10 Best Wide Running Shoes Reviewed
Ryan Sabin 
Dan Novak Having wide feet can be a hassle when you are shopping for a new pair of running shoes, and it can get pretty complicated faster than you would like to admit. While there are a lot of shoes made for runners with a wide fit, unfortunately, many shoes end up requiring runners to size up anyway. As someone who has wide feet, I know how much of a hassle it can be to find the perfect pair of wide running shoes—which is why we have put together an updated list of the best options currently available on the market!
This is the best product on our list that is currently in stock:
GEL cushioning
High-quality outsole with flex grooves
Supports overpronation
Ventilated upper mesh allows your feet to breathe easily
10 Running Shoes with Wide Toe Box
1. Altra Olympus 2.5
Breathable
Comfortable
Wide toe box
Adequate cushioning
Different color options available
Softens your impact
Upper mesh is not as durable
The Altra Olympus 2.5 has long been known as the "duck shoe" for runners with wide feet--so it's no surprise that it has made it onto our top 10 list. These shoes come in several width options and feature an ample wide toe box. These running shoes for wide feet allow your feet to take their natural position without being uncomfortably squished or moved around.
Read moreComfort / Stability
These wide running shoes provide optimal cushioning thanks to their A-Bound cushioning system. This system throws a spring in each of your steps and makes your runs enjoyable. This, combined with the EVA foam they also use, protects your feet and softens your impact.
Durable / Quality
These shoes are pretty durable and their Vibram outsoles are abrasion resistant. Its grip-resistant coating is great for trail running, proving that the Altra Olympus 2.5 can handle all sorts of punishment.
Cost / Value
These running shoes with wide toe box come at an average running shoe price but can get expensive if you want a specific color or style, but it does deliver on what it promises. All in all, the positive benefits in regards to fit, comfort, and breathability provided by this product more than justifies its asking price.
2. Brooks Ghost 10
Lightweight and responsive
Cushioning for everyday wear and long-distance runs
Breathable upper
BioMoGo DNA midsole
Appealing color choices
Addition of guided eyelet on the tongue to prevent movement
Good for wide or flat feet and feet with bunions
Sizes may run a half size small
Mesh upper may let water into the shoe
The Brooks Ghost 10 is a double update from the 8 and remains a fantastic neutral trainer for a neutral runner. The Ghost 10 has great cushioning for everyday wear to high-speed or long-distance running. The update from the Ghost 8 has a slightly differently designed upper but is still constructed of the same main technologies. Brooks did a great job of paying attention to runners and not making any drastic changes.
Read moreComfort / Stability
The Ghost 10 sole is essentially the same as the last model with 12mm heel-toe drop, 30mm heel stack height, and BioMoGo DNA foam in the midsole. The shoe contains ample cushioning for long miles. Brooks made an addition of structured midsole supports and a second guided eyelet on the tongue to prevent it from moving. The has an impressive energy return and is responsive enough to handle higher speeds.
Durable / Quality
The Ghost 10 is quite the durable shoe for its moderate price tag. Runners happily return to the Brooks Ghost year after year. They praise its comfort and durability on daily walking and long runs.
Cost and Value
The Brooks Ghost has a moderate price tag but it is fair considering the shoe's well-cushioned midsole. It certainly helps that these shoes are comfortable and sturdy enough to handle long distances on harsh running trails. As a result, they are both good trail running shoes and good running shoes with wide toe box.
3. Saucony Cohesion 11
Multiple color options available
Breathable mesh cover on top and sides
Firm cushioning support in the sole
Added support features
Expensive compared to other shoes
Not for someone looking for a minimalist feel
The Saucony Women's Cohesion 11 is one of the most highly rated models available today for runners who have to deal with wide feet. They are well-cushioned, highly breathable, and provide ample room for your feet. The style is attractive and they are made to warp your feet in supportive cushioning that makes running all the more enjoyable, even when you have a wider foot base.
