With wide feet, you never know what you’re getting. Poorly fitting footwear can cause you a myriad of problems, from blisters, bruises, and calluses to bunions and hammertoes. Properly fitting footwear, on the other hand, can make a world of difference. What are the best shoes for wide feet, anyway?
We’d argue that the best shoes for wide feet allow you to slip them on and off without trouble, provide you with plenty of wiggle room, and prevent foot-related health conditions and concerns. Wider feet are more prone to pain and pressure due to today’s footwear that doesn’t accommodate a foot’s width.
With fashion and function at the forefront of your troubles, you might be wondering whether or not you have wide feet. Wide feet are not reserved for overweight people, contrary to popular belief. With a few key tips and tricks, there’s no reason why you wouldn’t be able to wear your favorite footwear again.
What happens if you wear shoes that are too small for your feet?
Banish everything you think you know about wide-fit shoes! Wide-fit shoes might be displayed at the back of the store right now, but that’s because people aren’t aware of how wide-fit shoes work and why they’re important for people who need them. What happens if you wear shoes that are too small?
Where do we even start? Bruising on your toenails, toenail loss or damage, blisters, calluses, and skin irritation around your toenails are some of the things you can look forward to if you’re wearing shoes that are too narrow or too short for your feet. Before you protest, wide-fit shoes aren’t reserved for grandmas.
Wearing ill-fitting shoes can cause various health problems beyond the pain and pressure you experience at the end of a workday. Conditions such as neuropathy are much more common among people with wide feet than people with “average” or narrow feet. Where do your feet stand, though?
How can you tell if you have wide feet?
Whether you’ve been struggling with finding the right footwear for years or you’ve been trying to figure out why your feet get swollen and sore at the end of a workday, you’ve probably noticed that there was something wrong with your feet. Wide feet are not a condition you need to battle, to begin with.
However, wide feet can cause you a myriad of problems, especially when you’re completely oblivious to the fact that you’re dealing with wide feet. Before you start shopping for shoes for wide feet, you might want to consult with a podiatrist or go to a store that can measure your feet on a Brennock device.
A Brennock device measures both the length and width of your feet. A man’s average foot width is a D and for women, it is a B. Anything higher than that could classify as being a wide foot. But the Brennock device doesn’t take into account the overall volume of the foot and isn’t a foolproof tool.
Because of that, your best bet at getting proper shoes for wide feet would be to analyze the way your shoes feel on the top or the sides when you put them on. Also, consult with a podiatrist to rule out other reasons why your feet might be swollen or sore. What are the best shoes for wide feet, though?
How can you choose the best shoes for wide feet?
When shopping for the best shoes for wide feet, you need to pay attention to a few features and functions that promise to keep your feet happy and healthy. Whether you’re looking for work boots or sneakers, width, toe box shape, material, and comfort can make or break your experience.
Starting with the width of the shoe, we don’t even need to explain why you’re better off opting for brands that offer wide and extra-wide fits. Getting bigger measurements might make a difference for the time being, but getting the correct width can (and will) change the way your feet look and feel in the long run.
Opting for shoes with a wide toe box, a rounded or a square toe, and an overall roomy fit can prevent you from getting blisters, bruises, and bunions. Narrow and pointed-toe boxes might be a great option for people with smaller feet, but they’re the worst thing you can do to people with wide feet.
We can’t forget about the material, either, because the right material can stretch and allow your feet to spread when they get swollen or sore. With that out of the way, we’ve prepared a few of our top picks for the best shoes for wide feet for different occasions. Whatever you’re on the hunt for, we’ve got your back!
Read more: 7 Good Tennis Shoes For Wide Feet And A Better Score
Step up your game: Best sports shoes for wide feet
1. New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12
Searching for the best running shoes for wide feet? We recommend trying out New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12 sneakers because they’re comfortable, supportive, and protective.
Whether you’re a beginner or training for a marathon, you’re going to adore these sneakers. Designed for slightly wider-than-average feet, these sneakers are equipped with plush landings and springy push-offs to make you feel like you’re walking (or running!) on clouds.
Lightweight and bouncy, they’re what every runner’s dreams are made of!
