Converse Sizing: Does Converse Run Small, Big or True to Size?

Most classic Converse Chuck Taylors run large, so start half a size down; some newer trainers are listed true to size. For Converse sizing, use the brand's chart and then pay attention to the model note: its women's chart runs from 5 to 17, and the guide recommends a half size down for Chuck Taylor styles. Converse also offers wide-width styles, described as adding roughly 15 millimeters at the ball and instep and 6 millimeters at the bottom width. The brand's measuring instructions say to measure each foot, since left and right can differ, which is useful if you sit between two sizes. The products here show why the model note matters: Bloomingdale's calls Run Star Trainer and Jogger Sneakers true to size, while its Chuck Taylor All Star Low Top and High Top are half-size-down styles. Nordstrom's Run Star Trainer is also listed true to size, but several of its classic canvas and platform Chucks run large. Use those differences as a starting point, not a rigid rule; width, socks and the exact silhouette can change how a familiar sneaker feels. If you need a safer comparison, Converse's chart gives both U.S. and centimeter measurements, and the brand says the two feet can differ. Check the size buttons on the exact color before placing the order.

Start with sneakers whose shape is easy to compare. Run Star Trainer from Bloomingdale's is marked true to size, with a nylon and suede upper and rubber sole; Jogger Sneakers also get a true-to-size note and mix synthetic, textile and leather. Chuck Taylor All Star Low Top at Bloomingdale's and Chuck Taylor All Star Low Top Sneaker at Nordstrom are familiar low profiles, and both retailer fit experts say to go half a size down. So even among low tops, fit can differ before you get to width. I would measure heel-to-toe length on both feet as Converse recommends and then compare with the actual women's chart. If you plan to wear thicker socks with a canvas Chuck, do not automatically size up just because the upper feels plain; use the model's fit note and check whether a wide width is offered. The Run Star Trainer and Jogger Sneakers are reasonable true-to-size starting points, while classic low Chucks are the candidates to size down.

With high tops and platforms, use the size chart and product fit note, not the extra height. Bloomingdale's Chuck Taylor All Star Hi Top Black & White Platform and Chuck Taylor All Star High Top both run large, with a half-size-down recommendation; the platform version has a 1.49-inch rise. Nordstrom's All Star High Top Sneaker says the same, and its Chuck Taylor All Star Lift High Top Platform Sneaker also advises half a size down. Several Nordstrom styles show women's sizes as W/M conversions because the construction is unisex, but the size info maps them to women's equivalents. Read the W number rather than converting a men's size yourself. If you already own a Chuck, compare your actual size against the women's size buttons on the exact model, since platform and flat styles can share a name while wearing differently.

Some variants change the upper or closure but not necessarily the fit. Chuck Taylor All Star OX You Dew You at Bloomingdale's is a low-top suede version and runs large; Nordstrom's Chuck Taylor All Star Platform Sneaker and Chuck Taylor All Star Dainty Mary Jane Sneaker, along with Chuck Taylor All Star 70 High Top Sneaker, all carry a half-size-down note. The Mary Jane adds adjustable straps and an OrthoLite footbed, so secure the strap without overtightening; the 70 has a removable insole and a thicker footbed than a standard Chuck. The chart matters most when style families shift: if a strap or thicker sock changes your preferred fit, measure the longer foot and compare the exact women's size, then use the available return route to test at home. The simple advice is to size down for classic Chuck-based shapes, but keep Run Star Trainer and Jogger Sneakers in your usual size unless your fit or width needs say otherwise.