Many runners and sneaker lovers wonder, “Do ASICS run small?” It’s a critical question, as the last thing anyone wants is painful feet.
But worry not. We tried every Asics model and have got a clear answer for you. In short: most ASICS shoes are true to size! However, some models, like Gel-Kayano or Gel-Nimbus run a little small, especially in the toe box.
Want more info? Then, keep reading. Here, we are also discussing how ASICS compares to Nike, Adidas, or New Balance.
Let’s begin!
Key Takeaways
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ASICS shoes are true to size, but some models run small.
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Gel-Kayano and Gel-Nimbus fit snugly, while Gel-Cumulus offers more room.
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If you have wide feet, go for ASICS’ wide-fit models or size up.
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Measure your feet before buying (to avoid a tight fit).
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If your ASICS feel too tight, adjust the laces or try a shoe stretcher.
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Going half a size up is often a safe choice for comfort.
Do ASICS Run Small? Know the Details
ASICS shoes are true to size, but some models fit tighter than others. Most people can stick with their regular size, but if you like a little extra toe room, you might want to go half a size up in certain models.
Some ASICS models, like the Gel-Kayano and Gel-Nimbus, tend to feel a bit small—especially in the toe box. On the other hand, models like the GT-2000 and Gel-Cumulus fit more standard. Therefore, if you have wide feet, you might find ASICS a little narrow unless you get a wide-fit version.
Another thing to keep in mind is that ASICS shoes don’t stretch much. Unlike brands like Adidas, ASICS uses firmer materials that hold their shape. So, if a pair feels tight when you first try them on, they’ll probably stay that way.
Want our opinion? If you like a little breathing room, it’s better to go half a size bigger.
How Do ASICS Fit Compared to Other Brands?
ASICS shoes have a tighter, more structured fit compared to many other brands. Here’s a quick look at how ASICS compares to other big brands:
|
Brand |
Fit Type |
True to Size? |
Width Options? |
Key Fit Differences |
|
ASICS |
Snug, structured |
Mostly true to size |
Yes (wide options) |
Some models run small, narrow toe box |
|
Nike |
Varies by model |
Mostly true to size |
Limited |
Some models are tight, others roomy |
|
Adidas |
Relaxed fit |
True to size |
Some wide options |
Feels looser, good for casual wear |
|
New Balance |
Roomy and wider |
True to size |
Excellent wide options |
Best for wide feet, softer cushioning |
|
Brooks |
Balanced fit |
True to size |
Yes |
Comfortable but secure for running |
|
Hoka One One |
Cushioned and roomy |
Runs big sometimes |
Yes |
Wider toe box, extra cushioning |
ASICS vs. Nike
Nike and ASICS fit differently, depending on the model. Some Nike shoes, like the Pegasus, run narrow, while others, like the Air Force 1, are roomy.
In general, ASICS shoes feel more structured. They hold your foot in place more than Nike, which can make them feel smaller (even if they’re the same size).
If you’re switching from Nike to ASICS, your regular size might work, but you may prefer a half-size up, especially in Gel-Kayano, Gel-Nimbus, and other snug ASICS models. Nike’s shoes tend to be more flexible, while ASICS stays firm, so they won’t stretch over time.
Note: If you wear a size 10 in Nike running shoes, you’ll likely need a 10 in ASICS too, but if you like extra toe room, a 10.5 might feel better.
ASICS vs. Adidas
Here’s the deal: Adidas shoes usually have a more relaxed fit than ASICS. If you’ve worn Adidas Ultraboost or Cloudfoam, you know they feel soft and roomy—almost like slippers. ASICS, on the other hand, has a more structured design, which can make them feel tighter and smaller.
So, if you’re switching from Adidas to ASICS, you might want to try half a size up in ASICS.
ASICS vs. New Balance
New Balance is known for making wider shoes, while ASICS is generally narrower. If you have wide feet, ASICS might feel a little snug—especially in models like the Gel-Kayano. New Balance, on the other hand, is a brand that naturally has a roomier fit.
For example, New Balance Fresh Foam and 1080 series are soft and spacious, while ASICS Gel-Nimbus is cushioned but tighter.
If you usually wear New Balance and switch to ASICS, you might need a half-size up.
ASICS vs. Brooks
Both ASICS and Brooks make great running shoes, but Brooks shoes tend to feel a bit more forgiving in terms of fit. Brooks shoes, like the Ghost and Adrenaline GTS, are secure but still roomy, while ASICS shoes, like the Gel-Kayano and GT-2000, are a bit tighter overall.
If you’re switching from Brooks to ASICS, you might feel ASICS has less toe space. If you don’t like a snug fit, you might want to go half a size up in ASICS.
ASICS vs. Hoka
Hoka is known for extra cushioning and a wide toe box. For example, the Hoka Bondi and Clifton have lots of cushioning and a roomier fit. In comparison, the ASICS Gel-Nimbus and Gel-Kayano feel snug and structured.
If you’re switching from Hoka to ASICS, you might want to go half a size up.
How to Choose the Right Size for Your ASICS Shoes
If you’re not sure what size to get, don’t worry! Here are simple tips to help you find the perfect ASICS fit.
1. Measure Your Feet Before Buying
You’d be surprised how many people wear the wrong shoe size without even realizing it. Feet can change over time due to things like:
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Weight gain
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Aging
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Running itself.
That’s why it’s always a good idea to measure your feet before buying new ASICS.
