To make this New Balance Sizing Guide I put my hands on over 30 New Balance shoes and took over 1000 side-by-side photos comparing the fit and sizing of New Balance shoes to other popular brands. After doing that, what’s my conclusion? Do New Balance shoes run big or small?
Most New Balance shoes run true to size and fit very comparable to other popular shoe brands. I would recommend you click on the style you are interested in below, which will take you to my sizing advice (and photos) for that specific model.
Lifestyle
237 | 327 | 515 | 550 | 574 | 57/40 | 720 | 992 | 993 | 997 | CT302 | Numeric | XC-72
Walking/Training
577 | 608 | 624 | 813 | W840v3 | 847 | 877 | 928 | 1300
Running
840 | 860 | 880 | 990 | 1080 | 1540 | 2002r | FF Cruz | FF More | FC Rebel | FC Propel | FF Roav | Nergize | FF Arishi | FF Hierro
***If you don’t see your style listed, click here.
Again, I found most types of New Balance shoes to fit true-to-size. There were only 3 shoes that I felt like were not true to size (learn more). For most New Balance shoes, it is best to stick to your normal shoe sizing.
Regarding width, some types of New Balance shoes are designed to have a wider forefoot and deeper toe box. Click here to learn more about what types of New Balance shoes fit wide.
This New Balance sizing guide is updated periodically to include new style releases.
New Balance Sizing Guide
New Balance 237 Sizing
New Balance 237 shoes fit true to size for most people. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of athletic casual shoes. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
Although the New Balance 237 was originally a running shoe in the 1970’s, this contemporary version is most often used as a fashion athletic sneaker for casual wear. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance 237 (right) compared to Nike Air Max Excee and Adidas 2k Boost:
As you can see, the sizing is very similar.
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the 237 New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the 237 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot videos).
New Balance 327 Sizing
New Balance 327 shoes fit true to size for most people. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of athletic casual shoes. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
Although the New Balance 327 is inspired by classic running shoes, it is most often used as a fashion athletic sneaker for casual wear. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance 327 (right) compared to Nike Air Max Excee and Adidas 2k Boost:
As you can see, the sizing is very similar.
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the 327 New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the 327 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot videos).
New Balance 515 Sizing
New Balance 515 shoes fit true to size for most people. However, some people find that the 515 fits just a little bit smaller than their normal shoe size regarding length. If you are in-between sizes, it may be best to size up.
This shoe is built using the SL-2 last, which is designed to create a wider forefoot area and a deeper toe box (learn more about 515 width). However, the SL-2 will *most likely* not be wide enough in standard form to overcome the need for wide sizing. In most cases, even on a wider last like the SL-2, you should still order wide sizing if you normally order wide sizing in shoes.
The New Balance 515 is similar to the popular New Balance 574. These shoes are versatile shoes, built to have an athletic, but more rugged, design that can fit a wide variety of needs. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance 515 (right) compared to Under Armour HOVR and Reebok Classics (version is the 515v3):
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the 515 New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the 515 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width).
New Balance 574 Sizing
New Balance 574 shoes fit true to size for most people. However, some people find that the 574 fits just a little bit smaller than their normal shoe size regarding length. If you are in-between sizes, it may be best to size up.
This shoe is built using the SL-2 last, which is designed to create a wider forefoot area and a deeper toe box (learn more about 574 width). However, the SL-2 will *most likely* not be wide enough in standard form to overcome the need for wide sizing. In most cases, even on a wider last like the SL-2, you should still order wide sizing if you normally order wide sizing in shoes.
The New Balance 574 is one of New Balance’s most popular shoes. It is a versatile shoe that can “do a lot of different things well.” For most people, these shoes fill the role of a casual shoe that is comfortable to wear, but more rugged than a lightweight running shoe.
For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance 574 (right) compared to Under Armour HOVR and Reebok Classics:
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the 574 New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took for both men and women which compare the 574 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance 57/40 Sizing
New Balance 57/40 shoes fit true to size for most people. However, it should be noted that it is built on a slimmer last than the classic New Balance 574 shoes, which means if you prefer a looser, wider fit, you may need to size up a half size.
The New Balance 57/40 is a more modern take on the classic New Balance 574 shoe and includes a larger midsole and foam mud-guard detailing. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance 57/40 (right) compared to Nike Air Max Excee and Adidas 2k Boost:
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the 57/40 New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the 57/40 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance 577 Sizing
New Balance 577 shoes fit true to size for most people. However, some people find that the 577 fits just a little bit smaller than their normal shoe size regarding length. If you are in-between sizes, it may be best to size up a half size.