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2. Under Armour Curry Flow 9
Wanna be the ultimate baller? Check out Steph Curry’s totally rubberless basketball shoes, the Under Armour Curry Flow 9s. Lightweight and grippy, these basketball shoes are the perfect hybrid of function and fashion.
Low-top basketball shoes might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but these deserve a spot on the list because they’re equipped with plenty of arch and ankle support. Comfortable and flexible, Steph Curry’s basketball shoes are guaranteed to get you through the game with more speed and agility.
Read more: Step Up Your Game: 10 Best Basketball Shoes For Wide Feet
3. Adidas Predator Accuracy.1 Firm Ground
What about soccer cleats? We can’t talk about the best sports shoes for wide feet without mentioning one of the best soccer cleats on the market right now, the Adidas Predator Accuracy.1 Firm Ground. We all know and adore Adidas sneakers, but what’s the tea with Adidas cleats?
Adidas Predator Accuracy.1 Firm Ground cleats are made with a HybridTouch upper and Adidas PRIMEKNIT collar that promises to allow airflow, prevent your feet from getting sweaty and soggy, and protect your feet from outside influences.
With an excellent grip on the playing surface and a very comfortable fit on your feet, these soccer cleats are worth your while.
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4. Shimano IC501 Cycling Shoe
Shopping for cycling shoes can be challenging whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cyclist. When you add the struggle of finding the right fit for your wide feet, shopping for cycling shoes can become quite a painstaking process.
We suggest checking out the Shimano IC501 cycling shoes because they’re one of the best options on the market. Now, we do need to mention that they’re more suitable for at-home and at-studio cycling because they’re lightweight, breathable, and comfortable.
Outdoor cycling shoes require a sturdier sole and more hard-wearing construction, but that’s beside the point. Shimano IC501 cycling shoes are a great option to consider.
Read more: Elevate Your Workouts: 10 Best Peloton Shoes For Wide Feet
5. Merrell Speed Eco
From sturdy leather high-tops to breathable mesh boots, you might be overwhelmed by the sheer number of hiking shoes coming your way. Hiking is a great sport, and that’s why we suggest getting the right footwear for wide feet to ensure you’re comfortable, safe, and secure on your hikes.
Merrell Speed Eco hiking shoes are exactly that – they’re sturdy and durable, and they’re designed for an all-around pleasurable hiking experience. With almost zero break-in time, Merrell Speed Eco hiking shoes are everything you need and more on a hike.
Read more:
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Cool for the summer: Best summer shoes for wide feet
1. Hoka Ora Recovery Slide 3
Slides are one of those summer staples you can’t go without when the temperatures start to rise.
Simple to slip on and off, comfortable, and wearable, slides seem to have taken the world by storm and we’re here for that. Hoka Ora Recovery Slide 3 slides are exactly what you need for your wide feet.
Crafted with a super plush midsole and a durable rubber outsole, they’re designed to provide relief for sore and swollen feet. Podiatrists-approved, these slides are perfect for people suffering from foot-related problems, too.
2. Crocs Adrina Flat
We’ve moved on from the thin, flimsy flip-flops we used to wear when we were younger, right? Nowadays, flip-flops are a fashion statement, a wardrobe must-have we turn to when we want to be comfortable, and an easy way to elevate every summer ‘fit.
Crocs Adrina Flat flip-flops are an affordable alternative you can turn to when you’re tired of breaking the bank on everything Hailey Bieber and Sophia Richie are wearing these days. Simple and sleek, Crocs Adrina Flat flip-flops are made with plenty of arch support, grip, and comfort.
What’s not to love?!
3. Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed Leather Sandal
Whenever we’re talking about summer sandals, we can’t help but mention Birkenstocks. Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed Leather Sandals are a wardrobe must-have for most people, and they’re one of the most popular, prominent shoes for wide feet on the market.
Whether you’re struggling with bunions, plantar fasciitis, or a completely different foot-related problem, you’re going to appreciate the snug, comfortable fit of Birkenstock sandals. Fashion and function can coexist, and Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed Leather Sandals attest to that fact.
