If you’re a sneaker fan or just thinking about picking up your first pair of Asics, you probably want to know one thing before you click checkout. Do they run big or small, and how do Asics Gel 1130 fit in real life?
I think it’s pretty fair to say that Asics might be the hottest brand in sneakers right now.
The brand has been around forever with a loyal following, but over the last couple of years, everything changed.
Sneaker trends moved toward comfort, technical running designs, retro vibes, and smart collaborations. That brought a lot of new and younger people into the Asics world.
The Gel 1130 is one of the pairs driving that wave. It looks like the Gel Kayano 14 everyone loves, except you don’t have to pay a crazy price to get something with a similar vibe.
In this article, I break down everything you need to know about Asics Gel 1130 sizing. I tell you how they fit compared to the Nike Vomero, if you should size up or down, how wide the toe box feels, stretching, comfort, and even how to measure your feet the right way.
Let’s dive right into it…
How Do Asics Gel 1130 Fit?
I think the Asics Gel 1130 fit true to size for most people. That is the simplest place to start.
I wear a true size 9 and my foot is slightly on the wider side. When I step on a Brannock device, I sit between a D and an E width. I went with a size 9 in the Gel 1130 and the fit felt just right. No pressure in the toe box at all.
The upper is mostly mesh with very few layers. So your feet have space to move naturally. There is good volume inside the shoe and the toe box feels roomy.
If you have wide feet, this is the kind of shoe that works in your favor. I can see people with slightly wide feet going true to size without overthinking it.
Now, here is the trade-off. Comfort comes from the width and the airy materials, but you lose some of that super snug lockdown you get in more structured runners. It feels easygoing instead of tight. Some people like that. Some people want more support.
If your foot is narrow and you want that exact one-to-one fit, half a size down could make sense. But for most people, sticking true to size is the right move.
Even for wide footers, only go up half a size if your feet are really wide or if you like a looser feel.
I also noticed something about how they sit underfoot. The base feels slightly wider than shoes like the Gel Kayano 14. So you do not feel like you are falling off the midsole. The stability is actually better than you might expect from such a lightweight build.
And if you are picky about insoles, good news. The insole is not glued in. You can pull it out and drop in one you like more. It instantly feels better tailored to your foot.
To make things simple:
- True to size for most feet
- Wide feet can stay true to size too
- Narrow feet might want half a size down
- Light, roomy upper means more wiggle room and a relaxed feel
- Stability feels surprisingly good because of the slightly wider base
If you can try them on in person, that is always the best call. If not, true to size is the safe choice. And buy from a place with easy returns, just in case.
Oh, and if you want to go a bit deeper, I also wrote a full guide about how Asics sneakers fit across different models, so feel free to check that out after this.
Asics Gel 1130 vs. Vomero 5 (Sizing)
I have both pairs in my rotation, and I stick with the same size in each one. They both run true to size. The difference is how they feel once you actually put them on.
The Vomero 5 has more padding around the collar and the upper holds your foot in a snug way. You feel the shoe hugging the midfoot more.
Some people love that secure fit because it feels supportive the whole day.
The Gel 1130 takes the opposite approach. The padding is thinner and the upper feels simpler. So the fit opens up a little more.
The toe box is wider and the shape is less tapered. If you have wide feet, you might instantly notice how much easier your foot settles into the 1130.
That means:
- Same recommended size in both
- Vomero 5 = snugger fit with more padding
- Gel 1130 = looser, more wide-footer friendly fit
I have slightly wide feet and true to size works fine in each pair, but if you hate any kind of tightness, the Gel 1130 is the safer bet. If you want a locked-in feel with more structure, the Vomero 5 feels better for that.
So, what kind of fit do you want?
Now, if you’re deciding between models, I also put together a full breakdown of Asics Gel NYC sizing and how it compares to the roomier fit of the 1130.
Related: Since the Gel 1130 runs more open and relaxed, it might help to see how the Asics GT-2160 fit if you’re comparing between the two.
Women’s Sizing for the Asics Gel 1130
I tried two different sizes just to see if going half a size up makes a real difference. The women’s version does exist in some colorways, and the overall shape works well for different foot types.
If you have a slender foot, these feel great. If your foot has a wider base, the mesh upper opens up enough to keep things comfortable.
True to size should work for most people.
The flexible mesh doesn’t squeeze the midfoot and the toe box doesn’t feel too narrow either, so your toes get a bit of freedom to move around.
Now, if you’re someone with wider feet and you like thicker socks or extra toe space, going up half a size can give you that breathing room.
And even when I sized up, the heel area didn’t feel sloppy. The collar is slightly more narrow, and that helps keep the foot from sliding around in the back.
