Years ago, Nicks didn’t offer the wide range of sizes they do today. If you walked into their store, there was a good chance your perfect fit wasn’t on the shelf.
Instead, they’d measure your foot, adjust the mold, and build a custom last—not because of any foot abnormalities, but simply because standard sizes weren’t available for everyone.
Now, with around 1,400 different shapes, sizes from 4 to 16, and widths from 4A to 5F, finding a great fit is much easier. But with so many options, understanding the Nicks Boots size chart and how Nicks boot sizing works is key to getting the right fit.
Related:
Looking for more PNW boots? Here’s White’s Boots’ sizing guide.
Nicks Boots Size Chart
Sizes 4 Through 7.5
| Size | 4 | 4.5 | 5 | 5.5 | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ball | 7 3/4 | 7 7/8 | 8 | 8 1/8 | 8 1/4 | 8 3/8 | 8 1/2 | 8 5/8 | |
| A | Instep | 8 | 8 1/8 | 8 1/4 | 9 3/8 | 8 1/2 | 8 5/8 | 8 3/4 | 8 7/8 |
| Heel | 11 1/2 | 11 5/8 | 11 3/4 | 11 7/8 | 12 | 12 1/8 | 12 1/4 | 12 3/8 | |
| Ball | 8 | 8 1/8 | 8 1/4 | 8 3/8 | 8 1/2 | 8 5/8 | 8 3/4 | 8 7/8 | |
| B | Instep | 8 1/4 | 8 3/8 | 8 1/2 | 8 5/8 | 8 3/4 | 8 7/8 | 9 | 9 1/8 |
| Heel | 11 3/4 | 11 7/8 | 12 | 12 1/8 | 12 1/4 | 12 3/8 | 12 1/2 | 12 5/8 | |
| Ball | 8 1/4 | 8 3/8 | 8 1/2 | 8 5/8 | 8 3/4 | 8 7/8 | 9 | 9 1/8 | |
| C | Instep | 8 1/2 | 8 5/8 | 8 3/4 | 8 7/8 | 9 | 9 1/8 | 9 1/4 | 9 3/8 |
| Heel | 12 | 12 1/8 | 12 1/4 | 12 3/8 | 12 1/2 | 12 5/8 | 12 3/4 | 12 7/8 | |
| Ball | 8 1/2 | 8 5/8 | 8 3/4 | 8 7/8 | 9 | 9 1/8 | 9 1/4 | 9 3/8 | |
| D | Instep | 8 3/4 | 8 7/8 | 9 | 9 1/8 | 9 1/4 | 9 3/8 | 9 1/2 | 9 5/8 |
| Heel | 12 1/4 | 12 3/8 | 12 1/2 | 12 5/8 | 12 3/4 | 12 7/8 | 13 | 13 1/8 | |
| Ball | 8 3/4 | 8 7/8 | 9 | 9 1/8 | 9 1/4 | 9 3/8 | 9 1/2 | 9 5/8 | |
| E | Instep | 9 | 9 1/8 | 9 1/4 | 9 3/8 | 9 1/2 | 9 5/8 | 9 3/4 | 9 7/8 |
| Heel | 12 1/2 | 12 5/8 | 12 3/4 | 12 7/8 | 13 | 13 1/8 | 13 1/4 | 13 3/8 | |
| Ball | 9 | 9 1/8 | 9 1/4 | 9 3/8 | 9 1/2 | 9 5/8 | 9 3/4 | 9 7/8 | |
| EE | Instep | 9 1/4 | 9 3/8 | 9 1/2 | 9 5/8 | 9 3/4 | 9 7/8 | 10 | 10 1/8 |
| Heel | 12 3/4 | 12 7/8 | 13 | 13 1/8 | 13 1/4 | 13 3/8 | 13 1/2 | 13 5/8 | |
