The Best Shoes for Wide Feet to Keep You Comfortable

Here are our top picks to help you prioritize comfort, space and style.

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If you have wide feet, finding a shoe that is comfortable and functional for everyday life and activities is a must. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends wearing properly fitted shoes to keep the feet healthy and states, “Each step you take involves a complex network of bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments. This, combined with all of the weight they carry, explains why feet can have problems.” Aside from being less comfortable, shoes that do not fit correctly can cause most calluses, corns and blisters, which in turn can aggravate other foot problems, according to the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS).

While ballet flats and pointed-toe shoes are out of style (for now), people who have wide feet know the pains of trying to find a comfortable shoe or not being able to choose the style of shoe they want because it's too narrow. In years past, wide-width shoes were limited and often lacked style. Today, some of the best wide feet shoes are not only comfortable but also look good. Many brands offer wide width options or design shoes with flexible, forgiving materials and a wide toe box, giving those with wide feet even more options.

Along with our guide to our top picks of the best shoes for wide feet, we’ve also laid out the difference between wide and normal shoe widths, the factors to consider before purchasing, how we chose and testing notes from our in-house experts.

Our Picks for the Best Shoes for Wide Feet of 2024:

• Best Running Shoes for Wide Feet: Hoka Clifton 9
• Best Walking Shoes for Wide Feet: Kuru Atom
• Best Shoes for Men with Wide Feet: Allbirds Tree Runners
• Best Shoes for Women with Wide Feet: Nike Winflo 10
• Best Golf Shoes for Wide Feet: NoBull Matryx Golf Shoe
• Best Basketball Shoes for Wide Feet: Nike Lebron Witness 8
• Best Shoes for Wide Flat Feet: Brooks Glycerin GTS 20
• Best Minimalist Hiking Shoes for Wide Feet: Xero Shoes Scrambler Mid

Best Running Shoes for Wide Feet: Hoka Clifton 9

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Key features:

• Sizes: 7–16, half- and wide-size options
• Drop: 5 millimeters
• Weight: 8.7 ounces
• Materials: Recycled polyester upper, EVA midsole, Durabrasion rubber outsole

The Hoka Clifton 9 is a light, cushioned running shoe with an anatomical shape to suit wide and narrow feet. The roomy toe box allows the toes to splay comfortably, and the midfoot and heel narrow slightly to provide a secure and comfortable fit. Runners with wide feet should not feel deterred by the mention of narrowing; the Clifton 9 is offered in wide sizes to accommodate those who need extra space. One of our senior editors, Rachael Harris, is using these shoes to train for a half marathon. 

“They were recommended to me by a running shoe specialist because I have tall feet and arches. Unlike other running shoes I've tried, the upper and laces on the Clifton 9s are super roomy, so I don't lose circulation in my feet,” she says.

This mid-high, cushion-neutral shoe is ideal for both casual road runners and those who put in serious mileage each week. The midsole has the curved Early Stage Meta-Rocker, and the brand’s patented design helps create a smooth, forward motion by slightly curving at the heel and toes. It’s made from compression-molded EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate), a responsive foam that offers energy return. And, there are minimal overlays on the mesh upper, so it flexes and moves with you, and it has a striped back for support.

“It sounds cliche to say, but these shoes really do have 'cloud-like' comfort. They stay comfortable during my four-to-six mile runs. Because of the soft sole and relatively thick midsole, I recommend these shoes for distance runs, but they wouldn't be my pick for sprinting or HIIT workouts,” Harris says. 

The thick Durabrasion rubber outsole protects the midsole and feels supportive without adding significant weight. It has a varying lug pattern with different shapes and small lines that provide traction and grip on wet or dry concrete. The Clifton 9 is rated 4.5/5 on the Hoka website, and one user states, “Very comfortable and well designed for running with a nice balance of support and cushioning. Great shoe!” Several reviews mention that these don’t fit true to size and purchasing a half size larger for a better fit.

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Pros:

• Versatile option for races, everyday training or recovery runs
• Padded collar and plush heel
• Made with vegan materials
• Strobel board provides flexibility and durability
• Outsole pattern varies for optimal grip

Cons:

• More limited color choices for wide sizes
• Not recommended for gravel or dirt trails

Best Walking Shoes for Wide Feet: Kuru Atom

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Key features:

• Sizes: 6.5–14, half- and wide-size options
• Drop: 8 millimeters
• Weight: 10.6 ounces
• Materials: Mesh upper, KuruCloud midsole, rubber outsole

Kuru is known for its comfortable and supportive orthopedic shoes; the soft midsole, heel-hugging insole and breathable mesh upper make the Atom ideal for daily walkers or those on their feet for work. The KuruCloud midsole is a soft and supportive combination of soft and hard plastic. As you walk, the plastic pushes into the foam, providing dynamic flexing while softening impact, and the KuruSole cradles and cushions the flat pad beneath the heel. It has a secure athletic fit to minimize excess movement within the shoe and has extra support in the arch and heel.

