Jordan 1 Low Sizing Guide for NZ Buyers
If you are buying a pair of Jordan 1 Lows online in New Zealand, the main question is simple: should you go true to size, half a size up, or half a size down?
For most people, Jordan 1 Low fits true to size. If you usually wear a US 9 in Nike or Jordan lifestyle sneakers, a US 9 in Jordan 1 Low is the safest starting point. The fit is secure through the midfoot, fairly standard in length, and slightly structured around the toe box because of the leather upper.
The tricky part for NZ buyers is not just the shoe itself. It is making sure you are reading the right size system. Jordan and Nike sizing is usually shown in US sizing, while some New Zealand shoppers are used to UK, EU, AU/NZ, or centimetre measurements. This guide breaks down how Jordan 1 Low sizing works, how to convert your size, and what to check before you buy sneakers online in NZ.
Quick verdict: how does the Jordan 1 Low fit?
Jordan 1 Low is one of the easier Air Jordan models to size. It does not fit unusually long like some classic canvas shoes, and it does not run as tight as many Yeezy models. The best choice for most buyers is their regular Nike size.
| Your foot type or preference | Recommended Jordan 1 Low size |
|---|---|
| Average-width feet | True to size |
| Narrow feet | True to size, or half down if you prefer a snug fit |
| Wide feet | True to size for a firm fit, half up for more comfort |
| Between two sizes | Choose the larger size if you wear thick socks or want all-day comfort |
| Using crease protectors or thick insoles | Consider half a size up |
The Jordan 1 Low has a flat sole, leather or leather-like upper depending on the release, and a padded collar that sits below the ankle. It is not a performance running shoe, so it should feel stable rather than soft and stretchy. A small break-in period is normal, especially around the forefoot.
Why NZ buyers need to pay attention to US sizing
New Zealand shoppers often see different sizing systems depending on the store, brand, and product category. Nike and Jordan sneakers are most commonly listed in US sizing, especially for men's, women's, and grade school pairs. That means you should not assume a size marked “9” is the same as a UK 9 or an EU 9, because those systems are completely different.
The most reliable method is to check the centimetre measurement, often shown as CM or JP on Nike labels. According to Nike’s official footwear size guidance, measuring your feet and comparing against the brand’s chart is the best way to choose the right fit.
Here is a simplified Jordan/Nike unisex conversion table for common adult sizes. Always check the exact product listing as sizing can vary slightly between men's, women's, and youth releases.
| US Men's | US Women's equivalent | UK | EU | CM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7.5 | 5.5 | 38.5 | 24 |
| 7 | 8.5 | 6 | 40 | 25 |
| 8 | 9.5 | 7 | 41 | 26 |
| 9 | 10.5 | 8 | 42.5 | 27 |
| 10 | 11.5 | 9 | 44 | 28 |
| 11 | 12.5 | 10 | 45 | 29 |
| 12 | 13.5 | 11 | 46 | 30 |
If you are shopping from a sneaker store in NZ and the product page lists US sizes, use that as your primary reference. If you are coming from UK or EU sizing, convert carefully before checkout.
How to measure your foot before ordering
If you are not sure of your Nike or Jordan size, measuring your foot at home is worth the few minutes it takes. Do it later in the day, because feet can swell slightly after walking or standing.
Place a sheet of paper against a wall, stand on it with your heel touching the wall, and mark the end of your longest toe. Measure from the wall edge to the mark in centimetres. Repeat with the other foot, then use the longer measurement when choosing your size.
A few fit details matter when measuring:
- Wear the type of socks you plan to wear with your Jordan 1 Lows.
- Do not size down just because the leather may soften, length will not change much.
- If one foot is larger, fit the larger foot and adjust the smaller one with lacing.
- If your measurement sits between two sizes, think about width and comfort, not just length.
Jordan 1 Low vs Jordan 1 High sizing
Jordan 1 Low and Jordan 1 High generally fit very similarly in length. If you already own a Jordan 1 High and like the fit, you can usually choose the same US size in a Jordan 1 Low.
The biggest difference is the ankle feel. A Jordan 1 High gives more ankle support and can feel more locked in once laced. A Jordan 1 Low has a lower collar, so the heel can feel a little freer, especially if your foot is narrow. That does not mean you need to size down immediately. Try adjusting the laces first, because sizing down can make the toe box too tight.
If you are comparing silhouettes before choosing your size, looking at a High like the Jordan 1 Retro High OG Light Fusion Red can help you understand the shared Jordan 1 shape, even though the collar height is different.
Jordan 1 Low sizing compared with other popular sneakers
Many NZ buyers choose their Jordan 1 Low size based on sneakers they already own. That can work well, but only if the comparison shoe fits normally.
| If you wear this model | Jordan 1 Low sizing advice |
|---|---|
| Nike Dunk Low | Usually choose the same US size |
| Nike SB Dunk Low | Same size for most, half up if SB padding feels tight |
| Air Force 1 Low | Jordan 1 Low may need to be half a size bigger than your AF1 size |
| Adidas Yeezy 350 | Jordan 1 Low is often true to size, while Yeezy 350 often needs half up |
| Converse Chuck Taylor or Chuck 70 | Jordan 1 Low is often half to one size bigger than your Converse size |
| Jordan 1 High | Usually choose the same US size |
This is why knowing your “usual sneaker size” is not always enough. If your usual size comes from Air Force 1s or Converse, your Jordan 1 Low size may be different. If your usual size comes from Nike Dunks or Jordan 1 Highs, it is usually a much better reference.
