Air Jordans are among the most iconic sneakers ever created, but finding the right size can be challenging. This comprehensive guide breaks down how each Jordan model fits in UK sizing, helping you avoid the frustration of returns and exchanges.
What You'll Learn
General Jordan Sizing Overview
As a general rule, most Air Jordan models run true to UK size for average width feet. However, there are important differences between models that can significantly impact comfort and fit:
| Jordan Model | Sizing Tendency | Width Profile | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jordan 1 | True to size | Narrow to medium | TTS or +0.5 for wide feet |
| Jordan 3 | True to size | Medium to wide | TTS for most feet |
| Jordan 4 | True to size | Medium | TTS or +0.5 for wide feet |
| Jordan 5 | Slightly roomy | Medium to wide | TTS or -0.5 for narrow feet |
| Jordan 6 | True to size | Medium | TTS for most feet |
| Jordan 11 | True to size | Medium to narrow | TTS or +0.5 for wide feet |
| Jordan 12 | True to size | Medium | TTS for most feet |
TTS = True to Size (your regular UK size)
Jordan 1 Sizing Guide
The Air Jordan 1 is the foundation of the entire Jordan line and one of the most popular sneakers in the UK. Here's what you need to know about Jordan 1 sizing:
Fit profile:
Narrower than many other Jordan models, especially in the toe box
Materials matter:
Leather Jordan 1s will stretch slightly with wear (3-5mm)
Highs vs. Lows:
High tops fit slightly more snug due to ankle collar
Vintage vs. Modern:
Pre-2018 Jordan 1s typically have a slimmer profile
True to size for most feet. If you have wide feet or prefer a roomier fit, consider going up 0.5 UK size.
Jordan 3 Sizing Guide
The Air Jordan 3 introduced visible Air cushioning and the iconic elephant print. Here's what to know about sizing:
Fit profile:
More accommodating than Jordan 1s, with a roomier toe box
Materials:
Leather uppers with padding create a comfortable fit
Ankle collar:
Less restrictive than Jordan 1s, allowing more ankle movement
Vintage vs. Modern:
Retro releases from different eras fit consistently
True to size for most feet. The Jordan 3 is one of the more forgiving models in the Jordan line.
Jordan 4 Sizing Guide
The Air Jordan 4 is known for its distinctive 'wings' and mesh panels. Here's what to know about sizing:
Fit profile:
Medium width with a slightly more structured feel than the Jordan 3
Materials impact:
Suede versions (like the "Black Cat") fit slightly more snug initially
Support structure:
The plastic wing supports can create pressure points for wide feet
Breaking in:
Jordan 4s typically need 3-5 wears to fully break in
True to size for average width feet. Consider going up 0.5 UK size if you have wide feet or prefer a roomier fit.
Jordan 11 Sizing Guide
The Air Jordan 11 with its patent leather and carbon fiber plate is one of the most iconic designs. Here's what to know about sizing:
Fit profile:
Medium to narrow, especially in the midfoot
Patent leather:
Creates a more structured fit that stretches less than regular leather
Lacing system:
Allows for adjustable fit, but patent rand limits expansion
Low vs. High:
Lows tend to fit slightly more roomy than the high-top version
True to size for narrow to average width feet. Wide-footed individuals should consider going up 0.5 UK size.
Vintage vs. Modern Jordan Sizing
If you're collecting past-season Jordans, it's important to understand how sizing has evolved over the years:
| Era | Sizing Characteristics | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Original Releases (1985-1999) | Generally narrower, more performance-focused fit | Consider +0.5 UK size from your modern size |
| Early Retros (2000-2010) | Closer to original sizing but with some inconsistencies | Research the specific release year |
| Modern Retros (2011-2018) | More standardized sizing, slightly wider than originals | True to your standard UK size |
| Current Releases (2019-Present) | Most consistent sizing, slightly more generous fit | True to your standard UK size |
When purchasing vintage or older retro Jordans, ask the seller for insole measurements in centimeters. Compare these to your current best-fitting sneakers for the most accurate size match, as sizing standards have evolved over the decades.
Special Considerations for UK Sneakerheads
Wide Feet Solutions
Best Jordan Models for Wide Feet:
Approach with Caution:
Material Considerations
Different materials affect how Jordans fit and break in:
Leather
Will stretch 3-5mm with wear. Full-grain leather stretches more than synthetic leather. Consider this when sizing leather Jordan 1s, 3s, and 4s.
Suede/Nubuck
Less stretch than leather but will conform to your foot. Suede Jordan 3s and 4s may feel snug initially but will break in nicely.
Patent Leather
Minimal stretch. Jordan 11s with their patent leather rand will not accommodate width as much as other models.
Mesh
Offers some flexibility but is constrained by overlays. Jordan 4s with mesh panels still need proper sizing for width.
Synthetic Materials
Modern Jordans with engineered textiles have less break-in time but also less stretch. Size accordingly.
Flyknit
Jordan models with Flyknit (like some Jordan 1s) offer more flexibility and are more accommodating for wider feet.
