Converse Chuck Taylor All Star shoes are one of the most iconic sneaker styles ever created. With their simple canvas upper, rubber toe cap, and distinctive rubber sole, Chucks have remained popular for over 100 years. However, one of the common questions people have about Converse is whether you should size up or down when buying a pair.
The General Consensus: Size Down
The general recommendation for sizing Converse is to go down a half or full size from your regular shoe size. Here are some of the main reasons why sizing down is advised:
- Converse run big – The canvas upper has little structure and stretches over time. Going down a half or full size compensates for the roominess.
- They fit narrow – Converse have a very narrow profile, especially in the toe box. Sizing down allows your feet to fit better within the shoe’s narrow dimensions.
- More space desired – Some people prefer having a little extra wiggle room in their Chucks and size down for a looser, more relaxed fit.
- Thicker socks – If you plan to wear thicker socks with your Converse, sizing down accommodates the extra sock thickness.
While sizing down is the standard recommendation, it’s not necessarily a hard and fast rule. The best way to find your perfect Converse size is to try on different sizes in person. However, if that’s not possible, using your regular shoe size as a starting point and going down at least a half size is a good guideline.
Factors That Influence Converse Sizing
There are a few key factors that can influence what size Converse you ultimately end up with:
Foot Width
One of the most important considerations for Converse sizing is the width of your feet. Here’s how foot width comes into play:
- Narrow feet – Those with narrow feet may be able to stay true to size or only size down a half size. The narrow fit won’t be an issue.
- Wide feet – People with wide feet often have to size up in Converse rather than sizing down to accommodate their foot width. The extra room prevents the shoes from being too tight.
If you have wide feet, sizing up in Converse may be the way to go to get the right fit. You want your feet to fit comfortably within the shoe’s dimensions.
Sock Thickness
The thickness of the socks you plan to wear with your Converse can influence what size you choose:
- Thinner socks – When wearing low-cut socks or no show socks, you may be able to stick with your regular shoe size or just size down a half.
- Thicker socks – If opting for thicker, cushioned socks, sizing up a half size can help accommodate the extra sock volume.
Make sure to consider your ideal sock choice when figuring out your Converse size. The socks can impact how the shoes end up fitting.
Preferred Fit
Personal preference in how you want your Converse to fit will also influence sizing. Here are some fit preferences to consider:
- Snug fit – Some people like the snug, almost tight feel of Converse. They’ll size down a full size or more.
- Loose fit – For a looser, more relaxed fit, you may just size down a half size or stick with your regular shoe size.
- Toe room – If you want extra room in the toe box, sizing up may give you the fit you want.
Think about the fit and feel you want from your Converse shoes when choosing your size.
Outfit Pairings
Styling your Converse with certain outfits can also impact sizing decisions:
- Cropped pants – With cropped pants, smaller sizes give a sleek, streamlined look.
- Skinny jeans – Tapered skinny jeans pair well with the iconic low profile of properly-sized down Chucks.
- Wide leg pants – Larger Converse sizes help balance out the volume of wide leg silhouettes.
- Sockless – Going sockless means sizing down for a perfect barefoot casual fit.
Keep your favorite Converse outfit pairings in mind when fine-tuning your chosen shoe size.
Sizing Tips for Specific Converse Styles
In addition to the general sizing recommendations, here are some style-specific Converse sizing tips:
All Star High Tops
- Run large – Size down a full size or more.
- Can feel snug at first – Break in period may be needed.
- Lace them loosely – Allows feet to move comfortably.
All Star Low Tops
- Run slightly less large than high tops – Can get away with just half size down.
- Low cut offers flexibility – Accommodates wider feet better.
- Low collar improves mobility – Good for active wear.
Chuck Taylor 1970s
- Run true to size – Less need to size down.
- Cushioned insole improves fit – More comfortable at regular size.
- Heavier materials have less stretch – Maintain their structured shape.
Chuck Taylor Platform
- Added height changes fit – Size down half or full size.
- Heavier than regular Chucks – May need to accommodate width.
- Block heel provides support – Good for sizes that fit snug.
