The Adidas Gazelle has a reputation for running big, and I can see why. My feet measure a US 9 on the Brannock Device, but whenever I try a regular Gazelle in that size, there’s more room than I’d like, particularly around my toes and heel.
A US 8.5 fits me much better. I get enough toe room without my heel moving around every time I walk.
That’s been my experience with most Gazelles, including the Gazelle Indoor, but I wouldn’t use the same sizing advice for every version. I wear my true size in the Sean Wotherspoon Gazelle and Ronnie Fieg x Clarks Gazelle, while some Bad Bunny pairs have felt even roomier than the regular releases.
For narrow and normal feet, I’d start half a size down. If you have wide feet, your regular size is probably a better starting point.
I’ll go through the different Gazelle models below, including the collaborations that made me rethink my usual size.
Find Your Gazelle Size
- Normal feet: Most people will get the best fit by going down half a size.
- Narrow feet: I’d try half a size down. There’s already quite a bit of room in the Gazelle, and your regular size may feel loose.
- Slightly wide feet: Half a size down is still my preference. There’s enough room around my forefoot that I don’t need to go up to my regular size.
- Wide feet: I’d start true to size. Going smaller could make the forefoot tighter than you’d like.
- Half-size wearers: You don’t have to stick with your usual half size. If you’re a US 9.5, for example, a 9 is worth trying. I wear an 8.5 instead of my Brannock 9.
- Between sizes: The Gazelle has enough room that I’d lean toward the smaller size for narrow or normal feet. With wider feet, I’d be more cautious about going down.
- Comfort-first fit: If you don’t mind a little movement inside your sneakers, you might actually like how the Gazelle feels in your regular size.
- Snug fit: I’d go half a size down. That’s what I wear in most Gazelles because I don’t like the extra movement around my heel.
The guide below breaks down how every Gazelle model I’ve worn fits, how they compare to the Samba, Spezial, and Campus, and which size I recommend based on your foot shape and fit preferences.
Now, if you’re coming from Sambas, make sure to check out my Adidas Samba sizing guide. The two models fit very differently, and many people end up wearing a different size in each.
Adidas Gazelle Sizing
Before we get into the details, use my Adidas Gazelle sizing profile to compare your foot shape and fit preferences to mine…
My Gazelle Sizing Profile
- Brannock Size: 9D to 9E
- Foot Shape: Slightly wide forefoot
- Preferred Fit: Snug and secure without excessive room around the heel
- Typical Adidas Size: US 9
- Gazelle Size: Usually US 8.5
I generally prefer a close one-to-one fit with minimal heel movement. I don’t mind a little room in the toe box, but I don’t like feeling disconnected from the shoe.
Because the Gazelle fits longer and roomier than many Adidas models, I usually go down half a size for the best fit.
The Gazelle is one of my favorite Adidas classics, but it isn’t the only great option. In my Adidas Samba, Gazelle, Campus & Spezial sizing comparison, I explain how all four models fit side by side and which one I’d recommend for different foot shapes.
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The Adidas Gazelle Indoor runs slightly large. Most people with narrow, normal, or slightly wide feet will get the best fit by going down half a size, while wide-footed wearers should generally stay true to size.
When it comes to Adidas Gazelle sizing, I actually had a very different experience than I did with the Samba.
For reference, my foot measures as a true size 9 on a Brannock device, and I’m slightly on the wider side. When I tried the Gazelle Indoor on in-store, I tested both my true size 9 and a half size down, an 8.5.
Right away, my true size 9 felt larger than I expected.
Length-wise, I had quite a bit of extra room in front of my toes, but what stood out even more was the heel.
Even after tightening the laces, I was still getting some heel slippage while walking around the store. The shoe never felt loose enough to fall off, but it definitely lacked the secure, one-to-one fit that I personally prefer.
That’s what led me to try the 8.5.
The moment I put on the half-size-down pair, everything felt much more natural. The extra room up front disappeared, the heel felt more secure, and the overall fit felt much more dialed in without becoming tight or uncomfortable.
That’s ultimately the size I bought.
One thing worth mentioning is that the Gazelle Indoor fits very differently from the Samba.
The Samba has a narrower shape through the midfoot and forefoot, which is why I typically recommend going up half a size in that model.
The Gazelle Indoor is almost the opposite. The midfoot is noticeably wider and more accommodating, which allows most people to comfortably size down.
Because of that, here’s how I’d size the Gazelle Indoor:
- Narrow feet: Go half a size down.
- Normal feet: Go half a size down.
- Slightly wide feet: Go half a size down if you prefer a snug fit.
- Wide feet: True to size is usually the safer choice.
- Very wide feet: Stay true to size.
Now, if you’re comparing several Adidas models, don’t miss my Adidas sneaker sizing guide, where I compare how the Gazelle, Samba, Campus, Spezial, and other popular Adidas sneakers fit side by side.
Want more sizing guides from Size Chart Guru? Add the site as a Preferred Source on Google.
Ronnie Fieg x Clarks x Adidas Gazelle Sizing
The Ronnie Fieg Gazelle fits true to size. Unlike most Gazelle Indoors, this pair feels noticeably more snug, making your Brannock size the safest choice.
