You know that feeling when you lace up a pair of LeBrons for the first time? The mix of excitement and pride, like you’re about to tap into a bit of LeBron’s power yourself.
But here’s the thing: none of that matters if the fit’s off.
Nike LeBron sizing can be tricky. Some models run roomy, others hug your foot like a glove. And when you’re dropping serious money on a pair, guessing the right size shouldn’t be part of the game.
So, here’s what this guide’s all about. I’ll walk you through how LeBrons actually fit, model by model. You’ll see which ones run snug, which ones loosen up after a few wears, and which pairs might need a half-size tweak.
I’ll also share a few fit tricks I’ve picked up over the years, like when to measure your feet and what kind of socks can change the feel.
Oh, and if you’ve worn Kobes before, check out my Nike Kobe sizing guide. They fit very differently from LeBrons. They’re slimmer and more form-fitting, so it’s worth seeing how the two compare.
Now, let’s dive right into it…
Nike LeBron Sizing
Before we get into each model, let’s talk big picture. Nike LeBrons are known for being all over the place when it comes to fit: some run snug, others give you a bit more breathing room.
So, here’s how I’d sum them up:
The newer LeBron 23 feels a touch long, so I’d go down half a size unless you’ve got wide feet.
The LeBron 22 sits closer to true to size and feels more stable and structured than the 23.
The LeBron 21 keeps that same one-to-one feel as the 20, but the newer versions use stiffer materials, so they take a bit longer to break in.
And the LeBron 20 gives that snug, glove-like fit once the upper softens up.
Then you’ve got the performance-focused pairs like the NXXT Gen, which fits tight and wraps your foot perfectly after break-in, and the TR 1, which goes for that “sock-like” squeeze that some people love and others find too much.
The Witness 7 and Witness 8 are a bit more relaxed in fit, but the 8 can feel stiff in the heel at first.
If your feet lean wide, half a size up usually does the trick, especially for the 23, 21, and NXXT Gen. For narrow or regular feet, going true to size gives you that secure, locked-in feel.
Oh, and I also broke down Air Jordan size and fit in another article if you want to see how they stack up against LeBrons.
| Model | How it fits | Quick tip | ||||
| LeBron 23 | Slightly long | – ½ down unless you have wide feet. | ||||
| LeBron 22 | True to size | – Fit works for most foot shapes. | ||||
| LeBron 21 | Snug around upper | – Go TTS or ½ up for wide feet | ||||
| LeBron 20 | Snug | – Breaks in quickly. | ||||
| LeBron NXXT Gen | Tight, compressive fit | – ½ up for some breathing room. | ||||
| LeBron TR 1 | Very snug & sock-like | – ½ up. – Not ideal for wide feet. |
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| Witness 8 | True to size | – A bit stiff at first. – Softens with wear. |
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Related: If you’ve worn Nike Dunks before, you’ll find LeBrons feel a bit snugger and more performance-focused. I covered all the details in my Nike Dunk sizing guide.
LeBron 23 Sizing
I tried three different pairs of the LeBron 23, and true to size just felt a bit long. I ended up going down half a size, and that fit me much better.
That’s what I’d recommend for most people.
If you’ve got wide feet, you can probably stay true to size and be fine. For me, going down half a size gave me that snug, dialed-in fit I wanted.
Length-wise, they fit perfectly after that adjustment. I’m still not a fan of the overall shape of the shoe, but that’s just the design, and changing sizes won’t fix that.
Related: I also wrote about how Nike Vomero fits, and it’s basically the opposite of LeBrons.
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LeBron 22 Sizing
The LeBron 22 fits true to size. Whatever you wore in the last two models should work perfectly here since Nike seems to be using the same last.
For me, true to size feels just right. The forefoot still feels a bit stiff, but not in a dealbreaker way.