This shoe has a broad base to help those with wide feet distribute weight evenly for improved stability, and it reduces overhang discomfort. The rubber outsole has a hexagon tread pattern to maintain grip during multi-directional movements, and the airy mesh upper increases breathability, so your feet are comfortable during all-day wear.

The Atom is rated 4.5/5 on the Kuru website. One review says, “These shoes have amazing arch support and comfort. I have foot pain from arthritis in one toe, and I had no discomfort when wearing these shoes. They have a snug fit that kind of molds to my feet, but they don't cause any discomfort. The stretchy top reduces pressure on my toes. I also think they look pretty stylish, but best of all, it makes walking more comfortable for me!” Critical reviews mention a break-in period and that the upper lacks long-term durability.

Pros:

• Continuous sealed construction of the gusseted tongue reduces friction and stays in place
• Great arch and heel support
• Breathable mesh upper flexes with the foot
• Heel tab for easy on and off

Cons:

• Toe box narrows slightly
• Upper lacks overlays and may not be as durable as other options

Best Shoes for Men with Wide Feet: Allbirds Tree Runners

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Key features:

• Sizes: 8–14
• Drop: 9.6 millimeters
• Weight: 8.6 ounces
• Materials: FSC-certified Tencel Lyocell upper, SweetFoam midsole, rubber outsole

The Allbirds Tree Runners are anatomically shaped and have forgiving materials, so the feet don’t feel restricted across the ball of the foot and at the heel. It has a Tencel Lyocell upper, a material from eucalyptus trees grown in South Africa known for its breathability and moisture-wicking properties. As you move through each stride, the upper flexes with the foot and the wool heel lining stretches naturally over time. The SweetFoam midsole contours to the foot's shape, and the Tree Runners have a roomy toe box for optimal toe splay.

These shoes are great for walking and everyday wear and are lightweight at just 8.6 ounces, making them ideal for traveling. While Allbirds notably does not offer half or wide-width size options, the brand addresses this by stating, “Our shoes are all medium width, but we have found that many customers with wider feet are able to find a comfortable fit due to the forgiving nature of our materials.” Allbirds recommends sizing up if you are a half size or have wide feet.

On the Allbirds website, users rate the Tree Runners 4.5/5, and we filtered the reviews to see what those with wide feet have to say. One reviewer says, “Comfy, airy, and easy to get around in them.” Several reviews note that these shoes lack support but are great for casual wear.

Pros:

• Forgiving materials help keep the feet comfortable
• Machine washable
• Sustainable materials

Cons:

• Material may take time to stretch
• Some may find the arch support lacking

Best Shoes for Women with Wide Feet: Nike Winflo 10

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Key features:

• Sizes: 5–12
• Drop: 10 millimeters
• Weight: 8.5 ounces (size 8)
• Materials: Mesh upper, Nike CushIon foam, rubber outsole

The Nike Winflo 10s are designed to keep your feet comfortable regardless of what activity you’ve got on your docket, be it running, walking around or being on your feet all day. The combination of the Nike Air cushioning in the midsole and plush CushIon foam in the soles offers plenty of support and stability while adding more bounce, so each step feels light and springy. The toe box is roomy enough to accommodate feet of all shapes, and the neutral support makes it suitable for runners of all styles and levels.

Related Post: The Best Walking Shoes for Women

Despite not coming in a “wide” option, reviewers mention that the Nike Winflo 10s are roomy enough wider feet. “These are so comfortable! I have plantar fasciitis and these make my feet feel SO good. I also have wide feet and these fit surprisingly well, even the toe box feels roomy,” writes one customer.

Several reviews mention sizing up half a size to ensure a roomier fit in the toe box, but this a common theme across many Nike runners. Nike writes that the toe box on these shoes were changed from the Winflo 9 to offer more space for different foot types, and added more padding in the collar area for improved comfort.

