The ASICS GEL-NYC is one of those sneakers that makes you pause for a second.
The name alone is a clear nod to one of the greatest cities of all time, but the shoe itself goes deeper than that.
It’s a hybrid silhouette built from multiple ASICS models, and it fits right in with what a lot of brands are doing right now with archive-inspired designs.
ASICS has been on a strong run lately, especially with collaborations, and it’s honestly refreshing to see.
Because of that, I’ve been adding more ASICS pairs to my rotation, mostly for comfort. You really can’t go wrong there.
And the GEL-NYC sits near the top for me when it comes to comfort and everyday wear.
So if you’re looking for a clear breakdown of ASICS GEL-NYC sizing, how the shoe fits, and how to use the size chart to get it right, you’re in the right place.
Let’s dive right into it…
Asics Gel NYC Sizing
I went true to size in the GEL-NYC. My feet measure as a true size 9 on the Brannock device, and they’re slightly on the wider side. I picked these up in a size 9 and the fit felt good right away.
It’s a slightly snug fit, but not uncomfortable.
Lengthwise, everything felt spot on. My toes had enough room to sit naturally, and I didn’t feel like I was pushing the front of the shoe when walking. The midfoot has a secure feel, which lines up with the overall shape of the upper.
If you’ve worn other Asics models like the Gel Kayano 14, GT-2160, Gel 1130, or even the Gel MC Plus, the sizing will feel familiar.
I wear a size 9 across all of those, and the GEL-NYC fits right in with that group. So if you already know your Asics size, sticking with it here makes sense.
For most people with narrow, normal, or slightly wide feet, true to size should work just fine. The shoe does lean toward a closer fit, especially through the front, but it never crossed into uncomfortable territory for me.
Toe Box and Width Feel
This is where preferences start to matter more.
The GEL-NYC toe box runs a bit narrower than something like the Gel 1130, which has more volume overall. If you’re used to that roomy, relaxed feel, the NYC will feel more structured.
That said, the narrower toe box didn’t bother me at all. My forefoot felt supported without feeling squeezed. Still, I can see why some people might notice it more, especially if their feet are wider or if they like extra space up front.
If you have wider feet or you simply prefer a more open, roomy toe box, going up half a size is worth considering. That small adjustment gives you more breathing room around the little toe area and makes the fit feel more relaxed.
If you’re someone who enjoys a snug, secure fit, staying true to size will probably feel better. It really comes down to how much space you like around your toes.
What If You’re Between Sizes?
If you usually sit between sizes, the GEL-NYC is one of those shoes where you could honestly go either way.
True to size gives you a more locked-in feel that works well for everyday wear. Half a size up gives you more space, especially in the toe box, and can feel more comfortable if you plan to wear thicker socks.
If you have the chance to try them on in person, that’s always the easiest way to decide. The difference between the two sizes comes down more to preference than necessity.
GEL-NYC vs Other Asics Models
If you’re comparing across the Asics lineup, here’s the simple way to think about it.
The GEL-NYC fits closer to the Gel Kayano 14 in terms of structure and snugness. It feels more fitted than the Gel 1130, which has more volume throughout.
If you go true to size in the Kayano 14 and like how that feels, you’ll probably be happy doing the same in the GEL-NYC.
The 1130, on the other hand, gives you more room by default. So while you can size up in the NYC for more space, you usually don’t need to do that in the 1130.
Women’s Sizing Notes
In women’s sizing, going true to size can feel a bit more snug than expected. The shoe still fits, but there isn’t much extra wiggle room.
If you like wearing thicker socks or prefer a slightly more relaxed fit, going up half a size is a good idea. That extra space makes the shoe feel more comfortable over longer wear, especially if you’re on your feet a lot.
GEL-NYC vs. GEL-NYC 2055
If you already own the GEL-NYC 2055 and you’re thinking about picking up the standard GEL-NYC, sizing is easy.
I went with my regular size 9 in both, and they fit almost identical. Length, width, and overall feel are very close. So whatever size works for you in the 2055 will work in the GEL-NYC as well.
Here’s a video that confirms what I’ve been saying:
Final Sizing Advice
So here’s the short version.
- If you have narrow, normal, or slightly wide feet and you like a secure fit, go true to size.
- If you have wider feet or want more space in the toe box, consider going up half a size.
- If you’re between sizes, either option can work depending on how snug you like your shoes.
The GEL-NYC fits right in with the rest of the modern Asics lineup. Once you know your Asics size, there aren’t many surprises here.
By the way, if you’re jumping between brands and trying to dial in sizing across your rotation, I’ve got you covered there too.
I’ve put together some super handy sizing guides for popular Nike models like Air Max, Foamposite, and Presto, where I break down how each one actually fits on foot and what size works best depending on foot shape.