I bought a US 9, the same as my Brannock measurement. I had enough space for my toes, and the forefoot felt comfortable without the extra room I usually get in a regular Gazelle. I wouldn’t have wanted to go any smaller.
What surprised me is that these actually fit a bit snugger than the Kith 8th Street Sambas, even though I also wear those true to size.
Because of that, I wouldn’t apply the usual Gazelle advice here. On a regular Gazelle Indoor, I typically go down half a size, but on the Ronnie Fieg x Clarks collaboration, true to size simply works better.
If you know your Brannock size, that’s the size I’d recommend buying.
The Gazelle and Samba fit more similarly than many people expect, but the Adidas VL Court is a different story. If you’re deciding between those two, I compared them side by side and found some noticeable differences.
Kith 8th Street x Clarks x Adidas Gazelle Indoor Sizing
True to size works well, but if you prefer a snug fit, going down half a size is also a reasonable option.
This is one of the more interesting Gazelle collaborations because I genuinely think you can make either size work. I followed Kith’s recommendation and bought my true size, and initially, the fit felt great.
The issue is that these materials soften significantly with wear.
I’ve noticed something similar with the 8th Street Sambas. The suede and leather don’t feel quite the same after you’ve worn them for a while. They soften, and you start getting a little more room around your foot.
I bought my regular size in the Gazelle, and I was happy with it at first. But knowing how much the materials give after roughly ten wears, I can see why someone who likes their sneakers snug might prefer going half a size down.
I’d still be comfortable recommending true to size if you don’t mind some extra room once they’re broken in.
Adidas Gazelle Indoor x Bad Bunny Sizing
The Bad Bunny Gazelle runs roomier than a standard Gazelle Indoor. If you prefer a snug, one-to-one fit, I’d recommend going down half a size. Wide-footed wearers will usually be better off staying true to size.
The Bad Bunny Gazelles were a bit surprising for me because I initially expected the opposite.
Between the double-tongue design, extra heel padding, and overall construction, I assumed they would fit smaller and more secure than a regular Gazelle.
I ended up buying a US 9 because I thought all that padding might make my usual 8.5 too snug. Well, I got that one wrong. The 9 had more room than I needed, and I kept wishing I’d bought the 8.5 instead.
There was simply more room inside the shoe than I wanted. The toe box felt longer and roomier, and the overall fit lacked the close, connected feel that I usually look for in a Gazelle.
The Cabo Rojo pair especially highlighted this. I already had more than enough space in front of my toes, and the lining around the heel and ankle was quite slick.
My heel would move around more than I wanted when walking, partly because there was so much room inside and partly because my socks didn’t grip that lining particularly well.
I was able to improve the fit by tightening the laces and swapping to the thicker insole, which definitely helped take up some of the extra volume. Even then, though, I still felt the shoe would have fit me better in my usual Gazelle size.
That’s why my recommendation depends largely on your foot shape and fit preference.
- Narrow feet: Go down half a size.
- Normal feet: Go down half a size.
- Slightly wide feet: Half size down if you like a snug fit, true to size if you prefer extra room.
- Wide feet: True to size.
- Very wide feet: True to size.
Gucci x Adidas Gazelle Sizing
The Gucci Gazelle runs big. Most people should go down half a size, while wide-footed wearers can usually stay true to size.
I learned this one the hard way…
When I bought my first pair of Gucci Gazelles, I went with my normal size and immediately knew they were too large. There was simply too much room throughout the shoe, and the fit never felt as secure as I wanted it to.
For my next pair, I went down half a size, and that completely solved the problem. The fit immediately felt more natural, more secure, and much closer to what I expect from a lifestyle sneaker.
For most people, I’d strongly recommend going down half a size. The only exception would be those with genuinely wide feet, who may appreciate the extra room that comes from staying true to size.
As a point of reference, my Gucci Gazelle size is the same size I wear in an Air Force 1 and half a size smaller than my Nike Dunk or Air Jordan 1 size.
Adidas Gazelle Indoor Sean Wotherspoon Sizing
The Sean Wotherspoon Gazelle fits smaller than most Gazelles. True to size works best for most people, while wide-footed wearers may even consider going up half a size.
This was probably the collaboration that confused me the most before buying.
Normally, I go down half a size in Gazelles, but the hemp construction made me hesitate because hemp tends to be thicker and less forgiving than traditional suede.
Thankfully, that instinct turned out to be correct.
I bought my true size 9, and the fit was excellent.
Compared to a standard Gazelle, this pair feels noticeably tighter through the forefoot and toe box. In fact, if you have wide feet, I could easily see a half-size increase making sense here.
What’s interesting is that even though these fit smaller than a typical Gazelle, they still don’t feel as narrow as a Samba.
For me, the easiest way to think about it is this:
If you normally go true to size in Sambas, go true to size here.
If you’re like me and typically go up half a size in Sambas, then your Sean Wotherspoon Gazelle size will likely be your normal true size.
