For runners, especially those with wide feet, finding the perfect running shoe is crucial. A well-fitting pair not only provides the necessary support, but also helps prevent discomfort and boost performance. Ignoring this may result in blisters, pinching and, frankly, an overall unpleasant run.
To help you find your ideal pair, we’ve consulted a variety of experts about running shoes specifically designed for wide feet. We’ve also included some editor favorites to ensure a comprehensive and transparent selection process.
Whether you’re just starting out or logging serious miles, consider any of these options to enhance your running experience, no matter where you are in your journey.
The benefits of wearing running shoes for wide feet
Running shoes made for wide feet offer several advantages. Derek Roach, who owns Flow Feet Orthopedic Shoes, a company that focuses on comfortable and orthopedic footwear, says these shoes can make running more comfortable, help you perform better, and lower your chance of getting hurt.
Roach explains, “Wide running shoes give your feet and toes enough space to spread out naturally. This stops pressure points and pinching that can cause blisters. When your feet can spread out, they’re in a better position to spread your weight evenly across your foot. This helps support your lower body and improves how you move overall.”
He also notes that wide running shoes help you stay stable and balanced. “The bottom of a wide running shoe has a wider base, which helps keep you stable as you run,” Roach adds. “This is especially helpful for runners with flat feet who tend to roll their ankles inward too much. It can help them stay more balanced while running.”
The best running shoes for wide feet, according to experts and editors
Approved by an expert (with wide feet): Brooks Ghost 16 Running Shoes
- True to size fit
- Wide-fit options available
- Comfortable upper
- Not a low drop
Sizes: 5 to 13 | Wide sizes available: Yes | Colors: 16 | Materials: Engineered mesh upper, synthetic overlays, EGO MAX™ Foam midsole, GuideRail™ System, durable rubber compound and FootPod™ Technology | Heel-to-toe drop: 12mm
This running shoe from Brooks is a great pick for those with wide feet. It excels in both fit and support, thanks to targeted widening in key areas, and the design also ensures ample toe space, maximizing comfort for runners.
The shoe’s engineered mesh upper is another plus. It cleverly combines stretch and structure, providing a snug yet flexible fit. Additionally, the higher drop design serves a dual purpose: It helps reduce stress on the lower leg and benefits runners who naturally heel strike.
Dr. Landon Uetz, a physical therapist (PT, DPT) at TeachMe.To, praises the Ghost series: “These shoes offer various width sizes to accommodate all foot types. I’ve tried both their classic fit and regular width. As someone with wider feet, I’ve found the regular width fits well without needing to opt for a wide shoe, which I often need with other brands. The Ghost also provides more cushioning compared to more rigid options, aiding in shock absorption and effectively distributing forces. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a supportive shoe.”
Great for in-between widths: Topo Athletic Phantom 3
- Wide toe box
- Wide forefoot
- Secure midfoot
- Shoe might feel heavier
Sizes: 6-12 (women’s), 8-13 (men's) | Wide sizes available: Yes | Colors: 6 (women’s), 5 (men’s) | Materials: Engineered mesh upper, Zip Foam midsole, rubber outsole and TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) external clip at the heel | Heel-to-toe drop: 5mm
The Topo Athletic Phantom 3 is an excellent choice for runners with wide feet. According to Kaleigh Ray, a certified personal trainer and athletic footwear expert, they offer a spacious toe box without compromising on performance and are great for runners who are in between a true wide width and a medium width. “The shoe’s anatomical toe box is also impressive,” she adds. “It allows for natural toe splay, promoting better balance and comfort during runs.”
Ray further emphasizes the Phantom 3’s versatility, stating, “It’s also a great daily trainer. Topo Athletic offers three different heel-to-toe drops, and the Phantom has their highest drop (5mm), which should be the most comfortable for most runners.”
