A pinched sensation around your toes is unpleasant, especially while wearing shoes of the the wrong width. I didn't understand this concept until I tried different brands with wide toe boxes. Not only has this specific characteristic made a difference in my shoe shopping experience, but it's also had a positive impact on my daily commute.
Believe it or not, wide-toe-box shoes are different from shoes with wide widths. According to podiatrist Dr. Donald Pelto, many shoes tend to be wide throughout the design. "That means it’s wide from the heel to the toe, but it keeps the same format," he says.
However, "many brands are coming out with an anatomic shoe, which means it is wider only in the toe box," Pelto continues.
In other words, the toe-box feature has entered the chat as an important criteria to consider when choosing a pair of shoes. We talked to three experts for tips on how to figure out if you have a wide foot, what to know in regards to fit and the best brands for your feet.
What is a shoe with a wide toe box?
A wide-toe-box shoe is a shoe that has a wider dimension at the forefoot area of the design, similar to the shape of a foot. On the contrary, according to Pelto, a standard wide shoe is wide throughout, from heel to toe.
"Now, an anatomic shoe forms to your anatomy of the foot. So, it's a shoe that is wider in the toe box. Traditionally, most shoes are tapered, meaning that the shoe is narrow from the heel part to the end of the toes," says Pelto. Usually, anatomic shoes will only have a wider dimension on the forefoot area.
How should a wide toe box shoe fit?
"Wide toe box shoes should allow your toes to splay. Splay means you can spread out the toes to have space between each of them," says an expert in physical therapy, Dr. Milica McDowell.
"Bonus points if you can wriggle and wiggle them, and even better if you can move them all like fingers playing a set of piano keys!" While it sounds funny, the experts reiterate the importance of moving your toes and feeling that space within the inside of the shoe.
Expert-approved shoes with a wide toe box
Work out in comfort: Altra Women's Lone Peak 7
- Very wide toe box
- Arch support
- Laces can be short
Sizes: 5.5-12 | Colors: 7 | Material: Synthetic
McDowell recommends this brand for its wide toe box construction. I also concur with his choice as I've been running in Altra sneakers for two years. If you're a runner who needs extra space, these shoes will accommodate your needs. The sneakers are designed with a combination of cushioning, grip and traction for easy movements in most terrains.
Built to last: Lems Women's Laguna
- Wide toe box
- Lightweight and comfy
- Suede can be hard to clean
Sizes: 6-12 | Colors: 3 | Material: Suede
Pelto recommends Lems for its wide-toe-box construction and comfort level. This pair features a cork insole and a foot-shaped toe box that avoids heel slippage when walking. Aside from its lightweight design, the shoe is easy to slip on and you can even pop down the heel for a slipper style.
Stylish comfort: Orthofeet Coral Sneakers
- Very wide toe box
- Super comfortable
- Not ideal for narrow feet
Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 9 | Material: Synthetic
While it tends to be at a higher price point, Hymowitz suggests Orthofeet for his patients. "I also recommend Vionics and Altra depending on the age of the patient, activity level and usage of the shoes."
This pair in particular is ideal for those who walk for miles and need that extra cushioning. It features a premium orthotic insole, anatomical arch support, cushioned heel, ergonomic sole, wide toe box and a stretch upper that will promote a relaxed fit.
For high-performance runs: Topo Athletic Fli-Lyte 5
- Ideal for orthotics
- Wide toe box
- Not ideal for low arches
Sizes: 6-11 | Colors: 3 | Outsole material: Rubber
Pelto and McDowell recommend this brand for its high performance and built-in qualities. The shoe features a cushioned footbed, durable rubber on the forefoot and a roomy toe box for daily training. Whether you do short runs or lifting at the gym, this sneaker is great for a full workout routine.
Editor-approved shoes with a wide toe box
Work-ready pair: Franco Sarto Carolynn Lug Sole Tassel Loafers
- Comfortable
- Roomy interior
- Not ideal with thick socks
Sizes: 5-13 | Colors: 10 | Material: Faux leather
I wore this pair on my Japan trip and walked miles in them. While their comfort level can be disguised with its elegant aesthetic, this pair offers the reliability of a sneaker. The footbed is cushioned and the outsole has enough grip for rainy days. They're easy to slip on and clean after a busy day. While the description says it runs narrow, this style is offered in wide sizes for extra comfort.