The best time to measure your feet is in the afternoon or evening. Why? Because feet tend to swell a little throughout the day. If you measure them in the morning, you might end up with shoes that feel tight later in the day.
To measure your feet at home:
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Place a piece of paper against the wall.
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Stand with your heel against the wall and put your full weight on your foot.
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Mark the longest part of your foot on the paper.
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Measure from the heel to the longest toe.
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Compare the measurement with ASICS’ official size chart to find your best fit.
2. Check the ASICS Size Chart
Just because you’re a size 10 in Nike or Adidas doesn’t mean you’ll be the same in ASICS. Every brand sizes shoes a little differently, so checking the ASICS size chart is the best way to make sure you’re getting the right fit.
Here’s an easy trick:
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If you’re in between sizes, go half a size up for more comfort.
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If you have wide feet, check if your ASICS model comes in a wide-fit version (marked as 2E for men and D for women).
Some ASICS models, like the Gel-Kayano, tend to fit tighter, while others, like the Gel-Cumulus, have a bit more room. If you're unsure, reading customer reviews can also help—people often mention whether a model runs small, big, or true to size.
3. Consider Your Foot Width
One of the biggest complaints about ASICS shoes is that they feel a little narrow—especially for people with wider feet. ASICS running shoes are designed for a secure fit, which is great for stability but can feel too snug if you have broad feet.
If you have narrow or average feet, you can stick to your usual size. But if your feet are wider, consider one of these options:
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Check if the model comes in a wide size – Many ASICS models, like the Gel-Nimbus and GT-2000, have wide-fit options.
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Go half a size up – If wide sizes aren’t available, increasing your size slightly can give you more space.
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Try a different ASICS model – Some models naturally have a roomier fit (like the ASICS Gel-Cumulus) compared to others.
4. Try Them On With Running Socks
This is a simple but important step: Always try your ASICS on with the socks you’ll actually be wearing when you run or train.
Running socks are usually a bit thicker than regular socks, and if you test your shoes with thin socks, they might feel fine at first—but too tight later. If you normally wear thick cushioned socks, make sure to wear them while trying on your new ASICS so you get a true feel for the fit.
Also, make sure to walk around for a few minutes in them. Your heel should feel secure without slipping, and you should have about a thumb’s width of space in the toe box. If your toes are touching the front right away, the shoes are too small.
5. Walk or Jog in Them Before Deciding
Just because your ASICS fit well while standing still doesn’t mean they’ll feel great when you start walking or running.
After trying them on, take them for a quick test:
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Walk around the house – Do your feet feel comfortable, or are they squeezed?
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Jog in place or do a few strides outside – This will help you see if the shoes rub in certain areas.
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Check for slipping – If your heel is moving up and down a lot, the shoes might be too big.
If they feel even slightly too tight, chances are they’ll feel way worse once you actually run in them. If that’s the case, consider sizing up or trying a wide-fit version.
What to Do If Your ASICS Shoes Feel Too Tight?
If your ASICS feel too tight, don’t panic! Since ASICS shoes are made to fit snug, they might feel a little uncomfortable at first. But before you rush to return them, there are a few tricks you can try to make them fit better.
1. Loosen the Laces for a Better Fit
One simple trick that works right away is adjusting the laces. Most people lace their shoes too tightly, which can make them feel smaller than they actually are.
Try this:
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Loosen the bottom eyelets near the toe box if the front feels tight.
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Skip an eyelet near the middle of the shoe to relieve pressure on the top of your foot.
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Use heel-lock lacing if your heel is slipping but the toe box feels tight.
2. Wear Thinner Socks
If your ASICS feel just a little too tight, switching to a thinner pair of socks can help. Some running socks are extra thick for cushioning, but if your shoes already feel snug, that extra padding can make things worse.
A lightweight running sock can free up just enough space to make your shoes more comfortable.
3. Try a Shoe Stretcher
If your ASICS are tight in specific areas—like the toe box or sides—a shoe stretcher can help loosen them up.
How to use a shoe stretcher:
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Insert it into the shoe.
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Turn the dial to gently expand the width.
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Leave it overnight.
This won’t make your shoes a full size bigger, but it can add just enough extra space to make them more comfortable.
4. Break Them in Gradually
Sometimes, ASICS shoes just need a little time to mold to your feet. Instead of wearing them for a long run right away, start slow:
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Wear them around the house for short periods.
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Walk in them for 10–15 minutes a day before running.
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Use them for short runs before taking them on long distances.
This will help the shoe loosen up naturally without causing discomfort.
5. Exchange for a Half-Size Bigger
If you’ve tried everything and your ASICS still feel too tight, don’t force it—it’s better to exchange them for a half-size up. Running in shoes that are too small can lead to blisters, black toenails, and foot pain, so it’s not worth suffering through a bad fit.
Most stores and online retailers allow exchanges, especially if the shoes are unworn. If you’ve only worn them indoors, you should be able to swap them out for a better size.
Conclusion
Choosing the right ASICS size is easy when you know what to look for. In summary:
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ASICS shoes are mostly true to size, but some models run snugly.
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Gel-Kayano and Gel-Nimbus tend to feel smaller, so consider half a size up.
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Wide feet? Choose ASICS models that come in wide-fit versions for extra comfort.
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Test your shoes with running socks and walk around before deciding on the right fit.
Now that you know how ASICS fit, you’re ready to find the perfect pair for your feet. Happy running!