Adidas Gazelle Bold Sizing
The Adidas Gazelle Bold fits very similarly to the regular Gazelle. Most people should go down half a size, while wide-footed wearers will usually be better off staying true to size.
I haven’t personally worn the Gazelle Bold enough to give the same level of feedback as some of the other Gazelle models in this guide, but my wife has owned and worn multiple pairs, and her experience has been very consistent.
The first thing worth knowing is that the platform sole doesn’t really change the fit.
A lot of people see the thicker midsole and assume the shoe might fit differently from a standard Gazelle, but that’s not really been our experience. Length-wise and width-wise, the Gazelle Bold feels very similar to a regular Gazelle.
Just like the standard Gazelle, the shoe tends to feel a little longer and roomier than many people expect.
My wife initially tried her normal Adidas size and felt there was more room than she preferred, especially in the toe box. After trying a half size down, the fit felt much more secure and balanced without becoming tight.
That’s very similar to what I’ve experienced with most Gazelles.
The shoe still has that roomy forefoot, the comfortable midfoot, and the relaxed overall shape that makes the Gazelle much more forgiving than models like the Samba.
Because of that, here’s how I’d size the Gazelle Bold:
- Narrow feet: Go half a size down.
- Normal feet: Go half a size down.
- Slightly wide feet: Half a size down or true to size.
- Wide feet: True to size.
- Very wide feet: True to size.
Adidas Gazelle ADV Sizing
The Adidas Gazelle ADV fits slightly more snug than a standard Gazelle because of the added skateboarding-focused padding. Most people should stay true to size, while narrow-footed wearers may still prefer going down half a size.
The Adidas Gazelle ADV is essentially a skateboarding version of the classic Gazelle, and while it looks very similar from the outside, the fit is a little different once you get it on foot.
The biggest change comes from the extra padding.
Compared to a regular Gazelle, the ADV has a thicker tongue, more padding around the collar, and a generally more secure feel around the foot.
That’s great for skateboarding, but it also means the shoe doesn’t feel quite as roomy as a standard Gazelle.
Because of that, I wouldn’t automatically apply the usual “go down half a size” advice that works for many regular Gazelle models.
I’d start with my regular Adidas size in the ADV rather than risk losing too much room to the extra padding.
The overall shape is still much more forgiving than a Samba. The forefoot isn’t particularly narrow, and the shoe doesn’t squeeze the midfoot the way some Adidas terrace models can.
However, the added padding does reduce some of the extra volume that makes the regular Gazelle feel so spacious.
Here’s how I’d size the Gazelle ADV:
- Narrow feet: Half size down or true to size
- Normal feet: True to size
- Slightly wide feet: True to size
- Wide feet: True to size
- Very wide feet: Consider true to size and try on if possible
Adidas Gazelle vs Samba Sizing
I wear a US 8.5 in most Adidas Gazelles and a US 9.5 in the Samba. That’s a full size difference between two sneakers that look fairly similar at first glance.
In my experience, they fit very differently.
The Gazelle is the roomier shoe, while the Samba is noticeably narrower and more restrictive throughout the foot.
For reference, I wear a US 8.5 in most Gazelles but a US 9.5 in the Samba. That’s a full size difference between the two models.
The biggest reason comes down to shape.
The Samba has a narrow toe box, a slim midfoot, and a very secure fit overall. Part of that comes from the construction itself.
The shoe uses seven lace eyelets on each side, which allows you to really lock your foot down.
When laced properly, the Samba wraps around your foot in a way that very few Adidas lifestyle sneakers do.
The downside is that wide-footed wearers often struggle with it.
In my case, my normal Adidas size felt much too tight through the midfoot, which is why I eventually settled on going up half a size.
The Gazelle is the complete opposite.
Even though the length is very similar to the Samba, the overall fit of the Gazelle feels much more relaxed. The toe box has more volume, the midfoot feels wider, and the shoe doesn’t wrap around your foot nearly as aggressively.
One reason for that is the lacing system. The Gazelle uses six eyelets instead of seven, which gives the shoe a slightly less locked-in feel. I often find myself tightening the laces more on the Gazelle than I do on the Samba.
That’s also why many people can comfortably size down in the Gazelle while needing to size up in the Samba.
| Foot Type | Adidas Samba | Adidas Gazelle |
|---|---|---|
| Narrow Feet | True to size | 1/2 size down |
| Normal Feet | True to size | 1/2 size down |
| Slightly Wide Feet | 1/2 size up | TTS or 1/2 down |
| Wide Feet | 1/2 size up | True to size |
Why the Gazelle Feels Bigger than the Samba
Interestingly, the Gazelle isn’t dramatically longer than the Samba. The reason it feels bigger is because of the extra volume throughout the shoe.
You have more room around the forefoot, more room through the midfoot, and less pressure across the top of the foot. I notice that especially when switching from my Sambas to my Gazelles, because the Samba sits much closer around the sides of my foot.
Even though I wear a full size smaller in the Gazelle, I still have enough space around my toes and forefoot. I couldn’t imagine wearing my Samba size in the Gazelle. It would be far too loose for me.
Which Model Is Better for Wide Feet?
