If you have narrow feet and are looking for shoes that don't feel like they're slipping and sliding as you walk, you’ve landed on the right page. Narrow-fitting shoes can be difficult to find, but they're crucial for those who often experience sneakers, flats and more that are a bit too wide.
“Shoes that are designed for narrow feet are going to take into account the differences in foot shape and function for those with narrow feet as compared to other foot types,” says Anne Sharkey, a board-certified podiatrist based in Austin, Texas. “When choosing a shoe that is designed specifically for a narrow-width foot, the fit will be better.”
Shop TODAY tapped board-certified podiatrists to learn about the best shoes for narrow feet and key factors one should look for when shoe shopping regarding fit, support and design.
We also sought out their expert recommendations, some of which we included below.
What are the benefits of narrow shoes?
“Wearing shoes designed for narrow feet is beneficial for those with narrow feet as they will provide a better fit and more biomechanical support which can lead to better ambulation and easier walking,” explains Pinker.
Best narrow shows, according to experts
Perfect for errands: Clarks Breeze Emily Shoes
- Breathable
- Slip-on style
- May see socks worn underneath
Sizes: 5 to 12 | Colors: Six | Narrow sizes available? Yes
If you’re looking for casual shoes for narrow feet, Sharkey recommends this pair from Clarks.
“This is a great casual shoe option with narrow width available. The shock-absorbing footbed provides cushioned comfort,” says Sharkey. “This is an easy on/off shoe great for running errands.”
Available in six colors (with a laser-cut floral design) including lilac, navy, light taupe, peach, black and white, you can support your feet in style with every stride. Plus, these slip-on shoes have a raised round toe area so you won’t have to worry about your toes feeling claustrophobic.
"Ideal" for runners: Asics GEL-KAYANO 30
- Made with PureGel technology
- Bulky design
Sizes: 5 to 13 | Colors: 25 | Narrow sizes available? No
Cunha recommends these sneakers (which are made with nearly 20% bio-based materials) for their enhanced technology features. “This shoe is an excellent choice for narrow feet due to its snug fit through the midfoot and heel, enhanced by secure lockdown, a gusseted tongue and generous heel padding,” says Cunha.
“The MyFit 3D technology ensures a precise fit, while the 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM offers stability and comfort, making it ideal for narrow-footed runners.”
Furthermore, these shoes contain reflective details to help with visibility especially when running at night or through darker areas.
Take a stroll: New Balance Women's 877 V1 Walking Shoe
- Machine washable
- Lightweight
- Limited color offerings
Sizes: 5 to 12 | Colors: Two | Narrow sizes available? Yes
“The New Balance 877V1 sneaker is a solid choice for narrow feet, offering a secure fit with a durable suede/mesh upper and an 11-millimeter drop for enhanced support and comfort during walks,” says Cunha. “Its rubber outsole and lightweight design make it ideal for stability and all-day wear.”
Although its colorways are limited, these shoes are available in narrow sizes (2A) and are accompanied by a price tag of just less than $100. And, they can be machine-washed.
Worth the splurge: adidas ULTRABOOST 1.0 SHOES
- Extensive size range
- Lace-up design
- Expensive
Sizes: 4.5 to 12 | Colors: 10 | Narrow sizes available? No
If you’re looking for running shoes for narrow feet, Fuchs recommends considering a pair from the Adidas Ultraboost DNA line. “Known for its comfort and responsiveness, the Ultraboost also offers a snug fit, particularly beneficial for narrow foot structures,” says Fuchs.
Although these shoes may be an investment at $180, they’re equipped with a lace closure for easy adjustability and contain the brand's Stretchweb outsoles to help promote spirited steps and solid traction. And, they can be dressed up or down to match a variety of style preferences whether you prefer to keep things casual or chic (or both).
Other shoes for narrow feet
Flats over 50% off: LifeStride Womens Northern Ballet Flat
- Support arches
- Moderate cushioning
- Run slightly wide
Sizes: 5 to 12 | Colors: 4 | Narrow sizes available? Yes
The contoured insoles of these flats will help make your feet feel comfortable all day long. They also feature flexible construction for support and flex while you walk. According to shoppers, this is an ideal pair for narrow feet that features a slip-on design for an easy fit. Plus, these are elegant flats you can easily pair with skirts, denim and slacks.
