Nike AL8 Review and Sizing Guide: Does the Nike AL8 Run True to Size?

JD Sports Expert IYKYK Perspective: Quick answer: The Nike AL8 runs true to size for most people. Buy your usual Nike size. If you have wide feet, go up a half size, because the suede overlays don't stretch much. The AL8 is a clean, low-profile retro sneaker with a stable, grounded feel, so it's a strong pick for everyday wear and long walking days if you don't want a super soft, bouncy shoe.

Many retro runners right now chase a soft, pillowy feel, like the Nike Vomero 5. The AL8 goes the other way. It has a firmer, more stable foam sole, so you feel steady on city sidewalks and hard floors.

A common question in our stores is how the AL8's toe box compares to the Vomero 5. The AL8 has suede overlays around the toe that help it keep its shape over time. Thin mesh on many running-style shoes can wear through at the toe; the AL8's suede adds protection there.

The AL8 feels different from Nike's softer retro runners. Many newer shoes use very soft, bouncy foam. The AL8 uses a firmer foam that doesn't squish as much, so it feels stable and grounded.

For city walking, that means you're not fighting the foam to keep your balance on uneven sidewalks. Each step feels steady and predictable. That makes the AL8 a good pick if you stand on concrete or tile for a long time.

• Bottom line: The AL8 is for people who want stability over bounce. If soft shoes make your ankles feel wobbly after a few hours, the AL8 is a good fix.

• Question: "How does the AL8's toe box compare to the Vomero 5 on foot?"

• Answer: "The AL8 has a slightly slimmer, more tapered toe than the Vomero 5, but the length is about the same. If the Vomero 5 already feels snug across your toes, go a half size up in the AL8. Otherwise, stick with your usual size."

Based on fit feedback from our JD Sports stores, the AL8 fits true to size for most people. Because of its slimmer retro shape, wide feet need a little extra care:

1. Normal or narrow feet: Buy your usual Nike size. If you wear an 8 in Dunks, get an 8 in the AL8.
2. Wide feet: Go up a half size. The suede overlays are tough but don't stretch like mesh, so wide feet may feel a pinch at the pinky toe.
3. For a locked-in feel: Your true size gives a snug fit that keeps your heel from slipping.

1. Nike AL8: True to size. Slimmer toe; wide feet go up a half size.
2. Nike V2K Run: True to size for most, but narrower in the toe. Wide feet should go up a half size.
3. Nike Air Max 90: True to size, with a snug fit. If you wear the same size in the Air Max 90, that size should work in the AL8 too.
4. Kids' sizes: If the AL8 is available in grade-school (GS) sizes, it fits the same way. Leave about a thumb's width of room at the toe for growing feet.

Cushioning:

• Vomero 5: Very soft, with Zoom Air cushioning. Best if you want the most comfort with each step.
• AL8: Firmer and more stable. Best if you want a steady, supportive feel.

Look:

• Vomero 5: A busy Y2K look with lots of mesh and plastic pieces.
• AL8: A cleaner retro look with suede overlays and fewer pieces.

Durability:

• The AL8's suede overlays hold up better against scuffs than the Vomero 5's thin mesh.

The AL8 is easy to match with almost anything. Here are four outfits we like:

1. Outdoor commuter: Pair a light colorway with dark cargo pants and a relaxed windbreaker.
2. Clean and simple: Wear a white or cream colorway with cream joggers and a light trench coat.
3. Sporty retro: Pair a black colorway with white crew socks and loose nylon shorts.
4. Office casual: Neutral colors work with wide-leg trousers and a tucked-in tee for an easy smart-casual look.

• The AL8 gives you the retro running look made popular by shoes like the New Balance 990 and the Vomero 5, but it's simple enough to wear every day without worrying about it.
• Easy to care for: The suede needs a quick brush now and then, but the shoe holds its shape well over time.

• Does the Nike AL8 run true to size? Yes, for most people. Go up a half size if you have wide feet.
• Is the Nike AL8 good for wide feet? It can be with a half size up. For a roomier toe, also look at the Nike Air Force 1.
• Is the Nike AL8 comfortable for walking all day? Yes. Its firm, stable sole is comfortable for long walking days, though it's not as soft as the V2K Run or Vomero 5.
• Should I get the Nike AL8 or the V2K Run? Get the AL8 for a clean, stable everyday shoe. Get the V2K Run for a chunkier look and softer cushioning.
• How do I clean the suede on the AL8? Use a dry suede brush and a suede eraser. Spray on a suede protector before the first wear.

• Buy the Nike AL8 if: you want a stable, everyday sneaker that looks clean and holds up well. It's a great pick for long walking days in the city.
• Skip the Nike AL8 if: you have very wide feet and don't want to size up, or you want the softest, most cushioned shoe possible. The Nike V2K Run is softer.
• Ready to shop? See every colorway of the Nike AL8 at JD Sports.

• Nike Product Information: Design and material details for the Nike AL8.
• JD Sports Fit Feedback: Sizing and comfort feedback from JD Sports store teams across North America.
• Independent Reviews: Wear tests on the AL8's comfort, breathability, and stability.
• Style Coverage: Fashion and sneaker press on the return of retro running styles.