Sizing guide Updated

Nike Air Force 1 Sizing Guide: Does It Run Small or True to Size?

Short answer

The Nike Air Force 1 fits large, and Nike itself recommends ordering a half size down. That is Nike's own verdict on the Air Force 1 — "Fits large; we recommend ordering a half size down" — printed on every product page, and it should anchor every purchase.

Runs large · consider sizing down

Cross-sizing: what size to buy

Find a shoe you already own and read across to the Nike Air Force 1 size to buy.

  • Nike Dunk Low

    Your usual Buy
    US 10 9.5
    EU 44 43
  • Adidas Samba OG

    Your usual Buy
    US 10 9.5
    EU 44 43
  • New Balance 550

    Your usual Buy
    US 10 9.5
    EU 44 43
  • Puma Cali

    Your usual Buy
    US 10 9.5
    EU 44 43

Fit Notes

Nike Dunk Low
The Dunk Low is a snug leather low-top most buyers wear true to size. The AF1 swims on those same feet, which is why Nike's half-down guidance exists. If you take 10 in the Dunk with a snug fit, start at 9.5 in the AF1. Dunk wearers who sized up for width can often stay closer to their Dunk size.
Adidas Samba OG
Our Samba OG review describes true-to-size length with severe narrowness. The AF1 is the mirror image: long and roomy where the Samba pinches. Samba wearers who take 10 should start at 9.5 in the AF1 and enjoy the extra volume. Those who sized up in the Samba for width may find 9.5 snug-free.
New Balance 550
Our 550 review calls that shoe snug with a tight toe box that often needs a half size up. The AF1 needs the opposite treatment. If you wear 10 in the 550 after sizing up, your foot likely measures 9.5, which is exactly the AF1 size Nike recommends. Use your measured size, not your 550 size.
Puma Cali
Our Cali review describes a snug, low-slung leather shoe that pushes many buyers up a half size. The AF1 runs a full step roomier. If you take 10 in the Cali, your foot likely measures 9.5 or less, so start at 9.5 in the AF1. Cali wearers with narrow feet may even consider a full size down.

Sizing FAQ

Do Nike Air Force 1 run true to size?

No, they run large. Nike's own pages say the shoe fits large and recommend ordering a half size down. Most owners agree, though a smaller group wears their usual size comfortably. A third-party poll of buyers leans true to size, so feet vary. When in doubt, take the half down.

Should I size down in Nike Air Force 1?

Yes, in most cases. Dropping a half size from your normal sneaker size gives the secure fit most owners prefer. Only skip the size-down if your feet run wide or you prefer a roomy feel. Trying both sizes in the socks you wear matters most.

Are Nike Air Force 1 good for wide feet?

Better than most white-leather icons. The roomy toe box accommodates average and mildly wide feet, though Nike sells no wide version on its US pages. Very wide feet may still press against the leather. True wide seekers should look at models with real wide options.

Specs & Sizing

Weight 465 g
Retail price $115
Release year 1982
Upper Leather upper with perforated toe box and padded low-cut collar
Midsole Foam midsole with Nike Air cushioning
Outsole Rubber outsole with heritage hoops pivot circles
Technologies Nike Air, Perforated leather upper, Heritage pivot-circle outsole
Fit & sizing Fits large; Nike says order a half size down