10 Best Running Shoes for Wide Feet Reviewed
By Ryan Sabin
30
Looking for the best running shoes for wide feet? Check the Pros & Cons for each shoe and see which one of the top 10 models that got the best test results!
Running around in shoes that are too narrow or too loose for your feet is terrible. You can avoid problems such as blisters or bunions by wearing properly fitting shoes, in both size and width. Remember both the size and width of your shoes should be true to your feet, just because the size in the tag is right, doesn’t mean the width is correct for your foot. Don’t waste your money on unsuitable and uncomfortable shoes, to have them sit in your closet or cause you pain from wearing them. Looking for running shoes with a wide toe box? Then you have also come to the right place. We have outlined the best choice for people seeking only wide toe boxes and wide width running shoes in general.
Our Top 3 Picks
10 Best Running Shoes for Wide Feet
Sometimes it can be difficult and time consuming to track down running shoes that provide the perfect fit for some foot types. So below, for that reason, we will take a look at some shoes, as well as their features, which make up the ten best running shoes for both male and female runners with wide feet.
1. Asics Gel Nimbus 18
The upper of the Gel Nimbus 18 is seamless therefore reducing any amount of irritation you might have gotten. The heel clutch provides stability by keeping your foot in place and adding comfort to your run. The Gel Cushioning System absorbs the impact of the shock when your foot hits the ground allowing you to focus more easily on your run. Some users have complained that the toe box is too narrow so keep in mind you may need to purchase a 1/2 size up.
Durability / Quality
You can rest assured that this is a durable running shoe.Asics uses soft blown rubber on the forefoot, which is relatively standard when it comes to running shoes, but the hard rubber in the middle of the shoe and in the heel add extra durability. Most runners have gotten 300 miles out of them.
Cost or value
This running shoe can be a bit pricey, but it is well worth your money.
Heel counter provides great support and stability.
Upper that provides a comfortable fit and allows your feet to breath.
Durable, but soft midsole that gives your foot a nice cushion as you run.
Durable outsole that gives you a great grip on the ground.
Heavy shoe that doesn’t provide much flexibility.
Toe box is a bit narrow
2. Altra Olympus 1.5
It's all it's "quacked" up to be. It provides maximum cushioning. The A-Bound™ cushioning allows your feet to feel like they spring into action while you run. It's EVA foam protects your feet from impact on multiple surfaces. It has a "foot-shaped" toe box which keeps the big toe straight to allow for better take off, but allows the other toes to move about.
Durable / Quality
It is quite durable and made with quality materials. It's Quick-Dry trail mesh upper dries the shoe quickly when wet. It has raised lugs to help improve your traction while you run.
Cost / Value
The price of these Altra Olympus running shoes is quite average, and you'll find they will be worth your money.
Zero Drop running shoe
Roomy toe box
Quick-Dry Trail Mesh upper dries shoe quickly when wet
Provides great traction on a variety of surfaces
Well cushioned and reduces foot pain
Raised lugs improve traction
Gaiter trap prevents debris from building up
Sizing runs small, order a size up
They are a bit bulky
3. Brooks Ghost 8
This running shoe has been a big support for many runners, especially the neutral runners and those who have wider sized feet. The Brooks Ghost 8 running shoe provides maximum comfort and with this new design, it can provide a stable, flexible and light ride. It has a full length crash pad which helps to absorb shock upon impact. It's Omega flex grooves allow for flexibility. It has an upper made of mesh materials that allows for breathability of your feet so they can breathe easily.
Durable / Quality
This is quite a durable running shoe with quality features. It will last a long time. It has an aggressive waffle rubber which provides great traction through all types of weather.
Cost / Value
The Brooks Ghost 8 can be quite expensive, but it's a great value for its price.
- Constructed of lightweight materials
- Excellent traction on various types of road surfaces
- Waffle pattern outsole makes it easy to run in all types of weather
- Biomogo DNA midsole cushioning makes running comfortable
- Crash pad absorbs shock as you run
- Omega Flex grooves assist in allowing you more flexibility
- Mesh materials allow ventilation
- Some users felt they were a bit too large around mid foot
- Mesh material on toe box may not be as durable as other shoes.
