In general, New Balance shoes are true to size, but the fit may vary depending on the width and style of the shoes.
New Balance shoes have a different fit than other big brands like Nike and Adidas, so you need to find the size and fit that suit your feet.
The best way to do that is to try shoes on in a store, check the width options, think about the type of shoes you want, and choose the ones that feel most comfortable for you.
If the shoes are not a good fit, you can always return them and get a different size.
Table of Contents
How to Choose the Right Size
General Sizing
When it comes to general sizing, most New Balance shoes fit true to size, meaning you can expect your normal size to correspond correctly with the size of the shoes.
For example, if you normally wear a size 9 shoe, a size 9 in New Balance shoes should fit well.
But, some people find certain styles run slightly large or small. The best indicator is to go by the size you wear in other shoe brands and types.
If you fluctuate between sizes, consider sizing down if the shoes seem roomy or sizing up if they feel too snug.
The ideal fit should allow a little wiggle room for your toes while still feeling secure.
Width
Pay attention to the width options offered for each New Balance shoe model. Many styles come in narrow, standard, wide, and extra-wide sizes.
Standard width is labeled as a “D” for men and “B” for women. If you have narrow feet, size down in width to a narrow.
If you have wide feet, size up to a wide or extra wide. Trying shoes in-store can help you determine what width feels best.
If you prefer to order online, look at New Balance’s width chart and measure your feet to find your width size.
Choose the width that gives your toes some breathing room without allowing excess slipping inside the shoe.
The right width should keep your foot snug in the shoe without tightness or pinching.
Other Factors That Can Affect Fit
Some other factors that can impact New Balance sizing and fit include:
- Shoe style – Lifestyle shoes may fit differently than performance shoes designed for athletic activities. Consider sizing according to the shoe’s purpose.
- Sock thickness – Wearing thick socks can make shoes fit more snugly so you may need to size up. Thinner socks allow for a little more room.
- Foot shape – Those with high arches or flat feet may find certain shoe shapes uncomfortable, requiring a different size for a better fit.
- Time of day – Feet tends to swell during the day so shoes may fit tighter later on. Trying shoes on at the end of the day gives you a more accurate idea of size.
- Individual preferences – Some people prefer a looser fit in shoes while others like a snugger fit. Go with your personal comfort level.
Personal Preference
Ultimately finding the right New Balance shoe size comes down to personal feel and comfort. Don’t obsess too much over the size of the box.
Focus on whether the shoe feels good on your foot. Does it pinch or rub anywhere? Are your toes crammed? Or is there too much empty space inside?
You want a secure fit that locks the heel in place without discomfort. Walk around the store with both shoes on to get a feel for them.
Go up and down any sizing if needed to find the sweet spot. Consider when and how you’ll wear the shoes most.
If you’ll be running in them, you may want a tighter fit than casual everyday wear.
The ideal size is one that feels comfortable from the first wear without needing a break-in period. Trust your preferences – you know best what feels right!
How Do New Balance Shoes Compare to Other Brands?
New Balance vs. Nike
Comparing New Balance to Nike shoes, Nike tends to run slightly narrower and smaller than New Balance.
Nike shoes have a more curved, tapered toe box while New Balance has a wider toe box.
Those with wider feet may find New Balance fits better. However, Nike shoes are good for narrow or average-width feet.
The bottom line – try on shoes from both brands to see which style and size works for your foot shape.
The same size may fit differently across the brands, or you may need to size up or down.
Consider sizing in Nike vs. New Balance as you would any other shoe brand and go with the size that feels most natural and supportive. Don’t get hung up on the number – focus on overall fit.
New Balance vs. Adidas
Comparing Adidas and New Balance sizing, Adidas shoes tend to run smaller than New Balance.
Those who wear a size 9 in New Balance often need to size up to a 9.5 or 10 in Adidas models.
However, some report Adidas shoes fitting true to size, so it depends on the specific shoe style.
In general, New Balance shoes have a wider, more spacious toe box while Adidas has a more narrow, snugger fit.
Those with wider feet may prefer sizing up in Adidas. Try shoes from both brands to assess fit and comfort.
Focus on your own feel preferences rather than sizing conventions. You may be your normal size, size up, or size down when comparing Adidas to New Balance.
