"I usually wear 8.5 US. Per size description 8.5-9 would be 40 EU. I am pretty familiar with European sizes, so I decided to risk it and try my usual 39 (equivalent of 8 US) I'm so glad I did!!!! These shoes fit perfectly. My foot is on a narrow side and I can see how these could be too narrow for some average feet, especially in a toe area. I love the design, the color, the heel height, the button closure. Wish more Riekers came with these metal buttons as opposed to velcro... I wore these straight out for the box for all day at work (with a walk during lunch) - not a single blister! Amazing! Overall I am a happy camper and would definitely buy more Riekers from DSW!"