4. Brooks Addiction 12
Stability and support are the main things which the Brooks brand seems to always provide to runners,and the Addiction 12 is no exception. This shoe is aimed to severe overpronators, especially those who also have wider feet. During runs, this shoe gives firm support which is provided by the combination of the DNA adaptive cushioning, and Brooks’ HydroFlow Technology. In addition, the Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar in the Brooks Addiction provides maximum arch support.
Durability / Quality
This is a durable quality running shoe that will last a long time. You can expect to get 300-500 miles out of these.
Cost or value
They can be a bit pricey, but worth every penny.
- Better transition from heel strike to toe
- Durable construction
- DNA provides great cushioning
- Energy-returning BioMoGo midsole
- Diagonal Rollbar assists in control of your run.
- Crash Pad absorbs shock and lessens impact
- Moisture-management upper keeps sweat away
- Made with Eco-Friendly materials
- These are a bit heavy
- Sizes run small
5. Mizuno Wave Rider 19
High-quality material used in the heel and tongue portion grips the feet in position and keeps it from slipping. The upper of the shoe is soft and ventilated so that your feet can breathe easily. It has cushioned inner sides that prevent your feet from any pulling sensation and discomfort when you drastically stop or change direction.
Durability / Quality
The X10 rubber outsole makes the shoe extremely durable. It is a durable and quality running shoe that will last a long time.
Cost or value
The Mizuno Waver Rider 19 can be a bit pricey, but seems to provide adequate amount of comfort along with durability to make it worthwhile.
Durable outsole
Lightweight, comfortable EVA midsole
Breathable mesh upper
Stylish design
The inside upper, specifically the tongue and heel area, are slippery
Heavy
6. Asics Gel Foundation
It absorbs shock upon impact which provides you comfort on your run. It's upper is made of mesh materials that allow your feet to breathe easily. It's ortholite sockliner adds comfort and stability to your run. Its dual density midsole enhances support and increases stability.
Durability / Quality
Runners get an average of 300 miles out of these Asics running shoes, which is pretty average.
Cost or value
The Gel Foundation runs a bit on the higher end of price, but seems to be worth every penny.
Rearfoot and forefoot GEL cushioning for added comfort
Guidance Line flex groove outsole provides good traction
Supports overpronation
Ventilated upper mesh allows your feet to breathe easily
A bit on the heavy side
Can be seen as pricey
7. Hoka One One Bondi 4
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.
Cost or value
The cost can be quite pricey, but most users say it's worth it.
Full EVA midsole provides great cushioning
10 Degree heel bevel allows for smooth heel transition
It has a ComfortFrame 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.
8. New Balance 1500 V2
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 arch support that will aide 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.
Cost or value
The price of these running shoes is average to expensive in price, but most are happy to report it was worth their money.
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
May be seen as pricey
9. Asics Gel Cumulus 17
It comes with a gel cushion system located in both the rearfoot and forefoot of the shoe. This helps absorb shock and reduces the impact of your foot when it hits the ground. It is lightweight and breathable as well, which adds to its comfort. The Gel Cumulus 17 has a Guidance System that provides adequate support.
Durability / Quality
Durability will vary depending on the activity you use them for. Its rubber outsole provides a good amount of traction. If you are a casual runner this would make a great running shoe, however, more intense runners will want to be careful of the delicate mesh design.
Cost / Value
These running shoes are a bit pricey especially if you are a heavy runner. You may want to consider another pair.
Gel cushion system provides comfort and absorbs shock
Guidance System provides adequate support
Lightweight and Breathable
ComforDry technology reduces humidity, sweat and odors
Some users felt it was a bit tight
Some users experienced difficulties with the sole wearing out quickly
10. Nike Air Zoom Structure 19
This running shoe has a dynamic support platform that provides stability. It has flywire cables that assist in stabilizing the medial portion of your foot while you run. The Nike Zoom unit assists in providing a responsive run. It is quite breathable and fits like a glove. There are pull tabs on each side of the tongue so you can easily put your shoes on and off. It's dual cushioning system provides great comfort. It has a 3rd density foam that assists in slowing the rate of pronation.