Personally, I still think the LeBron 20 is my favorite from the recent lineup. But if you’re a bigger or more powerful player who likes a little more structure and stiffness in your shoes, the 22 might actually be the better choice for you.
By the way, check out my article on how basketball shoes should fit. I explain why getting the right fit matters and how to tell if your pair is too tight or too loose.
LeBron 21 Sizing
If you’ve played in previous LeBron models, sizing for the LeBron 21 will feel familiar. The original version fits true to size, just like the LeBron 20.
Nike kept the same last and overall shape, so whatever size worked for you in those should work perfectly here.
Now, with the newer LeBron 21 update (the mid-season refresh), the sizing is still true to size, but there are a few things worth noting.
The fit feels a bit more dialed-in around the midfoot, mostly because of the leather upper. It doesn’t stretch as much as the knit material from the older version, so it can feel slightly narrower at first.
It does break in over time, just not as much as before.
If you have wide feet or wear ankle braces, I’d go up half a size to give yourself a bit more room. Otherwise, stick to true to size for that snug, one-to-one fit where your toes just graze the front of the shoe.
The Nike Sphere padding around the collar and tongue really helps secure your ankle, and while the tongue is often overlooked, it makes a big difference here.
Related: The Nike Air Max lineup fits a lot more forgiving than LeBrons, so if you’re used to that roomy toe box, check my Air Max size sizing guide and Air Max size chart before switching pairs.
LeBron 21 Prime 93 & Prime 96 Sizing
Both versions of the LeBron 21 Prime fit true to size, but they don’t feel exactly the same on foot.
The Prime 93 has a slightly stiffer upper compared to the Prime 96, mostly because of the different materials used.
It might feel a little rigid at first, but once you break them in, the fit settles nicely and feels natural.
I’d still recommend going true to size for most people, and if you can, try them in-store just to make sure the stiffness doesn’t bother you.
The Prime 96, on the other hand, also fits true to size, but the upper feels more forgiving right out of the box. The materials flex a bit better, so it doesn’t take as much break-in time.
I’m not the biggest fan of the last Nike used here, which is that same pointed shape you find on models like the Ja 1, the Sabrinas, or even some KDs, but once the materials soften up, it becomes more comfortable.
So overall, both the Prime 93 and Prime 96 run true to size. The main difference comes down to how stiff or flexible the upper feels.
If you prefer a slightly firmer structure, the 93 fits that bill. If you want something that breaks in faster and feels more natural early on, the 96 is probably the better choice.
Related: I’ve also written about how Air Force 1s fit, and the main difference is that AF1s are great for everyday comfort, while LeBrons are built for a secure, on-court feel.
LeBron 20 Sizing
For most people, the Nike LeBron 20 fits true to size. That’s what worked best for me. I got that snug, one-to-one fit that I like with no heel slip, and my toes sit right at the edge.
It feels tight at first, but once the shoe molds to your foot and the collar padding softens up, it becomes really comfortable.
The sphere cushioning around the ankle does its job well. It locks in your heel better the more you wear the shoe, and the break-in just makes everything fit more naturally over time.
If you have wide feet, though, I’d suggest going up half a size. The fit is already pretty snug, especially around the midfoot. That extra room will help with comfort both in length and width.
On the other hand, if your feet are narrow or you like a tighter feel, true to size is perfect. Some players even prefer going down half a size for that super-secure wrap, but that’s only if you’re okay with a break-in period.
Now, when it comes to special versions like the Pink Diamond and All-Star colorways, the fit can vary slightly.
The Pink Diamond still fits true to size, but if your foot is very slim, you could go down half a size once it breaks in.
Wide-footers, however, might find it a bit too tight. Going up half a size could help, but just know that with low tops like these, extra length might cause a little heel movement.
The All-Star colorway is a bit different. That specific knit upper felt more relaxed, so going true to size probably would’ve worked fine.
I went up half a size, and it felt comfortable, but with a little more space around the toes, which I actually liked for casual wear.