Read moreComfort / Stability
The Saucony Women's Cohesion 11 running shoe is highly comfortable and breathable thanks to using breathable fabric that is designed to keep your feet cool and dry even on the longest of runs. Its superior construction reduces the normal aches, pain, and irritation that runners with larger than normal feet often experience when trying to find the running shoes that are right for them. These shoes also provide a locked and secure fit so your feet remain stable and don't rub or chafe during your runs. This glove-like fit is thanks to their supportive design technology. These shoes also feature insoles and outsoles that are made to reduce shock impact while cushioning your feet and improving traction and heel drop, This is one of the main reasons the Saucony Women's Cohesion 11 is becoming so popular!
Durability / Quality
These shoes are exceptionally durable and are made to hold up to the wear and tear of normal running as well a the added strain out on shoes worn by individuals with wider feet and toe spreads. The forefoot is designed to be roomy and comfortable and in the heel heel and midsection of the shoe you get superior support and impact distribution as well.
Cost and Value
These wide running shoes are on the pricey side and may seem a bit out of reach for beginner runners or those who look at rinning as more of a hobby than anything else. These are a great option for runners but there are other models similar to the Saucony Women's Cohesion 11 in their line that is a little less pricey but still decent for wider feet. This model may be more expensive than the average road running shoe on today’s market but many of the runners we have found said this shoe is one that they consider to be a smart investment because of its overall durability and the way it supports their feet.
4. Brooks Addiction 13
Plush cushioning
Doctor recommended
Roomy for larger feet
Great for weak ankles
More narrow at the front end
Could improve color selection
The Brooks Addiction 13 running shoes are an excellent option for those of you with wide feet. They also provide ample room for any insoles or inserts you may also need--so if you have flat feet AND wide feet this is an excellent option for you.
Read moreComfort / Stability
These shoes offer optimal stability and support. They feature a heel to toe drop as well as a Crash Pad. The Crash Pad minimizes your overall impact, provides shock absorption and helps support your arch--which is excellent for overpronators. They also use DNA adaptive cushioning and Brooks' own Hydroflow technology for optimal cushioning. This shoe is great for overpronators because it also provides Arch support thanks to the Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar its features.
Durability / Quality
These wide running shoes are highly durable and are sure to last you several hundred miles. They are deep enough to put in your own customized inserts for added support. This product itself offers a ton of aid if you have arch issues as well.
Cost and Value
These shoes are pretty pricey but they are definitely well worth the cost. If you need support to help control pronation, these stable sneakers will do just that. They are also fairly comfortable, so if you have to stand all day, these would be a good option.
5. ASICS Gel-Contend 4
GEL cushioning
High-quality outsole with flex grooves
Supports overpronation
Ventilated upper mesh allows your feet to breathe easily
A bit on the heavy side
Can be seen as pricey
There are many great options to choose from when it comes to finding wide running shoes but many runners miss out on gems like this one. The ASICS Women's Gel-Contend 4 is perfect for overpronators and is available in many larger wide sizes that can be difficult to find with other brands. The Asics brand offers you more support than your average running sneaker and the gel support and cushioning of these running shoes for wide feet takes comfort to a whole new level.
Read moreComfort / Stability
The ASICS Women's Gel-Contend 4 is made with super supportive gel soles that are designed to absorb shock upon impact which provides you comfort on your run. It is made from breathable top material and durable sole material to give even those runners with wider harder to fit feet the comfort and support they deserve. Its supportive side design adds comfort and stability to your run which is needed for wider feet and toe box area.
Durability / Quality
Runners get an average of 300 miles out of these Asics running shoes with wide toe box, which is pretty average for a normal runner. However, those with wider feet know how quickly shoes can wear down, especially in the toes and the sides. The ASICS Women's Gel-Contend 4 allows you to get a full and productive lifespan out of your shoes for a change and makes it easier than ever to find the perfect fit that lasts! You can wear this model all day, if necessary and the gel will hold up and your feet will never feel cramped or pinched.
Cost and value
The ASICS Women's Gel-Contend 4 runs a bit on the higher end of the price scale when you compare it some of the other wide running shoes on our list here, but it is reported by many runners to be worth every penny. If you have flat feet, wide feet, or need arch support, these shoes will support your active lifestyle. These are a sure bet and are one of the best choices you can make when you need running shoes for wide feet that will accommodate your wider foot.
