Sneaker Sizing Guide: Nike vs Adidas vs New Balance vs ASICS (Australia)
, 4 min reading time
Sneaker sizing varies between brands. This guide compares Nike, Adidas, New Balance, and ASICS sizing so you can find the perfect fit when shopping online in Australia.
Why Sneaker Sizing Varies Between Brands
If you've ever ordered a pair of sneakers online and found they fit completely differently to your last pair, you're not alone. Sneaker sizing is one of the most common pain points for Australian shoppers — and it's not just about your foot length. Last shape, toe box width, heel cup depth, and upper construction all affect how a shoe fits, even within the same size.
This guide breaks down how Nike, Adidas, New Balance, and ASICS sizing compares, so you can order with confidence every time.
Understanding Australian Sneaker Sizing
In Australia, men's sneaker sizes generally follow US sizing. Most brands sell in US sizes locally, so a US 10 is what you'll see on the box. Women's sizing typically runs 1.5 sizes smaller than men's US sizing — so a women's US 8 is equivalent to a men's US 6.5.
Always check the specific brand's size chart before ordering, as there can be slight variations.
Nike Sizing
General fit: True to size, slightly narrow
Nike shoes tend to run true to size for most people, but the fit can feel snug if you have wider feet. Key things to know:
- Most Nike silhouettes (Air Max, Dunk, React) run true to size
- Nike TNs (Air Max Plus) can feel snug in the toe box — if you have wide feet, consider going half a size up
- Nike Flyknit and knit uppers stretch slightly with wear
- Nike Free and running models often have a more generous fit
Recommendation: Order your true size. If you have wide feet or are between sizes, go half a size up.
Adidas Sizing
General fit: Runs slightly small, narrow toe box
Adidas sizing tends to run about half a size small compared to Nike, particularly in lifestyle silhouettes. Key things to know:
- Samba, Gazelle, and Campus styles run small — size up half a size
- Ultraboost and running models run true to size
- Stan Smiths run small — most people go half to a full size up
- Adidas lasts tend to be narrower, which can be an issue for wider feet
Recommendation: Go half a size up from your usual size for most Adidas lifestyle shoes.
New Balance Sizing
General fit: True to size, wider fit available
New Balance is one of the most accommodating brands for different foot shapes. They offer multiple width options (B, D, 2E, 4E) which makes them a favourite for people who struggle with standard widths. Key things to know:
- 990, 992, 993 series run true to size in standard (D) width
- 574 and 530 run true to size
- New Balance offers wide (2E) and extra wide (4E) options on many models
- The toe box is generally more generous than Nike or Adidas
Recommendation: Order your true size. If you have wide feet, look for 2E or 4E width options.
ASICS Sizing
General fit: True to size, generous toe box
ASICS shoes are designed with performance in mind and tend to have a roomy toe box to accommodate foot swell during activity. Key things to know:
- Gel-Kayano, Gel-Nimbus, and Gel-Cumulus run true to size
- Gel-Quantum and lifestyle models run true to size
- ASICS generally has a wider toe box than Nike or Adidas
- The heel cup is well-structured and provides a secure fit
Recommendation: Order your true size. The roomy toe box suits wider feet well.
Quick Comparison Table
Here's a quick summary to help you decide:
- Nike — True to size | Slightly narrow | Go half up if wide-footed
- Adidas — Runs small | Narrow | Go half a size up
- New Balance — True to size | Wide options available | Best for wide feet
- ASICS — True to size | Generous toe box | Great for wide feet
Tips for Buying Sneakers Online in Australia
- Measure your feet in the afternoon — feet swell throughout the day, so afternoon measurements give a more accurate fit
- Measure both feet — most people have one foot slightly larger than the other; size for the larger foot
- Check the returns policy — always buy from a retailer with a hassle-free returns process in case the fit isn't right
- Read reviews — size and fit notes in customer reviews are invaluable for online purchases
Shop by Brand at Sneakerstaxx
Now that you know your size, find your next pair at Sneakerstaxx. We stock authentic Nike, Adidas, New Balance, and ASICS across a range of silhouettes, delivered fast across Australia.
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