If you’re trying to figure out Nike Vapormax sizing, you’re definitely not alone.
Vapormax models can feel totally different depending on the upper and version, so knowing what to expect really helps before you buy.
In this guide, I’m going to walk you through everything people always ask, like do Nike Vapormax run small, how do Vapormax Flyknit fit, do Vapormax Plus run true to size, and how do Vapormax Plus fit.
I’ll break down each model, talk about how they actually feel on foot, and help you choose the right size.
So if you’re stuck between sizes or you just want a clear idea of how each Vapormax version fits, you’re in the right place.
Let’s get into it…
Nike Vapormax Sizing
When I talk about Vapormax sizing, I always start with the simple answer. I go true to size. The new pairs, like the Vapormax 2023, fit just like the original Vapormax, so if you already know your size in the older models, you can stick with it here.
Now, when I look at the Nike Air Vapormax 23 specifically, the fit still feels true to size for narrow and regular feet. If that’s you, you should feel right at home.
I also feel like the shoe has a slightly wider base than some older Vapormax versions. I can’t say that with total certainty, but that’s how it feels on my foot.
Even with that small change, I wouldn’t call the Vapormax 23 a wide-foot friendly shoe. If you have wide feet, the upper will probably feel tight, and you might want to go up half a size.
I always tell people to try Vapormax in person if they can. You avoid surprises, blisters, and the frustration of buying a shoe that ends up sitting in a box because it doesn’t fit.
Now, since the Vapormax and Air Max share similar platforms, it helps to understand sizing differences in my post about how Nike Air Max fits.
Nike Vapormax 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 |
Nike Vapormax Flyknit 2023 Sizing
The Vapormax Flyknit 2023 fits just like most Vapormax models. I go true to size and I think that works for most people, especially if you have narrow or regular feet.
The Flyknit upper shapes to your foot over time, so true to size gives you the snug fit the shoe is designed for.
If you have wide feet, a half size up usually gives a more comfortable fit without pushing the upper too far.
With almost every Vapormax I own, I stick with my usual size. The line has always felt tight and supportive, so I prefer the way true to size locks me into the platform.
I could technically fit a half size down, but I never like the way that feels. True to size always sits better.
Out of all the Vapormax pairs I’ve tried, the 2023 version feels the most comfortable. The Flyknit 3 felt too tight for me, but the 2023 fixes that.
The new lacing system, the softer collar, the padding on the tongue, and the overall build make the shoe much easier to wear for long periods.
I couldn’t stay in my Flyknit 3s for very long, but I can wear the 2023 version all day without any issues.
Related: If you’re curious how Vapormax sizing compares to other Nike lines, check out my guide on Nike Air Jordan sizing.
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Nike Vapormax vs. Adidas Ultra Boost Sizing
When I compare the Vapormax to the Adidas Ultra Boost, the first big difference I notice is the upper.
Adidas uses Primeknit, and I always liked how soft and stretchy it feels. If you want a loose fit that moves with your foot, Primeknit gives you that. It feels more relaxed than Flyknit, almost like you’re wearing a thick sock.
Even though I enjoy Primeknit, I sometimes feel like it doesn’t hold my foot well enough when I run. I used previous Ultra Boost models for runs and my foot didn’t feel locked in.
That isn’t a flaw, it’s just how the material behaves.
For lifestyle wear, Primeknit feels amazing. It has that soft, breathable, easy fit that a lot of people love.
On the Vapormax side, Flyknit feels tighter and stiffer than Primeknit. It gives my foot more containment, and when I run or do anything performance-focused, that close fit helps the shoe feel more connected to my foot.
That’s why I lean toward Flyknit for performance. It keeps me centered on the platform and the shoe feels more responsive.
For everyday wear, I actually prefer Primeknit because it feels more relaxed. For performance, I go with Flyknit because it holds me in better.
At the end of the day, both uppers are great. If you want a loose sock-like feel, the Ultra Boost wins. If you want a tighter fit that hugs your foot, the Vapormax Flyknit is the better choice.
Related: Vapormax fits snug, but if you prefer a slightly softer feel underfoot, see how the Nike Vomero fits.
Nike Vapormax Plus Sizing
The Vapormax Plus fits true to size for most people. The shoe feels wider than the standard Vapormax and I always notice how comfortable it feels when I walk in it.
There’s plenty of room in the toe box and the overall fit feels easy and relaxed.
Because the Vapormax Plus mixes the Vapormax platform with the Air Max Plus upper, you get that soft neoprene feel on top.
It gives the shoe the same kind of snug, stretchy fit you get in models like the Presto or Huarache. I went true to size and had no issues at all.
