Yoga

10 Shoes Your Wide Feet Will Actually Be Comfortable In (Yes: Heels, Too)

14-Jun-2023

Routines|medically reviewed The 10 Best Shoes for Wide Feet Of 2023, Per Podiatrist GuidelinesAuthor: Chloe Irving Medical reviewer: Robert Kornfeld, DPMJune 14, 2023Health WriterBy Chloe IrvingHealth WriterChloe Irving is a New York-based writer whose work has appeared in InStyle, People, Shape, and Health. She holds a bachelor's degree in creative writing from Brown University and is currently pursuing her MFA in writing from NYU.Medical review byRobert Kornfeld, DPMHolistic PodiatristRobert Kornfeld, DPM is a holistic podiatrist, dedicated to treating chronic foot and ankle pain at its source.What to look forHow we pickedThe best shoes for wide feetFAQSummaryImage by mbg creativeJune 14, 2023Our editors have independently chosen the products listed on this page. If you purchase something mentioned in this article, we may earn a small commission.Best shoes for wide feet:

Best for running: Hoka Clifton 9 Sneaker
Best boots: Beek Quail Leather Ankle Boot
Best for walking: Superga Cotu Classic Sneaker
Best sandals: Birkenstock Arizona Sandal
Best for standing: New Balance Fuelcore Nergize V1 Sneaker
Best flats: Vivaia Margot 2.0 Flat
Best low heel: Trotters Doris Heel
Best high heel: Sam Edelman Kia Heel
Best for the gym: Kuru Atom Sneaker
Best loafers: Vionic Willa Loafer

When you have wide feet, picking shoes that stay comfortable throughout the day can be a painful feat (literally). Despite being an incredibly common need, it's tough to find shoes for wide feet that both look good and feel good. There are a few features people with a wider foot should look out for (and many to avoid). Luckily, podiatrists pointed us in the right direction. Based on expert input, we've rounded up the best shoes for wide feet, with options for every activity and occasion.

Setting aside the simple factor of comfort alone, wearing the best shoes for wide feet can help prevent health conditions and concerns. London-based podiatrist Dina Gohil explains that wider feet are "more prone to soft tissue aggregation, calluses, corns, and ingrown toenails from footwear that doesn't accommodate a foot's width."

Many shoe brands are beginning to offer sneakers, sandals, and pumps in wider sizes—but when selecting shoes that support your wide foot, you'll want to look out for more than just a "W" next to the size.

What to look for in shoes for wide feet

"A shoe with a wide toe box and plenty of cushioning is ideal since it allows you to move your feet comfortably without experiencing any pain," says Marion Yau, a podiatrist at the Harley Medical Foot Clinic. "Stability and balance can be improved with shoes with plenty of cushioning and arch support."

Stiff shoes can put a strain on the arch of your foot, making you more prone to plantar fasciitis, a condition that wide-footed people are more at risk of, Yau adds. To avoid this discomfort, look for shoes with flexible soles that mold to the shape of your foot.

As for what to avoid, Gohil and Yau recommend against shoes with narrow or pointed toe boxes or rigid soles. Both suggest avoiding high heels, but we did include a wide-foot-friendly heel option below for those days when you do need to dress up a bit. "Avoid patent materials, as there is little to no stretch potential, and instead choose soft leathers or fabrics," Gohil says.

Our picks for the best shoes for wide feet of 2023:

Best for the gym: Kuru Atom Sneaker

:view on Kuru | $160

Pros:

A secure but flexible fit
Designed for high impact exercise

Cons:

Heavier than most cross training shoes

Sizes Available:

5-12, half sizes available

Weight:

10.6 oz

Drop:

8 mm

Materials:

RubberSynthetic material

Colorways:

Return Policy:

45 days

Gym exercises can be hard on your feet. People with wider foot shapes are at higher risk of blisters and the difficulties that come with plantar fasciitis. That’s why this spacious pick is perfect for gym goers. The flexible sole and stretchy mesh outer move with your foot to prevent rubbing and pinching, while built-in arch support relieves stress on your muscles and prevents overpronation. In short, it’s a great choice for just about any kind of fitness routine.

