KakoBuy Size Guide: Converting Asian to US Sizing for Every Category
Stop guessing your size. Use this complete conversion guide for shoes, hoodies, pants, and more before you order from the KakoBuy spreadsheet.
Sizing is the #2 cause of returns on KakoBuy, right after batch disappointment. Asian sizing runs smaller than US sizing in almost every category, and the difference varies by item type. This guide gives you the exact conversion rules, measurement techniques, and category-specific tips you need to get the right fit every time.
Shoes: The Most Critical Sizing Category
Shoes are where most sizing mistakes happen. A half-size difference can make a shoe unwearable. Here is how to convert correctly.
| US Size | EU Size | Foot Length (cm) | Insole (cm) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 40 | 24.5 | 25.5 | Add 1cm for insole |
| 8 | 41 | 25.5 | 26.5 | Standard conversion |
| 9 | 42.5 | 26.5 | 27.5 | Most popular size |
| 10 | 44 | 27.5 | 28.5 | Add 1cm for insole |
| 11 | 45 | 28.5 | 29.5 | Size up for wide feet |
| 12 | 46 | 29.5 | 30.5 | Always ask for insole |
Pro Tip
Always ask your agent for insole measurement photos. The insole should be 1-1.5cm longer than your foot length. If you have wide feet, add another 0.5cm.
Hoodies and Sweaters: Oversized vs. True to Size
Hoodies from streetwear brands are designed to be oversized. However, replica blanks may run smaller than the retail versions they are copying. Here is the rule: if you want a relaxed retail fit, order your true size. If you want an oversized look, size up once.
Pants and Shorts: The Inseam Rule
Pants are the most variable category for sizing. Different cuts (skinny, slim, regular, baggy) use completely different measurement systems. The inseam measurement is the most reliable indicator of fit.
Measure Your Favorite Pants
Lay a pair of pants that fits perfectly flat. Measure the waist, inseam, and outseam with a tape measure.
Compare to the Size Chart
Match your measurements to the seller size chart. Do not rely on S/M/L labels — they are inconsistent across factories.
Add 2cm for Shrinkage
Cotton pants may shrink 2-3cm after the first wash. If your inseam is exactly 78cm, order a pant with an 80cm inseam.
Check the Rise
High-rise pants sit at your natural waist. Low-rise pants sit at your hips. The rise measurement affects where the waistband sits.
T-Shirts: The Shrinkage Factor
T-shirts are the easiest category to size, but shrinkage is the hidden variable. A 100% cotton tee will shrink 3-5% after the first hot wash. If you are between sizes, always size up.
Checklist
Jackets: Layering Space Matters
Jackets are sized for layering. A puffer jacket that fits perfectly over a t-shirt will be too tight over a hoodie. When measuring for jackets, wear the thickest layer you plan to wear underneath.
Headwear and Accessories: One Size Does Not Fit All
Caps are usually adjustable, but fitted caps require exact head circumference. Measure around your head just above the ears. Beanies stretch, but bucket hats do not. Bags should have listed dimensions — compare to a bag you already own.
Final Checklist Before Ordering
- 1Measure your best-fitting item from the same category
- 2Compare every measurement to the seller chart, not just S/M/L
- 3Add 1-2cm for shoes, 2-3cm for pants, and size up for in-between sizes
- 4Ask your agent for measurement photos if the chart is unclear
- 5Request insole measurement for shoes — it is the most reliable indicator
Frequently Asked Questions
What if the size chart is in centimeters but I only know inches?
1 inch = 2.54 centimeters. Multiply your inch measurement by 2.54 to get the cm value. Most sellers list both, but cm is more accurate.
Should I size up for all Asian-made items?
Not all. Shoes usually run half to one size small. Hoodies are often true to size or oversized. Pants are highly variable. Always check the specific category guidelines.
Can I return an item if the size is wrong?
Returns are possible but expensive due to international shipping. It is better to get the size right the first time by measuring carefully.
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