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.
Cost or value
This running shoe can be quite pricey, but it is well worth every penny when you think about how few nike wide shoes there are on the market.
Crash pad provides support
Full mesh inner sleeve wraps the foot
Is quite breathable and has a sock-like fit
Dual density cushioning system provide comfort
Toe box is not very deep
Sizes may run small
The Criteria We Used For Our Evaluation Of the Best Shoes For Wide Feet:
After careful research, we laid out the following factors that helped us narrow down our list the 10 best shoes for runners with wide feet. In order for you to narrow down your search even further, read through the following. The information will help you find the right shoe with the right fit.
Are they breathable?
The best way to know if the shoe is breathable or not is to check out the upper. Mesh uppers tend to provide the most breathability. Shoes that lack ventilation may lead to blisters and other irritations on the foot. Most shoes also feature some sort of moisture wicking feature on the inside as well that works well with the breathable upper.
How comfortable are they?
The cushioning is a personal preference. Some like the soft, cloud like cushioning, while others like a more minimalistic approach. Either way, we have made sure to note the level of cushioning in each description. We also consider the material of the upper, the inside lining of the shoe as well as how breathable the shoe is. All of these factors will definitely add or take away from the comfort level of the shoe.
How roomy is the toe box?
If you have wide feet, finding a wide toe box is also an important feature to have. Shoes that are too narrow, tend to have a narrow toe box as well. We made sure to note the space in the toe box for the shoes in the list above. Room to splay your toes will keep you comfortable during your run.
Enough room in the heel?
The heel needs to be able to fit wide feet comfortably. Many time the forefoot becomes the main focus when trying to find the right fit, neglecting the heel. Although you want to have a secure fit in the heel, a fit that is to tight will take away from, not only comfort, but possibly affect your performance as well.
Most who have wide feet, usually require an evenly wider fit throughout the foot, not only in one one area. The is a key point that we took into consideration while researching what customers had to say about the different options.
How long will they last?
Most running shoes last between 300 and 500 miles. Knowing if a shoe wears out prematurely is important and we make sure to note if any complaints have made about a particular aspect of the shoe’s durability.
How much traction will you get?
Of course the type of traction or grip you are looking for in a running shoe is typically dependent upon what type of conditions you intend to run in. Are you running on the road, trails, in the snow ect.? We break down the details so you can see which shoes are best for running on different types of surfaces.
Are they flexible?
Some people like a snug tight fitted running shoe, while others prefer a shoe that fits a bit loosely. Whatever, your preference most runners typically enjoy a running shoe that is responsive and flexes with your feet as you run.
Other Important Factors To Consider When Selecting The Best Running Shoes For Wide Feet:
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.
How to measure your feet?
It is relatively easy to calculate your shoe size without the need for any special equipment at home. After you have figured out the measurements of your feet, you can look at manufacturer’s size charts to find the most perfect fit for you. In order to get the accurate size of your feet you’ll need to prepare A chair, a pair of socks, two pieces of paper, each one larger than your feet, a pencil or marker, and a ruler or measuring tape.
Step 1: Trace Your Feet
To help get the most accurate fit from your shoes, it is recommended that you measure your feet when wearing a pair of socks that you would most likely you will be wearing with your running shoes.
Sit on the chair with one foot on the floor, allowing your leg to trend slightly forward so that the shin is positioned in front of the ankle.
Remember to hold the pencil or pen perpendicular and upright with the paper to maintain the best contact, then slowly and carefully draw the outline of your foot to get an accurate measurement. Make sure that you keep the pencil or pen held snugly against your foot as you run it around the outline. It is pretty easy to do by yourself, however some people may need to have someone help with the tracing to get the most accurate result. It is imperative that you are able to get the truest tracing of your feet in order to match your feet with the most appropriately sized pair of shoes.