| Ball | 9 1/4 | 9 3/8 | 9 1/2 | 9 5/8 | 9 3/4 | 9 7/8 | 10 | 10 1/8 | |
| F | Instep | 9 1/2 | 9 5/8 | 9 3/4 | 9 7/8 | 10 | 10 1/8 | 10 1/4 | 10 3/8 |
| Heel | 13 | 13 1/8 | 13 1/4 | 13 3/8 | 13 1/2 | 13 5/8 | 13 3/4 | 13 7/8 | |
| Ball | 9 1/2 | 9 5/8 | 9 3/4 | 9 7/8 | 10 | 10 1/8 | 10 1/4 | 10 3/8 | |
| FF | Instep | 9 3/4 | 9 7/8 | 10 | 10 1/8 | 10 1/4 | 10 3/8 | 10 1/2 | 10 5/8 |
| Heel | 13 1/4 | 13 3/8 | 13 1/2 | 13 5/8 | 13 3/4 | 13 7/8 | 14 | 14 1/8 | |
| Ball | 9 3/4 | 9 7/8 | 10 | 10 1/8 | 10 1/4 | 10 3/8 | 10 1/2 | 10 5/8 | |
| FFF | Instep | 10 | 10 1/8 | 10 1/4 | 10 3/8 | 10 1/2 | 10 5/8 | 10 3/4 | 10 7/8 |
| Heel | 13 1/2 | 13 5/8 | 13 3/4 | 13 7/8 | 14 | 14 1/8 | 14 1/4 | 14 3/8 |
Related: R.M. Williams Size Chart
Sizes 8 Through 11.5
| Size | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 10 | 10.5 | 11 | 11.5 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ball | 8 3/4 | 8 7/8 | 9 | 9 1/8 | 9 1/4 | 9 3/8 | 9 1/2 | 9 5/8 | |
| A | Instep | 9 | 9 1/8 | 9 1/4 | 9 3/8 | 9 1/2 | 9 5/8 | 9 3/4 | 9 7/8 |
| Heel | 12 1/2 | 12 5/8 | 12 3/4 | 12 7/8 | 13 | 13 1/8 | 13 1/4 | 13 3/8 | |
| Ball | 9 | 9 1/8 | 9 1/4 | 9 3/8 | 9 1/2 | 9 5/8 | 9 3/4 | 9 7/8 | |
| B | Instep | 9 1/4 | 9 3/8 | 9 1/2 | 9 5/8 | 9 3/4 | 9 7/8 | 10 | 10 1/8 |
| Heel | 12 3/4 | 12 7/8 | 13 | 13 1/8 | 13 1/4 | 13 3/8 | 13 1/2 | 13 5/8 | |
| Ball | 9 1/4 | 9 3/8 | 9 1/2 | 9 5/8 | 9 3/4 | 9 7/8 | 10 | 10 1/8 | |
| C | Instep | 9 1/2 | 9 5/8 | 9 3/4 | 9 7/8 | 10 | 10 1/8 | 10 1/4 | 10 3/8 |
| Heel | 13 | 13 1/8 | 13 1/4 | 13 3/8 | 13 1/2 | 13 5/8 | 13 3/4 | 13 7/8 | |
| Ball | 9 1/2 | 9 5/8 | 9 3/4 | 9 7/8 | 10 | 10 1/8 | 10 1/4 | 10 3/8 | |
| D | Instep | 9 3/4 | 9 7/8 | 10 | 10 1/8 | 10 1/4 | 10 3/8 | 10 1/2 | 10 5/8 |
| Heel | 13 1/4 | 13 3/8 | 13 1/2 | 13 5/8 | 13 3/4 | 13 7/8 | 14 | 14 1/8 | |
| Ball | 9 3/4 | 9 7/8 | 10 | 10 1/8 | 10 1/4 | 10 3/8 | 10 1/2 | 10 5/8 | |
| E | Instep | 10 | 10 1/8 | 10 1/4 | 10 3/8 | 10 1/2 | 10 5/8 | 10 3/4 | 10 7/8 |
| Heel | 13 1/2 | 13 5/8 | 13 3/4 | 13 7/8 | 14 | 14 1/8 | 14 1/4 | 14 3/8 | |
| Ball | 10 | 10 1/8 | 10 1/4 | 10 3/8 | 10 1/2 | 10 5/8 | 10 3/4 | 10 7/8 | |
