Are you struggling to find the right fit when switching between New Balance and Adidas sneakers? At COMPARE.EDU.VN, we provide a comprehensive comparison of New Balance and Adidas shoe sizing to ensure you get the perfect fit. Discover the nuances of New Balance’s sizing and how it stacks up against Adidas, and explore our in-depth guide that offers clarity, reduces uncertainty, and empowers you to make informed decisions, bridging the gap between comfort and style. Dive into the world of accurate shoe comparisons today with our expert advice on sneaker sizing, footwear fitting, and athletic shoe comparisons.
1. Understanding New Balance Shoe Fit
New Balance stands out in the sportswear market for its commitment to accommodating a variety of foot shapes, particularly those with wider feet. Unlike many brands, New Balance offers shoes in multiple widths for the same length, making it easier to find a comfortable fit whether you need narrow, medium, wide, or extra-wide shoes.
Image source: Sneaker Freaker
1.1. Key Features of New Balance Sizing
New Balance shoes often differ in sizing compared to other sneaker brands. In most instances, they are not true to size, and you may need to go up half a size.
1.2. Width Options Explained
New Balance offers six width categories:
- 2A: Extra Narrow
- B: Narrow
- D: Standard
- 2E: Wide
- 4E: Extra Wide
- 6E: Double Extra Wide
Each width increases by 0.3 to 0.4 inches, allowing for a precise fit, crucial for athletic footwear like basketball and running shoes.
1.3. Length Considerations
New Balance trainers tend to run half a size larger than most other brands. Consulting a sizing chart is always recommended to ensure accuracy.
1.4. Kids’ Shoe Sizing
New Balance also provides Standard, Wide, and Extra Wide options for children’s shoes.
2. New Balance vs. Adidas: A Detailed Size Comparison
Generally, New Balance shoes run slightly larger than Adidas sneakers. To achieve the right fit, it is recommended to go up half a size.
2.1. Sizing Conversion
A size 9 in Adidas typically corresponds to a size 9.5 in New Balance.
2.2. Width Advantage
New Balance provides a wider range of width options, which Adidas sometimes lacks, as Adidas tends to have a narrower fit. This adaptability allows you to select a shoe that fits your foot shape perfectly, enhancing comfort and performance.
2.3. Adjusting for the Right Fit
If you know your Adidas shoe size but are new to New Balance, going half a size up is a safe bet. If you accidentally go up a full size, wearing thicker socks can provide a more secure and comfortable fit.
3. Comprehensive New Balance Shoe Size Charts
Using the official New Balance size chart is crucial to avoid sizing assumptions. These charts provide insights into US, EU, and UK shoe sizes, including length measurements in centimeters.
3.1. Men’s New Balance Footwear Size Guide
3.2. Women’s New Balance Footwear Size Guide
3.3. Benefits of Width Options
The variety of width options ensures you can find the perfect fit, improving comfort and performance. When in doubt, always consult the size guide for the most accurate fit.
4. Comparing New Balance and Nike Shoe Sizing
New Balance trainers typically run slightly larger than Nike sneakers as well. A UK New Balance Men’s size 9 is roughly equivalent to a UK Men’s size 8.5 in Nike.
4.1. Length Discrepancies
New Balance sizes are about 1 centimeter longer than Nike sizes, as indicated by comparing shoe size charts from both brands.
4.2. Base Width
New Balance running shoes often have a wider base than Nike’s current offerings. This design provides more stability, contrasting with Nike’s carbon fiber running shoes, which are generally designed for runners with narrower feet.
4.3. Example: New Balance FuelCell RC Elite V2
The New Balance FuelCell RC Elite V2 features a wider base, enhancing stability during runs.
Image source: Sneaker Freaker
4.4. Considerations for Athletic Trainers
When choosing athletic trainers from New Balance, consult the sizing guide and adjust based on your preferred width. Nike’s carbon fiber plate shoes, such as the VaporFly and AlphaFly, tend to have narrow entries, making it harder for individuals with wider feet to find the best fit.
5. The Importance of Proper Shoe Sizing
Selecting the right shoe size is essential for comfort, performance, and foot health. Improperly sized shoes can lead to blisters, calluses, and other foot problems. New Balance’s commitment to offering a variety of widths ensures a more customized and comfortable fit for everyone.
5.1 Comfort and Performance
Shoes that fit well enhance athletic performance by providing adequate support and stability. Whether you’re running, walking, or participating in other activities, the right fit can make a significant difference.