Approved by experts and editors: Hoka Clifton 9
- Roomy toe box
- Plush cushioning
- Wide width options
- Can have wear and tear
- Limited sizes available
Sizes: 5 to 12 (women’s), 7 to 16 (men’s) | Wide sizes available: Yes | Colors: 11 (women’s), 16 (men’s) | Materials: Engineered knit mesh upper, compression-molded EVA foam midsole and Durabrasion rubber outsole | Heel-to-toe drop: 5mm
If you love your Hoka walking shoes for the support and comfort they provide, you’ll be delighted to know that their everyday running shoes offer the same qualities. These versatile shoes are available in a variety of sizes and colors, with wide options ensuring a perfect fit for every foot type.
What sets these shoes apart is their remarkable design. The upper features a breathable, engineered knit material, while the compression molded EVA foam midsole provides ample cushioning. To further enhance performance, the shoes incorporate an early stage meta rocker for smoother heel-to-toe transitions. Durability isn’t overlooked either, as the Durabrasion rubber outsole extends the shoe’s longevity.
Ray also loves these shoes. She explains, “Hoka makes wide widths, too, so they could also be a good option for runners who are between a wide and an extra-wide width. This is a great daily trainer and introduction to the Hoka brand. It comes in a wide range of sizes and colors.”
New-runner approved: Hoka Arahi 7 Sneakers
- Lightweight
- Wide size is roomy
- Loosens easily
Sizes: 5 to 12 (women’s), 7 to 14 (men’s) | Wide sizes available: Yes | Colors: 11 (women’s), 13 (men’s) | Materials: Flat-knit upper, compression-molded EVA foam midsole and Durabrasion rubber outsole | Heel-to-toe drop: 5mm
Amanda Fama, a commerce editor at Shop TODAY, recommends these running shoes for wide feet (she opted for a wide size). She recently said, "I’ve never owned a pair of Hoka sneakers before, and I can honestly say they live up to the hype. My feet are pretty wide, so I usually have to opt for wide size options while shopping for shoes, and these fit perfectly."
Since her first review, Fama has worn these on more runs and can confirm they live up to the hype as being supportive, lightweight and roomy. She also said, "I received the vanilla/ cream, which goes with a bunch of outfits — and I love the pop of teal!"
Altra Running Women's Via Olympus 2
- Roomy toe box
- Cushioned footbed
- Great bounce
- Laces are short
Sizes: 5.5 to 12 (women’s), 7 to 15 (men’s) | Wide sizes available: No | Colors: 5 (women’s), 6 (men’s) | Materials: Engineered mesh upper and rubber outsole | Heel-to-toe drop: 0mm
Jannely Espinal, a writer at Shop TODAY, says she's "been running with Altra shoes for two years " and that this is her "go-to brand when I am running on the road or trail." Espinal continues, "These shoes have a roomier interior that help me feel comfortable and not in pain after running. So, when I add thicker socks, I don’t feel like the shoes are squishing my toes. I wear them for long-distance walking or serious training since they support my arches. It’s a brand I keep in my footwear repertoire for its reliable features."
Zero-drop platform: Altra Women’s 7 Paradigm Running Shoes
- FootShape™ toe box
- Zero-drop platform
- Balanced cushioning
- Tongue may not be wide enough
Sizes: 5.5 to 12 | Wide sizes available: Yes | Colors: 7 | Materials: Engineered mesh upper, synthetic overlays, EGO MAX™ Foam midsole, GuideRail™ System, durable rubber compound and FootPod™ Technology | Heel-to-toe drop: 0mm
The Altra running shoe is an excellent choice for those with wide feet. Its standout feature is the foot-shaped toe box, which allows toes to spread naturally for enhanced comfort and stability, and the zero-drop platform also promotes a more natural foot position to reduce strain on feet and legs.
Designed for long-distance comfort, this shoe offers ample cushioning and incorporates the GuideRail™ Support System to maintain proper alignment. Plus, the engineered knit upper adapts to different foot shapes, providing flexibility and breathability.