Heightened elegance: Aerosoles Platform Sandal
- Very supportive
- Wide toe box
- Available in multiple colors
- They look big
Sizes: 5-13 | Colors: 21 | Material: Suede
These sandals are my go-to choice whenever I need height and a hint of sophistication. They feature a thick heel with a wide interior that won't crush your toes. With a buckle strap and wide upper, the shoe will support you even if you're walking for a few blocks. I have worn these for an eight-hour work day and came back home pain-free. These heels are a game-changer if you have a busy work schedule and need to look polished from nine to five.
Comfort elevated: Hey Dude Wendy Comf Suede Shoes
- Wide toe box
- Cushioned footbed
- Hard to clean
Sizes: 5-12 | Colors: 6 | Material: Suede
The first time I slipped into a pair of Hey Dude shoes it felt like walking on clouds. While the aesthetic is not my favorite, these shoes have become my go-to for running errands, walking or commuting to the city. They feature a cushioned insole and a wide toe box which is ideal for wearing them with thicker socks.
For the risk taker: Harley Davidson Women's Korsen Waterproof Tall Riding Boot
- Durable design
- Roomy fit
- Need insoles
Sizes: 5-11 | Colors: 2 | Material: Full grain leather
Editor Amanda Fama also loves these boots for their stylish aesthetic and sturdy construction. "From the second I tried these boots on, I knew I was going to love them. They’re super roomy (perfect for my wide feet) and are made with durable leather. I’m usually worried about being too hot in leather boots, but these have a nice, breathable lining that doesn’t get too warm. I really like the buckle details, too," she says.
Other wide-toe-box shoes
Stylish coziness: Kidmi Women's Suede Clogs Leather Mules
- High-quality shoes
- Very durable
- Tend to get discolored
Sizes: 5.5-14 | Colors: 8 | Material: Suede leather
These lookalike Birkenstocks are a more affordable option if you need extra width. They feature a cork footbed with a deep heel cup to accommodate your feet. According to shoppers, these are super comfortable and can be worn with thicker socks thanks to the spacious interior. Plus, they are versatile; slip them on whenever you need to run out.
Wrapped in warmth: Bearpaw Women’s Snuggle Daphne Platform Winter Boot
- Cushioned footbed
- Cozy feel
- Difficult to pull on
Sizes: 5-11 | Colors: 1 | Material: Sherpa
If you're looking for something cozy and cushioned, this winter boot is ideal for those who want extra warmth. They feature a slip-on design, rubber outsole and sherpa material for colder days. According to shoppers, these provide a little height thanks to the platform outsole and feel soft inside.
Waterproof: Chaco Women's Paonia Chelsea Boot
- Comfortable shoes
- Great arch support
- Runs big
Sizes: 5-14 | Colors: 4 | Material: Suede
For extra grip, opt for this boot from Chaco. It features a waterproof suede to keep your feet dry, and a cushioned interior for all-day comfort. The shoe has arch support and it's easy to slip on and off. But the grippy sole is what makes this shoe reliable, especially during rainy conditions.
What to look for when shopping for wide-toe-box shoes
According to podiatrist Jason Hymowitz, a shoe with a wide toe box is wide enough to provide depth for the forefoot. However, “it should not allow the foot to slide around or shift within the shoe.” When the heel is too wide, it can cause slippage and discomfort, according to Pelto.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hymowitz says that "when trying on a shoe, if you can feel side-to-side compression of the toes, or if the toes start to abut or overlap each other, the toe box is too narrow.: He continues, "The forefoot should sit comfortably in the front of the shoe but still maintain support."
No! A wide toe box does not mean it's a wide shoe. Most shoes are too narrow on the forefoot, in general. "A truly wide shoe is tailored for people with either bunions or wider feet," says Pelto.
Wide shoes mean that the rear (heel area) and midfoot (arch area) are made on a wider last (or shoe pattern). A wide-size shoe is trying to accommodate for greater width in the heel or middle foot area, so it doesn’t necessarily have a wide toe box as well," emphasizes McDowell.
How we chose
We selected shoes recommended by experts and tested by editors. We considered important key features such as wide toe box, anatomical construction and comfort. The experts interviewed offered their top brands to consider for wide feet and key features to look for when shopping for wide-width shoes.
Meet the experts
- Dr. Milica McDowell is an expert in physical therapy and vice president at Gait Happens, a brand focused on foot education.
- Dr. Donald Pelto is a podiatrist based in Worcester, Massachusetts with over 11 years of experience in diabetic care, prescribing custom orthotics to correct biomechanical disorders, general foot care and more.
- Jason Hymowitz, DPM, MS, is a podiatrist with Holy Name Medical Center in Teaneck, and a foot and ankle surgeon who specializes in sports medicine, musculoskeletal deformities, and post-traumatic and cosmetic surgical reconstruction.
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