If you’re mostly wearing them off-court, I’d recommend going up half a size for that same comfort.
So here’s the quick takeaway:
- True to size for most people
- Half size up if you’ve got wide feet or plan to wear them casually
- Half size down only if you’ve got narrow feet and like a very snug fit
Either way, the LeBron 20 fits best once it’s broken in. Just give it a few wears, and it’ll start to feel molded perfectly to your foot.
Related: You can check my guide on Adidas sneaker sizing if you want to see how they stack up against LeBrons in terms of width, length, and overall comfort.
LeBron NXXT Gen Sizing
The LeBron NXXT Gen fits true to size, but it’s one of those shoes that hugs your foot tight right out of the box.
When I first tried them on, I immediately noticed that snug wrap. It reminded me of the PG5. There’s zero dead space inside, zero heel slip, and the lockdown is almost perfect.
It’s tight, but not uncomfortable. The materials flex well, so even though you get that one-to-one fit, it doesn’t pinch or dig into your foot.
Compared to the regular LeBron 20, the NXXT Gen feels a little stiffer underfoot. The LeBron 20 has more of a soft, “mushy” ride, while this one gives you that firmer, more stable platform.
It’ll take a bit of time to break in, but once it does, the shoe feels incredible on court.
The only thing that threw me off at first was how wide they looked from the top down, even though they don’t actually fit wide.
If you’ve got wide or even semi-wide feet, though, I’d recommend going up half a size, while everyone else should go true to size and be fine.
Related: If you ever switch from LeBrons to something more everyday-friendly, I also wrote a full guide on Nike Vapormax sizing that breaks down how each model fits.
LeBron TR 1 Sizing
Now, the TR 1 is a different kind of fit altogether. It’s true to size, but in that “sock-like” way where your foot feels completely wrapped from heel to toe.
If you love a super snug, one-to-one feel, you’ll enjoy it. But if you’ve got wide feet or you prefer some breathing room, this probably isn’t for you.
The one-piece collar makes the shoe harder to get on, and the foam cage adds a bit of pressure around the sides.
It’s not painful, but it’s definitely not wide-foot friendly.
Most people who train seriously tend to prefer a roomier, more natural feel underfoot, something with a wider base. This one’s more about containment than freedom.
So, go true to size if you like that tight, sock-like fit. If you want a little wiggle room, go up half a size. But honestly, if you’ve got wide feet, I’d look elsewhere.
Related: If you’re wondering whether Huaraches run big or small, I cover the full breakdown in my Nike Huarache sizing guide.
LeBron Witness 8 Sizing
The Witness 8 fits a bit snug, so I’d suggest going up half a size for most people. The collar is heavily padded and sculpted, and that design pushes your foot forward into the forefoot more than expected.
It’s not uncomfortable once broken in, but it can feel tight at first, especially around the heel.
If you can, I’d recommend trying them on in store before buying. Bring your orthotics or ankle braces if you use them, because the padding and mid-cut shape could change the way your foot sits inside.
Related: For sneaker fans comparing LeBron sizing to other Nikes, my guide on Nike Presto sizing is worth a read.
LeBron Witness 7 Sizing
The Witness 7 fits true to size, and while there’s a little extra space in the toe box, it’s nothing to worry about.
Lengthwise, it’s spot-on. If you go down half a size, your toes will likely bump into the front, so it’s better to stay true to size and just deal with the extra space.
Once the upper breaks in, the fit improves a lot. It’s not the most premium-feeling LeBron out there, but for performance, it holds up surprisingly well after a few wears.
Related: If you want to compare LeBrons with another bulky Nike model, my Foamposite sizing guide is worth a look.