6. Mizuno Wave Rider 20
Extremely light-weight
Excellent ventilation
Multiple colors to choose from
Terrific heel-strike absorption
Comfortable cushioned sole
Narrow fit
Unsuited for harsh terrain
The Wave Rider 20s are Mizuno's go-to neutral trainer. They offer the best technology for the Mizuno brand with classic comfort and support. These wide running shoes prove great for everyday wearing and shorter distance runs. While reviews advised against long-distance runs with the Rider 20, they are still great for wide feet and short runs at higher speeds.
Read moreComfort / Stability
The firmness of the sole may not be best for long-distance running but it does create fantastic responsiveness for running at higher speeds. The Riders are also good for all-day wear. They feature a decent grip for semi-wet conditions but may not be best for winter conditions with ice or snow. The show is narrower in the heel for stability then becomes wider in the toe box for movement. The new triple mesh upper allows breathability but not porous to allow minimal water to enter. As a bonus, the detailed reflective material makes for safer running on roads.
Durability / Quality
The firmness of the sole does not allow quick wear and tear of the shoe. For standard, low-to-mid intensity running sessions, these shoes can last for hundreds and hundreds of miles. These wide running shoes offer an impressive degree of responsiveness according to most runners. They're also lightweight and tight-fitting so that the wearer can perform a wide range of movements and activities while they're worn.
Cost and value
The Mizuno Wave Rider 20 may seem rather pricey but is a good quality shoe for what runners pay. When compared to more stylistic products from other manufacturers these shoes may not look as great. However, judging them on their own merits finds that they're certainly fashionable enough to look decent out on the town.
7. Hoka One Bondi 4
Full EVA midsole provides great cushioning
10 Degree heel bevel allows for smooth heel transition
It has a Comfort-Frame Upper that provides additional comfort and support
Meta-Rocker helps guide your run
Toe box may be narrow
May not be as durable as one hoped for
Most wide feet runners like this running shoe because it's a comfortable running shoe that has a metal rocker to help guide your run, and absorbs shock easily. It's available in sizes up to 2E. Although it may look like something worn at the circus by a performer, the truth is that these bulky Hoka One shoes offer an impressive level of cushion perfect for wide-footed runners.
Read moreComfort / Stability
If you're looking for comfort this is the one to look at. It has an EVA midsole and a Meta-rocker that helps guide your ride. It comes complete with a comfort frame in the upper of the shoe and has a padded tongue. The toe box might be a bit narrow so consider buying a size up.
Durability / Quality
It seems that a few users had issues with the tread on the outsole falling apart. This may be due to just receiving a faulty shoe, but it is noteworthy. Overall, most runners said that the shoe was quite durable and made of quality. What's particularly impressive about this is the fact that the materials that provide this shoe's impressive resilience are also extremely lightweight.
Cost and value
This product is moderately priced. The shoe's beneficial features imply that the runners will be able to reach the number of miles faster when contrasted with other wide running shoes. It is highly regarded and recommended as a great all-around shoe.
8. New Balance 1500 V2
Seamless upper design for added comfort
REVlite technology provides comfort to the underfoot
Flexible TPU shank assists in flexibility
Extremely lightweight, yet comfortable
Provides arch support
Limited color options
A great running shoe for people of wide feet that is seamless, a lightweight running shoe that is comfortable and flexible while you run. It comes in sizes up to 2E, however, it is important to note that a very small amount of runners noted that the 2E size felt more like "D". The New Balance 1500 V2 are great for running and will keep your feet feeling good.
Read moreComfort / Stability
It is an extremely lightweight running shoe with a seamless upper that won't allow for irritation. REVlite provides comfort to the underfoot. It has a flexible TPU shank which assists in providing stability. The New Balance 1500 v2 has the arch support that will aid in your comfort as well.
Durability / Quality
These are durable quality running shoes that will last you a long time. It's Revlite foam compound assists in assuring this. This sneaker utilizes a rubber sole and is lace-up. The single-piece FantomFit upper has a breathable mesh fabric for extra breathability. The midsole is well padded with REVlite foam.