One shopper who has purchased seven pairs of these sneakers over the years says the design has allowed them to run and exercise again with no foot pain after a long struggle with plantar fasciitis. Others rave that their toes are not scrunched at all.

Read full review

Best boot: Beek Quail Leather Ankle Boot

:view on Beek | $395:view on Nordstrom | $395

Pros:

Made from soft, stretchy leather
Roomy, rounded toe box

Cons:

Not vegan

Sizes Available:

5-12, half sizes available

Weight:

N/A

Drop:

N/A

Materials:

RubberLeather

Colorways:

Return Policy:

30 days, varies by retailer

Boots are notoriously hard to find in wider sizes—but fear not; with a spacious toe box and leather material that stretches with your feet, this pair is a standout. In addition to an enhanced width, this bootie features a padded sole that offers a touch of additional arch support. The material is high quality and the construction is durable. In other words, this is a pair of boots you’ll have for years to come.

Reviewers with wide feet agree that these are stylish, well-made, and totally worth the spend. One notes that they’re even comfortable after being worn for eight hours straight.

Read full review

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Best high heel: Sam Edelman Kia Heel

:view on Sam Edelman | $100:view on Zappos | $56

Pros:

Open toe
Cushioned footbed

Cons:

Minimal ankle support
Minimal arch support

Sizes Available:

5-14, half sizes available

Weight:

10 oz

Drop:

N/A

Materials:

LeatherSynthetic material

Colorways:

Return Policy:

30 days, varies by retailer

Are high heels more your style? Thanks to its thick block heel, cushioned sole, and wide, square toe shape, this three and a half inch sandal is a great pick. The open toe design is ideal for wider feet, as there’s less material to rub against skin or bunions. Best of all, reviewers say these heels are actually sturdy enough to wear for hours.

Best loafers: Vionic Willa Loafer

:view on Vionic | $130:view on Zappos | $130

Pros:

Ample arch support
A versatile style

Cons:

Not vegan

Sizes Available:

5-11, half sizes available

Weight:

8 oz

Drop:

N/A

Materials:

RubberEVAVelvetLeather or calf hair

Colorways:

Return Policy:

30 days, varies by retailer

In the last few years, loafers have gone from workware fare to a trendy must-have—and this pair encapsulates everything that’s great about the style. The sleek, versatile shoe looks simultaneously elegant and relaxed thanks to its velvet, leather, and calf hair outer options. What truly sets the design apart is the spacious toe box and cushioned, arch supporting soles. Whether you’re walking or standing, your feet will be comfortable in these.

One shopper with wide feet compares these shoes to a custom glove. Countless reviews praise the stylish design and comfortable fit.

Read full review

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Best flats: Vivaia Margot 2.0 Flat

:view on Vivaia | $97:view on Amazon | From $100

Pros:

Stretchy, breathable material
Rounded toe box
Blister-proof heel cushion

Cons:

Minimal arch support

Sizes Available:

5-11, half sizes available

Weight:

N/A

Drop:

N/A

Materials:

RubberRecycled vinylRecycled synthetic blend

Colorways:

Return Policy:

30 days, varies by retailer

This brand is known for its chic and luxuriously comfortable designs—and these ballet flats are no exception. Our favorite part? The soft, cushioned sole is made from recycled yoga mats. On the outside, an airy, sweat-wicking knit stretches with your feet, making swelling a thing of the past. The design is versatile enough to be paired with any outfit, whether you’re heading to the office or going for a more casual look.

One reviewer says these flats fit seamlessly over her bunions with no pain at all. Others say they look elegant and mold perfectly to their feet.

Read full review

Best for running: Hoka Clifton 9 Sneaker

:view on Zappos | $145:view on Hoka | $145

Pros:

Sizes available in B and D widths
Responsive, shock-absorbing cushioning

Cons:

Some find the sole to be too cushioned

Sizes Available:

5-12, half sizes available

Weight:

7.3 oz

Drop:

5 mm

Materials:

Recycled nylonRecycled polyesterRubber

Colorways:

Return Policy:

30 days, varies by retailer

Awarded a seal of approval from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), these sneakers are incredibly effective at minimizing shock from high impact activities such as running. The wide, rounded shape gives toes plenty of room to wiggle, while the knit material molds to the shape of the foot, providing enough stability to prevent sliding and overpronation. Plus, the soles are so plush that multiple shoppers compare the sensation of wearing them to walking on clouds—our marathon-running commerce editor can attest to this.

