Nike Size Guide: Do Nike Shoes Run True to Size?

7 min read · Brand guides

Nike's reputation for true-to-size fit is mostly deserved, but "Nike runs TTS" is an oversimplification that leads people to order the wrong size in specific models. The Air Force 1 fits differently from the Dunk. The Pegasus fits differently from the Free Run. And Jordan sizing has its own quirks entirely.

Here's a practical model-by-model breakdown so you know exactly what to expect.

Nike Air Force 1

Verdict: True to size, but roomy. The Air Force 1 is Nike's most popular silhouette and one of the most discussed for sizing. The leather upper and wide toe box mean the shoe fits true to size in length — but it feels noticeably roomy compared to fitted running styles. People with narrow feet often find the Air Force 1 sloppy at their normal size and prefer to go half a size down. People with wide feet typically love the fit at their normal size.

If you're wearing them with thick socks, your normal size works fine. Thin socks with a narrow foot and your normal size often results in foot slippage.

Nike Dunk Low / High

Verdict: True to size. The Dunk fits cleanly true to size for most people. It has a slightly slimmer profile than the Air Force 1, and the toe box — while still generous — is less roomy. If you're between sizes, a half size up is the safer call. People with very narrow feet may prefer going half a size down, but the majority of buyers are comfortable at their standard size.

Air Jordan 1

Verdict: True to size. The Jordan 1 is consistently true to size across the vast majority of colourways and production runs. The leather upper has some give with wear, but not enough that sizing down makes sense. Stick to your normal size. The Jordan 1 Mid and the Jordan 1 High both follow the same sizing.

Nike Air Max (90, 95, 97, 270)

Verdict: True to size. The Air Max family tends to run true to size across most models. The Air Max 90 has a slightly boxy toe box (similar to the Air Force 1 but less extreme), while the Air Max 95 and 97 run narrower. If you have wide feet, the Air Max 90 is the most accommodating of the family at your normal size. The Air Max 270 has a large, roomy sole unit and a mesh upper that accommodates wider feet well — true to size is the right call.

Nike Pegasus (Running)

Verdict: True to size, possibly half up for long runs. The Nike Pegasus is one of Nike's most popular daily running shoes. It fits true to size in standard conditions, but many runners size up half a size specifically for long runs — feet swell over distance and a snug shoe at mile 1 becomes a painful shoe at mile 10. If you're using these strictly for short runs or gym work, your normal size is fine. For half marathons or above, go half a size up.

Nike React Infinity Run

Verdict: True to size. The React Infinity has a snug upper (Flyknit or engineered mesh depending on the generation) that hugs the foot through the midfoot and heel, with more room in the toe box. It fits true to size for most foot shapes. The wider forefoot design was intentional — Nike built the React Infinity specifically to accommodate natural foot spread during running. Your normal size should work.

Nike Free Run

Verdict: Half size up recommended. The Free Run's flexible sole and thin upper mean it fits close to the foot. Most people find their normal size feels a bit tight, particularly in the toe box. Half a size up is the standard recommendation, especially if you plan to wear them for runs longer than a 5K.

Nike Blazer Mid / Low

Verdict: True to size, occasionally half down for narrow feet. The Blazer is a retro basketball shoe with a leather or suede upper and a roomy toe box. Similar to the Air Force 1, it fits true to size in length but can feel wide for narrow feet. Your normal size is the right starting point — if the Blazer feels loose, try going half a size down before deciding it doesn't work for you.

Convert your Nike size between US, UK, EU and CM — with a full chart for men's, women's and kids' sizing.

View Nike size chart →

Jordan 3, 4, 11 and Other Jordan Models

Jordan sizing beyond the Jordan 1 has more variation.

Jordan 3 and 4: True to size for most people. The sole unit is substantial and provides good volume. Wide-foot friendly.
Jordan 11: Half size up recommended. The patent leather and neoprene bootie construction feels snug, particularly in the toe. Most buyers go up half a size.
Jordan 6: True to size. The higher ankle collar and structured build fit cleanly.
Jordan 12: True to size, though the shoe feels stiff initially. The leather softens with wear.

Nike Sizing in EU and UK

Nike's EU and UK conversions are standard — a US men's 10 is EU 44 and UK 9. Nike's size chart is consistent and reliable for international conversion purposes, which makes it easier to buy Nike on foreign sites than some other brands. The EU size on a Nike box maps cleanly to the same foot length as the EU size on any other brand's box, unlike some brands where the EU number is technically correct but the shoe fits smaller than you'd expect.

Disclaimer: Nike sizing can vary between models and individual production runs. The above reflects general consensus and may not apply to all colourways or limited editions.