If ASICS makes sense for your feet but Nike still feels confusing, those guides help connect the dots fast.
Select 13 more words to run Humanizer.
Asics Gel NYC Size Chart
Men
| US | UK | EU | CM |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 36 | 22.5 |
| 4.5 | 3,5 | 37 | 23 |
| 5 | 4 | 37.5 | 23.5 |
| 5.5 | 4,5 | 38 | 24 |
| 6 | 5 | 39 | 24.5 |
| 6.5 | 5,5 | 39.5 | 25 |
| 7 | 6 | 40 | 25.25 |
| 7.5 | 6.5 | 40.5 | 25.5 |
| 8 | 7 | 41.5 | 26 |
| 8.5 | 7.5 | 42 | 26.5 |
| 9 | 8 | 42.5 | 27 |
| 9.5 | 8.5 | 43.5 | 27.5 |
| 10 | 9 | 44 | 28 |
| 10.5 | 9.5 | 44.5 | 28.25 |
| 11 | 10 | 45 | 28.5 |
| 11.5 | 10.5 | 46 | 29 |
| 12 | 11 | 46.5 | 29.5 |
| 12.5 | 11.5 | 47 | 30 |
| 13 | 12 | 48 | 30.5 |
| 13.5 | 12.5 | 48.5 | 30.75 |
| 14 | 13 | 49 | 31 |
| 14.5 | 13.5 | 49.5 | 31.5 |
| 15 | 14 | 50.5 | 32 |
Women
| US | UK | EU | CM |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 2 | 34.5 | 21.5 |
| 4.5 | 2.5 | 35 | 22.0 |
| 5 | 3 | 35.5 | 22.5 |
| 5.5 | 3.5 | 36 | 22.75 |
| 6 | 4 | 37 | 23.0 |
| 6.5 | 4.5 | 37.5 | 23.5 |
| 7 | 5 | 38 | 24.0 |
| 7.5 | 5.5 | 39 | 24.5 |
| 8 | 6 | 39.5 | 25.0 |
| 8.5 | 6.5 | 40 | 25.5 |
| 9 | 7 | 40.5 | 25.75 |
| 9.5 | 7.5 | 41.5 | 26.0 |
| 10 | 8 | 42 | 26.5 |
| 10.5 | 8.5 | 42.5 | 27.0 |
| 11 | 9 | 43.5 | 27.5 |
| 11.5 | 9.5 | 44 | 28.0 |
| 12 | 10 | 44.5 | 28.5 |
| 12.5 | 10.5 | 45 | 28.75 |
| 13 | 11 | 46 | 29.0 |
Asics Gel NYC Width Chart
| Code | Women's | Men's/Kids |
|---|---|---|
| 2A | Narrow | — |
| B | Standard | Narrow |
| D | Wide | Standard |
| 2E | Extra Wide | Wide |
| 4E | — | Extra Wide |
How to Measure Your Feet for ASICS GEL-NYC
If you want to get the sizing right on the GEL-NYC, the best move is still the simplest one. Try them on in person if you can.
I know that’s not always possible, but if a store near you carries ASICS runners or lifestyle models, it’s worth stopping by.
The GEL-NYC has a slightly more structured toe box than something like the Gel 1130, so feeling that shape on your own foot helps a lot.
You can check the length, see how the toe box feels, and decide whether true to size or half a size up makes more sense for you.
Get Measured With a Brannock Device If Possible
If you have access to a Brannock device, use it. That’s still the most reliable starting point.
When I measure, I come out as a true size 9 in length, with my width sitting between a D and an E. That information matters with a shoe like the GEL-NYC because the fit is a bit more snug through the front than some other ASICS models.
Here’s how to use the Brannock correctly:
- Stand up straight with your full weight on your foot
- Slide your heel all the way back
- Check your length first
- Then check your width
- Measure both feet and size based on the larger one
- That number is your real size.
- From there, you decide if you want a snug fit or a little more room.
Measuring Your Feet at Home
If you don’t have access to a Brannock, measuring at home works just fine.
Here’s the easiest way to do it:
What you need:
- A piece of paper
- A pen or pencil
- A ruler or tape measure
- The socks you actually plan to wear
Steps:
- Measure at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen
- Place the paper on the floor against a wall
- Stand with your heel touching the wall and your full weight on your foot
- Mark the tip of your longest toe
- Measure from the wall to that mark
- Measure the widest part of your foot
- Repeat with the other foot and use the larger measurements
Once you have those numbers, compare them to the ASICS Gel NYC size chart. That will give you a solid baseline.
How to Use Those Measurements for the GEL-NYC
Here’s where it gets specific to this model.
If your length and width fall right into your usual ASICS size and you like a secure fit, true to size should feel good in the GEL-NYC. That’s how it worked for me.
