Best Shoes for Wide Feet: A Complete Buying Guide

Finding the perfect pair of shoes is an essential part of feeling comfortable and confident, but for those with wide feet, the process can be a bit more challenging. Standard shoe sizes don’t always cut it when it comes to width, leaving many people with discomfort, blisters, or even foot pain after wearing shoes that don’t fit properly. Fortunately, there are plenty of brands and models designed specifically for people with wide feet, and with the right knowledge, you can find a pair that will provide both comfort and style.

We will walk you through everything you need to know about finding the best shoes for wide feet. We’ll discuss the importance of proper fit, what features to look for, and provide a list of some of the top shoes on the market for wide feet. Plus, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions to help you make an informed decision when shopping for your next pair.

Why Is Finding the Right Fit Important?

The way shoes fit your feet has a significant impact on your overall comfort, foot health, and posture. Ill-fitting shoes, especially those that are too tight, can lead to a number of issues, including:

Blisters: Tight shoes rub against the skin, causing friction that results in painful blisters.
Foot Pain: Shoes that are too narrow can compress the foot, leading to aches and pains, especially in the toe box, arch, and heel areas.
Corn and Calluses: Prolonged friction from tight shoes can cause thickened, hardened skin on the toes, which leads to discomfort.
Postural Problems: Wearing shoes that are too tight or too narrow can affect the way you walk, which in turn may lead to alignment issues, back pain, and more.
Swelling: Tight shoes restrict circulation, leading to foot swelling, especially after long periods of standing or walking.

When you have wide feet, it becomes even more crucial to find shoes that accommodate the shape and size of your feet to avoid these issues. Wearing shoes that provide ample space for your toes, ball of the foot, and arch can go a long way in maintaining overall foot health and comfort.

How Do You Know If You Have Wide Feet?

It’s not always obvious whether or not you have wide feet. However, some signs may indicate that you have a wider-than-average foot, including:

Your toes feel cramped in shoes that should fit.
Your feet often swell after a day of wearing shoes.
You experience discomfort in the toe box or the ball of the foot.
You find shoes that fit in length but feel tight in width.

To properly measure your feet and determine whether you have wide feet, you can follow these steps:

Use a Brannock Device: This is a foot-measuring tool found at most shoe stores. It will help you determine the length and width of your feet.
Measure the Width: If the width of your feet measures more than the average shoe width (which is typically a B for women or a D for men), you likely have wide feet. The letter “E” is typically used to indicate wide widths.

Once you know your foot measurements, you can begin searching for shoes that will provide the right fit.

Key Features to Look for in Shoes for Wide Feet

When shopping for shoes for wide feet, certain features will ensure that the shoes are both comfortable and supportive. Here’s what you should look for:

1. Wide Width Sizing

The first and most obvious consideration is that the shoes should come in a wide width option. Many brands offer shoes in various width sizes, such as medium, wide, and extra-wide. For example, women’s shoes might come in B (narrow), D (standard), 2E (wide), and 4E (extra wide) widths. Men’s shoes typically have D (standard), 2E (wide), 4E (extra wide), and 6E (extra extra wide) options.

Make sure to select shoes in your proper width, as this will provide enough space for your foot to breathe without being overly tight.

2. Flexible Upper Materials

Shoes with upper materials that stretch and adapt to the shape of your foot are important for wide feet. Materials like leather, mesh, or soft synthetics tend to provide a good balance between comfort and durability. They mold to your foot over time, making them a good choice for those with wider feet.

3. Roomy Toe Box

A roomy toe box allows your toes to spread out naturally without being compressed. Many people with wide feet experience discomfort because traditional shoes have a narrow toe box that doesn’t provide enough room for their toes to move freely. Look for shoes with a round or square toe box, which tends to be more accommodating.

4. Arch Support

Good arch support is critical for comfort, especially for people with wide feet who may also have flatter arches or higher arches. Arch support helps to distribute your body weight evenly across your foot, reducing strain and fatigue. Look for shoes with built-in arch support, or consider adding custom orthotics for extra support.

5. Breathable Materials

Breathability is important in any shoe, but it becomes even more crucial for wide feet, which can be prone to excess heat and moisture. Shoes made from breathable mesh, leather, or knit materials will help keep your feet cool and dry.

6. Adjustable Closure

Shoes with adjustable closures, such as Velcro straps, laces, or buckles, allow for a customizable fit. You can adjust the tightness of the shoe, which is especially helpful for wide feet, as it allows you to achieve a more comfortable and secure fit without feeling too constricted.