Dr. Milica McDowell, PT, DPT, C-EP, a doctor of physical therapy, praises this shoe, stating, “This is a great wide running shoe. It has a wide toe box, which is super important for muscle recruitment and ideal foot mechanics. They also have a thinner stack height and drop.”
More running shoes for wide feet
Budget option: New Balance Women's 410 V8 Trail Running Shoes
- Lightweight
- Very comfortable
- Nice arch and ankle support
- May run small
Sizes: 5 to 12 | Wide sizes available: Yes | Colors: 11 | Materials: Synthetic fabric, foam midsole and rubber outsole | Heel-to-toe drop: N/A
If you are looking for an affordable running shoe for wide feet, search no further. This lightweight running shoe from New Balance offers arch support as a breathable mesh upper, and it comes in nearly a dozen shades. Plus, this comfortable running shoe features a lace-up closure for a more secure, tight fit.
Highly rated: Under Armour Women's Charged Assert 9 Running Shoes
- Great quality
- Offer good support
- Lightweight
- Fit may be snug
Sizes: 5 to 12 | Wide sizes available: Yes | Colors: 24 | Materials: Mesh, leather, ethylene vinyl acetate fabric and rubber outsole | Heel-to-toe drop: 10mm
These breathable sneakers certainly don't compromise fashion for functionality. Made with durable hints of leather, these sleek shoes feature cushioned midsoles for added support and comfort. They're also available in two dozen hues and have over 16,000 five-star ratings on Amazon.
Ideal for outdoor runs: ASICS Women's Gel-Venture 9 Running Shoes
- Supportive design
- Cushioned and comfortable
- May run small
Sizes: 5 to 12 | Wide sizes available: Yes | Colors: 24 | Materials: Mesh outer, Gel technology and rubber outsole | Heel-to-toe drop: 10mm
Stand out on the track with these vibrant sneakers from Asics that come in 24 bold color combinations (as well as wide sizes). These shoes were designed with the outdoors in mind, according to the brand. Thanks to the cushioned insoles, you'll be comfortable jogging through the trails.
What to look for
Just like you would with every other shoe, choosing the best running shoes for wide feet involves taking into account several key factors. Among these are fit, cushioning, stability and support.
Fit and width
Dr. Liza Egbogah, a foot expert and orthopedic shoe designer, stresses the importance of proper fit in running shoes for both comfort and performance. She points out that finding the right width is just as crucial as getting the correct length when selecting running shoes.
“A well-fitted shoe width can significantly reduce your risk of injury,” Egbogah explains. “It allows your foot to move naturally inside the shoe. For those with wider feet, there’s more spread in the toes due to a larger forefoot surface area. Choosing a wide-fit running shoe accommodates this spread, leading to greater comfort and an improved running experience.”
Cushioning
Running puts a lot of stress on your feet, especially if you have wide feet. Egbogah explains that wider feet have more surface area to absorb impact. This means people with wide feet need extra shock absorption when running. That’s where cushioning can help.
“Cushioning in running shoes helps absorb shock, reducing pressure on your feet and improving stability,” she explains. “This can help prevent injuries by lessening the impact on your joints — from ankles all the way up to your back. Plus, more cushioning usually means a more comfortable run, as it provides support and spreads out the impact evenly across your feet.”
But cushioning doesn’t just make running more comfortable — it can also boost your performance. Egbogah notes that cushioned shoes give you “energy return.” This means the shoe absorbs energy when your foot hits the ground, then releases it to help push you forward as you run.
Comfort
Comfort is key when it comes to running shoes. If they’re uncomfortable, you’ll likely avoid using them. Egbogah emphasizes the importance of comfort, as it allows you to focus on your performance rather than dealing with discomfort.
Choosing comfortable shoes also protects against injuries. “When your running shoes are uncomfortable, this can also mean you’re increasing your risk of injury, since discomfort or pain is your body’s way of alerting you to potential problems,” says Egbogah. “These problems can include blisters, neuromas, bunions, hammer toes, sprains, strains and more.”
Support and stability
McDowell says support and stability are important when choosing running shoes.