4. Speedo Surfknit Pro Water Shoes
Whether you’re heading to a waterfall, kayaking trip, or a rocky beach, you might want to get your hands on a pair of water shoes to protect your feet and keep you comfortable and safe.
With water shoes, you need to make sure they’re lightweight, breathable, and sturdy enough to protect your feet and provide a good grip. Speedo Surfknit Pro Water Shoes are our top pick because they’re budget-friendly and easy to slip on and off.
We’d argue that Speedo Surfknit Pro Water Shoes do everything you need when it comes to protecting your foot underwater and maintaining traction on wet ground, too.
5. Soludos Ciao Bella Smoking Slippers
Espadrilles are (and will forever be!) the only shoe you’re going to need for the entire summer. Whether you wear them to the beach, when grabbing brunch with friends, or even when going on a date, you’re guaranteed to look polished and put together.
Classic espadrilles are the most versatile, and that’s why we’re rooting for Soludos Ciao Bella Smoking Slippers.
With a “Ciao Bella” sign embroidered on the upper, you can count on these espadrilles to turn heads and attract attention wherever you go. Lightweight and breathable, these espadrilles are going to give your feet a break.
Let’s get this party started: Best going-out shoes for wide feet
1. Cole Haan Grand Ambition Pump
Comfortable high heels are somewhat of a mystery. Whether they’re on the expensive end of the spectrum or made to resemble orthopedic footwear, comfortable high heels aren’t a staple when we’re talking about going-out shoes. With Cole Haan Grand Ambition Pumps, you can be comfy and stylish.
Black pointy-toe pumps are a wardrobe must-have because they’re designed to go with everything you own. Cole Haan made these pumps with the University of Massachusetts Amherst’s Biomechanics Laboratory to deliver serious comfort – and a fashion statement, for that matter.
2. Loeffler Randall Camellia Pearl Pleated Bow Heel
Who wants to wear wedding shoes for wide feet, right? When you’re getting married (or attending someone’s wedding), you want your feet to appear dainty and delicate. You don’t want to wear something labeled “wide-fit.” You don’t want to wear flats, flip-flops, or orthopedic footwear.
Worry not, with Loeffler Randall Camellia Pearl Pleated Bow Heels you can look like a million dollars on your wedding day without sacrificing your feet. Loeffler Randall Camellia Pearl Pleated Bow Heels are made with a wide toe box, a block heel, and a handy ankle strap to keep you on your toes all day long.
Read more: Say No To Pinching: 9 Best High Heels For Wide Feet
3. Ecco Citytray Cap Toe
What about dress shoes for your big day? Whether you need them for work, for an event, or a wedding, dress shoes are a must-have for everyone who wants to look good. With that in mind, though, dress shoes are known to be quite uncomfortable.
Ecco Citytray Cap Toe dress shoes are one of the best shoes for wide feet because they’re made with a wide toe box, a lace-up system, and a soft leather upper.
Thanks to the removable orthopedic insoles, they’re perfect for people who suffer from foot-related problems. That being said, they’re covered with a layer of leather to look like old-fashioned dress shoes on the inside, too.
4. Madewell Greta Ballet Flats
Ballet falts are back and they’re here to stay! Ballet flats might not be the first type of footwear you think of when you’re getting ready for a night out. But they’re perfect for people with wide feet because they’re comfortable, lightweight, and breathable – and they’re typically made with a soft upper.
Madewell Greta Ballet Flats are a great example of ballet shoes that work for the office, a date night, and a night out with friends at the same time. We’d go as far as to argue that they’re appropriate for formal events, evening get-togethers, and weddings. What are you waiting for?
5. Jamie Haller Two-Tone Penny Loafer
We can’t forget about loafers, either. Whether you’re a fan of the chunky, lug-sole look or prefer the old-school, classic loafers, we’re sure you can get away with wearing them for a night out. With a quick glance at Hailey Bieber’s style, we’re sure you can find something you love.
We recommend opting for Jamie Haller Two Tone Penny Loafer in Brown and Bone and calling it a day. We know, we know – you might need to break the bank to get your hands on these loafers, but they’re worth the money.
Reviewers agree that these loafers fit like a glove and that’s all you need to know about them.