This shoe is built using the SL-2 last, which is designed to create a wider forefoot area and a deeper toe box (learn more about 577 width). However, the SL-2 will *most likely* not be wide enough in standard form to overcome the need for wide sizing. In most cases, even on a wider last like the SL-2, you should still order wide sizing if you normally order wide sizing in shoes.
The New Balance 577 is a leather walking casual shoe built to provide support and stability. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance 577 (right) compared to Skechers Afterburn and Nike Air Max Excee (version is the 577v1):
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the 577 New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the 577 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance 608 Sizing
New Balance 608 shoes fit true to size for most people. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of casual sneakers. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
The New Balance 608 is a versatile leather shoe that can be used as a trainer or as a casual shoe. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance 608 (right) compared to Nike Air Max Excee and Adidas 2k Boost (version 608v5):
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the 608 New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the 608 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance 624 Sizing
New Balance 624 shoes fit true to size for most people. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of casual sneakers. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
The New Balance 624 is a versatile leather shoe that can be used as a trainer or as a casual shoe. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance 624 (right) compared to Nike Air Max Excee and Adidas 2k Boost:
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the 624 New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the 624 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance 720 Sizing
New Balance 720 shoes fit true to size for most people. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of athletic casual shoes. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
The New Balance 720 is an updated version of a retro running shoe. It has a lightweight design and can be used for a variety of reasons (it is mainly used as a casual shoe). For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance 720 (right) compared to Nike Air Max Excee and Adidas Superstar:
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the 720 New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the 720 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance 813 Sizing
New Balance 813 shoes fit true to size for most people. However, some people find that the 813 fits just a little bit smaller than their normal shoe size regarding length. If you are in-between sizes, it may be best to size up.
This shoe is built using the SL-2 last, which is designed to create a wider forefoot area and a deeper toe box (learn more about 813 width). However, the SL-2 will *most likely* not be wide enough in standard form to overcome the need for wide sizing. In most cases, even on a wider last like the SL-2, you should still order wide sizing if you normally order wide sizing in shoes.
The New Balance 813 is a leather walking/casual shoe built with motion-control technology for stabilized support. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance 813 (right) compared to Reebok Classics and Nike Air Max Excee (version 813v1):
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the 813 New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the 813 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance 840 Sizing
New Balance 840 shoes fit true to size. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of athletic running shoes. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
This shoe is built using the SL-2 last, which is designed to create a wider forefoot area and a deeper toe box (learn more about 840 width). However, the SL-2 will *most likely* not be wide enough in standard form to overcome the need for wide sizing. In most cases, even on a wider last like the SL-2, you should still order wide sizing if you normally order wide sizing in shoes.
The New Balance 840 is a casual/running shoe that has more support under the foot than modern “squishy” running shoes. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance 840 (right) compared to Nike Air Max Excee and Under Armour HOVR (version 840v5):
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the 840 New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the 840 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance MW840 Sizing
New Balance W840 shoes fit true to size. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of athletic casual shoes. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
This shoe is built using the SL-2 last, which is designed to create a wider forefoot area and a deeper toe box (learn more about W840v3 width). However, the SL-2 will *most likely* not be wide enough in standard form to overcome the need for wide sizing. In most cases, even on a wider last like the SL-2, you should still order wide sizing if you normally order wide sizing in shoes.
The New Balance W840 is a leather walking/casual shoe built with breathable leather and I found it to be more flexible than other leather walking shoes. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance W840 (right) compared to Adidas 2k Boost and Skechers Afterburn (version W840v3):
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the W840 New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the MW840 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance 847 Sizing
New Balance 847 shoes fit true to size. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of athletic casual shoes. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
This shoe is built using the SL-2 last, which is designed to create a wider forefoot area and a deeper toe box (learn more about 847 width). However, the SL-2 will *most likely* not be wide enough in standard form to overcome the need for wide sizing. In most cases, even on a wider last like the SL-2, you should still order wide sizing if you normally order wide sizing in shoes.
