Does New Balance Run Big or Small or True to Size?

Does New Balance run big or small? If you are considering getting a pair of New Balance, you may have a lot of questions about their sizing. This brand is suitable for kids, adults, and everyone in between. Consequently, New Balance shoes come in multiple sizes, and it can get overwhelming to determine which one would fit your feet.

Therefore, you may need comprehensive sizing advice to find out which New Balance model is the best for you.

Before you buy your next pair, I recommend that you consider how the shoes may fit. Then, you can account for that when selecting your size. This way, I believe that you will get both style and comfort in one package.

I’ve dealt with New Balance over the years and discovered how their sizing works. Read on to learn more if New Balance is true to size.

does new balance run big or small
Does New Balance Run Big or Small or True to Size?

Does New Balance Run Big or Small or True to Size?

New Balance says their shoes should fit true to size as soon as you put them on. You don’t have to worry about a break-in period like with other shoe brands, like Adidas or Nike shoes.

I find their claim to be true. Most New Balance shoes, if not all, would fit comfortably as soon as you put them on, provided that you get the right size. Based on the reviews, the majority of the customers also report the same experience.

When you try on a pair of New Balance, your heel should fit nicely and snugly at the back. At the front, your toes should have some room to move around.

Finally, your arch needs to have support in the correct spot. If the arch support is too far forward or backward, you may have to find a different style or size to accommodate and support your foot.

So, I believe that determining the arch support is a significant factor when you choose a pair of New Balance shoes that fit perfectly. The incorrect size will not just be uncomfortable but also unstable and prone to slipping.

To choose the correct fit New Balance sneakers, you can refer to the number and letter series, which I shall explain below.

New Balance Size Chart

1. New Balance Size Chart for Women

US SizeUK SizeEU/FR SizeCM/JP Size
533522
5.53.53622.5
6436.523
6.54.53723.5
7537.524
7.55.53824.5
863925
8.56.54025.5
9740.526
9.57.54126.5
10841.527
10.58.542.527.5
1194328
11.59.543.528.5
12104429
12.510.54529.5
131145.530
13.511.54630.5
141246.531
15134832

2. New Balance Size Chart for Men

US SizeUK SizeEU/FR SizeCM/JP Size
43.53622
4.543722.5
54.537.523
5.553823.5
65.538.524
6.5639.524.5
76.54025
7.5740.525.5
87.541.526
8.584226.5
98.542.527
9.594327.5
109.54428
10.51044.528.5
1110.54529
11.51145.529.5
1211.546.530
12.5124730.5
1312.547.531
1413.54932
1514.55033
1615.55134
1716.55235
1817.55336
1918.55437
2019.55538

How to Measure the Size of Your Feet?

If you haven’t measured your feet in a while, I highly recommend that you should do so before buying a new pair of New Balance. While you can and should try the pair you want, it helps to know your size first.

I think that everyone should put effort into measuring their feet once in a while. This procedure will ensure that your New Balance shoes fit snugly, providing you with maximum comfort.

An essential step in getting a pair of New Balance shoes is figuring out the width you need. You may have feet that are a normal width based on their length.

does new balance run big or small
How to Measure the Size of Your Feet?

However, it helps to verify this before you buy a pair of new shoes. If you buy your New Balance shoes online, you want to give yourself the best chance of choosing shoes that fit comfortably.

Even if you go shopping in stores, knowing the width beforehand can help you find the right pair to test out faster. And you can know to ask a sales associate if they have extra stock in the back that you can try.

1. Review Your Initial Measurements

First, you should take a look at the results from when you measured your feet from front to back. This can give you an overall idea of your shoe size. If your feet are longer, they can be wider without needing wide sizing than someone with shorter feet.

Whether it’s been a while or you forgot the measurements, measure your feet from front to back again. You can do this on a piece of paper, or you can stand in front of a wall. Have someone use a ruler to get the length of your foot from your heel to your big toe.

2. Measure Side to Side

Now, you need to measure your foot from side to side. The best place to do this is along the ball of your foot since that’s the widest part. While you can use a ruler, marking a piece of paper can make it easier to get an accurate measurement.

