Getting the right shoe size is critical towards getting that superior comfort and support you need whether you’re walking or running.
For those of you who do not know, Brooks is a Seattle-based brand with the sole purpose (pun intended) to design the best running shoes. As a result, Brooks’ running shoes are consistently counted amongst the best in the market, which is no small feat.
The latest technologies, premium rides and top-shelf materials make Brooks running shoes the go-to choice for many runners. But you can only make the most of this no-nonsense running shoe brand if you get the perfect fit. We’ve done the research, and this guide is going to be all about how you find the best fit.
Brooks Shoes Sizing Guide
Let’s start our discussion with the answer of the most common questions:
Do Brooks Shoes Run Big or Small?
Generally, it’s best to visit your local walking or running footwear shoe store to get advice and guidance on fitting, but since that’s not possible at the moment, it is recommended that you choose Brooks running shoes that are at least ½ size to 1 size larger than your normal dress shoe size.
This gives your toes more room to move around while you’re running and minimizes the chances of scratching or getting blisters at the back of your feet.
To make it easier, there should be room for you to slide your index finger down the back of the shoe at the ankle area. You can also check to see if there’s between half and a full thumbs width at the end of the Brooks running shoe. These are just some of the ways to make sure you get the right fit.
Do Brooks Shoes Fit Wide Feet?
Brooks offers various models that cater to different types of feet. But, there is some difference. For instance, you will find a 5mm difference between the Brookes running shoe size 2E and 4E for a men size 8 (US), which puts the 4E at 10.5mm in width.
Brooks’ running shoes for men’s sizes come in B, D, 2E, 4E, while women’s shoes come in 2A, B, D and 2E sizes. For men’s footwear, “D’” is the default width when no width has been specified on the box.
Overall, Brooks is known for designing extremely comfortable running shoes, especially for those runners who tend to heel strike. But if you have a wide foot that keeps blowing out the sides of your 2E shoes, then it’s best to switch up to 4E.
If you really don’t want to rub your bunions the wrong way, the Brooks Ghost 13 is the way to go for more cushioning and better support, especially for wider feet. This is one of the reasons why it is a staple in the brand’s impressive lineup and a favorite amongst runners and cross trainers. It also comes in ‘Wide’ and ‘X-Wide.’
Should You Size Up or Down? Are Brooks Shoes True To Size?
The short answer is no. Brooks’ running shoes are not true to size. In fact, they tend to run a size down. But, to make sure you are able to get the right fit, it is recommended that you order Brooks running shoes that are at least ½ size to one size larger as compared to other shoes.
Still reading? Great. Read on to find out more about Brooks’ running shoe sizes.
Brooks Size Chart
While Brooks has an amazing return policy that’s true to its word, you really want to get the size right the first time. The size chart given here should help you do just that when it comes to choosing the right size Brooks running shoes:
Men’s Sizes
Women’s Sizes
Brooks Shoes Sizing Compared To Nike
Nike is a world-famous athletic brand with a finger in almost every sporting brand (sounds dirty, but it’s true!). On the other hand, you have Brooks Running, a company that’s sole existence is to design the best running shoes you’d find in town.
Sure, it doesn’t have the reach or the endorsements that Nike has (PS: LeBron James is currently on a lifetime contract with Nike that could earn him $1 billion by the time he turns 64), but Brooks has carved out a niche – runners, and it is one that the brand dominates.
Brooks seems to have their finger on the pulse of the running community. This is why Brooks shoes are consistently rated higher than the competition by runners, joggers, cross trainers, heck, even walkers.
When it comes to size, both Brooks and Nike are a lot similar, albeit the latter has more designs to offer. According to the Brooks Running official website, their shoes do tend to fit slightly shorter as compared to Nike, which is why they recommended choosing ½ size to one size larger than what you would normally wear.
Brooks Sizing Compared To Adidas
Adidas is another logo that you see slapped on the sides of caps, apparel, water bottles and the like, and shoes. The brand shares a strong marketing prowess with the likes of Nike and Puma, but niche brands such as Brooks Running boast of an equally impressive lineup (of running shoes) that can easily give Adidas a run for its money.
When comparing the two, Brooks has a much straighter last and wider fit, whereas Adidas (and especially their SC lineup) is more narrow and shapely. It is also important to note that Adidas may sometimes fit a half size larger than Brooks, which is why you need to pay attention to the sizing and the Brooks size chart above.
Most important of all, when comparing these two, with specialty brands such as Brooks, you know you are getting running shoes, while Nike caters to a wide range of consumers, forcing you to try out quite a few pairs before you can find the right one.
Making sure the shoe has a space of at least one thumb between the shoe and your longest tow (which is not always the big toe) also helps. Also, the running shoes you go with should also allow your finger to fit snugly between the shoe and the back of your ankle just to make sure it’s not too tight.
What is You Brooks Shoes Size?
Brooks caters to a variety of foot types, offering a diverse range of shoe widths. In terms of size accuracy, Brooks shoes tend to run smaller. It’s advised to select a Brooks pair that’s ½ to 1 size larger than your standard dress shoe size. This adjustment ensures ample toe space, reducing potential irritations or blisters.
A good fit test involves ensuring there’s room to slide an index finger down the shoe’s back ankle region and maintaining a half to full thumb’s width at the shoe’s end. Despite the brand’s reputation for comfort, it’s crucial to consider this size adjustment for the best fit experience.
Your support means a lot! 
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Photo by Malik Skydsgaard on Unsplash