These shoes can truly do it all. We’ve included them on our roundups of the best sneakers for standing all day, best shoes for arch support, best shoes for knee pain, best gym shoes, and the best shoes for high arches.

Read full review

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Best for walking: Superga Cotu Classic Sneaker

:view on Superga | $69:view on Amazon | From $30

Pros:

A wide fit throughout
Affordable

Cons:

Not for extended wear

Sizes Available:

5-14, half sizes available

Weight:

8 oz

Drop:

N/A

Materials:

RubberCotton

Colorways:

Return Policy:

30 days, varies by retailer

These classic, machine-washable kicks are so much more than a fashion statement. The tractioned rubber bottom, which was originally designed for the tennis court, provides a grippy, slip-proof hold while walking. What’s more, a breathable cotton upper is ideal for keeping your feet cool (a huge win during warmer months). While these shoes do not come in “wide” sizes specifically, they’ve long been favored by people with wider feet for their comfortable, stretchy fit.

One reviewer who described their feet as extremely wide says these are comfortable, well-made, and have lasted a long time. Others with bunions say they fit beautifully with no irritation.

Read full review

Best sandals: Birkenstock Arizona Sandal

:view on Birkenstock | $190:view on Zappos | $145

Pros:

Supportive, contoured footbed
Very wide fit throughout

Cons:

Slide off easily if too large
Require a break-in period

Sizes Available:

4-11

Weight:

9 oz

Drop:

N/A

Materials:

LeatherCorkEVA

Colorways:

Return Policy:

30 days, varies by retailer

Another favorite among people with wide feet, these iconic sandals are loved for their extremely roomy fit. Designed with support in mind, the Arizona slides provide even weight distribution, arch support, and a foot-healthy stance. THey have a deep heel cup and contoured footbed that molds to your feet (just like our experts suggested!).

According to shoppers, the major draw of these shoes is how comfortable they are. Some say they’re more comfortable than going barefoot, touting the stellar arch support and the fact that they accommodate swelling from heat.

Read full review

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Best for standing: New Balance Fuelcore Nergize V1 Sneaker

:view on Amazon | From $37

Pros:

Lightweight, shock-absorbing cushioning
A roomy, rounded toe box
Stretchy knit outer material

Cons:

Not supportive enough for high-intensity exercise
Run a half-size small

Sizes Available:

5-12, half sizes available

Weight:

7 oz

Drop:

N/A

Materials:

RubberSynthetic textile blend

Colorways:

Return Policy:

90 days, varies by retailer

To find the best shoes for standing all day, we turned to expert input and reviews from nurses, teachers, waiters, and other people who spend hours on their feet. So many reviewers have praised the cushioned feel and stability these lace-ups provide. The shock-absorbing padding provides relief from the constant impact of walking on hard surfaces, and a grooved rubber outsole ensures solid traction.

All this considered, it’s easy to understand why this shoe has nearly 13,000 perfect Amazon ratings. Reviewers with wide feet describe these sneakers as light, comfortable, and “fantastic.” One even says she wears them for 12-hour hospital shifts.

Read full review

Best low heel: Trotters Doris Heel

:view on Trotters | From $99:view on Zappos | $100

Pros:

Flexible sole
Soft, stretchy leather
Available in six widths ranging from AAA to EE

Cons:

Only available in four colorways

Sizes Available:

5-13, half sizes available

Weight:

8 oz

Drop:

N/A

Materials:

LeatherSynthetic rubberTricot fabric

Colorways:

Return Policy:

60 days, varies by retailer

Finding a pair of heels that doesn’t pinch wide feet is a struggle. While our experts recommend avoiding heels altogether if they cause discomfort, we know that’s not always doable. With a flexible sole, these one and a half inch pumps differ from most rigid narrow heel designs. Per podiatrist guidelines, the shoe bends with your foot to relieve pressure on your arch.

