Footwear, like fashion, is becoming a lot more size inclusive these days. The best shoes for wide feet provide the right amount of space in the toe box to keep your feet comfortable all day, and the options aren’t limited to one or two styles anymore. After researching and reviewing the top-rated pairs, we selected Hoka Clifton 9 as the overall best shoes for wide feet, since it’s a versatile pick for serious walking or casual wear. From there, we found specific shoes for different needs, including running sneakers, dress shoes and heels.
The best shoes for wide feet aren’t just a size bigger—they’re designed with specific comfort … [+]
A bit about our selection process: We evaluated many contenders for fit, comfort, price and style, removing any shoes that didn’t receive excellent scores (at least four stars) in all categories. We then parsed through the highest-rated shoes from brands that we have personal experience wearing ourselves. Ahead, you’ll find all the best shoes for wide feet that passed our review and that we highly recommend.
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
The Forbes Vetted team includes fashion editors, writers and researchers who are always on the hunt for the best products. When it comes to footwear, we’re downright obsessive about picking the most comfortable pairs. We’ve spent countless hours assessing and testing just about every shoe category, from the best travel shoes to the most comfortable heels to the best slippers for sweaty feet. No matter what fashion topic we’re deep diving into, the goal is always the same: to bring you the highest quality and most stylish fashion and accessories at a variety of prices. Online shopping can overwhelming for anyone, and we’re here to help you make smart, informed decisions.
How We Chose The Best Shoes For Wide Feet
Shoes are an everyday essential so it’s important to get the proper fit, support and comfort. To find the best shoes for wide feet specifically, we focused on top-rated brands and styles that the Forbes Vetted has personal experience with, and those that stand out for their size inclusivity, fit features, versatility and overall value. We’ve tested several of the pairs on this list ourselves and also pored over real customer reviews for additional independent feedback. Finally, our deputy editor, Kari Molvar, who has more than two decades’ of experience in the fashion and lifestyle space, helped us finalize the list of best shoes for wide feet.
What To Consider About Shoes For Wide Feet
- Fit: When it comes to wide sizing, one size does not fit all (literally). While a medium in some brands are roomy enough, you might need a wide or extra wide in other brands. Look for a toe box with extra room for movement and an upper that doesn’t feel too tight across the top of your foot. Pay attention to brand fit recommendations, user reviews that rate sizing and size charts—which sometimes include helpful instructions for taking actual foot measurements. Margaux, for instance, says The Heel runs a little long and narrow and suggests sizing down in length but going up in width.
- Comfort: If a shoe isn’t comfortable, it can lead to rubbing, blisters and other foot pain. All of our wide foot shoe picks include cushioned midsoles that absorb impact and pressure, and some, like our favorites from Hoka, have rocker soles designed to promote heel-to-toe comfort with every step you take.
- Support: We typically only recommend supportive supportive footwear at Forbes Vetted. Support is an important factor that shouldn’t be ignored, as it can actually prevent foot pain after your shoes comes off. Since wide feet cover a little more surface area than narrow feet, you’ll want to be sure you’re giving them extra support they need. Look for cushioning with responsiveness features, extra support to eliminate pain in the arch and heel, and soles that are built to withstand many hours of wear.
How Do I Know I Have Wide Feet?
Foot width can be a tricky thing to navigate, especially if you’ve never had wide feet before. If you notice shoes fitting tight in the toes and across the top of the foot, or if you develop conditions like bunions or hammer toes, your feet might be on the wide side—and your shoes might fit too narrowly. Genetics or lifestyle changes—think aging, injuries, weight gain or pregnancy—can also contribute to changes in your foot width. If you’re worried about changes in your feet, it can’t hurt to see a podiatrist to ensure your feet are healthy.
What Are The Benefits Of Wide Shoes?
Wide shoes that properly fit can make a world of difference. Wearing a wider style will give your feet a little more room to naturally expand, so expect increased stability, comfort and even an improvement in posture since you’re not squeezing into a too-narrow pair. Wide shoes can also prevent pain by reducing pressure on your feet and toes. If you struggle with plantar fasciitis, flat feet, bunions or other painful conditions, wearing a wider pair of supportive shoes might help. Just make sure they’re not too big; a pair that’s too wide and roomy can cause rubbing, blisters and pain. Wide width shoes should fit comfortably and securely.
How Do I Know If A Shoe Is Made For Wide Feet?
Wide shoes usually have a wider toe box; the forefoot width can be up to a quarter-inch wider than a standard, medium width shoe. Most shoe brands will clearly label their sizing as “wide” or “extra wide,” or they might use a letter-based system: A and B widths are generally considered to be narrow to medium, while D and E widths are wider widths, depending on the shoe and brand. Some shoes might technically be sized as a medium width, but are made with a wider toe box—a feature runners and walkers like for increased mobility—and can likely accommodate a wider foot. When in doubt, pay attention to the brand’s sizing, take your foot measurements (we like Nordstrom’s simple how-to guide) and check out the store’s return policies. You can always try on at home and exchange for a different width if necessary.
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