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Buying clothes or shoes online from Asia? The sizes can be confusing. What’s called a “Large” in Asia might be a “Medium” or even a “Small” in the US. That’s why it’s important to understand how Asian size to US size works.
Asian sizes are usually smaller than US sizes. This happens in shirts, jeans, jackets, shoes—almost everything. If you don’t check the size chart or convert properly, you may get the wrong fit.
This guide gives you a clear and simple comparison. You’ll learn how to read size labels, measure yourself, and match Asian sizes to US sizes the right way. Whether you’re shopping for men’s wear, women’s fashion, or kids’ clothes, this guide helps you get the size right the first time.
Asian sizes are generally 1 to 2 sizes smaller than US sizes. This means if you wear a Medium in the US, you’ll likely need a Large or XL when buying from an Asian store. Asian sizing is based on smaller body frames, while US sizing is made for broader builds and taller heights.
So when you convert Asian size to US size, the rule is simple: size up. But not all brands follow the same chart, and labels like “M” or “L” can be misleading. That’s why it’s important to compare measurements, not just letters.
If you’re shopping online or dropshipping from Asia, these differences matter even more. Getting the right size can save you time, money, and returns.
In the next section, we’ll show you the easiest way to convert sizes correctly—step by step, with charts and tools that make the process simple.
Sell The Trend helps with size conversions by automatically translating product sizing information from Asian suppliers into US-friendly formats for your customers.
This means when you’re dropshipping products from platforms like AliExpress, your store can display sizes that make sense to US buyers—reducing confusion, complaints, and returns.
When you import a product using Sell The Trend, the platform pulls in product data, including available sizes.
Many Asian suppliers use their own regional sizing labels (like L, XL, or numbers in centimeters), which can be unclear or misleading for a US audience. Sell The Trend lets you edit these product listings before publishing them to your store, so you can:
If you’re using the NEXUS tool inside Sell The Trend, you also get data on what sizes are trending and how certain products perform based on sizing accuracy and return rates. This helps you avoid unreliable listings and choose products that are known to match better with US sizing.
Here’s how you can do it 2 simple steps:
This is how you add accurate sizing info inside Sell The Trend before publishing a product to your store.
In the “Description” box, you can manually paste a detailed size chart (like this one in centimeters) to help buyers compare measurements.
Asian sizes often run smaller, so adding a guide like this prevents confusion and reduces returns.
You can also mention the US size equivalent (e.g., “Asian XL = US M”) above the chart for extra clarity.
Asian sizes are smaller than US sizes because they are based on the average body measurements of people in Asian countries, which tend to be slimmer and shorter compared to those in the United States.
Clothing manufacturers in Asia design their products to match local body shapes, which means the cut, length, and fit are all more compact.
For example, an Asian size “Large” might be designed for someone with a chest size of 38 inches, while a US “Large” could be made for someone with a 42-inch chest.
The difference isn’t just in width—it’s also in arm length, shoulder width, and overall height. Even shoes follow this pattern, with Asian sizing often using centimeters instead of US numerical sizing, which can also lead to confusion.
Another reason for the size gap is that Asian fashion often favors a tighter or more fitted look, especially in countries like South Korea or Japan. Meanwhile, US sizing tends to allow for a looser, more relaxed fit.
The easiest way to convert Asian size to US size is by using your body measurements and matching them with a reliable size chart.
Most mistakes happen when people rely only on size labels like S, M, or L—because those labels mean different things in different countries. A “Large” in Asia is often a “Medium” or even a “Small” in the US.
Start by measuring your chest, waist, hips, height, and foot length using a tape measure. Write these numbers down in inches or centimeters.
Then compare your measurements with both Asian and US sizing charts. Many online stores include a conversion table—use that to pick the right size. If they don’t, you can search for a general chart or use tools that simplify this step.
As a rule of thumb, go 1 or 2 sizes up when ordering from an Asian brand.
For example, if you’re a US Medium, try an Asian Large or XL. But always check the actual numbers—that’s the safest method.
Once you start using measurement-based conversion and reliable tools, getting the right fit becomes simple and stress-free.
Here’s a simple Asian to US size conversion chart for clothing to help you pick the right fit. Use it as a quick reference, but always check the specific brand’s size guide when available—some items may run smaller or larger than average.