Without question, the Gazelle.
The Samba is one of the narrowest Adidas lifestyle sneakers currently available. If you have slightly wide feet, you’ll likely need to go up half a size just to get comfortable.
The Gazelle has more space around the forefoot, and I can actually wear it half a size below my Brannock measurement despite having slightly wide feet. With the Samba, I have to go half a size up.
For someone with genuinely wide feet, I’d start true to size in the Gazelle. If your feet are narrow or normal-width, half a size down is worth trying.
I still like the Samba, especially how securely it fits once I’ve found the right size. But if I had wider feet than I do now, I’d be much more inclined to buy the Gazelle.
Adidas Gazelle vs Spezial Sizing
The Adidas Gazelle and Adidas Spezial actually fit much closer to each other than either does to the Samba.
For me, both models work best half a size down from my true size.
I tried both in my regular size 9, but neither felt quite right. There was too much space in front of my toes, and I was getting some heel movement even with the laces tightened.
That’s why I ultimately sized down in both models.
Where they differ is width…
The Gazelle gives me more room around the midfoot. It’s something I notice whenever I switch between the two.
The Spezial has that familiar terrace-shoe shape, but I can feel it sitting closer against my midfoot and arch. It’s not nearly as narrow as the Samba, though.
The suede upper is really soft, which I like, but it doesn’t change the fact that the Spezial is narrower around the arch. That’s something I’d pay attention to if you have wide feet or a high instep.
| Foot Type | Adidas Gazelle | Adidas Spezial |
|---|---|---|
| Narrow Feet | 1/2 size down | 1/2 size down |
| Normal Feet | 1/2 size down | 1/2 size down |
| Slightly Wide Feet | TTS or 1/2 size down | 1/2 size down |
| Wide Feet | True to size | True to size |
Why the Spezial Feels Different
The Spezial uses seven lace eyelets like the Samba, which helps create a more secure fit around the foot. With the soft suede upper and the laces tightened, I can get the Spezial to sit closer against my midfoot than the Gazelle.
Both shoes give me a similar amount of room length-wise, but I notice the difference once I start walking. My foot feels more contained in the Spezial, particularly around the arch.
Which Model Is Better for Wide Feet?
The Gazelle.
Neither shoe is as restrictive as the Samba, although I find the Spezial a little closer-fitting around the arch. The Gazelle gives my forefoot and midfoot more space.
With narrow or normal feet, I’d try half a size down in both. That’s the size I wear, and I still have enough room for my toes.
If you have wide feet, I’d still size down in the Gazelle, but I’d strongly consider staying true to size in the Spezial.
Adidas Gazelle vs Campus Sizing
Even though the Gazelle and Campus are both Adidas classics, they fit very differently on foot.
The Campus is the roomier shoe.
It has a chunkier shape, more volume around the forefoot, and a generally more relaxed fit than the Gazelle.
The Gazelle still feels fairly roomy compared to the Samba, but next to the Campus, it actually starts to feel more structured.
I wear a US 8.5 in both, half a size below my Brannock measurement. In the Gazelle, going down takes care of the extra length and heel movement I get in a 9. The Campus has a much bulkier upper and more space around the sides of my foot, so I don’t need my regular size there either.
| Foot Type | Adidas Gazelle | Adidas Campus |
|---|---|---|
| Narrow Feet | 1/2 size down | 1/2 size down |
| Normal Feet | 1/2 size down | 1/2 size down |
| Slightly Wide Feet | 1/2 size down | True to size |
| Wide Feet | True to size | True to size |
Why the Campus Feels Bigger
You can see some of the differences before you even put the shoes on. The Campus has a noticeably chunkier upper, with more padding around the tongue and collar. It’s also wider through the forefoot than the Gazelle.
Even in my usual half-size-down fit, I can feel that extra width in the Campus. My toes have plenty of space, and there’s less contact along the sides of my forefoot than I get in the Gazelle.
You could try both in the same size and find the Campus noticeably roomier, even without much difference in their actual length.
Which Model Is Better for Wide Feet?
The Campus.
I’d be more comfortable recommending the Campus to someone who regularly struggles with narrow sneakers. There’s plenty of space around the forefoot, and the wider shape gives your toes more room.
The Gazelle isn’t particularly narrow either, but I can feel the difference when I put the two on back-to-back.
For narrow and normal feet, I’d try half a size down in both, which is what works for me.
With wide feet, I’d start true to size in the Campus. For the Gazelle, half a size down might still work if you’re only slightly wide, but I’d stick with your regular size if you need the extra width.
Adidas Women’s Sizing
To be fair, most athletic brands still use the same basic approach across many of their men’s and women’s releases.
With Adidas, you’ll often find the same Gazelle sold in both men’s and women’s sizes. If it’s a unisex release, you’re buying the same shoe, just using a different size conversion.
Now, Adidas does make some women’s-specific sneakers, so I wouldn’t assume every men’s and women’s version fits exactly alike.
If you’re buying a unisex Gazelle, the main thing is knowing which size to order when the retailer uses men’s sizing instead of women’s.
