How do New Balance shoes fit? The guide to choosing the right size
With its multitude of models circulating in the sneaker market, New Balance has become one of the most sought-after brands at the moment. Beyond the comfort of its sneakers, which is well established, New Balance has surrounded itself with exceptional designers to showcase its models, such as the 2002R, 1906R, or 530, around the world.
But one question keeps coming up for everyone who orders online: "How do New Balance shoes fit?" No worries, here is a clear guide to understanding the New Balance fit and choosing your correct size.
The New Balance fit: comfort designed for everyday use
New Balance has always placed comfort at the center of all its creations. It should not be forgotten that above all, New Balance is a sports equipment manufacturer that focused on comfortable sneakers so that athletes could improve their performance. The brand has a true running heritage, and this approach influences all its ranges, even the lifestyle models.
The fit of a New Balance shoe is often slightly more natural than that of a Nike for example. The shape hugs the arch of the foot, the cushioning is quite soft, and the toebox is wider and more flexible. This explains the immediate comfort felt when slipping on a pair for the first time. In most cases, New Balance is TTS (True to Size), neither too big nor too small. Size differences mainly come from the design of the model and the type of materials used.
Do New Balance shoes run small or large? Overall feedback
For a standard foot, it is generally sufficient to choose your usual size to achieve a comfortable fit. However, people with a narrow or wide foot may notice some nuances depending on the models.
For a narrow foot, it is rare to need a smaller size. The heel support and the rounded shape of the front stabilize the foot well. For a normal foot, all ranges fit perfectly at the usual size. For a wide foot, some retro models like the 530 or 550 may feel slightly snug at first. In this case, we recommend going up half a size.
In general, New Balance offers a balanced fit, neither tight nor too loose. This is what makes the brand so pleasant for everyday use.
How to measure your foot and avoid size errors?
More spacious, more cushioned. Here’s what to remember about the design and fit of New Balance pairs compared to other brands.
The best way to choose an appropriate size is to measure your foot and follow the size guide of the brand. The measurement in centimeters is the most reliable method, especially when shopping online. New Balance systematically uses this measurement on the label inside the shoe, and it remains the most accurate reference for choosing your size.
To measure your foot, place a sheet against a wall, put your foot on it, heel firmly against the wall. Mark where your longest toe ends, then measure the distance. Repeat the process for both feet and keep the highest measurement. Then choose the New Balance size whose measurement in centimeters corresponds to this length. Taking a size slightly larger than the measurement can be useful if you prefer more space or if you wear thick socks.
How do the most popular New Balance models fit?
Each model has its own shape, and you may sometimes notice some differences.
New Balance 530
The New Balance 530 is one of the flagship models of recent years. Its retro running style, lightness, and comfortable sole make it a versatile pair. It fits true to size, but its forefoot may feel slightly narrow at first, especially for wide feet. For a standard foot, the usual size will be perfect. For a wide foot, an additional half size provides slightly more comfort.
New Balance 2002R
The 2002R, the star of recent years! This model has managed to impress with its aesthetics, especially with the Protection Pack, but also thanks to the comfort of its sole, which it shares with the 1906 range. It fits normally and is suitable for most feet without any particular adjustment. Even for wide feet, the usual size works well due to its slightly more flexible construction than that of the 530.
New Balance 1906R
With its more technical silhouette, the 1906R has a more pronounced support at the forefoot. This sensation is intentional: it is part of its design, inspired by running and originally created for performance. The model fits true to size, but a wide foot may prefer a half size up to avoid a too compressed feeling at first.
New Balance 99X (990, 991, 992, 993, etc.)
The 99X series is the premium range of the brand. Designed in the United States or the United Kingdom depending on the versions, it offers a slightly wider fit and superior comfort. The usual size is almost always the best option, regardless of foot width.
New Balance running (Fresh Foam, FuelCell)
New Balance running models adopt a construction designed for performance. The heel is well locked in, the forefoot is flexible, and the shoe perfectly accompanies the movement. For running, choosing your usual size is recommended. If you run long distances or if your foot swells easily, a half size or even a full size up may be preferable.
Quick tips for choosing your New Balance size
If you are hesitating between two sizes, always choose the larger one. If your foot swells at the end of the day, prefer a model with a slightly more spacious forefoot. If you come from a brand like Nike, your usual size will work at New Balance, but it will feel more comfortable. If you prefer a snug fit, some lifestyle models like the 530 or 1906R will be more suitable.