Should wide-foot buyers size up in Jordan 1 Low?
If you have wide feet, the Jordan 1 Low can feel snug through the forefoot, especially in stiffer leather releases. The toe box is not extremely narrow, but it is structured. It will soften with wear, yet it will not become dramatically wider.
For wide-foot buyers, true to size is still possible if you like a close fit and wear standard socks. If you want more room or plan to wear thicker socks through winter, half a size up is usually safer. The trade-off is that you may notice a little extra length at the toe, so lacing becomes more important.
A useful rule is this: if you often size up in Nike Dunks, Jordan 1 Lows, or other leather basketball-inspired sneakers, do the same here. If you only size up in narrow running shoes, you may not need to size up in Jordan 1 Low.
Men’s, women’s, and GS Jordan 1 Low sizing explained
Jordan 1 Lows can be released in men’s, women’s, and grade school sizing. These categories matter because the number alone does not tell the whole story.
Men’s and unisex Jordan 1 Low releases are commonly shown in US men’s sizing. Women’s releases are commonly shown in US women’s sizing. A general conversion is that US women’s sizing is about 1.5 sizes higher than US men’s. For example, a US men’s 8 is commonly equivalent to a US women’s 9.5 in Nike/Jordan unisex conversions.
Grade school sizing is usually marked with “Y” or “GS”. A US 7Y is often similar in length to a US men’s 7, but GS pairs can feel a little different due to youth construction and proportions. If you wear smaller adult sizes, GS can be an option in some releases, but check the CM measurement rather than relying only on the size number.
For example, a GS Jordan 1 listing such as the Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG Dark Marina Blue GS shows why it is important to notice the GS label before comparing it with adult pairs.
Online buying checklist for Jordan 1 Low in NZ
Before you buy, run through a quick sizing check. This is especially important for limited edition sneakers, because popular sizes can sell quickly and exchanges may depend on availability.
| Check | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Size system | Confirm whether the listing is US men’s, US women’s, or GS |
| CM measurement | Best way to compare across US, UK, and EU sizing |
| Your reference shoe | Compare with Nike Dunks or Jordan 1s if possible |
| Foot width | Wide feet may need half a size up |
| Socks and insoles | Thick socks, orthotics, or crease protectors can reduce space |
| Product condition | New pairs may feel firmer until broken in |
| Authenticity | Authentic sneakers reduce the risk of inconsistent sizing labels or poor construction |
When you shop for authentic sneakers at BigBoiSneakers, take a moment to review the size options on the product page rather than rushing straight to checkout. With limited pairs, the right size matters just as much as the right colourway.
How your Jordan 1 Low should feel when it arrives
A correctly sized Jordan 1 Low should feel secure but not painful. Your toes should have a small amount of space at the front, your midfoot should feel held in place, and your heel should not lift excessively when walking.
Some stiffness is normal during the first few wears. Leather panels and overlays can take time to soften, especially on fresh pairs. What is not normal is sharp pressure on the sides of your toes, numbness, or your toes hitting the front when walking downhill or bending.
If the heel feels slightly loose but the length is right, try lacing the shoe more securely through the upper eyelets. If the forefoot feels cramped from the first try-on, sizing up is usually a better solution than hoping the shoe will stretch significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Jordan 1 Lows run big or small? Jordan 1 Lows generally fit true to size. Most NZ buyers should choose their regular Nike or Jordan size.
Should I size up in Jordan 1 Low if I have wide feet? If you have wide feet, half a size up can be more comfortable, especially in stiffer leather colourways or if you wear thick socks.
Is Jordan 1 Low sizing the same as Nike Dunk Low? For most people, yes. Jordan 1 Low and Nike Dunk Low are both usually true to size, although SB Dunks can feel tighter due to extra padding.
Is NZ shoe sizing the same as US sizing? Not always. Many Jordan listings use US sizing, while some NZ shoppers may be used to UK, EU, or AU/NZ sizing. Check the CM measurement whenever possible.
Can women wear men’s Jordan 1 Low sizes? Yes, if the size conversion works. A common Nike/Jordan conversion is US women’s size equals US men’s size plus 1.5, so a US men’s 8 is commonly a US women’s 9.5.
Are GS Jordan 1 Lows the same as adult Jordan 1 Lows? GS pairs can be similar in length for equivalent sizes, but they may differ in shape, proportions, and construction. Always check the GS label and CM measurement.
Ready to choose your size?
For most buyers, the safest Jordan 1 Low sizing choice is simple: go true to size in your usual Nike or Jordan US size. If you have wide feet, use thick socks, or sit between sizes, consider going half a size up.
Once you know your size, you can shop with more confidence and focus on the fun part: finding the right colourway. Explore authentic sneakers, streetwear, and collectables at BigBoiSneakers and check the size options carefully before you order.