The New Balance 847 is a walking/casual shoe built with mesh on the upper to offer more lightweight breathability than other walking shoes. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance 847 (right) compared to Skechers Afterburn and Nike Air Max Excee (version 847v4):
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the 847 New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the 847 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance 860 Sizing
New Balance 860 shoes fit true to size for most people. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of athletic running shoes. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
The New Balance 860 is a running shoe with a bit more stability under the foot than more modern “squishy” running shoes. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance 860 (right) compared to Adidas Cloudfoam and Asics sizing (version 860v12):
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the 860 New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took for both men and women which compare the 860 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance 877 Sizing
The New Balance 877 shoes fit true to size for most people. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of casual sneakers. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
This shoe is built using the SL-2 last, which is designed to create a wider forefoot area and a deeper toe box (learn more about 877 width). However, the SL-2 will *most likely* not be wide enough in standard form to overcome the need for wide sizing. In most cases, even on a wider last like the SL-2, you should still order wide sizing if you normally order wide sizing in shoes.
The New Balance 877 is a walking shoe that can also be used for all-day wear. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance 877 (right) compared to Skechers Go Walk and Crocs sizing (version 877v1):
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the 877 New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the 877 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance 880 Sizing
New Balance 880 shoes fit true to size for most people. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of athletic running shoes. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
The 880 is a New Balance Fresh Foam running shoe. This is a modern running shoe that gives you that “squishy” feeling under your foot. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance 880 (right) compared to Nike Zoom Winflo and Asics sizing (version 880v12):
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the 880 New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took for both men and women which compare the 880 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance 928 Sizing
New Balance 928 shoes fit true to size for most people. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of athletic casual shoes. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
This shoe is built using the SL-2 last, which is designed to create a wider forefoot area and a deeper toe box (learn more about 928 width). However, the SL-2 will *most likely* not be wide enough in standard form to overcome the need for wide sizing. In most cases, even on a wider last like the SL-2, you should still order wide sizing if you normally order wide sizing in shoes.
The New Balance 928 is a walking shoe, but it can also be used as a casual or work shoe. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance 928 (right) compared to Skechers Afterburn and Nike Air Max Excee sizing (version 928v3):
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the 928 New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took for both men and women which compare the 928 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance 1080 Sizing
New Balance 1080 shoes fit true to size for most people. However, some people find that the 1080 fits just a little bit larger than their normal shoe size. If you prefer a snug fit, you may need to size down a half size.
The 1080 is a New Balance Fresh Foam running shoe and, in my opinion, is one of the most comfortable shoes that New Balance offers. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance 1080 (right) compared to Nike Zoom Winflo and Asics sizing (version 1080v12):
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the 1080 New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took for both men and women which compare the 1080 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance 990 Sizing
New Balance 990 shoes fit true to size for most people. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of athletic casual shoes. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
The New Balance 990v5 is part of the New Balance Made in USA collection, and can be used as a running shoe or casual shoe. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance 990 (right) compared to Under Armour HOVR and Adidas 2k Boost sizing (version 990v5):
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the 990 New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took for both men and women which compare the 990 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance 992 Sizing
New Balance 992 shoes fit a little bit larger than normal shoe sizing. If you are in-between shoe sizes, it is probably best to size down. I ordered my normal sizing, and although they fit, it was definitely a looser fit than normal.
The New Balance 992 is part of the New Balance Made in USA collection, and is mainly used as a casual shoe. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance 992 (right) compared to Nike Air Max Excee and Adidas 2k Boost sizing:
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the 992 New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the 992 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance 993 Sizing
New Balance 993 shoes fit true to size for most people. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of athletic casual shoes. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
The New Balance 993 is part of the New Balance Made in USA collection, and is mainly used as a casual shoe. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance 993 (right) compared to Nike Air Max Excee and Skechers Afterburn sizing:
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the 993 New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the 993 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance 997 Sizing
New Balance 997 shoes fit true to size for most people. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of athletic casual shoes. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
The New Balance 997 is a retro casual shoe with an athletic design that can be used for a variety of reasons. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance 997 (right) compared to Nike Air Max Excee and Brooks Adrenaline sizing (version 997H):
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the 997 New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the 997 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance 1540 Sizing
New Balance 1540 shoes fit true to size for most people. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of athletic casual shoes. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
This shoe is built using the SL-2 last, which is designed to create a wider forefoot area and a deeper toe box (learn more about 1540 width). However, the SL-2 will *most likely* not be wide enough in standard form to overcome the need for wide sizing. In most cases, even on a wider last like the SL-2, you should still order wide sizing if you normally order wide sizing in shoes.