Place your foot on a piece of paper and make one mark by the ball joint near your big toe. Without moving your foot, make another mark by the joint near your pinky toe. Take your foot off the paper and use a ruler to measure the distance.

Then, repeat the steps with your other foot. As I’ve mentioned before, if your left and right foot do not come in the same size, you should not be worried because it is normal.

3. Consult a Size Chart

Unlike other shoe brands that often only produce one size fits all, New Balance always puts a lot of effort into details. They can accommodate any type of foot. So, it is no surprise that their sizing is also quite complex.

New Balance has a comprehensive size chart on its website that you can use to help select the right size. You can use the chart to determine your size in men’s, women’s, or kids’ shoes, so you will know how long the shoe needs to be.

Sadly, the chart doesn’t tell you which widths to choose. However, it does list the different widths and the numbers to look for as you compare shoe sizes.

Men and women can choose from six widths ranging from extra narrow (X-narrow) to extra extra wide (XX-wide).

Kids’ shoes come in standard, wide, and extra-wide sizing. That way, even your children can get shoes that fit comfortably.

3. Use New Balance Official Printable Measuring Tool

The surest way to get your measurement accurately is to use New Balance’s official measuring tool. You can download the tools from the following links:

Print the measuring tool and use it to check the size of your feet. The tool also includes the sizing guide chart, which will come in super handy for you. Do not forget to measure both of your feet!

Read Also: Best New Balance Running Shoes

What If One Foot Is Slightly Larger?

One of the reasons you should measure both feet is in case one is larger than the other. If your left foot is wider, but you only measure the right, you may end up with a shoe that’s too small for your left foot.

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What If One Foot Is Slightly Larger?

When you have one foot that’s slightly larger, use that foot to determine your correct size. It’s better to have a bit of extra room than to squeeze one of your feet into a shoe.

If the size difference is more significant, you can ask a shoe store if you can buy different shoe sizes. I’ve asked around some online stores before, and some do accommodate this type of request.

Read also: New Balance vs. Nike Sizing


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New Balance Sizing for Men vs. Women: What’s the Difference?

As someone who has experience with purchasing and wearing New Balance shoes, it’s important to understand the differences in sizing between men’s and women’s shoes to ensure a comfortable fit. Below are some key differences to keep in mind:

1. Lasts

New Balance uses different lasts, or molds, for their men’s and women’s shoes to accommodate for the anatomical differences between the two genders. Men’s shoes typically have a wider heel and forefoot, a higher instep, and a longer arch than women’s shoes.

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Lasts

Women’s shoes, on the other hand, are designed with a narrower heel, a wider forefoot, a lower instep, and a shorter arch.

For example, I have noticed that when I try on a pair of men’s New Balance shoes, they often feel too wide for my feet. This is because my feet are narrower than the average male foot, and the last used to make men’s shoes don’t fit my foot shape, as well as the last used for women’s shoes.

2. Sizing

When it comes to sizing, men’s shoes are typically labeled with even numbers, while women’s shoes are labeled with odd numbers. For example, a men’s size 8 would be labeled as an 8, while a women’s size 8 would be labeled as 8.5.

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Sizing

This is because women’s shoes are designed to be slightly shorter in length than men’s shoes, even when they are the same numerical size.

For instance, I typically wear a women’s size 8 in New Balance shoes, which fits me well in terms of length. If I were to try on a men’s size 8, it would likely be too long for my feet.

3. Widths

It’s also worth noting that New Balance offers different widths for both men’s and women’s shoes. Men’s shoes are available in standard width (D), wide width (2E), and extra wide width (4E). Women’s shoes are available in standard width (B), wide width (D), and extra wide width (2E).

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Widths

Personally, I have found that the standard width for women’s New Balance shoes fits me well, but someone with wider feet may need to opt for a wider width to achieve a comfortable fit.

Overall, understanding the differences in sizing and widths between men’s and women’s New Balance shoes can help ensure that you find the best fit for your feet.