| EE | Instep | 10 1/4 | 10 3/8 | 10 1/2 | 10 5/8 | 10 3/4 | 10 7/8 | 11 | 11 1/8 |
| Heel | 13 3/4 | 13 7/8 | 14 | 14 1/8 | 14 1/4 | 14 3/8 | 14 1/2 | 14 5/8 | |
| Ball | 10 1/4 | 10 3/8 | 10 1/2 | 10 5/8 | 10 3/4 | 10 7/8 | 11 | 11 1/8 | |
| F | Instep | 10 1/2 | 10 5/8 | 10 3/4 | 10 7/8 | 11 | 11 1/8 | 11 1/4 | 11 3/8 |
| Heel | 14 | 14 1/8 | 14 1/4 | 14 3/8 | 14 1/2 | 14 5/8 | 14 3/4 | 14 7/8 | |
| Ball | 10 1/2 | 10 5/8 | 10 3/4 | 10 7/8 | 11 | 11 1/8 | 11 1/4 | 11 3/8 | |
| FF | Instep | 10 3/4 | 10 7/8 | 11 | 11 1/8 | 11 1/4 | 11 3/8 | 11 1/2 | 11 5/8 |
| Heel | 14 1/4 | 14 3/8 | 14 1/2 | 14 5/8 | 14 3/4 | 14 7/8 | 15 | 15 1/8 | |
| Ball | 10 3/4 | 10 7/8 | 11 | 11 1/8 | 11 1/4 | 11 3/8 | 11 1/2 | 11 5/8 | |
| FFF | Instep | 11 | 11 1/8 | 11 1/4 | 11 3/8 | 11 1/2 | 11 5/8 | 11 3/4 | 11 7/8 |
| Heel | 14 1/2 | 14 5/8 | 14 3/4 | 14 7/8 | 15 | 15 1/8 | 15 1/4 | 15 3/8 |
Related: Alden Size Chart
Sizes 12 Through 15
| Size | 12 | 12.5 | 13 | 13.5 | 14 | 14.5 | 15 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ball | 9 3/4 | 9 7/8 | 10 | 10 1/8 | 10 1/4 | 10 3/8 | 10 1/2 | |
| A | Instep | 10 | 10 1/8 | 10 1/4 | 10 3/8 | 10 1/2 | 10 5/8 | 10 3/4 |
| Heel | 13 1/2 | 13 5/8 | 13 3/4 | 13 7/8 | 14 | 14 1/8 | 14 1/4 | |
| Ball | 10 | 10 1/8 | 10 1/4 | 10 3/8 | 10 1/2 | 10 5/8 | 10 3/4 | |
| B | Instep | 10 1/4 | 10 3/8 | 10 1/2 | 10 5/8 | 10 3/4 | 10 7/8 | 11 |
| Heel | 13 3/4 | 13 7/8 | 14 | 14 1/8 | 14 1/4 | 14 3/8 | 14 1/2 | |
| Ball | 10 1/4 | 10 3/8 | 10 1/2 | 10 5/8 | 10 3/4 | 10 7/8 | 11 | |
| C | Instep | 10 1/2 | 10 5/8 | 10 3/4 | 10 7/8 | 11 | 11 1/8 | 11 1/4 |
| Heel | 14 | 14 1/8 | 14 1/4 | 14 3/8 | 14 1/2 | 14 5/8 | 14 3/4 | |
| Ball | 10 1/2 | 10 5/8 | 10 3/4 | 10 7/8 | 11 | 11 1/8 | 11 1/4 | |
| D | Instep | 10 3/4 | 10 7/8 | 11 | 11 1/8 | 11 1/4 | 11 3/8 | 11 1/2 |
| Heel | 14 1/4 | 14 3/8 | 14 1/2 | 14 5/8 | 14 3/4 | 14 7/8 | 15 | |
| Ball | 10 3/4 | 10 7/8 | 11 | 11 1/8 | 11 1/4 | 11 3/8 | 11 1/2 | |
| E | Instep | 11 | 11 1/8 | 11 1/4 | 11 3/8 | 11 1/2 | 11 5/8 | 11 3/4 |
| Heel | 14 1/2 | 14 5/8 | 14 3/4 | 14 7/8 | 15 | 15 1/8 | 15 1/4 | |
| Ball | 11 | 11 1/8 | 11 1/4 | 11 3/8 | 11 1/2 | 11 5/8 | 11 3/4 | |