5.2 Foot Health
Wearing shoes that are too tight or too loose can cause a variety of foot problems, including:
- Blisters: Caused by friction from shoes rubbing against the skin.
- Calluses: Thickened, hardened areas of skin that develop in response to pressure or friction.
- Bunions: A bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe.
- Plantar Fasciitis: Inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot.
5.3 Long-Term Benefits
Investing in properly sized shoes can prevent these issues, ensuring long-term foot health and comfort.
6. Factors Influencing Shoe Size
Several factors can influence your ideal shoe size, including foot shape, activity type, and even the time of day. Understanding these variables can help you make a more informed decision when purchasing shoes.
6.1. Foot Shape
Foot shape is a critical factor in determining shoe size. Some people have wide feet, while others have narrow feet. New Balance’s wide range of width options caters to various foot shapes, ensuring a comfortable fit for everyone.
6.2. Activity Type
The type of activity you’ll be performing in your shoes can also affect the ideal size. For example, running shoes may require a slightly larger size to accommodate foot swelling during exercise.
6.3. Time of Day
Feet tend to swell throughout the day, so it’s best to measure your feet in the late afternoon or evening to get the most accurate measurement.
6.4. Socks
Consider the type of socks you’ll be wearing with your shoes. Thick socks may require a larger shoe size than thin socks.
7. How to Measure Your Feet Accurately
Measuring your feet accurately is the first step in finding the right shoe size. Follow these steps for the most precise measurement:
7.1. Gather Your Supplies
You’ll need a piece of paper, a pencil, a ruler or measuring tape, and a flat surface.
7.2. Trace Your Foot
Place the paper on the floor and stand on it with your heel against a wall. Trace the outline of your foot with the pencil.
7.3. Measure the Length
Use the ruler or measuring tape to measure the length of your foot from the heel to the tip of your longest toe.
7.4. Measure the Width
Measure the width of your foot at the widest point.
7.5. Compare Your Measurements to a Size Chart
Consult the manufacturer’s size chart to find the corresponding shoe size for your measurements.
8. Advantages of New Balance Shoe Sizing
New Balance’s sizing system offers several advantages, particularly for those with unique foot shapes or specific fit preferences.
8.1 Width Options
The wide range of width options ensures a comfortable and customized fit for a variety of foot shapes.
8.2 Athletic Performance
Properly fitted shoes can enhance athletic performance by providing adequate support and stability.
8.3 Foot Health
Wearing the right size shoes can prevent foot problems and ensure long-term foot health.
8.4 Comfort
A comfortable fit makes wearing shoes a more enjoyable experience, whether you’re running errands or participating in athletic activities.
9. New Balance Shoe Models and Sizing
Different New Balance shoe models may fit differently, so it’s essential to consider the specific characteristics of each shoe when determining your size.
9.1 New Balance 574
The New Balance 574 is a classic model that generally runs true to size. However, some users may prefer to go up half a size for a more relaxed fit.
9.2 New Balance 990
The New Balance 990 is known for its comfortable fit and tends to run true to size. The wide range of width options makes it easy to find the perfect fit for your foot shape.
9.3 New Balance 327
The New Balance 327 runs slightly larger than most Nike or Adidas pairs and compared to usual NB shoes, it has a narrower midfoot area. You can go for a half size up if you don’t want to feel a bit snug.
9.4 New Balance 237
The New Balance 237 runs slightly larger than most Nike or Adidas pairs but has a wider structure; you can go for a half size up from these two brands or true to size if comaring to New Balance. These will fit you perfectly without needing to break them in. The mesh and suede materials will eventually conform to your foot shape and provide you with even more comfort.
10. Final Thoughts on New Balance Shoe Sizing
New Balance’s sizing is among the best due to its width options, catering to diverse foot structures. While standard sizing runs slightly larger than other brands, New Balance shoes often feel less restrictive. To be safe, going half a size up is generally recommended.
10.1. Where to Buy New Balance
For the largest selection of New Balance shoes, visiting the official New Balance site is recommended. HERE
11. Addressing Common Sizing Issues
Even with accurate measurements and size charts, some people still encounter sizing issues. Here are some common problems and how to address them:
11.1 Heel Slippage
Heel slippage occurs when the heel lifts out of the shoe while walking. This can be caused by shoes that are too large or have a poorly designed heel cup. To prevent heel slippage, try using heel grips or wearing thicker socks.
11.2 Toe Cramping
Toe cramping can be caused by shoes that are too narrow or have a shallow toe box. To alleviate toe cramping, choose shoes with a wider toe box or go up half a size.