Understanding New Balance Shoe Widths: Narrow, Standard, Wide, and Extra Wide

I know that finding the right shoe width is crucial for achieving a comfortable fit. New Balance offers four different width options for their shoes: narrow, standard, wide, and extra wide. Below are some key differences between each width option:

1. Narrow Width

New Balance’s narrow-width shoes are designed for individuals with slender feet who often find that standard shoes are too wide for them. The narrow width is labeled as “AA” for women’s shoes and “B” for men’s shoes. These shoes are designed with a narrower heel, forefoot, and midfoot to provide a secure fit for those with slender feet.

2. Standard Width

The standard width is New Balance’s most common and widely available option. It’s designed to fit the average foot and is labeled as “B” for women’s shoes and “D” for men’s shoes. These shoes provide a comfortable fit for most individuals, but those with wider or narrower feet may need to consider different width options.

3. Wide Width

New Balance’s wide-width shoes are designed for individuals with wider feet. The wide width is labeled as “D” for women’s shoes and “2E” for men’s shoes. These shoes are designed with a wider heel, forefoot, and midfoot to provide a comfortable fit for those with wider feet.

4. Extra Wide Width

The extra wide width is New Balance’s widest option and is designed for individuals with extra wide feet or those who need additional space due to foot conditions such as bunions or hammertoes. The extra wide width is labeled as “2E” for women’s shoes and “4E” for men’s shoes. These shoes are designed with an even wider heel, forefoot, and midfoot than the wide-width option to provide maximum comfort for those with extra wide feet.

Different types of New Balance Shoes and Their Recommended Sizing

As I’ve stated previously, New Balance shoes tend to be true-to-size. Unlike other brands that sometimes run wide or narrow, New Balance will fit your feet just right, provided that you’ve measured them properly.

Here are some New Balance shoe models and their recommended sizing (based on my research and personal anecdote).

New Balance Shoe ModelRecommended Sizing
Fresh Foam 1080v11 Running ShoesTrue to size or half a size up from your standard shoe size
624v2 Cross Training Shoes

4040v5 Baseball Cleats
True to size or half a size up from your standard shoe size
928v3 Walking ShoesTrue to size or half a size up from your standard shoe size
FuelCell Rebel Running ShoesTrue to size or half a size up from your standard shoe size
Fresh Foam Hierro v6 Trail Running ShoesTrue to size or half a size up from your standard shoe size
574 Core Lifestyle ShoesTrue to size or half a size up from your standard shoe size
FreezeLX 2.0 Football CleatsTrue to size or half a size up from your standard shoe size
Furon v6+ Pro FG Soccer Cleats True to size or half a size up from your standard shoe size

Again, it’s important to note that these are general recommendations and may vary depending on your individual foot shape and width. It’s always best to try on shoes in person to determine the best sizing and width option for your feet.

Expert Advice: How to Ensure Your New Balance Shoes Fit Correctly

While New Balance shoes often run true to size, it helps to test the sizing. That way, you can make extra sure you choose the correct shoe for you.

Whether you buy the shoes online or try them in a store first, you need to test them. If you don’t try the sneakers, you may risk buying the wrong size, especially if you’ve never bought New Balance shoes or if it’s been a while.

Here are a few things to consider as you test how well New Balance shoes fit you.

As you test the shoes, do so indoors so that you don’t void the return policy. You can wear the shoes around your home or around the shoe store. Ideally, you’d walk around somewhere with a floor that’s clean so that you can keep the shoes in good condition if you have to return them.

1. Stay Indoors

If you want to test the shoes in different indoor locations, wear another pair when going outside. You can switch to the New Balance shoes when you get to your destination. That way, you don’t have to expose them to rain, dirt, or other things that could damage the shoes.

2. Move Around

Think about what you plan to do when wearing the New Balance shoes. If you will use them to walk around at school or work, be sure to walk for a while. You may also want to test jogging or running if you’ll use the shoes for exercise.

Maybe you want to jump rope, so you decide to jump in the shoes. Doing all of these activities can help you see how the shoes will fit as your feet move around. If your feet start to hurt, you may need to evaluate the sizing and go up or down accordingly.

In my experience, testing the shoes by moving around is the best way to ensure that your feet have enough room. Different positions may affect the way the shoes fit.