Adidas Women’s to Men’s Size Conversion
In most Adidas lifestyle models:
- Women’s US 8: Men’s US 6.5
- Women’s US 8.5: Men’s US 7
- Women’s US 9: Men’s US 7.5
- Women’s US 9.5: Men’s US 8
- Women’s US 10: Men’s US 8.5
According to the chart above, there’s a 1.5-size difference between men’s and women’s US sizes. So a women’s 9 would be a men’s 7.5.
Before ordering, I’d look at the men’s and women’s sizes Adidas lists for that particular release. Some conversions you find online don’t match the brand’s own sizing chart.
What About Unisex Adidas Shoes?
On many Adidas unisex product pages, the main size selection is shown in men’s US sizing, with women’s equivalents provided in the size chart.
For example:
- Men’s US 7: Women’s US 8.5
- Men’s US 8: Women’s US 9.5
- Men’s US 9: Women’s US 10.5
If the Gazelle you’re looking at is listed in men’s sizes and you normally shop in women’s, find your equivalent size on that product’s chart first. Then you can follow my Gazelle sizing advice to decide whether to stay there or go down half a size.
My Advice for Women Buying Adidas
Even with the conversion chart, I still recommend trying shoes on whenever possible because Adidas sizing can vary significantly between models.
A Samba fits very differently from a Gazelle and a Gazelle fits differently from a Campus. Even collaborations can fit differently from standard releases.
I wouldn’t order the same converted size in every Adidas sneaker without checking how that particular model fits. I wear a US 8.5 in most Gazelles and a 9.5 in the Samba, so there’s a full size between two shoes from the same brand.
Use the conversion to find your equivalent US size first. Then check the fit advice for the model you’re buying.
In general:
- Narrow feet: You can usually follow the standard size conversion.
- Normal feet: The standard conversion works well in most cases.
- Wide feet: Pay close attention to the model, as some shoes like the Samba can feel noticeably tighter than the Gazelle or Campus.
Are Adidas Gazelles Good for Wide Feet?
Yes, I’d certainly put them ahead of the Samba if you have wide feet.
I’ve worn both, and the difference around the forefoot is pretty obvious. The Gazelle gives my toes more space, and I don’t get that same tight feeling through the midfoot that I get in the Samba.
For slightly wide feet, I actually think the Gazelle is one of the safest Adidas classics you can buy.
In my experience, the shoe doesn’t squeeze the forefoot the way the Samba does, and there’s noticeably more room around the midfoot.
That’s why I can comfortably wear a half size down in the Gazelle, while I need to go up half a size in the Samba.
That said, not every wide foot is the same.
My feet are only slightly wide, and I prefer a snug fit, so half a size down works for me. You might find the same thing if your feet are similar to mine.
If your feet are properly wide, though, I’d start with your regular size. I wouldn’t sacrifice forefoot space just to get a tighter fit around the heel, especially if you’re going to be walking in them for hours.
For very wide feet, the Gazelle can still work, but I’d strongly recommend trying them on first if possible. While they’re definitely more accommodating than the Samba, they’re still a fairly slim terrace-style sneaker compared to chunkier models like the Campus.
Wide Feet Recommendations:
- Slightly wide feet: Half size down or true to size
- Wide feet: True to size
- Very wide feet: True to size and try before buying if possible
Compared to other Adidas classics:
- Gazelle: Wide-foot friendly
- Campus: Very wide-foot friendly
- Spezial: Moderately wide-foot friendly
- Samba: Least wide-foot friendly
If wide-foot comfort is your top priority, I’d choose the Campus first, the Gazelle second, the Spezial third, and the Samba last.
Adidas Gazelle Size Chart
| Heel-toe (INCH) |
8.7″ | 8.9″ | 9.0″ | 9.2″ | 9.4″ | 9.5″ | 9.7″ | 9.8″ | 10.0″ | 10.2″ | 10.4″ | 10.5″ | 10.7″ | 10.9″ | 11.0″ | 11.2″ | 11.3″ | 11.5″ | 11.7″ | 11.9″ | 12.0″ | 12.2″ | 12.4″ | 12.7″ | 13.0″ | 13.3″ | 13.7″ | 14.0″ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| US – Men | 4 | 4.5 | 5 | 5.5 | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 10 | 10.5 | 11 | 11.5 | 12 | 12.5 | 13 | 13.5 | 14 | 14.5 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 |
| US – Women | 5 | 5.5 | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 10 | 10.5 | 11 | 11.5 | 12 | 12.5 | 13 | 13.5 | 14 | 14.5 | 15 | 15.5 | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| EU | 36 | 36 2/3 | 37 1/3 | 38 | 38 2/3 | 39 1/3 | 40 | 40 2/3 | 41 1/3 | 42 | 42 2/3 | 43 1/3 | 44 | 44 2/3 | 45 1/3 | 46 | 46 2/3 | 47 1/3 | 48 | 48 2/3 | 49 1/3 | 50 | 50 2/3 | 51 1/3 | 52 2/3 | 53 1/3 | 54 2/3 | 55 2/3 |
| UK | 3.5 | 4 | 4.5 | 5 | 5.5 | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 10 | 10.5 | 11 | 11.5 | 12 | 12.5 | 13 | 13.5 | 14 | 14.5 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 |
| JP | 220 | 225 | 230 | 235 | 240 | 245 | 250 | 255 | 260 | 265 | 270 | 275 | 280 | 285 | 290 | 295 | 300 | 305 | 310 | 315 | 320 | 325 | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Heel-toe (cm) |
22.1 cm | 22.5 cm | 22.9 cm | 23.3 cm | 23.8 cm | 24.2 cm | 24.6 cm | 25.0 cm | 25.5 cm | 25.9 cm | 26.3 cm | 26.7 cm | 27.1 cm | 27.6 cm | 28.0 cm | 28.4 cm | 28.8 cm | 29.3 cm | 29.7 cm | 30.1 cm | 30.5 cm | 31.0 cm | 31.4 cm | 31.8 cm | 32.6 cm | 33.5 cm | 34.3 cm | 35.2 cm |
Common Adidas Gazelle Sizing Mistakes
I’ve tried quite a few Gazelle models, and I’ve also spent a lot of time reading what other owners say about sizing. Some of the advice is useful, but there are a few things I’d be careful about.
