New Balance shoes run narrower and often smaller than most other activewear brands

New Balance is known for offering shoes in multiple width options — a feature most competitors do not provide at the same scale. If you wear a standard width in Nike or Adidas, you may need to size up or choose a wider width in New Balance. The brand's sizing tends to run about half a size small compared to Asics, and roughly true to size compared to Brooks, though this varies by specific model.

The company manufactures shoes in different factories across multiple countries, and fit can shift between models even within the same size. A New Balance 990 in size 10 will not necessarily fit the same way as a New Balance 574 in size 10. Reading reviews specific to the model you are considering, rather than relying on the brand name alone, gives you a clearer picture of what to expect.

New Balance offers width codes on most shoes: B (standard), D (wide), and 2E (extra wide). Some models also come in 4E (double extra wide). This range exists because the brand markets itself partly on fit customization — the idea that you can find a shoe that matches your foot shape, not just your foot length.

Key Takeaways

  • New Balance shoes typically run half a size smaller than Asics and true to size compared to Brooks, but fit varies by individual model.
  • The brand offers width options (B, D, 2E, 4E) that most other activewear brands do not, allowing you to match both length and width to your foot.
  • Trying on shoes in person or ordering from retailers with free returns reduces the risk of sizing wrong, since fit can shift between models.
  • New Balance's manufacturing across multiple countries means the same size can fit differently depending on where and when the shoe was made.

How New Balance width codes work

The letter after the shoe size indicates width. B is the standard width, roughly equivalent to what other brands call "regular" or "medium." If you have a wider foot, you move to D (wide), then 2E (extra wide), then 4E (double extra wide) if the model offers it.

Not every New Balance model comes in every width. Running shoes and training shoes are more likely to offer the full range, while lifestyle or casual models may only come in B and D. Checking the product page before you order tells you which widths are actually available for that specific shoe.

Width codes are not universal across brands. A D width in New Balance is not the same as a D width in Saucony or Hoka. Each brand sets its own width standards, so you cannot assume your width in one brand will transfer directly to New Balance.

New Balance sizing compared to Nike, Adidas, and Asics

Nike shoes tend to run true to size or slightly large, especially in the Air Max and Air Force lines. If you wear a size 10 in Nike, you might wear a 10.5 in New Balance. Adidas runs similarly to Nike — true to size or slightly generous — so the same half-size bump often applies when switching to New Balance.

Asics shoes run large, sometimes by a full size. A size 10 in Asics often corresponds to a size 9.5 in New Balance. Brooks shoes are closer to New Balance in fit, so your size usually transfers directly between the two brands.

These comparisons hold most consistently for running shoes. Cross-training shoes, basketball shoes, and lifestyle models can behave differently, so checking reviews for the specific model matters more than relying on brand-to-brand rules.

Why New Balance fit varies between models

New Balance manufactures shoes in factories in the United States, Vietnam, China, and Indonesia. A shoe made in one country may fit slightly differently from the same model made in another, even if the size label is identical. This is common across the footwear industry but more noticeable in New Balance because the brand produces such a wide range of models.

Different shoe lines also use different lasts — the wooden form that shapes the shoe during manufacturing. The 990 uses a different last than the 574, which uses a different last than the 327. Even if you know your size in one model, the next model you try may fit differently.

The upper material also affects fit. A mesh upper stretches more than a leather or synthetic upper, so a shoe with a mesh upper may feel looser than the same size in a shoe with a stiffer upper. Reading model-specific reviews helps you understand whether a particular shoe will be snug or roomy.

How to measure your foot for New Balance shoes

Measure your foot length and width at home using a ruler or measuring tape. Stand on a flat surface with your full weight on both feet — your foot expands slightly when you stand, so this gives you a more accurate measurement than sitting down. Measure from your heel to the tip of your longest toe for length, and across the widest part of your foot for width.

Compare your measurements to New Balance's size chart on their website. The chart shows both length and width, so you can see which size and width code matches your foot. Keep in mind that shoe sizes are not exact — a size 10 covers a range of foot lengths, usually about a quarter-inch.

If your foot length falls between sizes, you have two options: size up and wear thicker socks, or size down and accept a slightly snug fit. Most people prefer to size up for activewear, since a tight shoe can cause blisters during movement.

Return policies and where to buy New Balance

New Balance's official website offers free returns within 60 days if you order directly from them. Most major retailers — Dick's Sporting Goods, Foot Locker, Zappos, Amazon — also offer free returns, though the window varies from 30 to 90 days depending on the retailer. Check the return policy before you order, especially if you are unsure about sizing.

Specialty running stores often let you try shoes on a treadmill before you buy, which removes sizing uncertainty entirely. If you have a local running store that carries New Balance, visiting in person costs you nothing and gives you the most reliable fit information.

Outlet stores and discount sites sometimes carry New Balance at lower prices, but their return policies are often stricter — 30 days instead of 60, or final sale on clearance items. Factor this into your decision if you are ordering from a discount retailer.

Breaking in New Balance shoes

New Balance shoes typically require less break-in time than some competitors, but the first few wears may feel stiff, especially in the heel and arch. Wearing them for short periods — an hour or two — before committing to a full workout helps you identify fit problems early.

If a shoe feels painful rather than just snug during break-in, the size or width is probably wrong. Discomfort that goes away after a few wears is normal; pain that stays or gets worse is a sign to try a different size or width.

New Balance's cushioning also takes a few wears to compress and conform to your foot. A shoe that feels firm on day one may feel noticeably softer by day five, so give the shoe a fair trial before deciding it does not fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I size up or down in New Balance?

If you are between sizes, size up. A shoe that is slightly loose is more comfortable during activity than one that is slightly tight. If you are coming from Nike or Adidas, size up by half a size. If you are coming from Asics, your New Balance size will likely be the same or a half-size larger.

What is the difference between D and 2E width in New Balance?

D is a wide width, suitable for feet that are noticeably wider than average. 2E is extra wide, for feet that are significantly wider. If a regular B width feels snug across the ball of your foot, try D. If D still feels tight, move to 2E. Most people wear B or D; 2E and 4E are less common.

Can I return New Balance shoes if I have worn them?

New Balance's official website allows returns within 60 days even if the shoes have been worn, as long as they are not visibly damaged. Other retailers have different policies — some accept worn returns, others do not. Check the specific retailer's return policy before you order.

Do New Balance shoes stretch over time?

Mesh uppers stretch slightly, usually by about a quarter-size. Leather and synthetic uppers stretch less. If your New Balance shoes feel snug in the first week, they may loosen up a bit, but do not count on significant stretching. A shoe that is painfully tight will not become comfortable through stretching alone.

Why do New Balance shoes cost more than other brands?

New Balance manufactures many of its shoes in the United States and other higher-wage countries, which increases production costs. The brand also invests in multiple width options and different lasts for different models, adding to the price. You are paying partly for domestic manufacturing and fit customization, not just the brand name.