Navigating shoe sizes across different brands can often feel like a puzzle. When it comes to athletic footwear, Nike stands out as a leading brand, but understanding their sizing, especially when considering men’s versus women’s options, is crucial for a comfortable fit. Our analysis, drawing from over 40 brand shoe size charts, reveals how Nike sizing aligns with the broader athletic shoe market and what you need to know to choose the right size.
Nike generally maintains consistent shoe sizing with most other major athletic brands. However, to ensure accuracy and minimize sizing errors, it’s always recommended to measure your foot length precisely. You can use our guide to measure your foot length to get your exact measurements and then refer to the Nike size chart below for the best match.
Nike Men’s and Women’s Size Chart
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Understanding Nike Shoe Fit Across Different Models
While Nike strives for consistent sizing, the fit can vary slightly depending on the shoe type and model. Factors like insole design, lacing systems, and the shoe’s intended use can all influence how a particular Nike shoe will feel on your foot. Despite these variations, we’ve identified some general trends within different Nike shoe categories based on our lab testing.
In our dedicated shoe testing lab, we meticulously measure the toebox dimensions and internal length of various Nike shoes across different categories. These measurements, combined with detailed assessments of each shoe’s fit, design, and materials, provide a comprehensive understanding of Nike shoe fit. For in-depth evaluations, explore our detailed lab reviews.
Unisex Nike Shoes: Bridging the Gap
Nike offers unisex shoe options, often found in their casual sneaker and basketball shoe lines. These unisex models utilize a specific size format to accommodate both men and women:
| M 9 / W 10.5 |
This format clearly indicates both men’s (M) and women’s (W) US sizes on the shoe label. Notably, the women’s size is typically 1.5 US sizes larger than the corresponding men’s size in unisex Nike shoes. Therefore, women purchasing unisex Nike shoes should primarily focus on the size indicated next to “W” to ensure the correct fit.
This unisex sizing approach is frequently applied to Nike’s popular casual sneakers and high-performance basketball shoes.
Nike Fit Technology: A Digital Sizing Tool
In 2019, Nike introduced Nike Fit, an innovative digital shoe fitting feature integrated into the Nike App. This AI-powered scanner leverages your smartphone camera to map your foot, capturing 13 data points to determine your precise Nike shoe size for various models.
Early user feedback suggests that Nike Fit is a promising tool, although some users have noted that it’s still under development and may require further refinement for optimal accuracy.
Nike’s Embrace of Wider Fit Options
Unlike brands like Brooks and New Balance that offer multiple width options across many shoe models, Nike traditionally had limited wide-fit availability.
However, Nike has responded to the demand for more inclusive sizing by introducing Extra Wide widths in several of their most popular running shoe lines. Models like the Pegasus, Invincible, Infinity, Vomero, Winflo, Structure, Downshifter, Revolution, and Flex Experience are now available in roomier Extra Wide versions.
According to Nike’s specifications, the Extra Wide option provides an additional 0.6 inches (20mm) of width compared to the standard medium width, offering significantly more space for wider feet.
| Extra Wide | regular width + 0.6 inch (20 mm) |
Furthermore, Nike has also subtly improved the fit of their regular Medium width shoes in recent releases. Our lab measurements of over 55 Nike running shoes confirm that the toebox dimensions in newer models are now in line with the industry average, offering a more accommodating fit even in the standard width.
| Nike | Average | |
|---|---|---|
| Toebox width at the widest part | 99.4 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Toebox width at the big toe | 77.4 mm | 78.5 mm |
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Solutions for When Wider Widths Aren’t Available
If you require a wider fit and your preferred Nike shoe model doesn’t offer an Extra Wide option, consider these alternatives:
- Try a Half Size Up: Ordering a half size larger than your usual Nike size can sometimes provide additional width.
- Consider Men’s Models (for Women): Women can explore men’s Nike models, selecting a US size one size smaller than their usual women’s size (e.g., women’s US 8 equates to men’s US 7). Men’s Regular width in Nike often corresponds to women’s Wide width.
- Choose Roomier Toebox Designs: Opt for Nike shoe models known for their wider toeboxes and more generous forefoot fit.
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Nike Shoe Sizing Compared to Adidas and Other Brands
Nike’s historical reputation for running small has largely become outdated. Our recent testing indicates that the vast majority of Nike shoes now fit true to size and are consistent with sizing standards across other popular athletic footwear brands.
The comparison table below illustrates Nike shoe sizing against Adidas, New Balance, and Hoka in common men’s and women’s sizes, highlighting the general consistency across these brands.
| Shoe length (MM) | Nike | Adidas | New Balance | Hoka |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Men’s US sizes | ||||
| 270 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 |
| 280 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 |
| 290 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 11 |
| Women’s US sizes | ||||
| 230 | 6.5 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| 240 | 7.5 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| 250 | 8.5 | 8 | 8 | 8 |
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Nike Sizes in Relation to Jordan and Converse
As brands under the Nike umbrella, Jordan and Converse generally follow Nike’s sizing philosophy. You’ll likely find your size to be consistent across these three brands.
Jordan brand even directs users to the same Nike size chart on their official website. Converse, however, maintains a separate size chart page due to variations in sizing for certain models, such as the Chuck 70s which tend to run larger.
Unsure about your Nike size? Use our conversion tool below to find your corresponding Nike size based on a shoe from another brand that fits you well.
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Conclusion:
Nike shoe sizing is generally consistent with other leading athletic brands, making it easier to find your correct size. By understanding the nuances of men’s and women’s sizing, exploring unisex options, and considering width variations, you can confidently choose the right Nike shoes for optimal comfort and performance. Always measure your feet and consult size charts for the most accurate fit, and remember that trying shoes on whenever possible remains the best way to ensure a perfect match.