Buying the Same Size as Your Air Force 1
I wear a US 8.5 in both the Nike Air Force 1 and the Adidas Gazelle, so this actually works for me.
But I wouldn’t use my Air Force 1 size as a rule for buying Gazelles. The AF1 has a bulkier shape, and someone who sizes down in it might not necessarily want to do the same in the Gazelle.
If you already own an AF1 that fits well, it’s a useful reference. Just don’t assume the two shoes will fit exactly alike.
Sizing Down Despite Having Wide Feet
You’ll see plenty of people recommending half a size down in the Gazelle. I recommend it myself, but my feet are only slightly wide, somewhere between a D and E on the Brannock Device.
If your forefoot is much wider than mine, going down half a size could make the shoe uncomfortable. You might get the length you want but end up with too much pressure around your toes.
I’d try your regular size before following the half-size-down advice.
Assuming Every Gazelle Fits Exactly the Same
I wish they did. It would make sizing a lot easier.
My Sean Wotherspoon Gazelle fits snugger than my regular Gazelles, and I prefer my true size 9 in that pair. With the Bad Bunny Gazelle, I had the opposite problem. The size 9 was too roomy, especially around the heel.
I’ve also found the Gucci Gazelle roomier than I expected.
So when you’re buying a collaboration, don’t rely entirely on the sizing advice for the regular Gazelle.
Ignoring Sock Thickness
A Gazelle that feels fine with thin socks might start feeling tight if you wear it with thick athletic socks.
I wouldn’t choose a different shoe size just to accommodate a pair of socks, but it’s worth thinking about what you normally wear. Especially if you’re already deciding between two sizes.
Focusing Only on Length
I wouldn’t judge a Gazelle’s fit just by how much space I have in front of my toes.
I’ve had shoes that felt fine length-wise but were still too loose around the heel. And sometimes the forefoot is the problem, even when the length seems right.
Or the shoe has so much volume that tightening the laces doesn’t help much.
That’s why I wouldn’t judge a Gazelle by toe space alone.
How to Measure Your Feet for Adidas Gazelles
I know plenty of people who buy the same shoe size every time without ever measuring their feet. I wouldn’t rely on that, especially with Adidas.
I’m a US 9 on the Brannock Device, yet most of my Gazelles are an 8.5. My Sambas? I need a 9.5.
So even knowing your Brannock size doesn’t mean every Adidas sneaker will fit in that size.
It gives you somewhere to start, though.
Try the Gazelle On in Store
If you can try the Gazelle on before buying it, I’d do that.
Take your regular size and a half size down into the fitting room. Put both on, lace them properly, and walk around for a bit.
Don’t just stand in front of the mirror.
Pay attention to:
- Whether your heel moves up and down
- How much room you have in front of your toes
- Any pressure around the sides of your forefoot
- Whether tightening the laces makes the shoe feel secure
I’d also try to wear the socks I normally wear with my sneakers.
This is particularly useful with Gazelle collaborations. I’ve had pairs that fit differently enough from the regular Gazelle to change which size I’d buy.
How to Measure Your Feet with a Brannock Device
You know that metal foot-measuring thing you sometimes see in shoe stores? That’s a Brannock Device.
I use one myself, and my feet measure a US 9, somewhere between a D and E width.
The nice thing about it is that you can check more than just how long your foot is. There’s also a measurement from your heel to the ball of your foot. And yes, that reading can be different from your heel-to-toe size. It’s one of the reasons I prefer using a Brannock instead of guessing my size from a ruler.
Using it isn’t complicated. Stand on it with your heel against the back, check where your longest toe lands, and move the sliding pointer to the ball of your foot for the other length measurement. There’s a separate slider for width.
Just make sure you’re standing when you take the measurements, and do both feet.
Don’t ignore the width measurement.
For men’s US sizing, D is generally considered standard width, E is wider, and EE is wider again. The actual width also depends on the shoe size.