| EE | Instep | 11 1/4 | 11 3/8 | 11 1/2 | 11 5/8 | 11 3/4 | 11 7/8 | 12 |
| Heel | 14 3/4 | 14 7/8 | 15 | 15 1/8 | 15 1/4 | 15 3/8 | 15 1/2 | |
| Ball | 11 1/4 | 11 3/8 | 11 1/2 | 11 5/8 | 11 3/4 | 11 7/8 | 12 | |
| F | Instep | 11 1/2 | 11 5/8 | 11 3/4 | 11 7/8 | 12 | 12 1/8 | 13 1/4 |
| Heel | 15 | 15 1/8 | 15 1/4 | 15 3/8 | 15 1/2 | 15 5/8 | 15 3/4 | |
| Ball | 11 1/2 | 11 5/8 | 11 3/4 | 11 7/8 | 12 | 12 1/8 | 12 1/4 | |
| FF | Instep | 11 3/4 | 11 7/8 | 12 | 12 1/8 | 12 1/4 | 12 3/8 | 12 1/2 |
| Heel | 15 1/4 | 15 3/8 | 15 1/2 | 15 5/8 | 15 3/4 | 15 7/8 | 16 | |
| Ball | 11 3/4 | 11 7/8 | 12 | 12 1/8 | 12 1/4 | 12 3/8 | 12 1/2 | |
| FFF | Instep | 12 | 12 1/8 | 12 1/4 | 12 3/8 | 12 1/2 | 12 5/8 | 12 3/4 |
| Heel | 15 1/2 | 1415 5/8 | 15 3/4 | 15 7/8 | 16 | 16 1/8 | 16 1/4 |
Related: Thorogood Size Chart
Nicks Boots Width Chart
| B Narrow | D Standard | E Medium | EE Wide | FF Extra Wide |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 8 1/4" | 8 3/4" | 9" | 9 1/4" | 9 3/4" |
| 5.5 | 8 3/8" | 8 7/8" | 9 1/8" | 9 3/8" | 9 7/8" |
| 6 | 8 1/2" | 9" | 9 1/4" | 9 1/2" | 10" |
| 6.5 | 8 5/8" | 9 1/8" | 9 3/8" | 9 5/8" | 10 1/8" |
| 7 | 8 3/4" | 9 1/4" | 9 1/2" | 9 3/4" | 10 1/4" |
| 7.5 | 8 7/8" | 9 3/8" | 9 5/8" | 9 7/8" | 10 3/8" |
| 8 | 9" | 9 1/2" | 9 3/4" | 10" | 10 1/2" |
| 8.5 | 9 1/8" | 9 5/8" | 9 7/8" | 10 1/8" | 10 5/8" |
| 9 | 9 1/4" | 9 3/4" | 10" | 10 1/4" | 10 3/4" |
| 9.5 | 9 3/8" | 9 7/8" | 10 1/8" | 10 3/8" | 10 7/8" |
| 10 | 9 1/2" | 10" | 10 1/4" | 10 1/2" | 11" |
| 10.5 | 9 5/8" | 10 1/8" | 10 3/8" | 10 5/8" | 11 1/8" |
| 11 | 9 3/4" | 10 1/4" | 10 1/2" | 10 3/4" | 11 1/4" |
| 11.5 | 9 7/8" | 10 3/8" | 10 5/8" | 10 7/8" | 11 3/8" |
| 12 | 10" | 10 1/2" | 10 3/4" | 11" | 11 1/2" |
| 12.5 | 10 1/8" | 10 5/8" | 10 7/8" | 11 1/8" | 11 5/8" |
| 13 | 10 1/4" | 10 3/4" | 11" | 11 1/4" | 11 3/4" |
| 13.5 | 10 3/8" | 10 7/8" | 11 1/8" | 11 3/8" | 11 7/8" |
| 14 | 10 1/2" | 11" | 11 1/4" | 11 1/2" | 12" |
For example, a size 8 boot typically measures about 9 inches long, while a size 9 is 9.25 inches. That means going up just one size adds 0.25 inches in length—not a huge jump, but sometimes that little extra makes all the difference.