The New Balance 1540 is a walking/running shoe that can also be worn casually. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance 1540 (right) compared to Adidas 2k Boost and Nike Air Max Excee sizing (version 1540v3):
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the 1540 New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the 1540 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance 2002r Sizing
New Balance 2002r shoes fit true to size for most people. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of athletic casual shoes. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
The New Balance 2002r is a throwback running shoe based on the design of the early 2000’s. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance 2002r (right) compared to Adidas 2k Boost and Asics sizing:
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the 2002r New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the 2002r side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance Fresh Foam More Sizing
New Balance Fresh Foam More shoes fit true to size for most people. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of athletic running shoes. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
The New Balance Fresh Foam More is one of the most comfortable New Balance running shoes that I tried. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance Fresh Foam More (right) compared to Nike Zoom Winflo and Asics sizing (version Fresh Foam More v3):
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the Fresh Foam More New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the Fresh Foam More side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi Sizing
New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi shoes fit true to size for most people. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of athletic running shoes. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
The New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi is one of the most lightweight New Balance running shoes that I tried. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi (right) compared to Nike Zoom Winflo and Asics sizing (version Fresh Foam Arishi v3):
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the Fresh Foam Arishi New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the Fresh Foam Arishi side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro Sizing
New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro shoes fit true to size for most people. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of athletic running shoes. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
The New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro is a comfortable trail running shoe with an aggressive outsole and a reinforced toe box. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro (right) compared to Nike Zoom Winflo and Adidas Cloudfoam sizing (version Fresh Foam Hierro v7):
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the Fresh Foam Hierro New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the Fresh Foam Hierro side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance Fresh Foam Cruz Sizing
New Balance Cruz shoes run smaller than normal shoe sizing. Yes, the upper is made with a stretchable fabric, which helps account for the small sizing. Still, I would recommend sizing up a half size unless you prefer a snug fit.
The New Balance Fresh Foam Cruz is a lightweight running shoe. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance Fresh Foam Cruz (right) compared to Under Armour HOVR and Asics sizing (version Fresh Foam Cruzv1):
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the Fresh Foam Cruz New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the Fresh Foam Cruz side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance Fresh Foam Roav Sizing
New Balance Roav shoes fit true to size for most people. However, some people find that the Roav fits just a little bit smaller than their normal shoe size. Part of this issue may have to do with the fact that the Roav has a shallow, snug toe box (learn more). For a more regular fit, you may need to size up a half size (or choose wide sizing).
The New Balance Fresh Foam Roav is a lightweight running shoe. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance Fresh Foam Roav (right) compared to Nike Air Max Excee and Adidas 2k Boost sizing (version Fresh Foam Roav v2):
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the Fresh Foam Roav New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the Fresh Foam Roav side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance FuelCell Propel Sizing
New Balance FuelCell Propel shoes fit true to size for most people. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of athletic running shoes. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
The New Balance FuelCell Propel is a lightweight running shoe. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance Propel (right) compared to Asics and Adidas 2k Boost sizing (version Propel v3):
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the Propel New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the Propel side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance FuelCell Rebel Sizing
New Balance FuelCell Rebel shoes fit true to size for most people. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of athletic running shoes. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
The New Balance FuelCell Rebel is a lightweight running shoe. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance Rebel (right) compared to Adidas 2k Boost and Nike Zoom Winflo sizing (version Rebel v2):
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the Rebel New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the Rebel side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance Nergize Sizing
New Balance Nergize shoes run smaller than normal shoe sizing. It is worth noting that they are made with a flexible, stretch material that forms easily to the foot. Regardless, they fit small. For looser sizing, you will need to size up.
The New Balance Nergize is a women’s lightweight athletic shoe. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance Nergize (right) compared to Under Armour and Brooks sizing:
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the Nergize New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the Nergize side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance 1300 Sizing
New Balance 1300 shoes fit true to size for most people. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of athletic hiking shoes. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
The New Balance 1300 is a versatile outdoor shoe often used for hiking. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance 1300 (right) compared to Asics and Adidas sizing (version 1300v1):
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the 1300 New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the 1300 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance Numeric 272 Sizing
For most people, the New Balance Numeric shoes fit true to size. I ordered my normal sizing, and it fit comfortably, but it did run a little bit bigger than similar-styled skate shoes like Vans Classics.
