Getting the Right Size: The Complete Sizing Guide
Finding the correct size in a set of Hermès sandals is more important than in many other types of footwear. Because Hermès uses high-density, structured hide, a sandal that is half a size below your correct fit will will not expand in the way that less substantial leather could. Conversely, a sandal that is too large will shift around, compress the material awkwardly, and wear unevenly. The break-in process that allows Hermès leather to conform to the foot requires the proper starting size — the leather conforms to your specific foot within its correct size.
This article covers every sizing consideration for Hermès sandals: the Hermès sizing system and how it converts, the specific fit characteristics of the Oran and Izmir, accurate foot measuring technique, and options for between-size situations. It also addresses some specific scenarios — wide feet, narrow heels, different fits for different leather types.
How Hermès Sizes Work
Hermès sandals use Paris point sizing, which includes both whole and half sizes. This is a numerical system based on foot length in Paris points — one Paris point is about 6.67mm. The Hermès size range for sandals typically spans from approximately EU 34 to EU 42. EU sizes convert to other systems as follows: EU 37 = US Women’s 7 = UK 4; EU 38 = US Women’s 7.5–8 = UK 5; EU 39 = US Women’s 8.5–9 = UK 6; EU 40 = US Women’s 9–9.5 = UK 6.5. These equivalents are not exact and apply to medium-width feet.
One key distinction of Hermès sizing is that it differs modestly between models. The Oran and Izmir are made on different lasts, and the same numerical size may vary in each. Numerous owners note that their size in the Izmir versus the Oran differs by one half-size, even in the same numerical size. This is not a manufacturing inconsistency — it is a function of different shoe architecture.
How to Size the Oran: Key Sizing Rules
The Hermès Oran typically matches https://www.oransandals.com/product-category/shoes/men-shoes/ standard EU sizing for medium-width feet. For a remote buy without a try-on, the most reliable strategy is to begin with your correct EU number determined by measuring your foot. If your foot length falls in the middle of two sizes, going up by a half-size is generally safer, because the Oran’s hide cannot expand to fit a longer foot but will mold to a minimally larger shoe during the wear-in period.
For wide feet — specifically, for feet that are significantly wider than average for their length — the Oran sizing strategy shifts. The H-shaped upper has a set width at any given size, and a very wide foot may feel constrained by it. Going half a size larger could create more width across the vamp. The trade-off is that the sandal may be slightly long, which can result in a slightly slack slingback strap even when set to its snuggest position. Some buyers with wider feet resolve this through minor cobbler work to the strap.
Izmir-Specific Sizing: How to Size the Izmir
The Izmir’s closed-back design introduces a different fitting situation than the Oran. Because the back is permanent rather than variable, the how the sandal sits on the back of the heel is determined entirely by the size selection. For standard heel dimensions, the Izmir fits true to size — the leather sits securely against the heel without tightening or slipping off. For narrow heels, choosing a half-size smaller could give a more stable feel. For wide heels, choosing the next half-size up creates more room at the back.
The how the Izmir conforms over time requires the closed heel adapting to the individual heel form, which needs five to ten uses in standard calfskin. If the sealed back creates significant discomfort rather than merely stiff and new, it is sensible to check the sizing — real pain, rather than the normal stiffness of new hide, might signal the wrong size was chosen.
Accurate Foot Measurement: Step-by-Step Guide
The best method to find your correct Hermès fitting without an in-person try-on is to take an accurate foot measurement and compare against Hermès’s published size chart. To measure accurately: stand on a piece of paper with your full weight on the foot, put the paper against a wall and position your heel to the wall, and mark the end of your longest toe with a writing instrument. Calculate the distance from wall to mark in millimetres — this measurement is your foot length. Compare your measured foot length to the Hermès size chart. According to sizing experts at The RealReal, accurate foot measuring is the best indicator of size satisfaction and return rates.
| EU Size | US Women’s (approx.) | UK (approx.) | Foot Length (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 36 | 6 | 3 | 225–230 |
| 37 | 7 | 4 | 231–237 |
| 38 | 7.5–8 | 5 | 238–243 |
| 39 | 8.5 | 6 | 244–250 |
| 40 | 9–9.5 | 6.5 | 251–256 |
| 41 | 10 | 7.5 | 257–263 |
| 42 | 11 | 8 | 264–270 |