So here’s what I noticed:
- True to size works best for most women
- Great for narrow feet and surprisingly good for wide feet too
- Half size up only if you want more space or you wear thicker socks
Think about your arch and foot shape as well. Someone with high-arched, narrow feet might feel a bit more volume inside the shoe, while flatter wide feet might enjoy the extra space.
It really depends on what type of fit you like.
Related: If you also wear Nike, here’s my Nike Air Max sizing guide where I explain how they fit and what size to choose.
Asics Gel 1130 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 |
Related: Curious how other Nike models feel? I have a full post about how Foamposities fit and why they run so snug.
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 |
Related: I also compared different versions in my Nike Dunk sizing article, in case you switch between brands like I do.
Kids
| US | EU | CM |
|---|---|---|
| K4 | 19.5 | 12.5 |
| K4.5 | 20.5 | 12.75 |
| K5 | 21 | 13.0 |
| K5.5 | 21.5 | 13.5 |
| K6 | 22.5 | 14.0 |
| K6.5 | 23 | 14.5 |
| K7 | 23.5 | 15.0 |
| K7.5 | 24 | 15.25 |
| K8 | 25 | 15.5 |
| K8.5 | 25.5 | 15.75 |
| K9 | 26 | 16.0 |
| K9.5 | 26.5 | 16.5 |
| K10 | 27 | 17 |
| K11 | 28.5 | 17.5 |
| K12 | 30 | 18.5 |
| K13 | 31.5 | 19.5 |
| 1 | 32.5 | 20 |
| 1.5 | 33 | 20.5 |
| 2 | 33.5 | 21 |
| 2.5 | 34.5 | 21.5 |
| 3 | 35 | 22 |
| 3.5 | 35.5 | 22.25 |
| 4 | 36 | 22.5 |
| 4.5 | 37 | 23 |
| 5 | 37.5 | 23.5 |
| 5.5 | 38 | 24 |
| 6 | 39 | 24.5 |
| 6.5 | 39.5 | 25 |
| 7 | 40 | 25.5 |
Related: If you like flexible runners, my Nike Presto size guide can help you figure out your perfect fit there too.
Asics Gel 1130 Width Chart
| Code | Women's | Men's/Kids |
|---|---|---|
| 2A | Narrow | — |
| B | Standard | Narrow |
| D | Wide | Standard |
| 2E | Extra Wide | Wide |
| 4E | — | Extra Wide |
Related: You can check my breakdown of how Nike Vapormax fit because they definitely don’t feel like traditional sneakers.
A Quick Look at the History of the Asics Gel 1130
The Gel 1130 is one of those sneakers that stays hyped, but at the same time doesn’t empty your wallet. Pretty cool combination. So how did it get here?
When it first dropped in 2008, the Gel 1130 was actually built as a budget-friendly version of the Gel Kayano 14. The Kayano 14 was a premium running shoe back then, and a lot of people still love it today.
If you put both pairs side by side, you can see the family resemblance right away. Honestly, the 1130 looks closer to the Kayano 14 than almost anything else Asics has made. And the Kayano 14 might be my favorite Asics model ever, so that says a lot.
To keep the price lower, Asics made a few changes. They used fewer materials on the upper and skipped some of the extra premium touches.
The 1130 has less visible Gel in the midsole, and the only spot where you really see the cushioning is on the heel. Just a little window of Gel and that’s it.
But even with those compromises, it was still a solid running shoe when it hit the market.
Like a lot of sneakers, the first wave of popularity didn’t last forever. It showed up, made noise, then faded away for years.
But the 2020s brought a huge comeback. The rise of retro running sneakers made people look back at both the Kayano 14 and the 1130, and suddenly, the 1130 became one of the most popular shoes around.
Why the comeback? You get that late-2000s techy Kayano look, but for a cheaper price and usually better availability. And here’s something interesting. Many people actually find the 1130 a little more comfortable. It’s slightly wider than the Kayano 14, so it works better for more foot shapes.
So yeah, it started as a budget alternative, disappeared for a bit, then came back even stronger. Not bad for a sneaker that was originally the cheaper option.
Related:
How to measure your feet for Asics Gel 1130
Try the shoe in person when possible
The best way to get your size right is to try the Gel 1130 in person. Every foot is different. You might have one foot that is a bit longer, a wider forefoot, or a higher instep.
When you actually try the shoe on, you feel all of this instantly. You can walk around, check the heel lockdown, and make sure the toe box feels just right.
Get measured by a fitting professional
If you can, go to a store that has someone who is trained to measure feet. They can check more than just length. They look at width, arch height, and how your foot spreads when you stand.