My feet fall somewhere between a 9D and 9E. That helps explain why I can wear most Gazelles half a size down without feeling squeezed across the forefoot.
See what D, E and EE mean in shoe sizing.
Measure Your Feet at the End of the Day
I’d measure in the evening if possible. My advice is to do it after you’ve been on your feet for a while, since feet aren’t always exactly the same size in the morning and at night.
Especially if you’re trying to decide between an 8.5 and a 9, I’d rather you measure when your feet have had a normal day of walking.
Wear the Socks You’ll Actually Use
I wouldn’t measure my feet barefoot if I was planning to wear my Gazelles with socks.
If you’re going to wear thick socks with your Gazelles, try the shoes on with those socks. I’ve seen people judge a shoe’s fit with one type of sock and then wonder why it feels different with another.
Measure Both Feet
Your left and right feet might not measure exactly the same. Sometimes one foot is a little longer, or you might find that one is wider.
Studies estimate that between 60% and 80% of adults have one foot that’s longer or wider than the other.
That’s why I’d measure both instead of just checking one and calling it a day.
I’d choose the size that gives the bigger foot enough room. The smaller foot might need the laces a little tighter, which is usually easier to deal with than a shoe that’s too short.
How to Measure Foot Length at Home
You don’t need a Brannock Device to get a basic foot-length measurement.
I have a full guide on how to measure your feet at home, but here’s the simple version.
Start with a sheet of paper against a wall. Put your heel against the wall, stand normally on the paper, and mark the end of your longest toe. Then grab a ruler and measure from the wall to your mark.
Do the same with your other foot.
I like recording the result in centimeters because that’s what you’ll often see alongside shoe sizes in conversion charts.
You can then look up your foot length on Adidas’ chart. It won’t tell you everything about how the Gazelle fits, but at least you’ll know which size corresponds to your measurement.
How to Measure Foot Width
You can use that same piece of paper to measure width.
Stand on it and mark the two widest points of your forefoot, usually around the ball of your foot. Then measure straight across between the marks.
If you’re using a soft measuring tape, you can also wrap it around the ball of your foot. Just keep in mind that this gives you the circumference, which is a different measurement from the straight-line width.
I’d write down which method you used so you don’t end up comparing two different measurements later.
Leave a Little Room in Front of Your Toes
I don’t like having a lot of empty space in front of my toes, but I don’t want them pressed against the end of the shoe either.
You’ll often hear people recommend about a thumb’s width of space. That’s fine as a rough reference, but I wouldn’t buy a Gazelle just because it passes the thumb test.
I pay attention to what happens when I walk. My toes shouldn’t be rubbing against the front, and I shouldn’t have to curl them to keep the shoe on.
Consider Your Foot Shape, Not Just Your Size
Foot length alone doesn’t tell you how a Gazelle will fit.
You could have two people who both measure a US 9, but one has narrow feet and the other has a wide forefoot. I wouldn’t expect them to get the same fit from a size 9 Gazelle.
A high instep can make things trickier too. The length might be fine, but the upper could still feel tight over the top of your foot.
My feet are somewhere between D and E width, and I find the 8.5 comfortable. If I had a much wider forefoot, I’d probably try the 9 first.
Compare With Your Best-Fitting Sneakers
I use the sneakers I already own as a reference, although I know the size on the label doesn’t always tell me much.
For example, I wear:
- Adidas Samba: US 9.5
- Adidas Gazelle: US 8.5 in most versions
- Adidas Campus: US 8.5
- Nike Air Force 1: US 8.5
That’s a full-size difference between my Samba and Gazelle, even though both are Adidas sneakers. And my feet measure a US 9 on the Brannock Device.
My Samba is much narrower than my Gazelle, which is why I need the extra half size in the Samba. The Gazelle has enough room for my feet even in an 8.5.
So I’d look at the sneakers you already wear and ask yourself which ones feel too narrow or too roomy. You probably already have a pretty good idea of what works for your feet.
Should You Size Up or Down If You’re Between Sizes?
For narrow and normal-width feet, I’d try half a size down first. That’s what works for me, although my feet are slightly wide.
With wide feet, I’d start true to size. If going down half a size makes the forefoot tight, I wouldn’t force it just to get a snugger heel.
Adidas Gazelle Sizing FAQ
Do Adidas Gazelle run big or small?
I’d say they run a little big. I’m a US 9 on the Brannock Device, but I wear an 8.5 in most Gazelles.
I’d recommend trying half a size down if your feet are narrow, normal, or slightly wide. For wider feet, I’d start with your regular size.
Is the Adidas Gazelle bigger than the Samba?
The Gazelle definitely feels bigger on my feet, although I wouldn’t say there’s a huge difference in their actual length.
It’s mainly the width. The Samba hugs my midfoot much more closely, and I can feel the difference around my toes too. I wear a 9.5 in the Samba and an 8.5 in the Gazelle, which tells you quite a bit about how differently they fit me.
Do Gazelles run bigger than Spezials?
They’re pretty close in length. I wear an 8.5 in both.