Canvas classics: Keds Women's Champion Original Canvas Sneaker
- Easy to clean
- Narrow toe-box
- No arch support
Sizes: 4 to 13 | Colors: 20 | Narrow sizes available? Yes
White sneakers are always a great idea for their simple design, yet versatile aesthetic. These in particular feature a narrow toe box and comfortable construction which you can wear for most of the day. Though their lack of arch support can lead to feet fatigue, these shoes can be enhanced with insoles.
Chic loafers: Clarks Women's Juliet Shine Loafer
- Feel lightweight
- Narrow toe-box
- Run slightly large
- Not as breathable
Sizes: 5 to 12 | Colors: 3 | Narrow sizes available? Yes
These slip-on loafers from Clarks (which are currently 36% off!) are designed with soft, sleek leather. The cushioned insoles provide extra comfort while the 1-inch heel adds subtle height.
Adjustable straps: New Balance WW577 Hook and Loop
- Adjustable design
- Supportive fit
- Some say straps are too short
Sizes: 5 to 12 | Colors: 3 | Narrow sizes available? Yes
As board-certified podiatrist Suzanne Fuchs states below, adjustable shoe features are key while shopping for narrow-fitting shoes. Instead of laces, these leather New Balance sneakers feature two durable straps with hook-and-loop closures.
What determines a narrow foot?
A narrow foot is determined after one learns the length-to-width ratio of their feet. More specifically, “a narrow foot is typically characterized by a smaller width relative to its length,” explains Fuchs.
Sharkey adds that one can easily determine whether or not they have narrow feet using a Brannock Device if it reads AA (for women) or B (for men).
Fuchs notes that a combination of genetics, foot structure and lifestyle factors oftentimes determines narrow feet, too.
What to look for in shoes for narrow feet
- Features/design: When shopping for shoes for narrow feet, looking for those with adjustable components such as laces or straps is key to customizing fit, says Fuchs. “Narrower feet often require a tighter fit and straps will help achieve that,” adds Sharkey. Additionally, she recommends looking for shoes with a tapered toe box. Still, with this in mind, “there should be adequate room in the toe box so that toes are not cramped,” adds Pinker. Cunha adds that the shoes you choose should accommodate molded inserts if needed to sit in any excess space for a better fit.
- Fit: Although shoes for narrow feet shouldn’t be tight to the point where they’re cutting off your circulation, Pinker notes that they should have a snug (and secure) fit. “The shoes should have enough room for the toes to wiggle and spread, [whereas] the heel should be snug and secure with minimal slippage with walking,” adds Sharkey. Selecting the correct size is essential to ensure shoes for narrow feet fit properly. Cunha highlights the importance of the Brannock Device when it comes to measuring your feet (and doing so regularly) as foot size can change as you undergo different life stages.
- Support: Fuchs emphasizes the importance of selecting shoes for narrow feet with proper support. If you purchase a pair of shoes designed for narrow feet, “there should be added cushion and support in the midsole to assist in comfortable ambulation,” explains Bruce Pinker, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon. Furthermore, arch support is necessary to adequately absorb shock and keep the feet stable with each wear.
How we chose the best shoes for narrow feet
To compile our list of the best shoes for narrow feet, Shop TODAY considered the recommendations offered by board-certified podiatrists. The experts also explained how to determine if your feet are narrow and how to shop for shoes that fit correctly.
Meet the experts
- Bruce Pinker, DPM, is a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon and founder of Progressive Foot Care in New York.
- Suzanne Fuchs, MD, is a board-certified, Palm Beach, Florida-based podiatrist at Luxe Podiatry
- Miguel Cunha, DPM, is a board-certified podiatrist and founder of Gotham Footcare in New York City.
- Anne Sharkey, DPM, is a board-certified podiatrist based in Austin, Texas.
