Does Nike Run Big or Small? How Do Nike Shoes Fit?

If you have just joined the sneakerhead or shoe community, you must have come across phrases like ‘run big’ or ‘run small’.

What do they imply? It is quite simple, actually.

When a pair of shoes run big, it means that they are bigger in size compared to the typical measurements used for that size. For shoes that are running small, it’s actually the opposite.

On the other hand, your shoes are true to size if they fit you perfectly as per the standard measurements.

Simple, isn’t it?

Casual wearers often don’t see the difference between shoes that run small or big and shoes that fit them perfectly. But athletes who require the functional benefits and support of a good pair of shoes struggle if they are not precisely true to size.

So, if you are such a sneakerhead wondering if your favorite pair of Nike shoes are running big or small, you are in the right place.

We are here to answer your questions!

Are Nike Shoes True to Size?

Nike shoes are typically a little narrower than average but generally fit true to size While the length of these shoes might concur with the typical measurements for a shoe of the same size, the breadth generally would not.

That is because the shoe last, which forms the shape of your shoe, is often narrower than usual to provide ergonomic support to athletes and casual wearers.

So, most Nike shoes are generally going to feel as if they are little tight on your feet, even if you order the right size for yourself. That is simply because the tip of the shoe is simply too narrow for you.

However, it should be noted that not all shoes designed by Nike follow the same design pattern. There are some models that run true to size, like the Air Max 90 or the Air VaporMax.

Does Nike Run Big or Small?

Generally, you will find that most Nike shoes are running small. That is because the shoe last is narrower than what you would find in a normal pair of shoes. So, they will feel as if they are too small or tight even if you order the size that you would normally purchase from other brands.

While it is established that Nike shoes do run small, it should be noted that the length of the pair will be correct. The smallness or the tightness is associated with the width of the shoe instead.

So, it is always good to consult Nike’s size chart before you purchase a pair of expensive shoes for yourself.

Should I Size Up or Go Down for Nike?

Typically, customers usually have to go up by a size of around 0.5 while purchasing a pair of Nike shoes. That is because most of Nike’s modern footwear options feel as if they run small because of their unique designs.

However, you should not determine the size of the shoes that you need to purchase without trying them on first. If you are ordering online, the best course of action is to consult the size chart.

In fact, Nike has its own exclusive size system that you can use to assess the perfect Nike size for yourself, depending on the length and width of your fit. This system, called the Nike Fit, is free to use online and has helped create thousands of satisfied customers.

The good thing about the Nike Fit system is that you can simply measure your feet and input the recordings on the application. For this, you will need to consider the length as well as the width of your feet.

Based on your input, the computer will make some calculations and determine what Nike size will serve your feet the best.

Depending on that information, you can decide if you need to go up or down from your usual shoe size to get a pair of Nike shoes that fit you perfectly.

Customers should note that it is highly recommended that you consult Nike’s size charts and the Nike Fit system before placing an order. That is because not all Nike shoes run small. Some of them are true to size because of their regular design patterns.

Nike Men’s Shoe Size Guide

If you want to find a pair of Nike shoes that fit you perfectly, consult the following size chart:

Foot Length

Foot Width

Nike Women’s Shoe Size Guide

For women, the sizing might be a little different:

Foot Length

Foot Width

How Tight Should My Nike Shoes Be?

Generally, it is best to choose your footwear dimensions based on personal preferences and comfort. Following a fixed rule might impair your judgment and lead to worse purchase decisions.

That being said, your Nike shoes should not feel too tight on your legs. They should not be restricting your movements or causing your toes to curl up against the midsole. There should be enough room in the toe box for you to wiggle them freely.

Moreover, the width of your shoes is very important when it comes to determining their fit. For Nike, it is recommended that you order at least 0.5 sizes above your normal as the brand’s shoes are known for running small.

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Final Words

Nike shoes have everything that you might desire – style, comfort, design, and functionality. However, you can only truly admire your shoes if they fit you perfectly.

Unfortunately, most Nike models are not true to size, as they generally run smaller than the global standard. So, it is always best to consult the size chart before you spend your money on a nice pair of shoes.