Nike shoes tend to run smaller than most and tend to also have a narrower toe box. This means that most people will have to buy a size up to fit into a Nike shoe. If you have bigger feet, there are few options with Nike for you, but there are at least two shoes you can try.
According to Nike, if you fall between two sizes in terms of length or width, you should go with a half size up or the larger of the two sizes. In general, Nike running shoes tend to run small.
Do Nikes run big or small? Nikes notoriously run small, and Nike might've realized it a few years back. They launched the Nike Fit app, where AR and AI technologies scan your foot and find your perfect Nike size. The app has since shuttered, but customers can feel confident ordering true to size.
Are Nike Shoes True To Size? Nike shoes fit slightly narrow at true to size, generally speaking. Different pairs will have different fits, with some being more accurate than others. Some Nikes, particularly those with mesh uppers or softer materials, will fit fine at true to size.
Nike footwear comes in regular, wide and extra-wide sizing. If regular-width shoes feel too narrow, try a wide or extra-wide pair. Well-fitting shoes should fit snugly around your midfoot and heel, and they should comfortably cup the back of the heel.
Buying a sneaker that is slightly larger than your foot allows for better circulation which minimizes swelling. If one foot is slightly larger than the other go for the bigger size and always consider the kind of socks you plan to wear with your shoes.
Don't expect your running shoes to break in or stretch and become more comfortable. You should choose a pair that fits well from the moment you put them on.
The Bottom Line
Nike shoes tend to run smaller than most and tend to also have a narrower toe box. This means that most people will have to buy a size up to fit into a Nike shoe.
Adidas is the largest sportswear manufacturer in Europe, and the second largest in the world, just behind Nike, with a brand value of approximately 14.6 billion U.S. dollars.
Nike vs adidas - Size guide
As a result, it seems as though Nike shoes, particularly running trainers, fit true to size, while you may need to go half an EU size larger in adidas sneakers. Make sure you check out our guide on measuring shoe size to help you figure out what size you need.
It's a widely-regarded fact that you should opt for half a size smaller than your regular size if you're buying a pair of AF1. When it comes to sizing, the Air Force 1 is notorious for fitting on the larger side.
Generally speaking, there is a 1.5 size difference between men's and women's shoes at Nike. For example, if you're a size 8 in women's shoes, you're probably a size 6.5 in men's shoes.
Half-size shoes are not wider; they are slightly longer than the full size below. Shoe sizing does not deal with width fittings, which are an entirely different measurement.
They fit true to size for me. There is ample space in the forefoot, even for my wide feet. I would even go as far as to say that the upper is so roomy in the forefoot that they feel a little less dialed in as a race shoe than previous versions.
Another way to check this is to slip a finger between the heel of your foot and the heel of your shoe. There should be just enough space for your finger to fit nice and snugly. If your finger slides in easily with space to spare, you should probably go down a half size, while if it's a tight squeeze, go up half a size.
A simple finger test can tell you if you need to go up or down a size. For both men's and women's shoes, stick a finger in between the heel of your foot and the heel of your shoe, if your finger slides in with a bit of space to spare, you should probably go down a half size.
Nike is typically considered more popular than Adidas. Nike has established itself as a global brand and household name, with a strong presence in sportswear and a reputation for quality products.
How does the Air Force 1 fit? The Air Force 1 feels slightly bigger than other silhouettes. However, I'd still recommend opting for your true size if you don't mind a slightly roomy fit. Of course, if you prefer a snug fit or have narrow feet, you might want to size down by half a size.
Always size up.
It's not that you won't lose weight or eventually fit into the smaller size, but the larger size is the better investment. Remember, it's easier to take something in than it is to take something out. If the bigger size is a bit too long or baggy, take it to the tailor.
As a general rule, always size up. Only size down if it says that the shoes run large. You can always stuff the toe to make a larger shoe fit.
Compared to most running shoe brands, Nike running shoes tend to run small and certainly snugger than New Balance in terms of width and length. You might want to size up a half or whole size from your street shoes.
Wear thicker socks (or multiple pairs).
Perhaps the easiest thing you can do to make a loose pair of shoes fit better is to "bulk up" your feet with thicker layers of socks. For example, you might try exchanging a skin-tight pair of dress socks or tights for a padded set of crew socks.
Use a blow dryer: Ideally, wearing thick wool socks (or two pairs at a time) with the sneakers you want to stretch when using the blow dryer will help. So, turn on your hair dryer, set it to low or medium heat at most and move the dryer constantly to avoid burning the material for no more than 30'' each time.
In terms of size and fit, the Nike Dunk remains true to size, so we recommend you get your regular size. The silhouette has a roomy fit, with a fully cushioned interior which ensures comfort for all-day wear. To protect suede Dunk styles, we recommend using a protector.