Just like length, the width expands as sizes go up. A size 9D (medium width) boot is usually around 9.75 inches wide, while a size 10.5D stretches to 10.125 inches—a 3/8-inch (0.375″) difference.
So, if your size 9 feels tight, moving up to a 10.5 gives you:
- 0.5 inches more in length
- A bit more width for a roomier fit
But if the problem is mostly width (not length), sizing up too much can cause heel slip. Instead, trying a wider width (like EE or FF) in your usual size might be the better fix.
Pro Tip: Always check if the brand offers wide sizes before going longer—it could save you from that annoying heel slide!
Related:
If you’ve ever worn something a bit more relaxed—like LL Bean boots—their fit is a whole other story, and I’ve got a full LL Bean boot size chart and sizing guide if you’re curious how the two compare.
Nicks Boot Sizing
Nick’s boots fit differently than what you’re probably used to. While Nicks boots run true to size in terms of the number, they’re actually a bit longer than your typical mass-produced footwear. That means if you just order the same size you wear in Nike sneakers, you’re going to end up with boots that feel like boats on your feet.
If you normally wear a 10.5 in most shoes, you’ll likely be a half size down Nick’s. And if you’re already familiar with heritage brands like Red Wing, Wolverine or Grant Stone, you’re in luck – you can order the same size in Nick’s and it should fit perfectly (as long as your feet are fairly standard).
One of the best things about Nick’s lasts is that roomy toe box. The wider toe box also helps guys who have slightly wide feet but don’t quite need to size up to an E width. If you’re someone whose toes naturally want to spread out when you walk, you’ll absolutely love the extra breathing room.
Now here’s the beautiful thing about quality leather boots – they’re alive in a way that synthetic materials just aren’t.
If your new pair feels a little off at first – maybe slightly big, small, wide or snug – don’t panic. Just keep wearing them. That premium leather will gradually mold to your unique foot shape.
And if after a few wears they’re still way off? No worries at all – Nick’s offers one free exchange to make sure you get the perfect fit.
Related:
If you’re wondering how Danner boots fit and whether you should size up or down, check out our article on Danner boot sizing for all the details.
How to Find Your Size for Nicks Boots
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If you want the best fit possible, the smartest move is to visit a Nicks Boots store and get fitted in person. Their experts know exactly how their boots are supposed to feel, what size works best for your foot shape, and whether you need a custom adjustment.
To show you just how important this is, I once heard on one of their podcasts that some people have actually flown in from other countries just to get fitted at Nicks. That says a lot.
Now, if you can’t make it to the store, Nicks provides a detailed at-home measuring guide…
But, here’s something most people don’t think about: Your feet swell throughout the day. If you measure them in the morning, they’re actually smaller than they’ll be at night.
That’s why so many people find their boots start feeling tight by the end of the day. Work boots tend to be roomy for exactly this reason, and a big toe box helps accommodate that natural swelling.
George at Oak Street Bootmakers even said that’s why they use round toes on their Trench Boots—to make sure the boots still fit when your feet expand.
Nicks recommends downloading their Printable Fitting Ruler, but if you want the most accurate size, I highly recommend using a Brannock Device instead. Here’s why:
That paper measuring sheet is flexible, and that flexibility can lead to errors, which has happened to plenty of people. The Brannock, on the other hand, is rigid, precise, and built for the job.
