When buying Nike shoes from Japan, the key is to know your size in centimeters (CM), as this is the standard used on Japanese size tags and listings. This CM or “JP” size is a universal measurement of foot length, making it the most accurate way to ensure a perfect fit. Always check the white size tag inside the shoe’s tongue on a pair you already own to find your correct CM size before purchasing through a proxy service like Onemall.jp.
You’ve done it. You’ve hunted through the Japanese marketplaces, found your holy grail pair of Nikes, and you’re ready to pull the trigger. But then, a moment of panic sets in: What size do I get?
Sizing can be confusing enough in your own country, but when buying from Japan, it can feel like a risky gamble. Will a Japanese “27” fit the same as a US 9? What about women’s sizing?
Don’t worry. Getting the right fit is actually much simpler than you think. This guide will break down everything you need to know to buy Nike sneakers from Japan with complete confidence.
The Golden Rule: Know Your CM (Centimeter) Size
Forget US, UK, or EU sizing for a moment. The single most important measurement you need to know is your Centimeter (CM) size.
- Why is it the best? The CM size (often listed as “JP” for Japan) is a direct measurement of your foot’s length. It is a universal, unisex standard. A 27 CM shoe is the same length, whether it’s sold in Tokyo or Toronto.
- How to find your CM size: Don’t guess! Go to your shoe closet right now and grab a pair of Nikes (or any other sneaker) that fits you well. Look at the white size tag on the inside of the tongue. You will see the sizes listed for different regions (US, UK, EUR, CM). Write down the CM size. That is your true Nike size.
For example, a Men’s US 9 is almost always a 27 CM. A Women’s US 7.5 is almost always a 24.5 CM.
How Sizing Appears on Japanese Websites
On Japanese marketplaces like Mercari, SNKRDUNK, or Atmos, you will almost always see the size listed in CM.
So, if you know your size is 27.5 CM, you can confidently search for and purchase any shoe listed as “27.5cm”. It’s that easy.
Important Considerations for Specific Models
While the CM size is the standard, remember that different Nike models can fit slightly differently.
- Air Force 1: Generally fits a bit large. Many people go down a half-size (e.g., if you’re a 27.5 CM, you might get a 27 CM).
- Air Max 1 / Air Max 90: Typically fits “true to size.”
- Nike Dunks: Generally fits “true to size,” but some people with wider feet prefer to go up a half-size in the newer SB Dunk models due to the padded tongue.
- Air Jordan 1: Fits “true to size.”
If you’re unsure about a specific model, a quick Google search for “[Sneaker Name] sizing guide” will give you plenty of advice from the sneaker community.
Women’s Sizing vs. Men’s Sizing
This is another area where the CM system makes things simple. A 25 CM shoe is a 25 CM shoe, period.
However, be aware that a “Women’s” model may be slightly narrower than a Men’s or Unisex model of the same CM length. If you are buying a shoe that was only released in women’s sizes and you have a wider foot, you might consider going up a half-size.
The Onemall.jp Advantage:
When you’re ready to buy, using Onemall.jp makes the process seamless. You can browse the Japanese sites, find the shoe listed in your CM size, and simply paste the URL into Onemall. Their team handles the purchase, ensuring you get the exact size you ordered.
Take the guesswork out of buying. Find your CM size, and you’ll be ready to shop the entire Japanese sneaker market with confidence.