The Yeezy Foam Runner Sizing Dilemma: Should You Size Up 1 or 2 Full Sizes?
The Yeezy Foam Runner Sizing Dilemma: Should You Size Up 1 or 2 Full Sizes?
The Complex Question of Yeezy Foam Runner Sizing
The Yeezy Foam Runner is perhaps the most confusing piece of footwear to size correctly. Unlike traditional shoes, the Foam Runner’s unique, single-piece algae-based foam construction means there is almost no flexibility, especially when new.
So, what’s the answer to the dilemma?
The definitive rule for Yeezy Foam Runner sizing is to SIZE UP 1 FULL SIZE. If you have wide feet or fall between sizes, you should confidently SIZE UP 2 FULL SIZES.
Ignoring this sizing advice will almost certainly lead to an uncomfortably tight fit, wasted money, and a lot of frustration. Let’s break down why this is the rule, especially when dealing with the rigid foam material.
Why Foam Runners Require a Size Increase
Unlike the Slides, the Foam Runners are an enclosed structure, which causes several sizing challenges:
1. No Half Sizes Exist
Yeezy Foam Runners are only released in whole sizes (e.g., US 8, US 9, US 10).1 If you wear a half-size (e.g., US 9.5), you must automatically round up to the next full size (US 10) at a minimum.
2. Extremely Narrow Midfoot and Toebox
The Foam Runner’s interior is surprisingly narrow in the arch and midfoot area. This is the primary reason why going true to size (TTS) is impossible for most foot shapes, as the shoe will feel suffocatingly tight across the middle.
3. Minimal Stretch or Break-In Time
While the foam is soft, the enclosed shape offers little to no immediate stretch. You cannot rely on them to “break-in” and become comfortable. The size you buy is the size you get.
The Definitive Foam Runner Sizing Chart
Use this guide to confidently choose your next pair of Yeezy Foam Runners.
| Foot Type | Standard Size | Recommended Foam Runner Size | Reasoning |
| Normal Foot (Whole Size) | US 9 | US 10 (Size Up 1) | Provides necessary room in the toebox and midfoot for optimal comfort. |
| Normal Foot (Half Size) | US 9.5 | US 11 (Size Up 1.5 to 2) | You must round up from 9.5 to 10, then add another size for the narrow fit. |
| Wide Feet | US 10 | US 12 (Size Up 2) | To prevent your foot from bulging out of the ventilation holes. |
What About Wearing Socks?
If you plan on wearing the Yeezy Foam Runner with thick socks (a very common style), we strongly advise that you size up 2 full sizes from your normal size, regardless of whether you are a whole size or half size.
3 Tips to Ensure You Get the Right Foam Runner Fit
1. Check the Toebox Gap
When wearing the Foam Runner, you should have at least a thumb-width of space between your longest toe and the front of the shoe. If your toes are touching the front, the shoe is too small and will cause discomfort.
2. The MXT and Onyx Variation
Some darker colorways, particularly the ‘Onyx’ and marbled ‘MXT’ versions, have historically been reported to feel slightly stiffer than the lighter colors (like ‘Sand’ or ‘Ararat’). This is due to the dye and curing process. When in doubt, always lean towards sizing up 2 full sizes for the safest fit.
3. The Only Exception: Size Down (RARE)
The only scenario where you might consider sizing down is if you are a Men’s US 13 or 14 and have very narrow feet. Due to the way the molds are created, very large sizes sometimes feel slightly oversized. However, this is extremely rare and only for experienced buyers. For everyone else, follow the size up rule.
Final Takeaway: Never Go True to Size
The Yeezy Foam Runner sizing dilemma is best solved by prioritizing comfort and ensuring you have enough room in the midfoot. Remember this rule:
- Size Up 1 Full Size (Minimum).
- Size Up 2 Full Sizes (For Half Sizes or Wide Feet).
Following this ultimate guide will help you confidently purchase your Foam Runners and enjoy one of the most comfortable shoes in the Yeezy line.