For width, though, I’d stick with Nicks’ method of using a tailor’s tape wrapped around the ball of your foot. If you have a high-volume foot, this will give a far more accurate measurement than just relying on the Brannock alone.
And here’s a pro tip: Take a picture of your foot in the Brannock and another one measuring with the tape. Send those to Nicks and ask for advice. They know their boots better than anyone, and a second opinion from them is priceless.
Next, use Nicks’ Try-on process…
When ordering, select the “Send me Try-On Boots” option. You’ll receive a temporary pair to test the fit. If you need adjustments—like going up or down half a size or choosing a different width—you can request those changes before your final boots are made.
Just keep in mind that Nicks won’t start crafting your custom boots until they get the try-on pair back, so don’t hold onto them for too long. Also, this service is only available for customers in the U.S. due to shipping costs.
Things like foot volume, arch height, weight and weight distribution, foot shape, how the foot spreads under pressure, and even sock thickness all affect the fit. So, a 230lb person with a Brannock size of 11 won’t necessarily size the same as a 140lb person with the same measurement.
Related:
If Nicks boots feel like a tank (because they kind of are), and you’re wondering how Carolina boots stack up in sizing, check out my Carolina boot size chart and sizing guide.
Don’t Mess Up the Printout!
Now, if you’re going to be using Nicks’ printable template, double-check your printer settings before you hit print. Make sure the scale is set to 100%—not “fit to page,” not “shrink,” not anything else. If the scale is off, your measurements will be completely wrong, and you’ll end up with a size that doesn’t fit.
Here’s a simple fitting process you can follow:
- Trace your foot and measure the length. A simple outline gives you an accurate starting point.
- Convert that length to a Brannock size.
- Go down half a size for your Nicks size. They run about a half size larger than standard US sneaker and dress shoe sizing.
- Measure the circumference of your foot with a tailor’s tape.
Compare your circumference to Nicks’ size chrts and width chart below. Match your measurement to the right width for your Nicks size.
Here’s a video by Nicks explaining their fitting process:
How Should Nicks Boots Fit?
Nicks boots should fit snugly but not painfully tight. Your toes need some wiggle room since the toe box won’t stretch over time much, while the ball of your foot should feel a firm but comfortable grip—similar to a firm handshake.
Heel slip of up to half an inch is totally normal when your boots are fresh out of the box. But don’t worry—that’ll decrease as the leather molds to your foot like a second skin.
When you walk, the boot should flex right at the ball of your foot. If it’s bending somewhere else, it’s likely too big.
Width matters more than you think sometimes even moe than length. Leather doesn’t stretch much sideways, so if the boot feels tight across the ball of your foot now, it’s not going to magically get roomier.
Lacing System Check:
- If the laces pull completely shut, your boots are too loose.
- If there’s a huge gap between them, they’re too tight.
- The sweet spot is about an inch of space between the lacing sides.
If you’re between sizes, choosing the larger size is safer since feet naturally swell during the day and one foot is usually a tiny bit bigger than the other. Better to have a little extra room than regret a too-tight fit later!
How to Make Your Nicks Boots Fit Better
If your boots are feeling roomy, start with the basics—tighten your laces. A good, firm pull can make a big difference.
If your boot is still too loose, throw in a kiltie. This small leather flap gives your laces more grip and lets you get better leverage when tightening up.
Thicker socks can also work wonders. A quality pair can add about one width to your boots, but if your current pair is worn out, grab some new cushioned ones. You’d be surprised how much of a difference fresh socks can make.
If you still need to snug things up, try adding an insole or even a piece of scrap leather cut to your foot shape. It’s an easy DIY fix that lets you control how much volume you take up.
Now, if your boots are feeling too tight, ease up on your laces. Loosen them up a bit and let the leather mold to your foot naturally.
