Finding the right fit is crucial when buying footwear from iconic brands like Nike and Converse, but sizing can vary significantly between styles. For instance, Nike Air Force 1s typically offer a roomier fit, while their running shoes often have a more snug, athletic feel, making size comparisons tricky. To make things easier, we've compiled essential sizing insights for both brands to help you find the perfect fit every time.
How should Nike and Converse shoes fit?
Before we get into Nike and Converse's size charts, we feel it's important to know exactly how your shoes should fit to figure out whether you're rocking the right size sneakers.
Length-wise, Clarks recommends allowing about one finger's width of space between the end of your longest toe and your shoes to give you enough space to move, with the natural bend of the sneakers falling around the balls of your feet.
Although this is a general rule for all shoe types, we feel it translates to both Converse and Nike sneakers, regardless of whether you're eyeing up some of the best Nike Dunks or a set of either brand's best marathon shoes.
After you've found the right length for your shoes, it's crucial to consider the width as well. Typically, you should aim to match the widest part of your foot, which includes the ball area and metatarsal bones, with the widest part of your shoe. This will ensure that there's sufficient space for your foot and that the shoe isn't compressing it inwardly.
If your shoes are too wide, your foot may slide forward and your heel will end up lifting out as you walk. As a result, we'd recommend checking out our guide to measuring shoe size for more information on determining what size shoes you need.
Nike vs Converse sizing: Size guide
With how your Nike or Converse should fit established, let's take a closer look at how the two brands compare in terms of size.
As seen below, Nike and Converse shoes are very similar in length, with a Men's US 9 from Nike only a fraction smaller than a Men's US 9 from Converse, which might have something to do with the fact Nike owns Converse these days.
Just bear in mind that you still might encounter some slight differences in length between different models as every silhouette is different, even if they're from the same brand.
Determining the right shoe width can be tricky, but Nike makes it easier with a helpful width chart to guide you. For example, according to Nike's recommendations, a men's US size 10 shoe is ideal for a foot measuring 4.2 inches in width.
While Converse doesn't provide a similar width chart, you still have plenty of options to ensure a great fit.
More general information can be found online regarding shoe width. Here is a breakdown of width codes for a Men's US 8 shoe:
- B - Approx. 8.73cm
- D - Approx. 9.68cm
- 2E - Approx. 10.64cm
- 4E - Approx. 11.59cm
Remember that the width of each shoe varies based on its length. For example, a US size 6 will have a different width compared to a US size 12, regardless of whether they are standard or wide-fitting. That's worth keeping in mind when browsing both Nike and Converse footwear.
Which Nike and Converse shoes fit wide feet?
If you are looking for a pair of shoes from Nike or Converse to fit wider feet, then thankfully both brands have their own selection of purpose-built wide-fit sneakers to accommodate all sizes.
As touched on earlier and in our Nike vs ASICS comparison, Nike actually offers more information on when you should look for a pair of wide-fitting shoes. For example, it recommends a pair of wide fits if you have size 8 feet that measure 3.9" or above in width.
Converse also gives more detail on its wide-fit collection. It states that its wide width sizes include more volume and a broader platform by approximately 15mm to the ball and instep and 6mm to the bottom width.
Both brands include wide-fit variations of some of their most popular sneakers. For instance, Nike offers an extra wide version of the Revolution 7, while Converse sells its classic Chuck Taylor All Stars in both standard and wide fit.
Which Nike and Converse shoes run narrow?
Athletic sports shoes are often designed with a narrower fit compared to traditional trainers. If you're in the market for such shoes, there are specific models worth considering.
Nike's Free line, for example, tends to feel more snug due to its internal webbing system that provides a secure, locked-in feel. Likewise, some of Nike's Flyknit models may fit more closely, as the breathable, knitted mesh adapts to the natural shape of your foot.
On the flip side, Converse Chuck Taylor All Stars often run narrower than other models in their lineup, thanks to their sleek canvas design. However, wider options are available if needed.
Ultimately, both Nike and Converse offer shoes in a variety of widths, ensuring you can find a pair that suits your foot shape and size perfectly.
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We hope this guide has provided all the insights you need on Nike and Converse sizing differences. If you're looking for more sizing tips, be sure to check out our other guides, like our Nike vs adidas sizing comparison, to find your perfect fit across brands.
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