That said, I know some people want the upper to sit a certain way on the toes. The neoprene looks its best when your toes aren’t pressed into the front of the shoe.
If you want a bit more space for both comfort and appearance, going up half a size is a solid option. If your toes sit too close to the front, the neoprene doesn’t look as clean.
So if you care about the way the upper shapes around the foot, a half size up can help.
Straight out of the box, I’d pick the Vapormax Plus over the standard Vapormax for comfort. It feels softer and more forgiving underfoot right away.
Related: Vapormax sits differently on the foot compared to Dunks. If you want a breakdown, check out my post on how Nike Dunks fit.
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Nike Air Vapormax Flyknit Sizing
When I try the Vapormax Flyknit models, they feel true to size. I stick with my regular Nike size and I think most people will be fine doing the same.
But, this Flyknit version runs a bit narrow through the midfoot, so if you have wide feet, a half size up helps a lot.
Even though the upper feels snug, it still feels more comfortable and more broken in than some earlier Vapormax releases.
Because this shoe is supposed to have a sock-like fit, I don’t recommend going too big. If you size up too much, the shoe feels sloppy and the upper doesn’t wrap the foot the right way.
I always say try the pair on in person if you can. If that’s not possible, true to size is your safest bet unless you have wide feet.
Comfort is a mixed subject with the Vapormax Flyknit. Some people love the way the platform feels. Others say it feels awkward and clunky at first. I fall in the middle.
The shoe needs break-in time, and the feel gets better the more you wear it. The Flyknit upper softens and molds to your foot over time, and the Air units settle in and feel smoother underfoot.
I didn’t have complaints with my pair, but everyone’s foot shape is different, so an in-store try-on is always the best move.
Related: The Vapormax and Kobe sneakers fit differently, especially in the midfoot. I explain the differences in my Nike Kobe sizing guide.
Nike Air Vapormax 97 Sizing
When I try the Vapormax 97, the sizing feels almost identical to both my Vapormax size and my Air Max 97 size. I go true to size and I think most people will be fine doing the same.
If you already know your Air Max 97 size, use that as your reference. If you’ve never worn either model, true to size is the safest starting point.
Comfort is where the Vapormax 97 needs some time. Like other pairs that use the Vapormax outsole, the shoe feels stiff and a bit clunky during the first wear.
The platform also sits higher off the ground, so the shoe can feel wobbly if you’re not used to it. The good news is the sole breaks in nicely.
After a few wears, the ride gets smoother and the entire shoe feels more stable.
Since the Vapormax 97 has been around for years, you won’t have trouble finding it in stores.
Most shops keep a good range of sizes in stock, so I always suggest trying them on in person. It’s the easiest way to make sure the fit works for you, especially if it’s your first time wearing a Vapormax sole.
Related: If you’re used to wearing Air Force 1s, knowing how Vapormax compares can save you from a surprise. Check out my Nike Air Force 1 sizing guide.
Acronym x Nike Air Vapormax FK Moc 2 Sizing
The Acronym Vapormax Moc 2 fits larger than most Vapormax models. Comfort feels the same as the standard Vapormax.
Without laces, the upper wraps the foot in a very straightforward way. The shoe feels a bit clunky on the first few wears, but it softens up with time and settles into a comfortable rhythm just like any other Vapormax model.
Related: If you’re deciding between Vapormax and a high-performance shoe like LeBron, my guide on how Nike LeBron fits will help you pick the right size.
Off-White x Nike Air Vapormax Flyknit Sizing
The Off-White Vapormax fits like most Vapormax Flyknit pairs. If you have narrow or regular feet, true to size works well.
If you have wide feet, a half size up makes a noticeable difference because the midfoot feels tight.
Just like other Vapormax models, the shoe needs time to break in. Straight out of the box, the platform feels stiff and the upper doesn’t fully match the shape of your foot yet.
With more wear, the Air units soften and the Flyknit starts to shape around your foot. Once that happens, the comfort improves and the shoe feels more natural.
If you’re unsure, I always recommend trying the pair in person because the Vapormax platform can feel unfamiliar if you haven’t worn it before.
Related: If you’re still figuring out your size across different Nike sneakers, my Presto size guide article is a must-read.
Nike Vapormax Evo Sizing
The Vapormax Evo fits true to size. I go with my usual Nike size and I think most people will be safe doing the same.
Even if you have wide feet, true to size should still work because the textile base on the upper softens with wear and gives you a bit more room over time.
If you already own a pair of earlier Vapormax models, whether it’s the original version or the newer pairs with the fast fit system, use that same size. The Evo 2023 sits on the same platform, so the overall fit stays familiar.
