Women with wide feet, unite! Whether you’re looking to run your first 10K or enter the third marathon of the season, finding the right footwear can be challenging. We’re aware that you’re struggling with runners that are too tight and too narrow – so, what are the best running shoes for wide feet, for women?
Women tend to run slightly differently than men. Men’s runners are great, but they’re not necessarily catered to women’s feet. When you’re shopping for wide feet, you might think you’re better off opting for men’s runners, but that’s not the case. Women’s runners are much better for your feet, that’s for sure.
Moreover, we can’t forget about the anatomical differences between men’s and women’s feet that make men’s runners unstable for you. Wearing poorly fitting sneakers when going on a run might not seem that bad, but you could end up with calluses, corns, bruises, blisters, and bunions. Who wants that?!
Worry not, wide-footed warrior! Although you have wider feet, you never have to endure the dreaded squished feeling again because brands started coming out with wide and extra-wide fits for women over the past few years. With a few key tips and tricks, you will leave your feet on cloud nine mile after mile.
What should women look for when choosing running shoes for wide feet?
Women’s runners tend to be narrow, simple, and sleek because they’re made to accommodate a myriad of tastes and styles. Whatever your personal preferences might be, you might struggle to find the right fit for your feet because they’re a little bigger than the standard. We’re not here to fat-shame your feet, OK?
When shopping for the best running shoes for wide feet, for women, there are a few things to keep an eye on to ensure you’re on the right track. Start by contacting a podiatrist and making sure you’re actually dealing with wide feet and not with a different foot-related problem.
Once you’re done with that, you can proceed to research brands that offer wide and extra-wide fits for women to save time. Nike, Adidas, and New Balance – being some of the most popular, prominent brands of runners – sometimes offer a wide variety of fits, depending on the style you opt for.
With that out of the way, though, you might need to brush up on your knowledge of features and functions that promise to get you through the day pain and pressure-free. A wide toe box, a rounded toe, a soft, stretchy upper, and adaptable straps, laces, or buckles are always the right way to go.
Other than that, you might want to focus on sneakers that offer you plenty of arch and ankle support to align your posture and ensure you’re on top of your game. A rubber outsole might prevent you from slipping and falling and plenty of padding can make you more comfortable on your runs.
Our top picks for the best running shoes for wide feet, for women
1. Lululemon Blissfeel 2
Most women know about Lululemon leggings because they’ve taken the athletic world by storm, but what’s the tea with Lululemon sneakers? Lululemon Blissfeel 2 sneakers are perfect for women with wide feet because they’re specifically made for a woman’s fit and biomechanics.
Crafted with a brand-new contoured upper, these sneakers are made to wrap around your feet and make you feel like you’re getting a soft, snug hug.
Supportive and protective, these sneakers are equipped with thick foam that buffers impact and absorbs shock. So, next time you’re struggling to figure out what to wear to prevent blisters and bruises, you might want to opt for Lululemon Blissfeel 2 sneakers.
2. Nike Invincible 3
When you’re on the hunt for the best running shoes for wide feet for women, don’t shy away from checking out the official Nike website. We typically don’t suggest online purchases for women with wide feet because you’re better off trying your sneakers on beforehand, but we’d make an exception for Nike.
Nike Invincible 3 sneakers are comfortable, supportive, and protective. Made with an enormous amount of cushioning, they’re bound to keep your feet safe and secure throughout the day. Wiggle room’s a must, but that’s not something you need to worry about with these bad boys. Nike for the win!
3. Altra Rivera 3
Altra sneakers are known to feature wide and extra-wide fits, and that’s why we didn’t want to pass on the opportunity to rave about one of our favorites – Altra Rivera 3 sneakers. Engineered with 28mm stack height, these sneakers are perfect for women who want added padding for comfort.