UK to US Jordan Size Conversion
When shopping for Jordans internationally or reading US-based reviews, use this conversion chart to find your size:
| UK Size | US Men's Size | EU Size | Foot Length (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| UK 3 | US 3.5 | EU 35.5 | 21.5cm |
| UK 3.5 | US 4 | EU 36 | 22cm |
| UK 4 | US 4.5 | EU 36.5 | 22.4cm |
| UK 4.5 | US 5 | EU 37.5 | 22.8cm |
| UK 5 | US 5.5 | EU 38 | 23.2cm |
| UK 5.5 | US 6 | EU 38.5 | 23.7cm |
| UK 6 | US 6.5 | EU 39 | 24.1cm |
| UK 6.5 | US 7 | EU 40 | 24.5cm |
| UK 7 | US 8 | EU 41 | 25.4cm |
| UK 7.5 | US 8.5 | EU 42 | 25.8cm |
| UK 8 | US 9 | EU 42.5 | 26.2cm |
| UK 8.5 | US 9.5 | EU 43 | 26.7cm |
| UK 9 | US 10 | EU 44 | 27.1cm |
| UK 9.5 | US 10.5 | EU 44.5 | 27.5cm |
| UK 10 | US 11 | EU 45 | 27.9cm |
| UK 10.5 | US 11.5 | EU 45.5 | 28.3cm |
| UK 11 | US 12 | EU 46 | 28.8cm |
| UK 11.5 | US 12.5 | EU 47 | 29.2cm |
| UK 12 | US 13 | EU 47.5 | 29.6cm |
| UK 12.5 | US 13.5 | EU 48 | 30cm |
| UK 13 | US 14 | EU 48.5 | 30.5cm |
| UK 14 | US 15 | EU 49.5 | 31.3cm |
| UK 15 | US 16 | EU 50.5 | 32.3cm |
Women's Jordan Size Conversion
Women's Jordan sizing follows a different conversion pattern. Use this chart for accurate women's sizing:
| UK Size | US Women's Size | EU Size | Foot Length (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| UK 2.5 | US 5 | EU 35.5 | 22cm |
| UK 3 | US 5.5 | EU 36 | 22.4cm |
| UK 3.5 | US 6 | EU 36.5 | 22.9cm |
| UK 4 | US 6.5 | EU 37.5 | 23.3cm |
| UK 4.5 | US 7 | EU 38 | 23.7cm |
| UK 5 | US 7.5 | EU 38.5 | 24.1cm |
| UK 5.5 | US 8 | EU 39 | 24.5cm |
| UK 6 | US 8.5 | EU 40 | 25cm |
| UK 6.5 | US 9 | EU 40.5 | 25.4cm |
| UK 7 | US 9.5 | EU 41 | 25.8cm |
| UK 7.5 | US 10 | EU 42 | 26.2cm |
| UK 8 | US 10.5 | EU 42.5 | 26.7cm |
| UK 8.5 | US 11 | EU 43 | 27.1cm |
| UK 9 | US 11.5 | EU 44 | 27.5cm |
| UK 9.5 | US 12 | EU 44.5 | 27.9cm |
| UK 10 | US 12.5 | EU 45 | 28.4cm |
| UK 10.5 | US 13 | EU 45.5 | 30cm |
| UK 11.5 | US 14 | EU 47 | 30.5cm |
Kids' Jordan Size Conversion
Kids' Jordan sizing includes both toddler and grade school sizes. Use this chart for accurate kids' sizing:
| UK Kids Size | US Kids Size | EU Size | Foot Length (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| UK 0 | US 0C | EU 15 | 8.3cm |
| UK 0.5 | US 1C | EU 16 | 9.1cm |
| UK 1 | US 1.5C | EU 16.5 | 9.5cm |
| UK 1.5 | US 2C | EU 17 | 10cm |
| UK 2 | US 2.5C | EU 18 | 10.4cm |
| UK 2.5 | US 3C | EU 18.5 | 10.8cm |
| UK 3 | US 3.5C | EU 19 | 11.2cm |
| UK 3.5 | US 4C | EU 19.5 | 11.6cm |
| UK 4 | US 4.5C | EU 20 | 12cm |
| UK 4.5 | US 5C | EU 21 | 12.5cm |
| UK 5 | US 5.5C | EU 21.5 | 13cm |
| UK 5.5 | US 6C | EU 22 | 13.3cm |
| UK 6 | US 6.5C | EU 22.5 | 13.8cm |
| UK 6.5 | US 7C | EU 23.5 | 14.2cm |
| UK 7 | US 7.5C | EU 24 | 14.6cm |
| UK 7.5 | US 8C | EU 25 | 15cm |
| UK 8 | US 8.5C | EU 25.5 | 15.5cm |
| UK 8.5 | US 9C | EU 26 | 15.9cm |
| UK 9 | US 9.5C | EU 26.5 | 16.3cm |
| UK 9.5 | US 10C | EU 27 | 16.7cm |
| UK 10 | US 10.5C | EU 27.5 | 17.2cm |
| UK 10.5 | US 11C | EU 28 | 17.6cm |
| UK 11 | US 11.5C | EU 28.5 | 18cm |
| UK 11.5 | US 12C | EU 29.5 | 18.4cm |
| UK 12 | US 12.5C | EU 30 | 18.8cm |
| UK 12.5 | US 13C | EU 31 | 19.3cm |
| UK 13 | US 13.5C | EU 31.5 | 19.7cm |
Note: C = Child sizes. Youth sizes (Y) begin around UK 13 and follow adult men's conversions.