They also know the quirks of different brands like Asics. Sometimes they will say something like: you measure a certain size, but based on how your foot sits, this other size will feel better. That kind of advice is very helpful when you are unsure.
Use a Brannock device if available
The Brannock device is the classic foot measuring tool you see in shoe stores. It gives you three important numbers:
- Foot length
- Foot width
- Arch length
Here is how to use it correctly:
- Stand up straight. Weight changes your foot shape, so never measure while sitting.
- Place your heel firmly all the way back.
- Check the arch length. This tells you where your big toe joint sits and often gives a better idea of size than total foot length.
- Check the full length. Use the longer foot as your real size.
- Check width. If you land on the wide end of the scale, the Gel 1130 will likely feel great since it has a roomy toe box.
- Take a picture of the measurement if you want to compare later.
How to measure your feet at home
If you can’t go to a store, you can measure at home with paper, a wall, and a ruler.
Step by step:
- Put a piece of paper on the floor against a wall.
- Wear the socks you plan to wear with the shoe. That small difference adds up.
- Stand with your heel touching the wall and your full weight on your foot.
- Trace the longest part of your foot.
- Measure from the wall line to the tip of your longest toe.
- Repeat with the other foot and use the largest measurement.
- Then compare your measurement with the Asics size chart below.
- Always round up if you sit right between sizes.
Extra sizing tips most people forget
- Measure at the end of the day.
Your feet swell from walking and daily activity. Evening measurements reflect your real size while wearing sneakers.
- Measure both feet.
Almost everyone has one foot that is bigger. That bigger measurement is the one you size for.
- Check width carefully.
The Gel 1130 is wider than the Kayano 14 and many Nike sneakers. This makes it good for wide feet.
- Leave a finger of space in the toe box.
You should have about a thumb’s width of room between your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
- Walk around to test comfort before committing.
If the midfoot feels tight or the heel slips a lot, try a half size change.
The Gel 1130 is already a comfortable model, but the right size takes it to another level. If you want a safe option to start with, go true to size and adjust only if you have very narrow or very wide feet.
Asics Gel 1130 Sizing FAQ
Should I size up or down in Asics?
Usually, you can stick with your regular size when you buy Asics. For the Gel 1130, true to size works for most people. If your feet are narrow and you really like a snug fit, you could try half a size down. But if your feet lean wide or you want more room, stay true to size (or half a size up only if needed).
How do Asics1130 fit compared to Nike?
Compared to many Nike models, including cushioned or “chunkier” ones, the Gel 1130 fits a little more relaxed. For example, versus something like the Nike Zoom Vomero 5, the 1130 has less padding around the collar and a simpler, lighter upper. Vomero 5 feels snugger and more structured. The 1130 feels looser and more open, especially around the toe box and midfoot, so it often works better for wider feet.
Do Asics 1130 have a wide toe box?
Yes. The 1130’s mesh build and minimal upper structure give it a toe box that is noticeably wider and less tapered than many performance sneakers. That makes it good for everyday wear and for people who dislike tight toe boxes.
Should I size up or down for Asics 1130?
Start with your normal size. If your foot is narrow and you want a tighter, sock-like fit, you could try half a size down. If your foot is wide or you wear thicker socks, consider going half a size up. But most people (narrow, normal, or slightly wide feet) will be fine true to size.
Are Asics 1130 chunky?
Not really. The Gel 1130 has a lighter, simpler build than heavy “chunky” sneakers. The upper is mostly mesh and the midsole uses only a modest visible Gel unit in the heel. The overall feel is light and easygoing, not bulky or heavy.
Do Asics Gel 1130 stretch?
Yes. The mesh upper is flexible and does give a bit with wear, so the shoe becomes more comfortable over time. That said, it’s not a stretching miracle. Don’t expect huge changes. Use that flex as a bit of breathing room rather than relying on major stretching.
Final Thoughts
So, how do Asics Gel 1130 fit? For most people, true to size works perfectly. The upper has a flexible mesh that doesn’t squeeze your toes and the shoe feels more forgiving than a lot of people out there.
If you have wide feet or you just like extra space, the 1130 can handle that without forcing you into a bigger size. That alone makes the sizing feel a lot less stressful.
In my experience, the 1130 gives you comfort right away. You don’t have to break them in or deal with that “tight at the start” feeling.
Compared to Nike, especially something like the Vomero 5, the 1130 fits a little more loose and wide. So if you tried Vomeros before and they felt snug, you might like this better.
Before we wrap up, I want to hear from you. What has been your experience with Asics sizing? How did the Gel 1130 feel on your feet?
Drop your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s help each other out.