Even though they’re made with a narrow toe, Altra Rivera 3 sneakers feature a wide toe box that promises to provide you with plenty of wiggle room. Lightweight and breathable, these sneakers are great whether you’re going on a quick run around the neighborhood or training for a marathon.
4. Hoka Clifton 9
Girls, we’ve got more cushioning for you! Hoka Clifton 9 sneakers weigh a lot less than Clifton 8 sneakers, but they’re much more padded, comfortable, and supportive. We’d describe these sneakers as lightweight daily trainers that are also abundantly plush.
Whether you’re a beginner runner or you’ve been trying to secure a new PB at your next marathon, you’re going to adore these sneakers. Breathable and bouncy, they’re equipped with everything you need to get through your workout without problems.
Midsoles made of compression-molded EVA foam, a stripped-down jacquard knit mesh upper, and a tongue gusseted on only the medial side add to the lightweight feel of the Hoka Clifton sneaker.
5. New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v13
Maximalist shoes, rocker geometries, and carbon fiber plates might be all the rage these days, but New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v13 sneakers reign supreme despite the more traditional approach. Wearable and versatile, these sneakers can be combined with workout sets, loungewear, and smarter ‘fits alike.
With a Fresh Foam X midsole, an engineered mesh upper, and arch and ankle support, these sneakers come with everything you need for a daily workout.
New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v13 sneakers are on the expensive side of the spectrum, but they’re worth your while because they’re made with high-quality, hard-wearing materials. We’d argue that they’re best for longer runs, but that’s up to you to decide.
6. Altra Lone Peak 7
We’ve got another pair of Altra sneakers coming your way! We’ve already mentioned that Altra sneakers work wonderfully with wide feet, not only because they’re roomy, but because they’re made in wide and extra-wide fits, too. Altra Lone Peak 7 sneakers are great for women who need an all-terrain trail sneaker.
Trail running requires a little bit more prep than running around your neighborhood, but that’s not something that should deter you from your favorite sport.
With Altra Lone Peak sneakers, you can count on an increased number and length of lugs, tackier outsole rubber that boosts wet-surface traction, a stitch-less upper that improves midfoot lockdown, and a lot of comfort. We do need to mention that they’re on the heavier side and that’s something to be wary of.
7. Saucony Endorphin Elite
Saucony Endorphin Elite sneakers are one of the best running shoes for wide feet for women, but you’re guaranteed to spend your savings on them. We’re aware that breaking the bank on a pair of runners might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but that’s up to you to decide – these sneakers are worth it, though.
Saucony Endorphin Elite sneakers are made with a World Athletics-approved tall stack height that demands you to give your best and run faster.
We’d argue that they’re perfect for races because they’re attractive, supportive, and one-of-a-kind. Whatever you decide to do, know that these sneakers are breathable, bouncy, and beautiful.
8. Puma Velocity Nitro 2
Puma Velocity Nitro 2 sneakers are created for women, with women’s feet as the main focal point. What does that mean? With a narrower heel, lower in-step, and sculpted arch shape, these sneakers are perfect for the female foot and gait. When you wear them, you’re going to feel like you’re on top of the world.
With that in mind, Puma Velocity Nitro 2 sneakers are equipped with soft cushioning and plenty of bounce to ensure your feet are happy and healthy when you’re running. We can’t forget about the mesh upper that allows airflow and prevents you from getting sweaty, soggy feet at the end of a run.
9. Adidas Ultraboost Light
We’ve arrived at the end of the article with Adidas Ultraboost Light sneakers. Whenever we’re talking about the best running shoes for wide feet for women, we can’t help but rave about Adidas sneakers – ideal for long mileage, these sneakers are made to keep you on your toes.
With a bouncy Boost midsole, a Primeknit+ upper, and a lightweight construction, these Adidas sneakers are guaranteed to push you further and further on your runs. With a supportive, sock-like fit, Adidas Ultraboost Light sneakers are going to provide you with plenty of wiggle room for comfort.
Good luck choosing!