She explains, “If you’re new to running or recovering from an injury, shoes with some support can help. But most runners don’t need too much support. Overly supportive shoes can actually make your feet weaker by doing the work they should be doing.”
Breathability
Breathability is another key factor when choosing shoes for wide feet, according to McDowell. It helps prevent skin irritation, blisters and bacteria buildup. “Breathable materials also keep your feet cool, which is especially important if you live in a hot climate or run during warm seasons,” she explains. “As a bonus, breathable shoes are often lightweight, making them great for long-distance running.”
Drop and stack height
“Drop and stack height are important shoe features,” explains McDowell. “Drop describes the cushioning difference between heel and toe, while stack height refers to the amount of cushion under the heel.”
He continues, “For people with wide feet, a lower stack height makes the shoe more responsive and stable. A lower heel-to-toe drop allows for better foot movement.”
Heel and arch support
When looking for running shoes for wide feet, heel and arch support are key features to think about. But don’t go overboard. McDowell advises that these supports should be moderate to minimal. Why? You want your arch to flex and move as you run.
“Many people are surprised to learn that too much arch support can actually be a problem,” she explains. “If your shoe has excessive support, it’s harder to handle uneven ground like trails.”
How shoes for wide feet should feel
When picking out running shoes, comfort is key. Try them on and pay attention to how they feel on your feet.
Ray offers some helpful tips: “A good running shoe shouldn’t bulge at the sides. The upper part should fit comfortably without being too tight, and the sole should be wide enough to keep you stable.”
Not sure if you’ve found the right fit? Ray suggests getting your feet measured professionally. “Even if you plan to buy online, it’s a great idea to get measured in-store first,” she advises. “Any good shoe store can do this for you. Remember, you’ll usually need to go up half a size from your regular shoes when buying running shoes.
How to know if you need running shoes for wide feet
In order to determine if you have wide feet (and could benefit from specifically designed running shoes), you'll usually have to take some measurements.
Podiatrist Dr. Najwa Javed once told Shop TODAY that getting professional measurements is best while determining the size of your feet, but she also offered a simple option that can be achieved at home: “For the exact size and width, you can also trace your foot on a piece of paper and then place your shoe over the trace and see if you have adequate room."
You can even take it a step further (no pun intended) and follow a shoe width chart to help determine whether or not your feet could benefit from wideset shoes. This can usually be accomplished by measuring the width of your foot and comparing it to the length, and then checking where your specific dimensions fall on the chart you're examining. (Keep in mind there are different charts for men and women.)
Egbogah also explains that wide feet are determined by specific measurements. For example, if you wear a size 9 shoe and your foot is 10.5 centimeters (4.1 inches) wide, you likely have wide feet. In this case, Egbogah recommends wide running shoes for proper fit and comfort.
But measurements aren’t the only indicator. Pay attention to how your feet feel in regular-width shoes. Egbogah suggests that if your feet feel squished or squeezed, if you can’t move your toes freely, or if you experience rubbing or blisters, you might need wider shoes.
How we chose
Shop TODAY gathered insight from experts in the field on best practices and personal recommendations when it comes to running shoes for wide feet. We also took into consideration information provided by verified purchasers of products recommended.
Meet the experts
- Dr. Liza Egbogah is a foot expert and orthopedic shoe designer.
- Dr. Milica McDowell, PT, DPT, C-EP, is a doctor of physical therapy.
- Kaleigh Ray is a certified personal trainer and athletic footwear expert.
- Dr. Landon Uetz (PT, DPT) is a physical therapist at TeachMe.To.
- Derek Roach is the owner of Flow Feet Orthopedic Shoes, a company that focuses on comfortable and orthopedic footwear.
- Our top picks
- The benefits of wearing running shoes for wide feet
- The best running shoes for wide feet, according to experts and editors
- More running shoes for wide feet
- What to look for
- How shoes for wide feet should feel
- How to know if you need running shoes for wide feet
- Frequently asked questions
- How we chose
- Meet the experts