Pros:

• Suitable for running, walking or long hours on your feet
• Bouncy and responsive foam on the bottom
• Get a balanced ride in a fun, vibrant colorway, including the Nike Bloom Run collection

Cons:

• Recommended to size up half size

Best Golf Shoes for Wide Feet: NoBull Matryx Golf Shoe

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Key features:

• Sizes: 8–15, half-size options
• Drop: 6 millimeters
• Weight: 12.2 ounces
• Materials: Matryx upper, phylon EVA midsole, rubber outsole

For those long days on the course, we recommend adding the NoBull Matryx Golf Shoe to your golf gear collection because it has a flexible upper, anatomical midsole and a padded collar to keep your feet comfortable. This golf shoe has the brand’s Matryx upper, a breathable, durable and moisture-repellent material that has a seamless design to promote natural foot movement. This material is a woven technical yarn that flexes at the forefoot and has a supportive grid structure. The anatomical sock liner provides an enhanced fit, conforming to the natural shape of the foot at the heel and arch and widening at the ball of the foot.

The outsole lug pattern provides grip on turf, grass and pavement so that you can wear these from the car to the course. This pair of shoes comes in white, black or slate blue color options, and the neutral shades and minimalistic design go with any golf bag. The Matryx Golf Shoe is rated 4.5/5 on the NoBull website. Several reviewers describe the toe box as roomy but note that these are not water-resistant. One states, “Very light. Good traction. Nice wide toe box without feeling sloppy. Holds up ok to light rain and damp conditions, but does let water in.” Others state that the tongue twists during wear. One says, “These golf shoes are really great. They are comfortable and give you excellent grip while on the course. My only complaint about them is that the tongue of the shoe twists when you put them on, and it's a fight to get it straightened out again.”

Pros:

• Perforated tongue for extra breathability
• Flexible upper
• One year warranty
• Anatomical sock liner molds to foot shape

Cons:

• No wide size options
• Expensive

Best Basketball Shoes for Wide Feet: Nike Lebron Witness 8

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Key features:

• Sizes: 3.5–18, half size options
• Drop: N/A
• Weight: N/A
• Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole

The Nike Lebron Witness 8 has a roomy toe box that slightly narrows at the arch to keep the feet stable and comfortable. These basketball shoes extend just past the ankle for enhanced support during quick lateral movements, jumps and rapid changes in direction. The padded collar and tongue prevent friction and provide a snug fit.

As you jump and land, Nike’s responsive Max Air Unit cushioning in the midsole absorbs shock. It’s a low-profile shoe, meaning it’s not overly thick or raised for optimal foot-to-ground contact. There is a foam wrap-up that extends from the midsole to the sides of the shoe and supports side-to-side movement during drills or a game. The breathable mesh upper is webbed at the forefoot, harnessing it to the molded pieces securing the heel, and the reinforced stitching enhances durability.

The rubber outsole is partially cut at the arch, so it bends and flexes with the foot to reduce the weight, and the other areas have a herringbone pattern for traction, making these an ideal indoor or outdoor basketball shoe. This shoe is rated 4/5 stars on the Nike website, and many reviews mention the themes of durability and comfort. One says, “I'm really enjoying these sneakers. Nike did its thing with the design and the materials used. Despite being mid-tops, the sneaker feels very lightweight. The toe box feels like a reinforced or very durable mesh or nylon, so your toes can breathe and don't feel too squeezed together.” We do want to note that many users state that these run small, and you may need to size up a half or whole size.

Pros:

• Grippy outsole pattern allows forefoot flexibility
• Plush collar and tongue reduce friction
• Max Air Unit provides responsive cushioning
• Wide toe box allows for natural toe splay

Cons:

• Only three color options
• Arch support may be lacking for some

Best Shoes for Wide Flat Feet: Brooks Glycerin GTS 20

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Key features:

• Sizes: 7–15, half and wide size options
• Drop: 10 millimeters
• Weight: 10.5 ounces
• Materials: Air mesh upper, DNA Loft v3 midsole, rubber outsole

The Brooks Glycerin GTS 20 has a comfortable, supportive midsole with arch support to help those with pes planus, also known as flat feet, distribute the contact points more evenly across the midfoot to help shock absorption when walking or running. The widest point of this shoe is at the ball of the foot to accommodate toe splay, and it narrows at the arch to keep the foot stable. Brooks’ GuideRails technology supports the natural gait using two pieces of foam—one on the outside of the heel to reduce shift, and one on the inside to reduce inward rolling.

Related Post: The Best Running Shoes for Flat Feet

We like that the Glycerin GTS 20 comes in medium and wide widths, so those who feel limited by the toe box have more options. Our tester, Caroline Lubinsky, describes the fit: “These fit true to size and felt good during my run. I didn’t get any blisters, and I had room to fit my ankle brace.” The DNA Loft v3 midsole is made from EVA foam, rubber and air to create a light, responsive cushion. This version uses large-cell foaming specifically to amplify the cushioning without sacrificing durability.

