Ordering the wrong size is the most common regret among first-time shoppers buying from Chinese marketplaces. This kakobuy size guide explains how Chinese clothing and shoe sizes compare to US, UK and EU sizes, and how to read a seller’s chart properly. Use it alongside any spreadsheet listing to choose the right fit the first time.
Why Sizing Is Different on Chinese Marketplaces
Items listed in a kakobuy spreadsheet come from Taobao, Weidian, 1688 and Pinduoduo sellers who design primarily for Asian body measurements. As a result, a garment labeled “L” is often closer to a Western M, and sometimes even an S. Sizing also varies from seller to seller, and labels like “XL” or “175/92A” may not mean the same thing across two different shops.
The safest rule is simple: ignore the letter on the tag and compare measurements in centimeters. Every reliable seller provides a size chart, and those numbers matter far more than the label.
Kakobuy Size Guide for Clothing
As a broad rule, Chinese clothing sizes run about one to two sizes smaller than US and EU sizing. Here is a general conversion for men’s tops:
- Chinese M is roughly a US/UK XS to S, EU 44
- Chinese L is roughly a US/UK S, EU 46
- Chinese XL is roughly a US/UK M, EU 48
- Chinese 2XL is roughly a US/UK L, EU 50
- Chinese 3XL is roughly a US/UK XL, EU 52
For women’s clothing, a similar pattern applies:
- Chinese M is roughly US 2–4, UK 6–8, EU 34–36
- Chinese L is roughly US 4–6, UK 8–10, EU 36–38
- Chinese XL is roughly US 6–8, UK 10–12, EU 38–40
- Chinese 2XL is roughly US 8–10, UK 12–14, EU 40–42
Understanding height/chest codes
Some labels use a format like 175/92A. The first number is the wearer’s height in centimeters, the second is chest or waist in centimeters, and the letter describes body shape. These codes are handy because they are based on real body measurements rather than letters.
Streetwear and oversized styles are designed to fit loosely, so some sellers recommend your normal size or even one smaller. Always read the listing notes. Our Kakobuy clothing guide covers fit styles in more detail.
Kakobuy Size Guide for Shoes
Shoe sizing is more consistent because most sellers list EU sizes, but brands and factories still vary. A general men’s conversion looks like this:
- EU 40 is about US 7, UK 6, 25 cm
- EU 41 is about US 8, UK 7, 26 cm
- EU 42 is about US 8.5–9, UK 7.5–8, 26.5–27 cm
- EU 43 is about US 9.5, UK 8.5–9, 27.5 cm
- EU 44 is about US 10, UK 9, 28 cm
- EU 45 is about US 11, UK 10, 29 cm
For women, US sizes are usually about 1.5 higher than men’s for the same foot length, so EU 38 is roughly a women’s US 7 or UK 5. The centimeter value is the most reliable number to compare, since it refers to foot or insole length. For footwear-specific advice, see our Kakobuy shoes spreadsheet guide.
How to Measure Yourself Correctly
Instead of guessing, measure a garment you already love wearing:
- Lay a T-shirt or hoodie flat on a table.
- Measure chest width from armpit to armpit and double it if the chart lists full chest.
- Measure length from the highest point of the shoulder to the hem.
- Measure sleeve length from shoulder seam to cuff.
- For pants, measure the waist flat, the inseam and the leg opening.
- For shoes, stand on paper, mark your heel and longest toe, and measure the distance in centimeters.
Compare those numbers to the seller’s chart and pick the size that matches most closely, allowing a centimeter or two for comfort.
Using QC to Confirm Your Size
Even with careful planning, mistakes happen. When your order reaches the shopping agent’s warehouse, check the size tag in the QC photos and request a measurement photo if you are unsure. If the item is too small, you can usually ask for an exchange before it ships. Our Kakobuy QC photos guide explains how to request measurements and what to check.
Practical Sizing Tips
- When between sizes on Chinese clothing, size up.
- Read seller notes such as “runs small” or “fits large.”
- Check whether the chart lists body measurements or garment measurements.
- For layered outerwear, leave extra room in the chest and sleeves.
- Ask the agent to message the seller if the chart is unclear.
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FAQ
Do Chinese sizes always run small?
Most do, often by one to two sizes, but not all. Some sellers already use Western sizing or design oversized fits. That is why this kakobuy size guide recommends comparing centimeter measurements every time.
Should I trust the seller’s size chart?
Generally yes, but allow a small margin of error, as measurements can differ by a centimeter or two. Requesting a measurement photo during QC is the best confirmation.
Which shoe size number is most reliable?
The centimeter length is the most reliable, followed by EU size. US and UK conversions vary more between brands and factories.
With this kakobuy size guide and a measuring tape, you can order with much more confidence. Visit our complete Kakobuy spreadsheet guide for more tips on building your next haul.
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