As with any shoe brand, go with the Adidas size that allows enough toe room without excess space.
How to Choose the Right Size New Balance Shoes
Try on a pair of shoes in person
Trying on New Balance shoes in-store is the best way to find your ideal size. Stores have Brannock devices that measure your foot length and width.
You can start there for an estimated size, then try on shoes in that size along with a half or full size up or down as needed.
Walk around the store with shoes fully laced up to let your feet settle in. Shoes that are non-returnable should feel comfortable from the first wear without a break-in period.
Don’t rely on the size you normally wear – always assess the fit and feel of shoes on your actual feet.
Different styles and shapes may require different sizes. Listen to any feedback from your feet – rubbing, pinching, and discomfort means the size is off.
The right size should feel secure while allowing toe wiggle room and flexibility.
Pay attention to the width.
As mentioned earlier, pay close attention to the width sizing offered for each New Balance shoe model.
If the shoes come in narrow, wide, and extra wide options, try on each width to see what feels best.
Measure your feet to determine their width – a standard D is medium for men and B is medium for women.
Match this width starting point to New Balance’s sizing, then adjust as needed. If your feet measure wider than average, start with a wide size.
If they are narrow, try a narrow size. Getting the right proportions for your feet prevents tightness or looseness even if the length is correct.
Don’t assume you need a standard width – actually measure your feet first.
The correct width should offer plenty of toe room without excessive slipping and sliding inside the shoe. This contributes to an ideal and comfortable fit.
Consider the type of shoe you are buying.
Consider the purpose and use of the New Balance shoe when selecting your size.
Casual walking or lifestyle shoes may fit differently than performance running or training shoes meant for athletic activities.
Running shoes are designed with a tighter, more secure fit to keep your foot stabilized as you move.
You may need to size up in running shoes for a comfortable fit compared to slip-on casual shoes.
Athletic shoes like football, soccer, or basketball shoes also hug the foot, so consider sizing accordingly.
Specialty shoes like work boots may fit large to accommodate room for toe protection and thick socks.
Trying shoes on while wearing your usual sock thickness simulates a real-world fit.
In general, athletic performance shoes tend to fit snugger than casual everyday styles. Choose the appropriate size based on the shoe’s intended activity.
Be aware of your personal preference.
Some people prefer the feeling of a tight, sock-like fit in shoes while others like having ample wiggle room.
Think about your own comfort preferences when selecting a New Balance size. There is no universal perfect fit – it depends on your feet and inclinations.
If you like being able to splay your toes freely, size up.
If you prefer your foot to be cradled securely inside the shoe, consider sizing down or opting for narrower widths.
You may also require different sizes for different activities – a little looser for casual wear or a little snugger for running and sports.
Don’t force your foot into an uncomfortable small size or go too loose and sloppy.
Finding your Goldilocks fit may require some trial and error across sizes. Listen to your feet and go with the size that feels “just right” from the first step based on your needs.
What to Do If Your New Balance Shoes Don’t Fit
If you try on your new New Balance shoes and the fit feels off, don’t panic.
First off, walk around the house in the shoes for a short time to allow your feet to adjust before making any judgments. The shoes may feel differently when standing versus moving.
If they still don’t feel right, exchange them for a 1/2 size up or down – whichever you think will get you closer to the ideal fit based on where the shoes are too tight or too loose.
Also, consider exchanging for a different width if that seems to be the issue. Many retailers allow exchanges to get the perfect size.
You can also take shoes to a cobbler to be professionally stretched if they are just slightly tight in certain areas but the length is otherwise correct.
If you ordered online, check the return policy for sending shoes back for a different size.
With some trial and error, you’ll eventually find the right New Balance fit for the shape and comfort preferences of your feet.
Conclusion
Finding your ideal New Balance shoe size comes down to trying on different sizes and widths in-store and listening to your feet.
While most styles fit true to size, factors like foot shape, shoe style, and personal preference can all impact fit.
The right size should feel secure without pinching or excess room. Don’t get hung up on the number – focus on the overall fit and comfort.
With some experimenting across sizes and widths, you’ll land on the perfect New Balance size to support your feet during any activity.