Cost or value
The price of these running shoes with wide toe box is pretty average for a decent product. This is definitely one of the more affordable options on our list. It has all the features and options you'd want if you are an avid runner who has a larger footprint. There is a good amount of sizing to accommodate most people.
9. Adidas Superstar Running Shoes
The crash pad provides support
Full mesh inner sleeve wraps the foot
Is quite breathable
The toe box is not very deep for extremely wide feet
Sizes may run a bit off from some color and style options
Adidas is a brand many runners trust and luckily for those who have to deal with a wider foot and toe spread, Adidas has plenty of options to choose from. One of the best options for runners with wide feet should look for the is the Adidas Women's Superstar Running Shoe. This is a popular choice for beginners and pros alike because it's a running shoe that offers the stability and comfort you need while you run!
Read moreComfort / Stability
This running shoe is made with the highest of quality materials, like all Adidas shoes are and it is designed so it provides stability and comfort each and every time you put them on. Its made to cushion your feet and support your toes and foot on the bottom, top, and sides. The Adidas Women's Superstar Running Shoe assists in providing a responsive run. It is quite breathable and fits like a glove. Insoles ar soft and offer support for wider toe spreads and a wider footprint while the outsoles offer traction and improve shock absorption to keep your feet comfortable no matter what activities you have planned.
Durability / Quality
This is a quality and durable running shoe that will last a long time. It has a crash rail on the outsole which provides cushioning and helps absorb shock on impact as well as enhance flexibility. There is terrific durability demonstrated in this product, making it ideal for sprinting or jogging.
Cost and value
There are many shoes available from Adidas but it can take some searching to find ones made for wide footed runners and athletes. But the Adidas Women's Superstar Running Shoe is a perfect example of what you can find when you know where to look. And with the Adidas name, it should come as no surprise that this one has a bit of a higher price tag than some running shoes with wide toe box. However, runners are falling in love with this model and are raving about the product and the results they see and feel each and every tie they hit the gym or run the trails.
10. Under Armour Charged Bandit 3
Twin cushion layer
SpeedForm precision fit from Under Armour
Extra cushioning and comfort
Breathable and lightweight
Antimicrobial-Ortholite
Heel counter for support
EVA sock liner
Wide toe box
Traction isn’t enough for slippery running trails
Sizing Runs Small
The Under Armour Charged Bandit 3 running shoes are constructed with Under Armour’s SpeedForm molding to give you the perfect fit. The excellent fit and wide toe box will offer great comfort and stability, especially with all the extra cushioning that these running shoes with wide toe box have.
Read moreComfort/Stability
The dual layer midsole has plenty of cushioning that will keep you comfortable and add a little support. There is a heel counter to keep your foot in place and add extra support as well, reinforcing the shape of the heel against your foot. The SpeedForm molded fit is a great option for those with wide feet, giving you a custom fitted feel. Be wary though, the fit of these running shoes is a little small and you may want to consider sizing up. The uppers are breathable and flexible, helping to conform to your foot, and the overall shoe is extremely lightweight. Although the synthetic sole is comfortable and great for track running, you may want to consider a different shoe if you enjoy running on trails or live in a wet area. They don’t hold up well against particularly slippery or rough terrain.
Durability/Quality
Under Armour is a brand many people have come to trust and even find synonymous with sportswear and running gear, so you can count on high-quality with these shoes. With all the cushioning, you can be sure that these wide running shoes will last you and the lightweight design in tandem with the great rebound that cushioning provides helps reduce wear on the shoe itself.
Cost and Value
The price range for these shoes varies quite a bit, but at their lowest they are an extremely affordable shoe, especially considering they carry the Under Armour brand name. Even at full price, these are a shoe with a great fit that is worth investing in.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Comfort
Comfort is one of the most important things we take into account when researching the value of a shoe, especially when it comes to the best running shoes for wide feet. When you have a wide-set foot, it can be a pain (literally) trying to find mainstream or quality shoes that will be a good fit. So we looked for running shoes that had a wide fit from the toe box to the heel, or that had good flexibility and room to let your foot splay naturally. We also looked for designs that were comfortable in other ways, like well-ventilated mesh uppers or cushioned midsoles. It won’t matter how high-performance your wide running shoes are if they don’t fit comfortably, so this was our top priority while conducting our search.