Nike LeBron Size Chart
| Men's US | Women's US | UK | EU | Inches | CM |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 | 5 | 3 | 35.5 | 8 1/2 | 21.6 |
| 4 | 5.5 | 3.5 | 36 | 8 2/3 | 22 |
| 4.5 | 6 | 4 | 36.5 | 8 4/5 | 22.4 |
| 5 | 6.5 | 4.5 | 37.5 | 9 | 22.9 |
| 5.5 | 7 | 5 | 38 | 9 1/5 | 23.3 |
| 6 | 7.5 | 5.5 | 38.5 | 9 1/3 | 23.7 |
| 6.5 | 8 | 6 | 39 | 9 1/2 | 24.1 |
| 7 | 8.5 | 6 | 40 | 9 2/3 | 24.5 |
| 7.5 | 9 | 6.5 | 40.5 | 9 4/5 | 25 |
| 8 | 9.5 | 7 | 41 | 10 | 25.4 |
| 8.5 | 10 | 7.5 | 42 | 10 1/5 | 25.8 |
| 9 | 10.5 | 8 | 42.5 | 10 1/3 | 26.2 |
| 9.5 | 11 | 8.5 | 43 | 10 1/2 | 26.7 |
| 10 | 11.5 | 9 | 44 | 10 2/3 | 27.1 |
| 10.5 | 12 | 9.5 | 44.5 | 10 4/5 | 27.5 |
| 11 | 12.5 | 10 | 45 | 11 | 27.9 |
| 11.5 | 13 | 10.5 | 45.5 | 11 1/5 | 28.3 |
| 12 | 13.5 | 11 | 46 | 11 1/3 | 28.8 |
| 12.5 | 14 | 11.5 | 47 | 11 1/2 | 29.2 |
| 13 | 14.5 | 12 | 47.5 | 11 2/3 | 29.6 |
| 13.5 | 15 | 12.5 | 48 | 11 4/5 | 30 |
| 14 | 15.5 | 13 | 48.5 | 12 | 30.5 |
| 14.5 | 16 | 13.5 | 49 | 12 1/5 | 30.9 |
| 15 | 16.5 | 14 | 49.5 | 12 1/3 | 31.3 |
| 15.5 | 17 | 14.5 | 50 | 12 1/2 | 31.7 |
| 16 | 17.5 | 15 | 50.5 | 12 2/3 | 32.2 |
| 16.5 | 18 | 15.5 | 51 | 12 4/5 | 32.6 |
| 17 | 18.5 | 16 | 51.5 | 13 | 33 |
| 17.5 | 19 | 16.5 | 52 | 13 1/5 | 33.4 |
| 18 | 19.5 | 17 | 52.5 | 13 1/3 | 33.9 |
| 18.5 | 20 | 17.5 | 53 | 13 1/2 | 34.3 |
| 19 | 20.5 | 18 | 53.5 | 13 2/3 | 34.7 |
| 19.5 | 21 | 18.5 | 54 | 13 4/5 | 35.1 |
| 20 | 21.5 | 19 | 54.5 | 14 | 35.5 |
| 20.5 | 22 | 19.5 | 55 | 14 1/5 | 36 |
| 21 | 22.5 | 20 | 55.5 | 14 1/3 | 36.4 |
| 21.5 | 23 | 20.5 | 56 | 14 1/2 | 36.8 |
| 22 | 23.5 | 21 | 56.5 | 14 2/3 | 37.2 |
Big Kids (1Y – 7Y)
| Foot Length (in) | US | Foot Length (cm) | UK | EU |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 15/16 | 1Y | 20.1 | 13.5 | 32 |
| 8 1/16 | 1.5Y | 20.5 | 1 | 33 |
| 8 4/16 | 2Y | 20.9 | 1.5 | 33.5 |
| 8 7/16 | 2.5Y | 21.4 | 2 | 34 |
| 8 9/16 | 3Y | 21.8 | 2.5 | 35 |
| 8 12/16 | 3.5Y | 22.2 | 3 | 35.5 |
| 8 13/16 | 4Y | 22.4 | 3.5 | 36 |
| 8 15/16 | 4.5Y | 22.7 | 4 | 36.5 |
| 9 2/16 | 5Y | 23.2 | 4.5 | 37 |
| 9 4/16 | 5.5Y | 23.5 | 5 | 38 |
| 9 6/16 | 6Y | 23.8 | 5.5 | 38.5 |
| 9 9/16 | 6.5Y | 24.3 | 6 | 39 |
| 9 11/16 | 7Y | 24.6 | 6 | 40 |
Related: LeBrons are supportive and performance-focused, but after heavy games or training, your feet need a break. That’s where a recovery option comes in, and I explained whether the Rejuven8 runs small or big in my full breakdown.