The New Balance Numeric is a versatile casual skate shoe. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance Numeric 272 (right) compared to Vans Old Skool and Adidas Gazelle sizing:
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the Numeric New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the Numeric side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance XC 72 Sizing
New Balance XC-72 shoes fit true to size for most people. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of athletic casual shoes. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
The New Balance XC-72 is inspired by retro running shoes, but functions mainly as a casual shoe. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance XC-72 (right) compared to Nike Blazer and Adidas Superstar sizing:
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the XC-72 New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the XC-72 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance CT302 Sizing
New Balance CT302 shoes fit true to size for most people. They have a fit that is very comparable to other types of casual shoes. I ordered my normal sizing and they fit comfortably.
The New Balance CT302 is a platform shoe and functions mainly as a casual shoe. For sizing comparison, here is my New Balance CT302 (right) compared to Nike Blazer and Adidas Superstar sizing:
SEE MORE PHOTOS: This is where you can view all the CT302 New Balance Sizing comparison photos that I took which compare the CT302 side-by-side to other popular brands (and discuss fit in more detail, including width and on-foot video).
New Balance Sizing Questions
Do New Balance Shoes Run Big or Small?
In general, most types of New Balance shoes fit true to size. Recently I tried over 30 different types of New Balance shoes, and out of all of those shoes, there were only 3 styles that I felt like either ran too big or too small.
I thought the New Balance 992 fit larger than normal shoe sizing, and I though the New Balance Cruz and New Balance Nergize fit smaller than normal shoe sizing.
***If your style number was not listed at the top of the page, you can visit this New Balance sizing resource page available at NewBalance.com which will provide sizing help.
For more sizing information, visit our article that compares New Balance shoe sizing to Nike.
What is the Most Comfortable New Balance Shoe?
The answer to which New Balance shoe is most comfortable is largely dependent on your own specific needs. But after trying 33 New Balance shoes, here are the shoes that jumped out to me as the most comfortable:
- New Balance FuelCell Rebel – I thought this shoe was the most comfortable. This is a lightweight, breathable running shoe and the “FuelCell” foam midsole creates a squishy cushioning under the foot as I walk.
- New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 – Much like the Rebel above, the Fresh Foam 1080 is a running shoe that provides a squishy cushioning under the foot. This is the most comfortable Fresh Foam shoe in my opinion.
- New Balance Made in USA 993 – Out of the Made in USA line (990, 992, 993), I think the 993 shoes offer the most comfort and cushioning under the foot. This is a casual athletic shoe that can fit a wide range of needs.
- New Balance MW840 – This was the most comfortable New Balance walking shoe that I tried. Thick padding around the collar helps stabilize the heel, and despite being made with a full leather upper, I found this shoe to be reasonably flexible.
Are New Balance Shoes Lightweight?
New Balance shoes vary in weight depending on purpose. Their running shoes have a lightweight design. I recently tried 7 different types of New Balance running shoes, and I found the average weight per shoe to be (based on a men’s size 12 shoe).
Some types of New Balance walking shoes will weigh a bit more due to the fact that the many of these shoes are built for support and stability. This means extra design features and sturdier materials.
If you want to see the full list of New Balance weighs for the 33 shoes that I tried, visit my New Balance Weight Chart.
Are New Balance Shoes Wide or Narrow?
Most types of New Balance shoes have a regular width. Some brands tend to run narrow, but after trying over 30 different New Balance shoes, I did not find that to be the case with New Balance sizing.
If you prefer a wider forefoot area and a deeper, roomier toe box area, then a New Balance shoe using the SL-2 last will be a good option. The SL-2 last is a straight last commonly used for athletic shoes that creates a narrower fit around the heel, but a wider forefoot area in combination with a deeper toe box.
The SL-2 last is available for both men’s and women’s New Balance shoes. Here are some of the most popular New Balance shoes that use the SL-2:
- 928v3 – Walking Shoe – click here to view
- 847v4 – Walking Shoe – click here to view
- W840v3 – Walking Shoe – click here to view
- 813v1 – Walking Shoe – click here to view
- 577v1 – Walking Shoe – click here to view
- 840v5 – Running Shoe – click here to view
- 1540v3 – Running Shoe – click here to view
- 574 – Lifestyle Retro – click here to view
- 515 – Lifestyle Retro – click here to view
It’s important to understand that the SL-2 will *most likely* not be wide enough in standard form to overcome the need for wide sizing. In most cases, even on a wider last like the SL-2, you should still order wide sizing if you normally order wide sizing in shoes. The SL-2 will feel just a tiny bit wider that other standard shoes.
If you want to do a deeper dive into the width of New Balance shoes, visit my article about New Balance Shoes Wide Sizing. For the widest options, visit my article that discusses New Balance extra extra wide shoes.