Overall, we wanted to make sure that the shoes on our list were specifically comfortable for runners with wide feet. If you don't have wide feet some of the additional features these wide running shoes may do nothing for you since the shoe's toe box will be way too big for you and the shoe won't fit you properly anyway. Aside from the toe box width, when looking for comfort we also took a look at how securely the shoe fits the runner and how it adjusts to your every movement. Some of the shoes provide more cushion and support than others--so if you know you need a well-cushioned shoe make sure to look out for that feature.
Stability
Stability encompasses all of the aspects of the shoe that will give you traction and help prevent trips, slips, and falls while you’re running. Extra lugs, solid support beams and rock plates, and good cushioning can all provide stability. Be aware of what will suit your needs best. You’ll need to take into consideration the type of terrain and whether you normally encounter when you run to get a shoe that fits your lifestyle. We looked for standard running shoe features that offer stability for a variety of circumstances and extra support for wide feet, like good treads and solid construction that doesn’t cause your foot to roll one way or the other.
If you know that you have other issues that require you to have a running shoe that offers more stability then just make sure to take a look at the shoes that have additional stability features. Stability is especially important if you are an overpronator, suffer from Plantar Fasciitis, or if you have weaker ankles that make your feet roll out a lot. While additional stability features may add more weight to your shoe, don't worry when looking through our list because we made sure to find shoes with the perfect balance of stability without sacrificing much when it comes to responsiveness or adding too much weight to the shoe.
Durability
If you’re investing your hard-earned money in a running shoe, you want it to keep up with you and last more than just a few months. Choosing shoes that are built to match your lifestyle, using proper shoe care, and wearing the right socks can all help increase the life of your shoes, but first, you have to have a shoe that can hold its own. We looked for shoes that had good construction and good materials that would make it more durable, as well as real user reviews that could testify to the overall durability of the shoe.
When narrowing down your options, make sure that you are also sticking to shoes that can handle your needs. This means that you need to consider how far you plan on running with them, how many miles you want them to last for, and what kind of terrain you will be using them on. A pair of road running shoes can be incredibly durable and long lasting, but if you decide to take them out on technical terrain and on your favorite trails then you will find that they will probably fall apart much faster than the manufacturer advertised. It is really important that you use the shoes for what they were designed to be used for if you want to make sure you get the most life out of your shoes.
Fit
What's the biggest issue a runner with wide feet faces on a daily basis? The fit of their shoes!
The single most important aspect that all of these shoes are required to accommodate is a proper fit. For too long, runners with wider than average feet have been forced to purchase a half or full size larger than their true shoe size in order to find a pair that will allow their little piggies to breathe. All of the products listed in this buying guide were chosen based on their ability to provide this important design aspect to runners and provide the fit of their dreams.
For some, finding an overall fit can be a challenge, as one size really doesn't fit all when it comes to shoes. For example, if you have feet that are wider in the forefoot and toes than in the rear and heel, a shoe with a wider build from front to back might not work as well. You might find a lot of room in the heel to slide around. So finding a model with the right fit in both the fore and rearfoot, is where it starts to become more relative to your own specific feet.
Flexibility
In order for any pair of running shoes to feel comfortable while also offering the necessary protections for the wearer, they need to strike a perfect balance between flexibility and stability. A shoe that feels overly stable without providing any give will limit the wearer's ability to run at their fullest potential, as will a pair of shoes with the opposite problem. All of the shoes listed here have been evaluated based on their ability to provide a comfortable amount of 'give' to the wearer. It isn't so much that they will completely lose control, but it is enough to prevent the feeling of being stuck in wooden clogs!