3. Test Throughout the Day

If you want to test shoes at the store before buying, go in the afternoon or evening. This is when your feet will be the largest throughout the day, so you can avoid buying shoes that are too tight. However, if you purchase the shoes online, try them at different times of the day.

new balance sizing guide illustration

You can then see if the shoes are too large or too small at any point. Plus, if you know what time of day you plan to wear them, you can do most of the testing then. That way, you’ll get an idea of how the shoes will fit should you get them and use them regularly.

4. Listen to Your Gut

An essential part of choosing the correct shoe size is to listen to your gut. If a pair of shoes don’t feel right, odds are they aren’t the best pair for you. Maybe there aren’t any significant problems, but you just don’t think the shoes will work. Based

It’s okay to look at another pair of shoes in a different size. Sometimes, your gut may help you narrow your search as easy as using a size chart.

As you walk or jump around, consider how you feel about the shoes. If something isn’t right, set the shoes aside and try something else.

Read also: Best Insoles for Boots Too Big

Factors that Affect New Balance Shoe Sizing: Material, Style, and More

As someone who has owned several pairs of New Balance shoes, I have noticed that several factors can impact their sizing. Here are some of the most significant ones:

1. Material

The material of the shoe can significantly impact the fit. For instance, I have found that leather shoes tend to have less give than mesh or knit shoes, which can make them feel tighter. This is because leather doesn’t stretch as much as other materials, so it’s essential to choose the correct size when buying leather shoes. On the other hand, mesh or knit shoes tend to have more flexibility, which can provide a more comfortable fit.

2. Style

Different shoe styles can also have different fits. For example, I have noticed that running shoes tend to have a narrower fit to provide more support, while lifestyle shoes may have a more relaxed fit for added comfort. When trying on different styles of New Balance shoes, it’s essential to keep this in mind and choose the style that best suits your needs.

3. Gender

New Balance offers shoes in men’s, women’s, and children’s sizes, and these sizes can vary in their measurements and proportions. As a woman, I always make sure to buy shoes in my size category since men’s shoes tend to be wider, and children’s shoes have different shapes.

4. Foot shape

Everyone’s feet are unique, and some people may have wider or narrower feet, a higher or lower arch, or other factors that can affect how a shoe fits. I have found that my feet tend to be wider than average, which means that I need to choose shoes with a roomier toe box to prevent discomfort. It’s essential to consider your foot shape when choosing a size and style of New Balance shoe.

5. Sock choice

The thickness and type of socks you wear with your shoes can also affect how they fit. For example, thicker socks can make a shoe feel tighter, while thinner socks may create too much space inside the shoe. It’s essential to choose socks that are appropriate for the shoe and activity you plan to use them for.

6. Fit preference

Some people prefer a tighter or looser fit in their shoes, depending on their personal preference and the activity they’re using the shoes for. For example, I like to wear a tighter fit when running to provide more support and prevent blisters, while I prefer a looser fit for walking or daily wear for added comfort.

7. Size conversions

New Balance shoes can have different sizing standards depending on the region they’re sold in, so it’s important to check the appropriate conversion chart when buying shoes internationally. I always double-check the size chart to make sure I’m buying the right size, especially when buying shoes from international retailers.

In conclusion, several factors can impact New Balance shoe sizing, and it’s essential to consider each one when choosing the right size and style for your needs. By keeping these factors in mind, you can ensure a comfortable and supportive fit for your feet.

What to Do if Your New Balance Shoes Don’t Fit Correctly?

I often come across customers who have trouble finding the perfect fit with their New Balance shoes.

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What to Do if Your New Balance Shoes Don’t Fit Correctly?

Here are some tips I recommend if your New Balance shoes don’t fit correctly:

  • Firstly, don’t panic! It’s important to remember that not all shoes fit the same way, and sometimes it takes a few tries to find the perfect fit.
  • Check the sizing chart and make sure you’ve ordered the correct size.
  • If you’re unsure about your size, try going to a store and trying on a similar pair of New Balance shoes.
  • Take note of any areas of discomfort or rubbing, and determine if it’s a sizing issue or if you need a different style of shoe.
  • Consider the shape of your foot. As I’ve explained, New Balance offers shoes with different widths to accommodate various foot shapes.
  • Experiment with different insoles. New Balance offers different types of insoles that can provide additional support and comfort.
  • If the shoes are too small, consider exchanging them for a larger size. If they’re too large, try a smaller size or a different style.
  • Don’t be afraid to contact New Balance customer service for assistance. They may be able to offer suggestions or provide more information about the shoes.
  • Wear your shoes around the house for a few hours to see if they’re comfortable. If not, consider returning them or exchanging them for a different size or style.