The rubber outsole has a varying tread pattern for grip on multiple surfaces. Lubinsky says, “I found that these are ideal for road running. The tread gripped the pavement really well, even while running on wet pavement and through puddles.” The Glycerin GTS 20 is rated 4.6/5 on the Brooks website, and many reviewers comment on the comfort and support. One says, “The Brooks Glycerin GTS fits my feet like a glove. I have the 20 version for better arch support since I pronate a little bit, and that support is awesome.” Users who wore the shoe during longer runs stated that the shoe felt stiff and that they could use more cushioning.

Pros:

• Seven colorways and wide options
• Midsole uses DNA Loft v3 technology for cushioned support
• Wide toe box
• Breathable mesh upper

Cons:

• Reviews state that these are not comfortable for long runs
• Expensive

Best Minimalist Hiking Shoes for Wide Feet: Xero Shoes Scrambler Mid

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Key features:

• Sizes: 6.5–15, half size options
• Drop: Zero
• Weight: 11.3 ounces
• Materials: Mesh upper, TrailFoam midsole, Michelin fiberlite outsole

The Xero Shoes Scrambler Mid is a hiking boot with a retro look and is made from materials that are ready to endure your adventures. This straight last shoe has a symmetrical shape, so the width from the heel to the midfoot and across the toe box is relatively consistent, making it an ideal option for wide-footed individuals. Our tester, avid outdoorsman and minimalist shoe aficionado, Levi Bettweiser wore the Scrambler Mid for a three night backpacking trip. He says, “I didn’t love the look of the boot from the top down as it looked more “boxy” than the sleeker hiking boots I've used. But as I got more used to them, I realized that’s part of the barefoot playbook to allow your feet enough room to move naturally and less restricted. The lace design alternated between smaller hole lace loops and larger strap loops before the two metal hook loops. This design made it easy to quickly remove the boots put on layers of thick socks, and easily slide the boots back on.”

These hiking shoes have zero drop and a minimalistic design so the underfoot feels connected with the ground, and the rubber outsole flexes, bends and moves with the foot. The Michelin outsole has varying lug shapes inside for stability and traction, and the shapes—inspired by the brand’s mountain bike tires—shed mud as you walk. Bettweiser says, “I noticed that stepping over sharp rocks felt more like a foot massage because of the strength and flexibility of the soles. The upper was also super breathable—even nearing triple-digit temperature, my feet remained cool and dry from sweat.” The flexible mesh upper has overlays that enhance durability in high traction areas, but Bettweiser notes that his feet got wet during a creek crossing, so you may want to opt for water shoes for wet terrain.

On the Xero Shoes website, users rate the Scrambler Mid 4.7/5, and many positive reviews describe it as durable and comfortable to wear on long hikes. One reviewer says, “These have the comfort and space you expect from Xero, and they have extra sole protection and traction that makes them a great Hiker. Super comfy right out of the box!” Critical reviews mention that they wish the upper was waterproof and that the insole may shift during use. Bettweiser states, “The insoles began to shift during the descent, and I removed one of the insoles and saw that the bottoms were smooth, which is likely what caused them to move.”

Related Post: Best Hiking Boots for Women

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Pros:

• Wide foot-shaped toe box and symmetrical shoe shape
• Varying outsole pattern for grip on multiple surfaces
• Waterproof upper and protective bootie
• Extends above the ankle for additional support

Cons:

• Canvas upper with suede overlays may not be ideal for warmer hikes
• Only two color options

What’s The Difference Between Normal Shoes and Shoes for Wide Feet?

Shoes for wide feet have two stand-out features: width and shoe last. It may seem obvious, but these shoes are wider than usual and come in various width options, including half and whole sizes. However, that shouldn’t deter people with wide feet from trying shoes that don’t offer wide sizes. Shoe last is the foot-shaped form a shoe is constructed from, and many shoe brands that don’t have wide sizes offer shoe last designs with a roomy toe box, midfoot and heel.

What To Look for In The Best Shoes for Wide Feet

Toe box

The toe box is the section that surrounds the toe on closed-toe shoes. When considering the size and shape of a toe box, you can find the right fit by taking the insole out of the potential shoe, placing it on the ground and stepping on it, according to an article by Isom Allan, PT, DPT at Coury & Bueler Physical Therapy. If your foot hangs off the side, it’s likely too narrow, and you may need a bigger size or a different shoe style. “A second tip is to make sure there is at least a thumb nail’s width from your longest toe to the end of the toe box. If you do these two things, you will have better success at having the right amount of toe box for your running feet,” Allan writes.

