When purchasing new shoes online, understanding the differences between Nike and HOKA sizing is crucial to avoid receiving a pair that doesn't fit properly. This comprehensive guide compares the sizing of these two top sportswear brands, helping you confidently upgrade your footwear without any sizing issues.
Both Nike and HOKA manufacture some of the best running shoes on the market, and as per HOKA, an average pair of running trainers lasts between 250 to 500 miles before needing replacement. Therefore, knowing the differences in sizing makes buying new shoes from either brand much easier, hence this guide. Let's get into it...
How should their shoes fit?
Before comparing size charts, it is essential to understand how your shoes should fit first. According to Nike, this should be comfortably, with enough room for your toes to wiggle and stretch to avoid any irritation. Moreover, if you're walking and your shoes start to slip off, or your ankle is constantly rubbing against the collar, it's a sign that they don't fit properly.
Clarks supports this, recommending you leave a gap of roughly the size of one finger between your longest toe and the front of the shoe. This will ensure that the sneaker curves around the ball of your foot for a more comfortable ride.
That said, Nike also says that individual preferences play a huge role in properly fitted shoes, especially when it comes to running. Nike even recommends sizing up in running trainers as your feet tend to splay out from the impact of each stride. Again, it's a personal choice, but worth keeping in mind when searching for shoes for an active lifestyle.
Figuring out the right width is a little trickier as a sneaker brand rarely provides a size chart on this. However, there is a way to tell if your shoes fit correctly on either side. According to Clarks again, you need to ensure the widest part of your foot (the ball area and metatarsal bones) fits within the widest part of your shoe, with enough room to prevent your foot from being compressed inwards.
Nike vs HOKA size charts
Nike shoes tend to run smaller than HOKA shoes, even though they are marketed as being the same size. Based on the comparison charts below, the difference can be as much as half an inch.
For instance, a US Men's 9/Women's 10 in Nike is approximately 0.3 inches smaller than the equivalent size from HOKA. This means Nike shoes may fit more snugly, while HOKA shoes could feel roomier depending on your usual brand preference.
When it comes to width, both brands make it easier to find the right fit. Nike has a width chart that indicates when you should opt for a wide-fitting shoe (e.g., a men's US 10 with a foot width of 4.2 inches is considered wide). Similarly, HOKA provides clear guidelines on shoe width relative to length (see chart below), helping you make an informed decision when choosing between the two brands.
More general information can be found online regarding what the different width categories mean for shoes as well. Here is a breakdown of the 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 HOKA sneakers.
Which shoes fit wide feet?
Knowing when to look out for wide-fitting shoes is one thing, but what options do you have from Nike and HOKA if you fall into this category? Well, Nike has its own collection of Extra Wide shoes, although the choice is somewhat limited.
However, Nike has you covered if you're looking for running shoes specifically. For instance, you can buy extra wide variations of the Pegasus 41 which is made from lightweight mesh and comes with super absorbent foam in the midsoles.
HOKA also has a selection of Wide Fit shoes for you to explore, which includes both men's and women's trainers like the Speedgoat 6 GTX trail running shoes and the Anacapa 2 Low GTX. HOKA's collection is slightly smaller than Nike's at the time of writing though.
Which shoes run narrow?
What if you're looking for the opposite? Well, in our experience, performance-based sports shoes tend to be some of the tightest-fitting shoes around, which includes both Nike and HOKA trainers.
As touched on earlier, Nike shoes are a little smaller than HOKA, so may run slightly narrower anyway by default. However, Nike also gives insight into which models, in particular, fit narrower than most.
Nike mentions its Flyknit range can feel tighter to wear at times due to the knitted mesh conforming to your foot for a closer, more streamlined fit. Additionally, Nike's Free shoes may feel tighter than other models due to the internal webbing. However, this webbing is intended to spread the pressure around your midfoot to give a more secure and comfortable lock-in.
HOKA doesn't give the same kind of analysis on which of its shoes run narrow. However, as the majority of HOKA footwear is designed for performance and sport, running and hiking especially, a huge portion of its trainers are made from mesh. As a result, you may find them relatively tight-fitting for the same reason as Nike's Flyknit range.
If you're uncertain about which size to select, we'd recommend you try on a pair of Nike and/or HOKA shoes in a physical store to determine which size will be the most comfortable for your everyday use or exercise routine. However, if you're unable to visit a store, our guide may provide some helpful insight into selecting the right shoe size for you.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the differences in sizing between Nike and HOKA can make all the difference when selecting your next pair of shoes. Use this guide to ensure a perfect fit, whether you're upgrading your running gear or finding comfortable everyday sneakers.