Remember that everyone’s feet are different, so it may take some trial and error to find the perfect fit. Be patient, and don’t give up!

What are the cutest new balance sneakers for ladies?

New Balance offers several feminine models that look absolutely adorable. Not only are they fashionable, but these sneakers would also make your morning runs feel more energetic!

1. New Balance 990v6 Core Sneakers

New Balance 990v6 Core Sneakers

Available in elegant gray, this pair of comfy running shoes look super sleek, ideal to complement your slender feet. I personally love this latest model from the 990 series, which was released back in November 2022, because of how streamlined it is.

I believe this model also comes in navy blue, but the one that I have is light gray. It can blend easily to complement my fashion style. For the sizing, it is available in multiple widths, including the x-wide.

2. New Balance 327

New Balance 327

The 327 model offers a slim shape that looks more sporty. Yet it is also trendy as there are various adorable colors. My favorite version is the one that comes in white and pink! The haze pink is subtle yet very lovely to look at.

Moreover, the classical design makes these sleek sneakers easy to pair with your favorite outfit.

3. New Balance 574

New Balance 574

You can not go wrong with the classic 574. The shoes come with excellent cushions that would make your every step feel firmer. The design is quite balanced, so any outfit can go with it, further proving the New Balance’s versatility. As for the color, go with the Core version because the darker grey will nicely contrast your outfit!

These New Balance shoes run true, but it does have that thick volume to them. It is actually lightweight and filled with comfy suede. If you are interested in the 574, I recommend that you get true to size and opt for half a size bigger if it feels too tight. But usually, the suede will stretch, providing enough room for your feet, so true to size will do just fine.

Conclusion

Choosing New Balance shoes that fit comfortably can be a tedious task. I believe that this brand designs the most comfortable shoes money can buy, and they are true to size most of the time.

But, if you do not get the correct size, their comfy design will be wasted. Hence, learning how to read the size chart and identifying which model is ideal for your feet is crucial.

It is also important to identify whether you have wide or narrow feet. Doing so will allow you to select which New Balance shoes run small, big, and true to size. A pair of New Balance shoes that match the shape of your feet will provide you with maximum comfort, enhancing your mobility.

So, check out my New Balance shoe sizing guide above, and you will get that pair that fits snugly!


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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Will You Buy New Balance Shoes?

New Balance shoes can be an excellent fit for many people. They usually fit true to size, but you may need to adjust your sizing if your feet are narrower or wider than average. That way, you can get a pair that’s comfortable and can provide the support you need.

You don’t have to wear a pair of shoes that causes excess pain or that lead to blisters. Keep shopping for the right pair until you find shoes that suit your needs.

2. Is New Balance 574 Runs Wide?

For those who love retro, chunky-looking shoes, I believe that New Balance 574 can be a good choice. This model runs true to size and offers generous room for feet with any width, thanks to the wide footbed design. It has that extremely comfy cushioning for your arch and heels.

However, some reviewers say that it is a bit narrow because of the suede, so it provides less room. Nevertheless, I do think that you should get the same size because the suede will stretch. If you think it still feels too tight, you get one half a size bigger for a comfier fit.

3. Which New Balance Running Shoes are the best?

The Fresh Foam series is perhaps the best New Balance for running on even terrain casually. I’ve tried several versions myself, but the 880v12 fits me the best. It is a versatile shoe that provides you with ample cushioning, ventilation, and flexibility, ideal for light jogs.

If you need more support and stability, the 860v13 and 1080v12 would be excellent alternatives. For serious races, though, you may consider choosing the FuelCell variants. It is bouncy yet retains a solid structure when you want to go fast.