Nike vs Adidas sizing: which runs bigger?
Nike tends to run small — size up half. Adidas runs true to size. They also label EU and UK sizes differently.
The quick answer
For the same foot you often need a half size larger in Nike than in Adidas, especially in running models. Adidas lifestyle shoes (Stan Smith, Superstar) and the Ultraboost run true to size; the Yeezy 350 runs about half a size small.
Why the labels differ
| Difference | Nike | Adidas |
|---|---|---|
| US → UK offset | 1 full size (US 10 = UK 9) | ½ size (US 10 = UK 9.5) |
| EU labelling | Half size higher | Half size lower |
| Men's → women's | 1.5 size offset | 1 size offset |
| Toe box | Narrower | Wider, roomier |
Because Adidas uses a half-size UK offset and Nike a full size, comparing UK numbers directly misleads. Match your foot length in cm and read each brand's cm column.
Model-by-model fit
| Model | Fit |
|---|---|
| Nike Air Force 1 | Roomy — true to size or size down half |
| Nike Dunk / SB | Runs small — size up half |
| Nike running | Runs small — size up half |
| Adidas Ultraboost | True to size |
| Adidas Stan Smith / Superstar | True to size |
| Adidas Yeezy 350 | Runs small — size up half |
Frequently asked questions
Does Nike run bigger or smaller than Adidas?
Nike generally runs smaller. For the same foot you often need a half size larger in Nike than in Adidas.
Is a Nike size 10 the same as Adidas size 10?
Roughly, but Nike fits smaller and the UK/EU labels differ. Match your foot length in cm.
Which has a wider toe box?
Adidas generally has a roomier toe box; Nike tends to fit narrower.