If you order shoes from an online retailer, you can still conduct this test, but we recommend reviewing the brand’s return policy before ordering. Most shoe brands offer a 30-day money-back guarantee for unworn shoes, and some even accept returns if you find them uncomfortable after wearing them.

We also recommend looking closely at the shoe last, or the shape of the shoe. If the toe box narrows at the top and there are no wide options, there’s a high probability that there isn't enough space for toe splay and this is the most common cause for hammertoes. Reviews also offer helpful feedback about the fit, and we found that many mention the toe box specifically, which is useful when looking for the best wide-toe box shoes.

Width

Aside from a wide toe box, the overall width of the shoe can enhance or impede comfort. According to the Foot Specialists of Birmingham, shoes that are too tight can cause foot pain, deformities such as corns or calluses, bunions, ingrown toenails, circulation problems and can even alter alignment and posture. It’s essential to choose a shoe that is comfortable for the intended purpose to avoid potential issues. When considering a shoe, ask yourself questions like: Is this running shoe comfortable and supportive for long and short runs? Does this basketball shoe allow for quick changes in direction without squeezing the foot? Are these comfortable enough to walk around in all day?

Before purchasing, take a good look at the shoe's shape with the shape of your foot in mind. If you see narrowing at the midfoot, this could provide comfort and stability or be problematic depending on your foot shape. Those who find narrowing at the midfoot limiting might find a straight shoe last more comfortable since the width from the heel across the midfoot to the toe box is relatively consistent. Some people may find wide options too big and see that these sizes sacrifice style and aesthetics. User reviews are a great way to see what others say about how a shoe fits; however, opinions vary depending on preference and foot shape.

Construction and materials

Some materials are more accommodating to the wide feet than others. Shoes with a soft, flexible upper can provide a more forgiving fit and be more comfortable. A cushioned footbed can impact how a shoe feels and contour to the foot's shape. Midsole cushioning preferences can vary from person to person, and there are a variety of different options on this list, from barefoot shoes to cushioned running shoes. Rubber outsoles provide a stable, durable surface for wear, and the formation affects the overall shape of the shoe. Shoes with lacing and closure systems are adjustable and provide a more customized fit for wide feet. If you opt for slip-on shoes, make sure the upper is flexible so the foot doesn’t feel restricted.

When considering materials, we recommend keeping in mind when you plan on wearing the shoes. For instance, an outdoor hiking shoe or trail runner with deep rubber tread and a durable waterproof upper is beneficial if you use it on the trail. However, a casual everyday shoe doesn’t need the same materials, and wearers will likely find a breathable upper and cushioned midsole more beneficial. Overall, the upper, midsole and outsole materials should be high-quality if you want the shoe to last long-term.

How We Chose The Best Shoes for Wide Feet

For this guide, we chose each pair of shoes carefully based on size and width options, shoe last, durability, functionality, comfort and cost. We’ve included various options, from running shoes to hiking boots and casual shoes. Many brands on this list offer wide size options, and those that don’t were chosen based on the toe box, width and construction. We scoured the reviews for each shoe, searching for feedback from those with wide feet and included testing input from our in-house experts. We also included shoes to fit a variety of budgets and style preferences.

Best Shoes for Wide Feet FAQs

Should I go up a size for wide feet?

Shoe size varies by brand, so we recommend reviewing the brand’s size guide and reading the reviews. We also recommend familiarizing yourself with the return policy, just in case you need to exchange or return your shoes.

How to tell if shoes have a wide toe box?

The forefoot, especially at the ball of the foot, should taper slightly toward the toes, leaving enough room for the toes to spread apart. User reviews often mention the size and feel of the toe box as well.

What shoes to avoid with wide feet?

Shoes with narrow or pointed toe boxes can be uncomfortable for wide feet, and stiff or rigid uppers and outsoles can limit flexibility and expansion. If you have concerns about how a shoe fits or feels, we recommend consulting a podiatrist.

Do wide shoes make a big difference?

Yes. Wearing proper shoes with a wide toe box will help ensure you have fewer foot problems. "When your feet get to live a natural life without being squeezed all day, your entire body will reap the benefits. Your body will be in better alignment. Also, you will not experience the pain or discomfort from ill-fitting shoes and have better balance and mobility,” Stuart Mogul, DPM FACFAS writes on the blog for his foot surgery center practice, based in New York City.

Final Thoughts

The best shoes for wide feet should feel comfortable, have a wide toe box for ample toe splay and accommodate width at the midfoot and heel. While features vary between brands and shoe models, these shoes should be functional and keep the feet comfortable throughout the activity. Many shoes come in wide size options, but there is an ample amount of shoes that can work well for wide feet based on the shoe last, forgiving materials and adjustability.

Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.