If your width measurement is on the wider end, or you already know you like more space in the toe box, half a size up can make the shoe feel more relaxed. This is especially helpful if you wear thicker socks or plan to be on your feet all day.
If you’re right between sizes, either option can work. True to size feels more locked in. Half a size up gives you more breathing room.
Quick Fit Checks Before You Commit
Once you have the shoe on, here are a few things I always check:
- You should have about a thumb’s width of space in front of your longest toe
- The sides of the toe box shouldn’t press into your little toe
- Walk around and see if your heel stays put
- Pay attention to how the midfoot feels when you stand still and when you move
If something feels tight right away in the toe box, it usually won’t disappear later. That’s your cue to try the half size up.
GEL-NYC Model Overview: Where ASICS Archives Meet New York Energy
The GEL-NYC didn’t show up out of nowhere. Its story really starts with the Awake New York collaboration. That release put the spotlight on the silhouette and showed that ASICS was onto something.
After that success, the GEL-NYC officially became part of the core lineup, and it makes sense why.
This model is built as a blend of past ASICS designs rather than a straight reissue. The upper pulls heavily from the early-2000s Gel Nimbus 3, with layered details and paneling that feel very true to that era.
You’ll also notice design cues borrowed from the MC Plus V, which adds to the more technical, performance-inspired look across the upper.
Then there’s the contrast. While the top half leans retro, the sole setup comes from the Gel Cumulus 16. That means lighter foams paired with Gel cushioning inserts, which gives the shoe a more modern underfoot feel.
It creates a clear visual break between upper and midsole, and that mix is a big part of what makes the GEL-NYC stand out when you see it on foot.
ASICS has done mash-up silhouettes before, but the GEL-NYC feels more intentional than most. The idea here was to create something that feels rooted in the brand’s running history while still fitting into a lifestyle context.
The “NYC” name isn’t random either. The shoe is meant to reflect a New York street feel. Busy, layered, and functional, but still wearable day to day.
Because of that hybrid approach, the fit can feel a little different depending on your foot shape. Everyone’s feet are unique, and this model has a more structured upper than some other ASICS lifestyle pairs.
ASICS GEL-NYC Sizing FAQ
Should I size up or down for the GEL-NYC?
For most people, sticking true to size is the right move. That’s where the shoe feels the most balanced. If you like a snug, secure fit, your normal ASICS size should feel good. If you have wider feet or prefer more space in the toe box, going up half a size can make things more comfortable.
Is the ASICS GEL-NYC comfortable?
Yes, especially once you’re actually wearing it for a full day. The cushioning setup from the Gel Cumulus 16 gives it a softer underfoot feel than it looks. The upper is more structured, so it feels supportive rather than loose. It’s comfortable in a “stable and supported” way, not a super plush slipper-like way.
Do GEL-NYC run big or small?
They don’t run big or small. They run pretty true to size. The only reason people question sizing is because the toe box is a bit more structured than models like the Gel 1130. That can make them feel slightly snug for some feet, but length-wise, they’re accurate.
Should I size up or down for ASICS in general?
In most cases, ASICS run true to size. If you already know your ASICS size from models like the Kayano 14, GT-2160, or Gel 1130, you can usually stick with that same size. Adjust only if you know your feet are very wide or if a specific model is known to fit snug.
Do ASICS Gel models run small?
No, ASICS Gel models don’t generally run small. Most of them fit true to size. What changes from model to model is volume and structure. Some have more room in the toe box, others feel more fitted. That’s why knowing your foot shape matters just as much as knowing your size.
Is the ASICS GEL-NYC good for wide feet?
It can be, with the right size choice. If your feet are slightly wide, true to size should still work. If your feet are wider and you usually feel pressure around the little toe, going up half a size is the safer option.
Is the ASICS GEL-NYC good for narrow feet?
Yes. If you have narrow feet, the GEL-NYC actually works really well. The more structured upper and slightly narrower toe box help the shoe feel secure without needing to size down. In most cases, narrow-footed wearers should stay true to size.
Final Thoughts
If you’re still wondering about the Asics Gel NYC sizing, at the end of the day, the NYC is one of those sneakers that just makes sense once you wear it. The design looks busy at first, but on foot, everything comes together.
Sizing-wise, it’s pretty straightforward. If you stick with your usual ASICS size, the fit will feel familiar. It’s slightly snug in the toe box for some people, but not in a deal-breaking way.
More like a “secure” fit than a cramped one.
If you like that locked-in feel, true to size works great. If you want more room to breathe, especially up front, half a size up can make sense.
If you already own a pair, I’m curious how they fit you. Did you stay true to size or go up half a size? And how does the toe box feel on your feet?
Drop your experience in the comments.