Little Kids (8C – 3Y)
| Foot Length (in) | Foot Length (cm) | US | UK | EU |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 15/16 | 15 | 8C | 7.5 | 25 |
| 6 4/16 | 15.9 | 9C | 8.5 | 26 |
| 6 9/16 | 16.7 | 10C | 9.5 | 27 |
| 6 12/16 | 17.2 | 10.5C | 10 | 27.5 |
| 6 15/16 | 17.6 | 11C | 10.5 | 28 |
| 7 1/16 | 18 | 11.5C | 11 | 28.5 |
| 7 4/16 | 18.4 | 12C | 11.5 | 29.5 |
| 7 7/16 | 18.8 | 12.5C | 12 | 30 |
| 7 9/16 | 19.3 | 13C | 12.5 | 31 |
| 7 12/16 | 19.7 | 13.5C | 13 | 31.5 |
| 7 15/16 | 20.1 | 1Y | 13.5 | 32 |
| 8 1/16 | 20.5 | 1.5Y | 1 | 33 |
| 8 4/16 | 20.9 | 2Y | 1.5 | 33.5 |
| 8 7/16 | 21.4 | 2.5Y | 2 | 34 |
| 8 9/16 | 21.8 | 3Y | 2.5 | 35 |
Related: LeBrons usually feel more cushioned and forgiving, but the Nike Cortez fit runs slimmer and less wide-foot friendly, so plan your size carefully.
Babies & Toddlers (1C – 10C)
| Age (months) | US | UK | EU | Foot Length (in) | Foot Length (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 1C | 0.5 | 16 | 3 9/16 | 9.1 |
| 6 | 2C | 1.5 | 17 | 3 15/16 | 10 |
| 9 | 3C | 2.5 | 18.5 | 4 4/16 | 10.8 |
| 12 | 4C | 3.5 | 19.5 | 4 9/16 | 11.6 |
| 18 | 5C | 4.5 | 21 | 4 15/16 | 12.5 |
| 24 | 6C | 5.5 | 22 | 5 4/16 | 13.3 |
| 36 | 7C | 6.5 | 23.5 | 5 9/16 | 14.2 |
| 8C | 7.5 | 25 | 5 15/16 | 15 | |
| 9C | 8.5 | 26 | 6 4/16 | 15.9 | |
| 10C | 9.5 | 27 | 6 9/16 | 16.7 |
How to Measure Your Feet for LeBrons
Lebrons are performance-focused, so fit matters a lot. I’ve learned that the best way to measure your feet combines professional help, at-home checks, and a few practical tips that make a big difference.
1. Try the Model on Foot First
The most reliable way to know your LeBrons fit is simple: try them on. Every LeBron model can feel slightly different because of materials, padding, and last shape.
When you put them on, make sure you can wiggle your toes freely, but that your heel feels locked in.
Walk around a bit. If you run in them, even better, try some quick lateral movements to see if anything slips or feels tight.
I always recommend moving beyond just standing in place because LeBrons are designed for basketball movement, not casual wear.
2. Get Measured in Store by a Professional
Before ordering online, go to a store and get measured by someone who knows what they’re doing.
Professionals use tools like the Brannock device and have experience with different brands, so they can suggest slight adjustments based on how LeBrons run compared to other Nikes.
