The Ultimate Air Jordan 11 Size Guide & Fit Review: Do they run big or small?

The Legacy of the Air Jordan 11

Since its debut in 1995, the Air Jordan 11 has remained one of the most iconic sneakers in history. Designed by Tinker Hatfield, it was the first basketball shoe to incorporate patent leather and a carbon fiber plate. Whether you're eyeing the 'Concord', 'Bred', or 'Cool Grey' colorways, the most critical question remains: Do Air Jordan 11s run big or small?

The Quick Verdict: Do They Fit True to Size?

The general consensus among sneakerheads and experts is that the Air Jordan 11 fits True to Size (TTS). Most people find that their standard Nike Size Guide measurements work perfectly for this silhouette.

However, because of the rigid patent leather mudguard, the AJ11 does not stretch as much as a mesh or knit sneaker. If you have particularly wide feet, you might experience some pinching in the toe box during the first few wears.

Why the Material Matters

The Air Jordan 11 features a unique construction. The lower half is wrapped in patent leather, which is notoriously stiff. While this provides excellent lockdown and support on the court, it means the shoe has a very defined shape that won't expand over time. The upper portion, usually made of ballistic mesh or nubuck, is more forgiving, but the overall fit is dictated by that patent leather rim.

Air Jordan 11 Sizing Chart & Measurements

To help you find the right fit, use this comparison table for standard US, UK, and EU sizing.

How AJ11 Compares to Other Brands

When building your collection, it is helpful to know how the AJ11 stacks up against other popular models. For instance, if you are moving from a different brand, you might want to check the Nike vs Adidas Size Comparison. In general, Nike shoes tend to run slightly narrower than most Adidas Sizing options.

Air Jordan 11 vs. Air Jordan 1

Most enthusiasts find that the AJ11 fits slightly snugger than the Air Jordan 1. While both are generally TTS, the AJ1's leather upper is softer and breaks in faster. If you wear a 10 in an AJ1 and find it roomy, a 10 in the AJ11 will feel more "locked-in."

Air Jordan 11 vs. Vans & Converse

If you usually wear vulcanized skate shoes, be careful. You can see more details in our Vans vs Converse Sizing guide, but typically, Jordan 11s fit about a half-size smaller than Converse Chuck Taylors, which are known for running large.

Sizing Advice for Different Foot Types

• Narrow Feet: Stick to your true size. You will appreciate the secure lockdown provided by the lacing system.
• Normal Feet: Go True to Size. The AJ11 is designed to cradle the foot securely.
• Wide Feet: Consider going up half a size (0.5). The patent leather does not stretch, and a half-size increase can prevent discomfort near the pinky toe.

The Difference Between High, Low, and CMFT Models

Not all Air Jordan 11s are created equal. The AJ11 High offers the most ankle support but can feel restrictive. The AJ11 Low is often cited as fitting slightly more generous in the ankle area, though the toe box remains the same. The AJ11 CMFT Low is a lifestyle version designed for maximum comfort with more foam and flexible materials; many users find these the most comfortable for daily wear.

How to Measure Your Foot for the Perfect Fit

1. Place a piece of paper on the floor against a wall.
2. Stand on the paper with your heel against the wall.
3. Mark the tip of your longest toe with a pencil.
4. Measure the distance from the wall to the mark in centimeters.
5. Compare your measurement to the Nike size chart provided above.

Conclusion

The Air Jordan 11 is a masterpiece of design and performance. For 90% of buyers, going True to Size is the best choice. If you are worried about width, going up a half size is a safe bet, but never size down, as the patent leather will not accommodate a cramped foot. Ready to find your next pair? Use our tools to ensure you never buy the wrong size again!