7. Cushioning and Support

Cushioning and support are key factors in making shoes comfortable for wide feet. Shoes with ample cushioning in the insole can absorb shock and reduce foot fatigue, while added support in the midsole can provide stability and reduce pressure on your feet.

Best Shoes for Wide Feet: Our Top Picks

Now that you know what to look for in shoes for wide feet, here are some of the top-rated shoes on the market that offer both comfort and style for people with wide feet.

1. New Balance 990v5

New Balance is known for making shoes with excellent wide-width options, and the 990v5 is no exception. This shoe offers a great combination of comfort, stability, and durability. The breathable mesh upper and roomy toe box make it an excellent choice for wide feet, and the cushioned midsole provides superior support.

Key Features: Available in wide and extra-wide widths, cushioned insole, supportive midsole, breathable mesh upper.
Best For: Daily wear, walking, running, and standing all day.

2. Brooks Addiction Walker 2

The Brooks Addiction Walker 2 is another fantastic choice for people with wide feet. With an extra-wide fit option, this shoe offers an incredibly cushioned and supportive insole, which makes it ideal for long hours of walking or standing. The shoe’s rubber sole provides great traction and durability, making it suitable for various activities.

Key Features: Available in wide and extra-wide widths, excellent cushioning, slip-resistant outsole, breathable mesh upper.
Best For: Walking, standing, and those on their feet for long periods.

3. Saucony Grid Omni Walker

The Saucony Grid Omni Walker is known for its cushioned support, which provides both comfort and stability for wide feet. It comes with a breathable upper and a wide toe box to ensure that your feet stay cool and comfortable. The shoe also features a durable rubber sole for traction.

Key Features: Wide widths available, durable rubber outsole, extra cushioning in the midsole, breathable upper.
Best For: Walking and casual daily wear.

4. Orthofeet Asheville

Orthofeet is renowned for its orthopedic-friendly shoes, and the Asheville model is perfect for those with wide feet. This shoe features a soft, flexible upper that molds to the shape of your foot. With excellent arch support and extra cushioning, it provides comfort for all-day wear.

Key Features: Available in wide, extra-wide, and extra-extra-wide widths, orthotic insole, soft, stretchy upper, and cushioning.
Best For: Those with foot conditions, plantar fasciitis, or arthritis.

5. Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39

For those who need a performance shoe that caters to wide feet, the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 is a solid choice. It’s available in wide sizes and provides ample support for those who enjoy running or training. The cushioned midsole and Zoom Air unit in the heel offer a responsive, comfortable fit.

Key Features: Wide sizing options, responsive cushioning, breathable mesh upper, lightweight.
Best For: Running and athletic activities.

7 Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best way to measure my foot width?

To measure your foot width, you can use a Brannock device or use a ruler to measure the circumference of the widest part of your foot. If the measurement is larger than the standard width of your shoe size, you likely need a wide or extra-wide option.

2. Can I wear regular shoes if I have wide feet?

While it’s possible to wear regular shoes with wide feet, it’s not recommended, as they will likely cause discomfort, pain, and even long-term foot problems. It’s always better to opt for shoes that come in wide sizes for a more comfortable fit.

3. Do wide shoes cost more?

Wide shoes may be slightly more expensive than regular shoes, but the price difference is usually minimal. The extra cost is often due to the specialized materials and designs needed to accommodate wide feet.

4. Are there any tips for making wide shoes fit better?

If your shoes are a little too tight, you can try stretching them using a shoe stretcher or other DIY methods. You can also add cushioned insoles for added comfort.

5. What materials are best for wide feet?

Leather, mesh, and knit materials are excellent choices for wide feet, as they tend to offer more flexibility and comfort. These materials mold to the shape of your foot over time.

6. Should I buy shoes in the afternoon?

Yes! Your feet tend to swell slightly throughout the day, so shopping in the afternoon or evening can help you find shoes that will fit your feet even when they’re at their largest.

7. Can I wear high heels with wide feet?

While wearing high heels with wide feet can be challenging, there are some brands that offer wide-width heels. Look for shoes with a wider toe box and avoid heels that are too narrow or pointed.

Conclusion

Finding the right shoes for wide feet doesn’t have to be difficult. By focusing on key features like wide width sizing, flexible uppers, roomy toe boxes, and proper cushioning, you can find shoes that provide both comfort and style. Whether you’re looking for athletic shoes, walking shoes, or everyday casual options, there are plenty of great choices available. Remember to measure your feet regularly, choose the right width, and prioritize comfort to ensure that your shoes help you walk confidently all day long.

Suggest Tools

Shoe Size Chart