Step 2: Mark the Length and Width of Each Foot
After you have finished tracing your feet, you will move on to measuring. You should trace and measure both of your feet, because as most of us know that our two feet are slightly different sizes with regards to both the width and length. For width, use the pencil to mark the piece of paper at the widest points of your feet. For length, mark the paper at the longest parts of your feet, which will be from your heel to the tip of your longest toe.
Step 3: Measure the Length and Width of Your Feet
From the marks that you made from tracing your feet on the paper, use a ruler or measuring tape to measure the length and width that you have recorded from each foot. On your ruler, read the closest mark that you can, don’t round up or down too much. The idea is to end up with a pair of shoes that fit perfectly, allowing you to comfortably carry out your running and other sports activities. Once you have collected the info from each foot, make sure to write the measurement down so you’ll be able to be certain that you’re buying the correct size.
Many people think that they just need 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.
Step 4: Use Your Measurements
If you have different measurements between your feet, you should use the largest measurement between the two for width and length to determine your appropriate shoe size. Then, to be even more accurate with the sizing, you should subtract 3/16 of an inch from each number because of slight space between the pencil line and your actual foot.
Once you have your final measurement, you can use the links below to convert them into the appropriate size and width. However, it is really important to understand that these charts do not give as accurate of results as you would have if you went to try the shoes on directly or even having your feet measured by professionals.
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.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions that may get you thinking about a few of your own. This is what runners with wide feet are asking
Q: What is the width of the standard shoe sold in stores?
A: The standard shoe width is M, but there are running shoe stores that carry multiple widths.
Q: What do these letters stand for that are after the shoe size and relate to width?
A: For women the sizes A, B, and D stand for different widths of you foot. A is for narrow, B is for standard, and D is for wide. For mens the sizes B/N/C, D/M/R, and 2E/E/W also apply to the width of your foot. B/N/C is for narrow feet, D/M/R is for medium or standard sized feet, and 2E/E/W are sizes for wide feet.
Q: Would the toe box be more roomy if I go with a shoe that is wide width?
A: Yes, absolutely. Choosing a wide width ensures that your toes will not be cramped. In general you want to look for products from Altra if you are looking for a wide toe box running shoes.
Q: How do I know when to get a size bigger?
A: Sizes vary by brand so sometimes it can be trial and error, but it doesn’t have to be. You can measure you feet and compare it to the measurements they have for that particular shoe. For example, some of the shoes we have listed here for top 10 for wide feet recommend choosing a size up. They are as follows: Asics Gel Nimbus 18, Brooks Addiction 12, Hoka One One Bondi 4, Asics Gel Cumulus 17, and Nike Air Zoom Structure 18.
While there are many options available out there, we wanted to make your search just a little easier by narrowing the choices down to those which have been deemed the best through their high user ratings. Remember all feet are different, so you’ll need to find the pair that really works best for you.
Q: What about Adidas wide running shoes – why were they not listed?
A: Frankly, We didn’t think they deserved to be on this top 10 list due to the models they currently carry.
Q: If I am looking for mens 4e running shoes, what should I pick?
A: If you are into ASICS, then Nimbus or Kayano. Brooks addiction or Nike Pegasus are also great options for 4E wide running shoes.
Here are some sources we used while conducting our Research:
We utilize many different resources while trying to provide the best information to our readers. Some are clinical sources, some are brand specs provided by manufacturers, and some sources are even other sites which may specialize in particular information which is relative to our subject.
Sources
- , Shoe size charts, Informational style site,
- , How to Find Your Shoe Size, informational,
- , Too Tight Shoes Top 10 Health Dangers, Informational, Aug 21, 2015
- , How long does a pair of running shoes last?, Informational, Oct 29, 2012
- , Wide width foot runners unite, Running enthusiast website, Mar 25, 2013
Related Posts:
1
266
Facebook
Twitter
Google +
LinkedIn