Conditioning the leather with a good oil or grease will also help soften up stiff spots and speed up the break-in process.
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If there’s still a stubborn pressure point, take your boots to a cobbler—most shoe repair shops have stretching equipment to loosen tight spots.
And if you’ve pulled an old pair off the shelf and they feel stiff as a board, a little grease and a professional stretch can bring them back to life as well.
Nicks Lasts Explained
Picking the right last is everything when it comes to how your Nick’s boots will fit and feel. The last is the solid form—usually wood or plastic—that the leather is shaped around when the boot is made.
This little guy determines your boot’s size, toe shape, and arch support, so choosing the right one is key.
Since Nick’s boots are handmade, you’ve got tons of sizing options to get that perfect fit. Ever seen something like “6EE”? That’s code for a size 6 in length with an extra-wide (EE) width.
Meet the Most Popular Lasts
🔹 The 55 Last, the fan favorite found in the Builder Pro, the Engineer, and the Robert, is famous for its high arch support and balanced fit. If you like a little extra lift under your arch, this is a great choice.
🔹 The 11067 Last – Same arch support as the 55, but with a sprung toe (meaning the front curves up slightly). This makes walking feel smoother and more natural.
🔹 The HNW (Moderate Arch) Last. If you prefer something flatter underfoot, the HNW tones down the arch support for a more neutral feel so you’re more connected to what you’re stepping on.
Just a heads-up: Since the HNW is lower profile, Nick’s can only pair it with a moderate heel—no chunky logger-style heels here.
There are also customization options depending on your needs. If you like the support of the 55 or 11067 but want more toe room, the Thurman toe is available on the 55 and HNW lasts.
This gives your pinky toe some extra space, making it a good choice if you find standard toe boxes too slim. Just note that it’s not compatible with moc toe or safety toe boots.
If you’re looking for something different, Nicks also offers two Western lasts…
Nicks Western Boot Lasts
Nicks’ Western models come in two distinct lasts that set them apart from their other boots—the 5332 last and the 5812 last.
🔹 The 5332 Last is what Nick’s call their semi-pointed toe last—It’s the most traditional Western boot shape. It’s got that traditional tapered shape, but it’s not too extreme, just enough point to look sharp without feeling like you’re wearing elf shoes.
🔹 The 5812 Last is the sleeker more aggressive of the two. This one has a more pointed toe and a slightly slimmer profile.
Why the Pointed Toe?
Good question! That iconic Western shape isn’t just for looks—it’s practical. The tapered toe makes it way easier to slide your foot into stirrups when you’re riding.
As for sizing, stick with the same size you wear in lace-up boots. Since pull-on boots use the same lasts, the length, width, and toe box will all fit the same—the only difference is that you’re skipping the laces.
Overall, all Nick’s lasts follow the same sizing system, but each has a slightly different shape. If you’ve already found your perfect last, there’s no need to switch to a different last!
While we’re taking about Western boots…
Why Do Western Boots Have Heel Slip?
If you’re new to western boots, you might be wondering why your heel slips when you walk. But here’s the thing—you want some heel slip.
Without it, you’d have a nightmare getting your boots on and off. When you first try on a pair, expect your heel to lift slightly—maybe up to an inch.
This isn’t a fit issue. It happens because, at first, the sole is stiff and doesn’t flex much with your foot, so your heel moves instead.
Over time, as the sole breaks in and starts bending naturally with your step, the heel slip will lessen, but it’ll never disappear completely—and that’s a good thing.
How Nicks Americana Fit
The Nicks Americana has a big, all-around toe box, meaning nothing is mushing your toes together. You might not even realize how used to that discomfort you are—unless you’ve been wearing barefoot shoes your whole life.
Compared to the Americana, the Red Wing Iron Ranger also has a big, roomy toe, but it pinches at the waist, which gives it that slightly “clown shoe” vibe. The Americana doesn’t pinch as much in the middle, so it looks chunky instead of oversized. It’s a subtle difference, but it changes the whole look of the boot.