Read more:
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‘Tis the season: Best winter shoes for wide feet
1. Sam Edelman Laguna Waterproof Lug-Sole Chelsea Boot
On the hunt for the best boots for wide feet? We’ve got you covered with Sam Edelman’s Laguna Waterproof Lug-Sole Chelsea Boots. Chelsea Boots are made with stretchy fabric panels on the sides and that’s what makes them suitable for people with wide feet.
On top of that, these Sam Edelman beauties are made with a roomy toe box, a sleek silhouette, and a grippy rubber outsole that’s guaranteed to get you through the workday without slipping and falling.
Of course, Chelsea boots are wearable and versatile, too, and you can wear them with pretty much everything you own.
Read more: Enjoying Winter Wonders: 6 Best Winter Boots For Wide Feet
2. Madewell The Patti Lace-Up Boot
When the temperatures drop, you might want to turn to your favorite ankle boots. Booties are one of those things that make all the rain, mud, and cold weather worth the hassle – who wouldn’t want to wear a pair of perfectly fitting ankle booties?
Madewell The Patti Lace-Up Boots are on our wishlist, for sure. Madewell The Patti Lace-Up Boots are made with a comfortable block heel to prevent you from rolling your ankles or slipping and falling.
They’re equipped with a soft leather upper that wraps around your feet with ease. They’re finished with a lace-up system that allows you to adjust the width of the boot to your liking.
Read more: Strut With Confidence: Best Shoes For Walking For Wide Feet
3. Timberland Pro Pit Boss 6″ Steel-Toe Boot
Work boots are the worst when you’re dealing with wide feet. Because they’re meant to be stiff and sturdy, they’re typically made with features and functions that aren’t necessary for people with wide feet. Quite on the contrary, some of the features might end up damaging your feet even more.
With Timberland Pro Pit Boss 6″ Steel-Toe Boots, you don’t need to worry about that. Safety-compliant and durable, these work boots come with a comfort system designed to reduce foot fatigue.
Read more: 6 Best Steel Toe Boots For Wide Feet And Diligent Workers
4. Tecovas The Cartwright Cowboy Boot
Cowboy boots don’t even need to make a comeback. Real cowboys know that these bad boys have never gone out of style, whether you wear them to the rodeo or a meeting with the head of your company.
Cowboy boots are a great way to spice up your footwear collection and we suggest you check out Tecovas The Cartwright Cowboy Boots.
High-quality and hard-wearing, these boots are designed to last you a long time. With a classic round toe and a stacked angled heel, they’re made to provide you with plenty of wiggle room.
5. Dr. Martens 2976 Smooth Leather Chelsea Boots
We know you’re dying to rock the famous Dr. Martens style, but that might not be the best move for your wide feet. Dr. Martens’s boots are known to require break-in time and provide you with blisters and bruises when you don’t abide by their rules.
Dr. Martens 2976 Smooth Leather Chelsea Boots, on the other hand, are much more comfortable. Made with stretchy side panels, a soft leather upper, and signature rubber outsoles, these boots are made for walking – and that’s just what they’ll do.
Get your cozy on: Best house shoes for wide feet
1. Ugg Tasman Slippers
Uggs are the embodiment of comfort and we’re not surprised that some of the most sought-after slippers come from the same brand. Ugg Tasman Slippers seem to have made quite an impression on women around the world and we’re more than happy to recommend them, too.
Lined with a cozy combination of sheepskin and wool, these slippers are roomy, fluffy, and a dream to wear. Ugg Tasman Slippers are made with solid outsoles, too, which means you can wear them outside of your house.
Read more: Lazy-Day Favorites: 9 Best Men’s Slippers For Wide Feet
2. Allbirds Wool Dwellers
Allbirds Wool Dwellers are a favorite among men, though. Men seem to prefer the classic slipper style that keeps your toes toasty and allows the rest of your foot to breathe. Moreover, they’re made with a lot of room at the front which means your toes are going to have a party every time you wear them.
Allbirds Wool Dwellers are soft to the touch which makes sense considering they’re made of merino wool, one of the softest types of wool on the market. Which shoes for wide feet are you going to go for?