How to Choose the Right Sneaker Size: A Complete Guide

Getting sneaker sizing right is trickier than it should be. Unlike standardised clothing sizes, sneaker sizes vary significantly between brands, models, and even different releases of the same model. What fits perfectly in Nike might run small in New Balance and large in Converse. This inconsistency leads to uncomfortable purchases, costly returns, and wasted time. This guide provides the knowledge and techniques to find your perfect fit regardless of brand or style.

Understanding Why Sizes Vary

Before diving into specific sizing advice, it helps to understand why sneaker sizes are so inconsistent.

Last Shape Differences

A "last" is the foot-shaped mold around which sneakers are constructed. Each brand—and often each model—uses different lasts. Some are wider, some narrower, some more pointed, some more rounded. Your foot shape might fit one brand's last perfectly while being incompatible with another's.

Geographic Sizing Systems

Sneakers use different sizing systems depending on origin:

• US sizing: Most common in Australian retail
• UK sizing: Runs about 0.5-1 size smaller than US
• EU sizing: A centimeter-based system that varies in conversion
• Japanese/CM sizing: Direct foot length measurement in centimeters

Construction and Materials

Materials affect perceived fit. Leather stretches over time while synthetic materials generally don't. Knit uppers conform to foot shape while canvas maintains structure. These factors mean the same size can fit differently across material types.

Measuring Your Feet Correctly

Accurate foot measurement is the foundation of finding correct sizes.

The Brannock Device Method

The Brannock device (found in shoe stores) measures length, width, and arch length. If possible, get professionally measured—it only takes a minute and provides accurate baseline measurements.

Home Measurement Technique

If you can't access a Brannock device:

1. Stand on a piece of paper against a wall, heel touching the wall
2. Mark the longest point of your toe
3. Measure from the wall to the mark in centimeters
4. Repeat for both feet (one is often slightly larger)
5. Use the larger measurement for sizing

Brand-Specific Sizing Guides

Based on extensive testing and community feedback, here's how popular brands typically fit:

Nike

• General fit: True to size for most models
• Air Force 1: Runs 0.5 size large—size down
• Air Max 90: True to size, narrow width
• Blazer: True to size, narrow fit
• Dunk: True to size but narrow—wide feet may need to size up

Adidas

• General fit: True to size but narrower than Nike
• Stan Smith: True to size
• Superstar: Runs 0.5 large due to shell toe—size down
• Ozweego: True to size, accommodate wider feet
• Ultra Boost: True to size, stretchy knit upper accommodates variance

New Balance

• General fit: True to size with generous width
• 550: True to size
• 574: True to size, good for wider feet
• 990: True to size, available in multiple widths

Converse

• General fit: Runs 0.5 to 1 full size large—always size down
• Chuck Taylor: Size down 0.5-1 size from your usual
• Jack Purcell: Size down 0.5 size

Vans

• General fit: True to size
• Old Skool: True to size
• Authentic: True to size but narrow

Width Considerations

Length gets most attention, but width is equally important for comfort.

Standard Width Codes

• N or A: Narrow
• M, D (men's), or B (women's): Standard/Medium
• W or E: Wide
• 2E, 4E: Extra wide

Brands for Wide Feet

• New Balance offers many models in multiple widths
• ASICS tends to have roomier toe boxes
• Reebok Classic fits wider than average

Brands That Run Narrow

• Nike tends toward narrow lasts
• Adidas Originals models often fit narrow
• Converse has notoriously narrow toe boxes

In-Store Fitting Tips

When trying sneakers in store, follow these guidelines:

1. Try both shoes: Feet are often different sizes
2. Lace them properly: Don't just slip them on
3. Walk around: Spend at least 5 minutes walking
4. Check toe room: You should have about a thumb's width at the front
5. Assess heel slip: Heel should be snug without slipping
6. Test width: Foot shouldn't bulge over the sole edge
7. Consider socks: Wear the sock thickness you'll typically use

Online Purchasing Strategies

Buying sneakers online requires extra diligence:

Research Before Purchase

• Read multiple reviews specifically about sizing
• Check community forums and subreddits for real-world feedback
• Compare to a sneaker you own and know fits well
• Use the brand's size chart with your centimeter measurement

Smart Purchasing Practices

• Buy from retailers with free returns
• Order two sizes if uncertain (return one)
• Keep original packaging until you're certain of fit
• Try on at home on carpet to avoid marking soles

Signs of Wrong Sizing

Too Small

• Toes touching or cramped against the front
• Numbness or tingling during wear
• Blisters on top of toes or sides
• Foot pain that worsens throughout the day

Too Large

• Heel slipping when walking
• Excessive foot movement inside the shoe
• Having to over-tighten laces for security
• Tripping or catching toes when walking

Wrong Width

• Foot spilling over the sole edge (too narrow)
• Excessive bunching of material on top (too wide)
• Pressure points on the sides of feet

Finding the right sneaker size takes some trial and error, but understanding brand differences and your own foot characteristics makes the process much easier. Keep notes on what sizes work for you in different brands—over time, you'll build a personal sizing guide that takes the guesswork out of future purchases.