They can also notice small foot quirks, like high arches, wide toes, or narrow heels, that could affect fit.
3. How to Use the Brannock Device
If you have access to a Brannock device at home or in store, here’s how to use it properly:
- Place your heel all the way back in the heel cup.
- Make sure your foot is flat and weight is evenly distributed.
- Measure length from heel to longest toe.
- Don’t assume your big toe is always the longest. It can be your second toe.
- Measure width across the widest part of your foot.
- Repeat for the other foot; most people have one foot slightly larger.
- Always size based on the larger foot.
LeBrons can feel snug across the width, so pay special attention here. Sometimes, going half a size up in length but keeping width in mind makes all the difference.
4. How to Measure at Home Without a Brannock
If you don’t have access to professional tools, you can still get a decent measurement at home. Here’s a method I use:
- Place a piece of paper on a hard floor and stand on it barefoot.
- Trace the outline of your foot, keeping the pen vertical.
- Mark the longest toe and the back of your heel, then measure the distance in centimeters or inches.
- Measure the width at the widest part of your foot.
- Compare these numbers to Nike Lebron’s size chart.
- I usually recommend rounding up if you’re between sizes, especially for performance shoes like LeBrons.
5. Extra Tips for a Perfect Fit
- Try the socks you’ll wear:
Basketball socks are thicker, so wear the ones you usually play in.
- Time of day matters:
Feet swell slightly throughout the day. I measure and try shoes in the afternoon or evening for a more realistic fit.
- Check both feet:
Fit based on the larger foot to avoid pinching.
- Break them in slowly:
Even with the right size, LeBrons feel snug at first. Wear them around the house or do light drills before hitting full games.
- Lace them properly:
A good lacing pattern can help lock your heel without squeezing your toes.
Nike Lebron Sizing FAQ
Do LeBrons run big or small?
Most LeBrons fit true to size, but a few models like the NXXT Gen and the Witness 8 can feel snug at first. If you have wide feet or prefer a bit of toe room, go up half a size.
Do LeBron 22 fit true to size?
Yes, the LeBron 22 fits true to size. It’s one of the most balanced LeBrons in terms of fit and should work well for most foot shapes.
Are LeBrons good for wide feet?
Some are, some aren’t. The LeBron 20 and 22 handle wider feet better after a short break-in. Models like the NXXT Gen and TR 1 run tighter and may not be ideal for wide-footed players.
Should I size up or down for LeBron 21?
Go true to size. The LeBron 21 fits snug at first, especially around the upper, but softens up nicely after a few wears. If your feet are on the wide side, going up half a size is safer.
Do the LeBron 20 fit true to size?
Yes, they do. The LeBron 20 offers a tight, performance-style fit with great lockdown. They feel snug out of the box but break in quickly.
Is it better to size up or down for basketball shoes?
Always start with your true size. Basketball shoes are designed for a secure fit to prevent slipping inside the shoe. If you’re between sizes or have wider feet, it’s usually better to size up slightly rather than down.
What shoe size does LeBron James have?
LeBron James wears a size 15. His personal pairs are custom-tuned for performance and fit, so they won’t always match the retail feel of standard LeBrons.
Final Thoughts
Alright, let’s wrap this up. If there’s one thing I’ve learned after testing LeBrons, it’s that the right size can completely change how the shoe feels.
I’ve had pairs that needed a few wears before they softened up, and others that felt perfect straight out of the box.
Here’s what I’d do if I were you: start with your true Nike size. If your feet are on the wider side, maybe go up half a size.
And if you’re more about that super-secure, performance feel, stick to true size or even a half down if you can handle the break-in.
That’s what’s worked for me, but hey, everyone’s feet are a little different. So, what about you? Which LeBrons fit you best? Did you have to size up or down?
Drop your thoughts in the comments. I’d honestly love to hear what worked for you.