In terms of sizes, Nicks offers sizes from 4 to 15, but the real game-changer is the width options—nine to choose from, including multiple narrow widths (which almost no other brand does). Even Allen Edmonds does it, but let’s be real—practically no one else does.
Nicks Mismates
If you’ve ever felt like one of your boot always fits better than the other, you’re not imagining things—a shoemaker friend tells you that 60% of all people have different sized feet and most don’t know it, so maybe get that checked out before you order Nicks because if that’s you, this will probably be your only chance to get two differently sized boots.
For some, the difference is barely noticeable, but for others, it can mean constantly dealing with a boot that’s either too tight or too loose.
That’s where Nicks Mismates comes in.
Instead of forcing both feet into the same size, Nicks lets you order two different sizes—one for each foot. If your left foot is a 9D but your right foot needs a 9.5E, no problem. No awkward compromises, no stuffing extra socks into one boot to make it work.
But keep in mind—Mismates are not eligible for returns or refunds unless there’s a factory defect. So, double-check your sizing before ordering.
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Why Go Custom with Nicks Boots?
If your left foot is longer than your right, you’ve got unusually narrow or wide feet, or you have extreme foot abnormalities like severe bunions, hammer toes, or congenital defects, and you find it really difficult to get a pair of boots that’s comfortable on both sides, custom boots might be the way to go.
By modifying the shoe last, they can create a boot that truly fits, giving you comfort and support where standard sizes fall short.
But most folks don’t need custom. Nick’s standard lineup covers a huge range of sizes and widths, and their different lasts solve most fit quirks. The key is choosing the right size and the right last from the start.
Nicks Sizing FAQ
Are Nicks boots true to size?
Not exactly—at least not compared to your typical sneakers. Nicks boots are built with extra length to accommodate a roomier fit. That means if you just order the same size you wear in Nike or Adidas, you’ll likely end up with boots that feel too big. Here’s the easy rule: Go down half a size from your usual sneaker size. So if you’re a 10.5 in most shoes, you’ll probably be a 10 in Nicks. Nicks sizing lines up closely with brands like Red Wing, Wolverine, and Grant Stone. If you already know your size in those, you can stick with it when ordering Nicks.
What is the difference between Nicks 55 and 67?
The Nicks 55 and 67 refer to different boot lasts, which shape how the boots fit and feel. The 55 Last is Nicks’ most popular last, known for its moderate arch support and all-day comfort. It works well for a variety of foot shapes and is a great choice if you want a balance of support and flexibility. The 67 Last has a lower arch and a flatter profile compared to the 55. It’s a better option if you prefer less arch support or have flatter feet. If you like a bit more arch and a snugger fit, the 55 is the way to go. If you want something a little more relaxed underfoot, the 67 might be a better fit.
How tight should Nicks Boots be?
Nicks boots should fit snug but not uncomfotably tight—think of it like a firm handshake for your feet. When new, they should feel comfortably tight across the instep and heel, with zero pinching at the toes (thanks to their roomy toe box). Your toes should have enough space to wiggle slightly, while the ball of your foot aligns precisely with the boot’s flex point. A little heel slip (up to ½ inch) is normal initially—this disappears as the stiff outsole breaks in and the leather molds to your foot. If it feels tight across the ball of your foot when new, it likely won’t improve. Conversely, if the laces close completely or the boot feels “sloppy,” you may need a narrower width.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it—figuring out your Nicks boot sizing isn’t rocket science, but it does take a little attention to detail and their size chart. Remember, these boots are built to last, and that starts with the right fit.
If they feel snug but not suffocating out of the box, you’re on the right track. The premium leather will mold to your feet like nothing else, turning a stiff new pair into your most comfortable footwear.
Still on the fence? Don’t overthink it. Stick with your Red Wing size, go half down from sneakers, or better yet, take advantage of Nicks’ try-on program if you can. And if you’re between sizes, sizing up slightly is usually the safer bet (feet swell, and extra room beats a toe crunch).
Got questions? Drop ’em below—happy to help!