| Asian Size | Chest (in/cm) | Waist (in/cm) | US Size Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 34–36 in / 86–91 cm | 28–30 in / 71–76 cm | XS |
| M | 36–38 in / 91–97 cm | 30–32 in / 76–81 cm | S |
| L | 38–40 in / 97–102 cm | 32–34 in / 81–86 cm | M |
| XL | 40–42 in / 102–107 cm | 34–36 in / 86–91 cm | L |
| XXL | 42–44 in / 107–112 cm | 36–38 in / 91–97 cm | XL |
| XXXL | 44–46 in / 112–117 cm | 38–40 in / 97–102 cm | XXL |
| Asian Size | Bust (in/cm) | Waist (in/cm) | US Size Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 30–32 in / 76–81 cm | 24–26 in / 61–66 cm | XXS – XS |
| M | 32–34 in / 81–86 cm | 26–28 in / 66–71 cm | XS – S |
| L | 34–36 in / 86–91 cm | 28–30 in / 71–76 cm | S – M |
| XL | 36–38 in / 91–97 cm | 30–32 in / 76–81 cm | M – L |
| XXL | 38–40 in / 97–102 cm | 32–34 in / 81–86 cm | L – XL |
| XXXL | 40–42 in / 102–107 cm | 34–36 in / 86–91 cm | XL – XXL |
This chart is based on general industry standards. Asian sizes tend to be tighter and shorter, especially around the shoulders, chest, and waist. So if you prefer a looser fit, go up two sizes instead of one.
If you’re running a dropshipping store, you can add a chart like this directly to your product pages using tools like Sell The Trend. It helps US customers understand the fit before they buy—cutting down on confusion, complaints, and returns.
Shoe sizing can be tricky when buying from Asian markets, because Asian sizes are usually listed in centimeters and follow different standards than US sizing.
To convert Asian shoe size to US size, you need to measure your foot length (heel to toe) in centimeters and use a conversion chart like the one below.
| Foot Length (CM) | Asian Size | US Men’s Size | US Women’s Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| 22.0 | 220 | 4 | 5.5 |
| 23.0 | 230 | 5 | 6.5 |
| 24.0 | 240 | 6 | 7.5 |
| 25.0 | 250 | 7 | 8.5 |
| 26.0 | 260 | 8 | 9.5 |
| 27.0 | 270 | 9 | 10.5 |
| 28.0 | 280 | 10 | 11.5 |
| 29.0 | 290 | 11 | 12.5 |
Most Asian shoe brands use foot length in centimeters as the size number. For example, a shoe marked “260” is designed for a foot that is 26.0 cm long. This would match a US Men’s 8 or Women’s 9.5.
To get the right fit, measure your foot carefully, then use this chart to find the US size.
To avoid sizing mistakes when buying from Asia, always focus on your measurements—not just labels like S, M, or L. Asian size to US size conversions vary by brand, and relying only on tags can lead to tight, short, or uncomfortable clothing.
Here’s how to get it right:
An Asian size XL is usually one to two sizes smaller than a US size XL. Depending on the brand, it typically matches a US size Medium or sometimes a Large, depending on the cut and fit.
This happens because Asian clothing is made using different sizing systems and is tailored for slimmer body types. If you’re shopping across different regions, it’s important to check detailed size charts and use accurate measurements instead of assuming sizes match.
A Chinese clothing size 42 for men generally equals a US size Small to Medium, depending on height and build. Chinese and other Asian countries use measurement systems that often follow centimeters and are based on cultural preferences. To ensure customer satisfaction, compare your actual measurements with the brand’s detailed measurements or use tools like Avada size chart for reference.
A US size XL in Japan is roughly a Japanese size 2XL or 3XL, depending on the brand. Asian clothing size standards tend to be smaller due to slim fit preferences. Japanese brands follow Asian sizing standards, which consider narrower shoulder blades, natural waist, and height differences. Always use accurate sizing information and measurement guidelines from each brand’s unlimited size charts.
Shein mainly uses Asian sizing, though it sometimes labels items with US measurements as well. The company sources products from Asian manufacturers, so sizes tend to run small.
To avoid ordering the wrong size, shoppers should follow accurate size conversion tips, read customer feedback, and check all the measurements, including cup size for women’s clothing. Many listings offer full customization of size info and charts for better brand reputation.
In US standards, a size XL generally fits someone with a chest size of 42–44 inches and a waist of 36–38 inches for men. For women’s clothing, it usually means a bust size of 40–42 inches, a natural waist of 34–36 inches, and hips around 44 inches. These are based on actual size and accurate listings, so comparing with Asian clothing sizes means you’ll likely need to size up.
Asian XXL pants are usually equal to a US size Large or US size Medium, depending on the cut. Asian pants are often made with a slimmer fit, especially at the narrowest part like the hips and thighs.
If you’re comparing to US measurements, make sure to follow measurement guidelines and use detailed size charts. The best way to check fit is to measure your body and compare with actual measurements provided by the brand or order samples first if possible.
In the end, choosing the right size doesn’t have to be hard—even when dealing with Asian XL sizes or any other unfamiliar labels. The key is to follow a few tips: always take your measurements, compare them with the product’s size guide, and pay close attention to the store’s conversion chart.
Since different charts may vary from brand to brand, never rely on just the label alone.
To meet customer expectations, especially when shopping or selling online, it’s important to provide clear, easy-to-understand sizing information. This reduces returns, builds trust, and leads to better reviews.
Whether you’re buying for yourself or setting up an online store, using the right tools and information helps you or your customers find that perfect fit every time.