Custom Chucks
- Made-to-order sizing – Order your regular shoe size.
- Customize width and height – Optimized fit for your feet.
- Personalized details – Make them your perfect pair.
Converse Size Conversion Chart
Here is a size conversion chart to help guide you in finding the right Converse size compared to other common shoe sizing scales:
| Converse Size | Women’s Size | Men’s Size | Euro Size | UK Size | CM |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 5 | 3.5 | 35.5 | 2.5 | 22.5 |
| 4 | 6 | 4.5 | 36.5 | 3.5 | 23.5 |
| 5 | 7 | 5.5 | 37.5 | 4.5 | 24.5 |
| 6 | 8 | 6.5 | 38.5 | 5.5 | 25.5 |
| 7 | 9 | 7.5 | 39.5 | 6.5 | 26.5 |
| 8 | 10 | 8.5 | 40.5 | 7.5 | 27.5 |
| 9 | 11 | 9.5 | 41.5 | 8.5 | 28.5 |
| 10 | 12 | 10.5 | 42.5 | 9.5 | 29.5 |
| 11 | 13 | 11.5 | 43.5 | 10.5 | 30.5 |
| 12 | 14 | 12.5 | 44.5 | 11.5 | 31.5 |
Use this size conversion chart to find your approximate Converse size compared to your regular shoe size in other sizing scales.
Tips for Finding the Perfect Converse Fit
Finding your ideal Converse fit may take some trial and error. Here are some top tips for getting the sizing right:
- Try shoes on in-store – This allows you to get a feel for the fit and comfort. Walk around to test out different sizes.
- Wear socks – Make sure to try shoes on with the type of socks you plan to wear so you can assess real world fit.
- Stand with weight even – Stand with your weight evenly distributed, not leaning to one side. This mimics how your foot spreads out when walking.
- Shop late in the day – Your feet tend to swell throughout the day. Trying shoes on in the afternoon or evening gives an accurate fit.
- Bring orthotics – If you use orthotics or inserts, bring them to test how they fit inside the shoe.
- Walk around – Once shoes are on, walk around the store. This tests the fit when feet spread out and when in motion.
- Consider width – Converse run narrow. Make sure there is enough room for your feet within the shoe’s width.
- Think about use – Will you be standing or walking a lot in the shoes? Size to give feet enough room for your intended activity.
- Trust your gut – If a size doesn’t feel right, keep trying until you find the one that fits you just perfect.
Finding your ideal Converse size is unique to the shape and needs of your feet. Listen to what feels right to get your custom Chuck Taylor fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I size up or down for Converse?
The standard recommendation is to size down for Converse, either a half or full size from your regular shoe size. This helps compensate for the roomy fit. However, those with wider feet may need to go true to size or size up.
What if Converse are too big?
If your Converse are too big, first try lacing them tighter or wearing thicker socks before sizing down. Wearing an additional tongue pad can also take up excess space. Ultimately, sizing down may be needed for the best fit.
What if Converse are too small?
Converse that are too small can be very uncomfortable. Try stretching them with a shoe stretcher or wearing them with thin socks to break them in. If they are still too tight, go up a half or full size for a roomier fit.
Should kids size up or down in Converse?
Kids should follow the same general guidance and size down in Converse. However, only go down by a half size to allow for growth. Make sure there is adequate toe room so feet aren’t crunched.
Should I get a wide width Converse?
If standard Converse are too narrow for your feet, opting for a wide width can allow more room for toe splay. Converse come in standard D widths for men and B widths for women. Wide sizes add about 3/16″ extra room.
How do I find my Converse size?
Start by measuring your foot length in centimeters. Then use a Converse size chart to find your general size. Try shoes on in person when possible in different sizes to find the ideal fit. Size down a half or full size for the classic fit.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect size for your Converse Chuck Taylors is an important part of getting that iconic look and comfortable feel. While the standard recommendation is sizing down from your regular shoe size, foot width, sock choice, preferred fit and other factors also come into play. Use the sizing information and tips provided to get the ideal size Chucks for your feet and personal style.