The Spezial is a little narrower around my arch, though, and I can get a tighter fit around the midfoot when I lace it up. If you’ve got wide feet, I’d be more inclined to recommend the Gazelle.
Do Adidas Gazelles loosen up?
The suede does soften with wear, and you might notice the upper giving a little around your foot.
I wouldn’t buy a pair that’s painfully tight and hope it’ll stretch enough to become comfortable, though. And if the shoe is too short, wearing it for a few weeks isn’t going to fix that.
Are Gazelles good for wide feet?
I think they’re a decent option, particularly if you’ve tried the Samba and found it too narrow.
My feet are slightly wide, and I can comfortably wear most Gazelles half a size down. If your feet are much wider, I’d stick with your regular size to begin with.
How should Adidas Gazelles fit?
I prefer a snug fit, and my US 8.5 Gazelles give me that without squeezing my toes.
The heel shouldn’t keep slipping when you walk, and if your toes are rubbing against the front, I’d try a bigger size. A little movement is normal, but I wouldn’t want my feet sliding around inside the shoes.
Is the Adidas Gazelle good for narrow feet?
Yes, although I’d expect someone with narrow feet to find their regular size a little roomy.
I’d try half a size down first. Even with my slightly wide feet, I find the Gazelle roomy enough to size down. If your feet are narrower than mine, there’s a good chance you’ll prefer the smaller size too.
Do Gazelles run long?
A little, at least on my feet.
When I tried my regular US 9, I had more room in front of my toes than I wanted, and my heel wasn’t as secure as it is in the 8.5.
I wouldn’t say the Gazelle runs a full size long, though.
Should I size down in Adidas Gazelles?
I’d start with half a size down for narrow and normal feet. That’s also what works for my slightly wide feet.
If you’ve got a wide forefoot, try your regular size before going smaller. I wouldn’t sacrifice width just to get rid of a little extra length.
Are Adidas Gazelle Indoor and Gazelle the same size?
For me, yes. I buy both in a US 8.5.
I tried the Gazelle Indoor in my regular size 9 as well, but my heel was moving around too much. The 8.5 was a much better fit.
There can be small differences between versions, but I’d start with the same size in both.
What size Adidas Gazelle should I buy if I wear Sambas?
I wouldn’t automatically buy the same size.
My Samba is a US 9.5, while most of my Gazelles are an 8.5. In my regular size 9, the Samba feels too snug around my forefoot, so I go up to a 9.5.
With the Gazelle, it’s the opposite. My regular size 9 feels too roomy, and the 8.5 fits me better.
You might not need that big a difference, though. If you’re happy with how your Sambas fit, I’d try the Gazelle half a size smaller first.
Final Thoughts on Adidas Gazelle Sizing
After wearing multiple Adidas Gazelle models and collaborations, I’ve come to the same conclusion every time: the Gazelle is one of the easiest Adidas classics to wear, but it’s also one of the most misunderstood when it comes to sizing.
A lot of people assume it fits like the Samba because the two shoes look similar. In reality, the Gazelle is roomier, more forgiving, and generally much friendlier for wider feet.
For me, going down half a size has consistently produced the best fit in most Gazelles, including the Gazelle Indoor. The only exceptions have been a handful of collaborations that use different materials or construction methods.
If you have narrow or normal feet, I’d start by trying a half size down. If you have wide feet, true to size is usually the safer choice.
Most importantly, don’t assume every Adidas model fits the same. The Gazelle, Samba, Campus, and Spezial all have their own unique fit, and understanding those differences can save you a lot of trial and error.
What About You?
Have you tried the Adidas Gazelle?
Did you stay true to size, go down half a size, or end up sizing differently depending on the version? I’m especially curious to hear how your experience compares across models like the Gazelle Indoor, Gazelle Bold, Gazelle ADV, Bad Bunny Gazelle, Samba, Campus, and Spezial.
Let me know your foot shape, your usual sneaker size, and which Gazelle model you own in the comments below. The more real-world Adidas Gazelle sizing experiences we collect, the easier it becomes for everyone else to find their perfect fit.
For most Adidas Gazelles, I’m sticking with my US 8.5. I’ve tried my regular size 9 enough times to know I prefer the smaller size, especially when it comes to keeping my heel secure.
But I wouldn’t tell everyone to go half a size down without asking about their feet first. Mine are only slightly wide. Someone with a much wider forefoot might find the 8.5 too tight and be happier in their regular size.
And then there are the collaborations. My Sean Wotherspoon Gazelle fits better in a 9, while the Bad Bunny and Gucci versions have been roomier than I expected. So even within the Gazelle family, I’ve had to make a few adjustments.
If you’re coming from the Samba, don’t expect the same fit. I need a 9.5 in that shoe, and the difference is pretty noticeable when I put the two on.
What About You?
Have you tried the regular Gazelle and any of the other versions? I’d love to know if you ended up wearing the same size in both.
And if you’ve tried the Indoor, Bold, ADV, or one of the collaborations, tell me how they fit compared to your other Adidas sneakers.
Drop your size and a little about your foot shape in the comments. I’m always interested in hearing how these shoes fit other people, especially when their experience is different from mine.