Related: If you want to see how another tight Nike model compares, my Foamposite sizing guide breaks everything down in detail.
How to Measure Your Feet for Vapormax
You probably want the most accurate size before you order a pair of Vapormax. I always tell people that nothing beats trying them in person.
Vapormax has a snug and structured upper, so your foot feel inside the shoe matters more than whatever number shows on a size chart.
The best and safest way: try them in person.
If you can visit a Nike store, just do it (pun intended). Trying them in person gives you:
- A real sense of the snug Flyknit fit
- Immediate heel and midfoot feedback
- A chance to compare half sizes on the spot
- A quick walk test so you feel how the Air units behave under your foot
The second best way: get measured by a professional
Most Nike stores or running shops can measure your feet for free. A professional helps you:
- Find your exact length and width
- See if one foot is bigger
- Understand your arch height
- Spot issues like heel slip or pinky-toe pressure before you buy
Why and how to use a Brannock device
The Brannock remains the gold standard. If you see one in a store or you own one, use it. It gives you three important numbers:
- Foot length
- Foot width
- Arch length
These numbers help a lot with Vapormax because of the snug upper and narrow midfoot.
How to use a Brannock device properly:
- Place your heel all the way back into the curve
- Stand up for full weight on the device
- Check the length measurement for each foot
- Look at the width slider to see if you need regular or wide
- Check arch length because a long arch sometimes pushes people half a size up
How to measure your feet at home
If you can’t visit a store, this works well when you do it right:
What you need:
- A sheet of paper
- A wall
- A pencil
- A ruler
Steps:
- Put the paper on the floor against the wall
- Place your heel gently against the wall
- Stand naturally
- Mark the tip of your longest toe
- Measure the distance from the wall to the mark
- Repeat with the other foot
- Use the larger measurement
- Compare to the Nike Vapormax size chart below
Important details people ignore:
These small things change your Vapormax fit more than you think:
- Measure in the afternoon or evening because your feet reach their full size
- Stand while measuring because sitting reduces length
- Wear the same socks you plan to wear with the Vapormax
- Measure both feet since most people have one foot bigger
- Leave a small toe gap of about a thumb nail
- Avoid super thick socks because they can create unwanted pressure in the midfoot
- Pay attention to width since Vapormax runs narrow for many people
- Look for pressure on the pinky toe because the Flyknit can feel tight
- Keep in mind that Vapormax doesn’t stretch much compared to normal knit shoes
Nike Vapormax Sizing: FAQ
Do Vapormax run true to size?
Yes, most Vapormax models run true to size. I always use my regular Nike size and it works well. If you have wide feet, you might need a half size up in the Flyknit versions.
Do I size up or down in Nike?
I usually stay true to size in Nike sneakers. Nike shoes often have a snug fit, so I rarely size down. If you have wide feet, a half size up makes sense in some models.
Is Vapormax good for wide feet?
If you have wide feet, the Vapormax line can feel tight, especially through the midfoot. Some versions stretch over time, but wide footers often prefer a half size up.
Are Vapormax supposed to be tight?
Yes, the Flyknit versions are designed to feel snug. They sit close to your foot and the upper molds to your shape over time. They should feel secure, not painful.
Are Nike Vapormax comfortable?
Comfort depends on the person. The Air pods feel strange at first, but the platform softens with wear. Some people love the feel right away. Others need time to adjust. Later versions like the 2023 model feel much more comfortable out of the box.
How do I stretch Nike Vapormax?
The Flyknit versions stretch on their own as you wear them. If you need more room, you can put on a thicker pair of socks at home and walk around for short periods. Flyknit softens quickly, so it doesn’t take long. Avoid heat or harsh methods because they can damage the material.
Final Thoughts
After wearing so many versions of the Vapormax over the years, I’ve learned one thing: the Nike Vapormax sizing and fit really depends on the model, but once you know what works for your feet, the whole lineup becomes a lot easier to navigate.
Some versions feel snug and sock-like, others feel more structured, and a few sit right in between. That’s why I always say try them on if you can, because nothing beats actually feeling them on your feet.
If you’re new to Vapormax, don’t stress too much about the sizing part. Most models sit close to true to size, and once they break in, they usually get more and more comfortable.
But if you already know your preferences and you’ve worn a few Nike runners before, picking the right size here won’t be complicated at all.
At the end of the day, go with what feels right for your feet. And if you end up grabbing a pair, I hope they fit perfectly and you enjoy them as much as I do.
Now, if you’ve worn any Vapormax models or you’ve had a totally different sizing experience from mine, I’d love to hear about it.
Drop your thoughts, questions, or your own sizing advice in the comments.