11.3 Arch Pain
Arch pain can be caused by shoes that don’t provide adequate arch support. Look for shoes with built-in arch support or use orthotic inserts.
12. The Role of Shoe Inserts
Shoe inserts, also known as orthotics, can be used to customize the fit and support of your shoes. They can address a variety of foot problems, including:
12.1 Arch Support
Orthotic inserts can provide additional arch support for people with flat feet or high arches.
12.2 Cushioning
Cushioned inserts can improve comfort and reduce impact on the feet.
12.3 Alignment
Orthotic inserts can help align the feet and ankles, improving posture and reducing pain.
13. Frequently Asked Questions
13.1. Are New Balance True to Size?
New Balance shoes usually run true to size but can feel slightly bigger due to the width. New Balance allows you to choose your preferred width for a perfect fit. Their running shoes often feature a wider base for increased stability.
13.2. How are New Balances Supposed to Fit?
Compared to Nike and Adidas, New Balance shoes typically require going up half a size. They also run wider. Opt for a narrow width if you prefer a more secure fit.
13.3. Do New Balances Run Small or Big?
New Balance shoes run slightly bigger by a few mm compared to Nike and Adidas. To avoid toe crowding, it’s best to go half a size larger than your Adidas or Nike size.
13.4. Is New Balance Size the Same as Adidas?
No, New Balance shoes are slightly larger than Adidas by a few millimeters. Both brands run large, but New Balance has a slight edge. Going half a size up is recommended.
13.5. How Do New Balance Shoes Fit Compared to Vans?
Vans skate shoes fit true to size and feel snug, while New Balance runs a bit longer and wider. Going up half a size is recommended.
13.6. What is My Exact Shoe Size?
To find your exact shoe size, trace your foot on a paper, measure the length and width, or visit a sporting goods store to try on shoes.
13.7. How Do New Balance 327 Fit?
The New Balance 327 runs slightly larger than most Nike or Adidas pairs and compared to usual NB shoes, it has a narrower midfoot area. You can go for a half size up if you don’t want to feel a bit snug.
13.8. How Do New Balance 237 Fit?
The New Balance 237 runs slightly larger than most Nike or Adidas pairs but has a wider structure; you can go for a half size up from these two brands or true to size if comaring to New Balance. These will fit you perfectly without needing to break them in. The mesh and suede materials will eventually conform to your foot shape and provide you with even more comfort.
13.9. How Do New Balance 997H Fit?
New Balance 997H run true to size when comparing to other New Balance pairs, but you’ll need to go a half size up if comparing to Nike or adidas. You may also wan to opt for a slightly wider width as the midfoot and toe areas run a bit narrow. You can go for your true size and get the Medium (D) or Wide (2E) to make sure it doesn’t feel too restrictive.
14. Navigating the World of Shoe Brands
Understanding how different shoe brands fit is crucial for online shopping. Here are some general tips:
14.1 Research
Before purchasing shoes from a new brand, research their sizing guidelines and read customer reviews.
14.2 Measure
Measure your feet regularly, as shoe size can change over time.
14.3 Return Policies
Choose retailers with flexible return policies in case the shoes don’t fit.
15. The Future of Shoe Sizing
Advancements in technology are transforming shoe sizing. Some companies are using 3D scanning to create custom-fit shoes.
15.1 3D Scanning
3D scanning technology can capture precise measurements of your feet, ensuring a perfect fit.
15.2 Customization
Customization options allow you to design shoes that meet your specific needs and preferences.
15.3 Virtual Try-On
Virtual try-on technology allows you to see how shoes will look on your feet before purchasing them.
16. Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
Choosing the right shoe size involves considering various factors, including foot shape, activity type, and brand-specific sizing guidelines. New Balance’s commitment to offering a variety of widths ensures a comfortable and customized fit for everyone. By following these tips and guidelines, you can make an informed decision and find shoes that fit perfectly.
Still unsure about which sneakers are right for you? Visit COMPARE.EDU.VN for more in-depth comparisons and reviews. We provide detailed analyses of different shoe brands, models, and features, helping you make the best choice for your needs.
COMPARE.EDU.VN is your go-to resource for unbiased comparisons and expert advice. Contact us at:
Address: 333 Comparison Plaza, Choice City, CA 90210, United States
WhatsApp: +1 (626) 555-9090
Website: COMPARE.EDU.VN
Make informed decisions with compare.edu.vn and step into comfort and style today. Don’t forget to explore our resources on footwear fitting, athletic shoe comparisons, and sneaker sizing for a comprehensive guide to finding your perfect fit.