What's more, cushioned insoles provide a pillowy landing for every step, while the leather outer conforms to your foot (instead of squeezing it). It’s no surprise that multiple reviewers rave about these heels. One calls them “the most comfortable dress shoes ever.” The best part? The classic design doesn't sacrifice style for comfort.

Read full review

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Comparing the best shoes for wide feet:

Product	Cost	Sizes	Half sizes available	Colorways	Materials	Return policy	Weight
Kuru Atom Sneaker	$160	5-12	yes	6	Rubber; Synthetic material	45 days	10.6 oz
Beek Quail Leather Ankle Boot	$395	5-12	yes	3	Rubber; Leather	30 days	n/a
Sam Edelman Kia Heel	$100	5-14	yes	20	Leather; Synthetic material	30 days	10 oz
Vionic Willa Loafer	$130	5-11	yes	7	Rubber; EVA; Velvet; Leather or calf hair	30 days	8 oz
Vivaia Margot 2.0 Flat	$97	5-11	yes	33	Rubber; Recycled vinyl; Recycled synthetic blend	30 days	n/a
Hoka Clifton 9 Sneaker	$145	5-12	yes	17	Recycled nylon; Recycled polyester; Rubber	30 days	7.3 oz
Superga Cotu Classic Sneaker	$69	5-14	yes	40	Rubber; Cotton	30 days	8 oz
Birkenstock Arizona Sandal	$190	4-11	no	7	Leather; Cork; EVA	30 days	9 oz
New Balance Fuelcore Nergize V1 Sneaker	$37	5-12	yes	13	Rubber; Synthetic textile blend	90 days	7 oz
Trotters Doris Heel	$100	5-13	yes	4	Leather; Synthetic rubber; Tricot fabric	60 days	8 oz

The takeaway

Turns out, finding shoes for wide feet isn't actually impossible. With expert guidance, you can find plenty of spacious and supportive options for broader foot shapes that are definitely worth the investment. A final tip: Before throwing away the packaging from your new sneakers, sandals, or pumps, try them on at the end of a busy day when your feet have swelled to ensure a perfectly comfortable fit at all times. And if running shoes are what you're after, check out our guide to the best running shoes for wide feet, from a personal trainer.

Meet The Experts

Chloe Irving is a New York-based writer whose work has appeared in InStyle, People, Shape, and Health. She holds a bachelor's degree in creative writing from Brown University and is currently pursuing her MFA in writing from NYU.Robert Kornfeld, DPM is a holistic podiatrist, dedicated to treating chronic foot and ankle pain at its source.Original Article

What to look for in shoes for wide feet

Our picks for the best shoes for wide feet of 2023:

Best for the gym: Kuru Atom Sneaker

Pros:

Cons:

Sizes Available:

Weight:

Drop:

Materials:

Colorways:

Return Policy:

Best boot: Beek Quail Leather Ankle Boot

Pros:

Cons:

Sizes Available:

Weight:

Drop:

Materials:

Colorways:

Return Policy:

Advertisement

Best high heel: Sam Edelman Kia Heel

Pros:

Cons:

Sizes Available:

Weight:

Drop:

Materials:

Colorways:

Return Policy:

Best loafers: Vionic Willa Loafer

Pros:

Cons:

Sizes Available:

Weight:

Drop:

Materials:

Colorways:

Return Policy:

Advertisement

Best flats: Vivaia Margot 2.0 Flat

Pros:

Cons:

Sizes Available:

Weight:

Drop:

Materials:

Colorways:

Return Policy:

Best for running: Hoka Clifton 9 Sneaker

Pros:

Cons:

Sizes Available:

Weight:

Drop:

Materials:

Colorways:

Return Policy:

Advertisement

Best for walking: Superga Cotu Classic Sneaker

Pros:

Cons:

Sizes Available:

Weight:

Drop:

Materials:

Colorways:

Return Policy:

Best sandals: Birkenstock Arizona Sandal

Pros:

Cons:

Sizes Available:

Weight:

Drop:

Materials: