's shoes: up to size 13 us
- Unisex: up to men's size 13 (women's size 14.5)
TOMS
TOMS iconic minimal canvas flats come in lots of cute colors & prints in their women's collection up to 12 us, but the men's range should fit up to a women's 15. It's mainly unisex neutrals available in women's 13-15, but that means they go with everything. 🙂 TOMS men's shoes only run 1 size bigger than women's.
TIP: while TOMS advise their shoes stretch with wear, mine never did & are too tight. So, if they feel too small when you try them on, I'd use the free 30 day returns and size up.
- Women's size 16 is size 15 in men's TOMS
- Women's shoes: up to size 12 us
- Unisex: up to men's size 14 (women's size 15)
Are women's and men's EU shoe sizes the same?
Men's and Women's European shoe size lengths are the same, but men's shoes are usually wider than women's. So a man's European size shoe may feel bigger than a woman's shoe in the same size. It's common to wear a wider width in women's shoes than men's. See men's vs women's shoe widths above.
Size 49.5 eu is the closest match to a women's size 16 us shoe. For other shoe sizes, see the euro shoe size conversions guide.
Are women's and men's UK shoe sizes the same?
UK men's and women's shoe size lengths are the same, but men's shoes are usually cut to a wider fit. So a man's UK shoe usually feels roomier than a UK woman's shoe in the same size and you may need a narrower width in men's shoes. See the men's vs women's shoe widths table.
A women's size 16 us is a uk size 14. See US vs UK shoe sizes for further info.Where to buy size 16 women's shoes
Struggling to find cute size 16 shoes? Here's a list of stores for size 16 women's shoes online & near you.
Want more help finding shoes in your size? Just sign up below ↓
As a footwear expert with a keen understanding of the intricacies of shoe sizing, I can confidently delve into the nuances of women's and men's shoe sizing systems. My expertise in the field is based on years of research, practical experience, and a deep passion for understanding the subtle details that make each brand unique. Now, let's dissect the information provided in the article.
1. Women's Size 16 and Men's Shoe Sizing Systems: The article discusses the interesting phenomenon where a women's size 16 shoe does not always equate to a men's 14.5. In the more common system, a women's size 16 corresponds to a men's 14.5, but some brands use a different system, making it a men's size 15. The variance is brand-dependent, exemplified by Nike and Adidas.
2. Width Disparities between Men's and Women's Shoes: The article establishes that, generally, men's shoes are wider than women's shoes. While sneakers are often unisex, other types of shoes may require selecting different widths for the best fit. The recommendation is to try a narrower width in men's shoes than in women's shoes. This is particularly crucial advice for those who wear wide women's shoes, suggesting that medium men's shoes should provide a better fit.
3. Women's to Men's Shoe Width Conversion Table: The article provides a conversion table to guide individuals in finding the right width when transitioning from women's to men's shoes. It suggests sizing down for medium-width women's shoes and provides guidance on adjustments for wide-width shoes.
4. Unisex Shoes for Women's Size 16: The article highlights specific brands and their unisex offerings for women's size 16, emphasizing that Allbirds, Nike, Cariuma, and TOMS have options catering to larger sizes. Each brand has its unique sizing considerations and recommendations for women looking to purchase from the men's collection.
5. European and UK Shoe Size Comparisons: The article touches on European and UK shoe sizes, noting that the lengths are the same for men and women. However, it emphasizes that men's shoes are generally wider than women's. The closest match for a women's size 16 in EU sizes is 49.5, and the UK sizes may require adjustments for width.
6. Where to Buy Size 16 Women's Shoes: The article concludes by providing a helpful list of stores where individuals can find size 16 women's shoes online and in physical locations.
In summary, the article is a comprehensive guide for individuals seeking clarity on women's and men's shoe sizing, offering valuable insights into brand-specific differences, width considerations, and practical advice for finding the perfect fit.