Since the shoes on our list are not overly flexible, very few of them will give you that barefoot feel--but some of them do allow more for your natural stride. This will actually help prevent some symptoms from flaring up in some runners, depending on the type of feet that you have. If you need additional stability and support features, you might find that the shoe may be a little more rigid--but that is only because it is giving you the support and stability that you may need. If you are a neutral runner you can afford to use the more flexible shoes since you don't have to worry about correcting any pronation issues.
Expert Interviews & Opinions
Fit Comfort Stability Flexibility Durability
Some individuals with wide feet may also suffer from fallen arches, a condition where the arch of your foot is significantly lower to the ground than normal. This can lead to pain and potential injury if left unidentified and untreated. Be sure to check for fallen arches and look into insoles or special footwear if you have this issue.
Some runners may not have naturally wide feet at all and may in fact be suffering from a case of foot swelling. This can happen for a myriad of reasons, although the most common sufferers of foot and ankle swelling are individuals who are older than 50. If you suspect that you may be suffering from swollen feet, treating the problem can result in reducing their width.
Other Factors to Consider
Size
Most brands of running shoes vary by size, similar to brands of clothing, it’s important to know what size feet you have. Once you measure your feet you’ll be able to compare the measurements to the measurements listed by that brand. Plus, everyone’s feet are different so it’s important to know which ones are the best fit for you.
Many people think that they just need to know their length of feet to find the shoe size. However, many don’t really realize that the width is also just as important, because many people may not understand finding a narrow or wide enough shoe can make all the difference for the comfortability of their footwear.
The width of a shoe is identified by a letter after the number of the shoe’s size. ranging just as shoe sizes, there are also different widths for men and women. If you have wide feet, generally, you’ll need less narrow shoes which have a width of “2E” or “4E” for men, and “D” for women. Hopefully, this information will provide some assistance with finding the correct size and running shoe for your particular type of feet.
Value
The comparison of quality and cost is what makes up value, and we tried to find shoes that had a good quality to cost ratio. High-quality running shoes sometimes come with a higher price tag, but the features and performance make the price worth it. If you can find running shoes that perform well and have a lot of high-tech features to offer at a lower price, this increases the value.
Lots of things can influence what value means to each individual person, like the amount that they’re willing to spend and any specific features that may be hard to find or accommodate. People with wide feet may be willing to spend more because a shoe that fits well is a little harder to come across, but there are definitely shoes out there that are affordable and have a great fit like the ones on our list.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: What is the width of the standard shoe sold in stores?
There are several width sizes when it comes to shoes:
A: Narrow
B: Medium
C/D: Wide
E: Extra wide
Most stores will sell the standard shoe width, which is medium. It is important to note that while some stores may keep all of the width options on hand, that doesn't mean that all brands have all width options available for you to choose from.
q: What do these letters stand for that is after the shoe size and relate to width?
To add on to our previous question, let's take a look at what some of these letters mean in terms of size.
For women, the sizes A, B, and D stand for different widths of your foot and will help you find the right width shoe for yourself:
A: is for narrow
B: standard
D: wide
For men, the sizes B/N/C, D/M/R, and 2E/E/W also stand for the different widths of your foot and help you find the right width shoe.
B/N/C: narrow
D/M/R: medium or standard
2E/E/W: wide
q: Would the running shoes with wide toe box be roomier if I go with a shoe that is wide width?
Yes, of course! If you try on a pair of shoes and the toe box is too narrow and your toes feel cramped or even slightly uncomfortable, you can should definitely go with a wide shoe option. Some runners may not have exceptionally wide feet, but they may just too wide for the standard width that that particular brand of shoe is available in. Make sure to take into consideration that your feet swell during your runs--so, when you are trying on your shoes before you buy them they should really feel nice and roomy.
q: How do I know when to get wide running shoes?
Sizes can vary by brand, manufacturer, and country, so it’s important to have current measurements for your feet and to compare with the size charts and measurements specific to each shoe. You should also definitely check out real customer reviews and see if there are any common sizing problems. Most people will mention this in their review and so you can adjust when you buy yours.
Sources
- , Do You Have Wide Feet? Here's How to Tell, Informative site
- , How To Find The Best Shoes If You Have Wide Feet, Buying Guide
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