Feet come in all shapes and sizes, and if you fall into the “wider” category of feet, then you know just how important it is to find a pair of wide running shoes that support your natural form and feel comfortable.. If you don’t, you risk experiencing everything from foot pain to even loss of stability, due to the fact that your foot can’t spread across the shoe platform like it’s supposed to.
Thankfully, there are many pairs of running shoes that come in wide versions, and what’s great is that even among the wide models, the style of running shoes vary. Therefore, whether you’re a trail runner or looking for something super cushiony and comfortable, there’s a wide version for that. Below we’re highlighting some of our favorite wide running shoes from brands like HOKA, On, Brooks, and more, so you can run without any uncomfortable inhibition or compression.
Table of Contents
- Why Would You Need Wide Running Shoes?
- Benefits of Wide Running Shoes
- Types of Wide Running Shoes
- Our Top Running Shoes Recommendations for Wide Feet
- Wide Running Shoes FAQs
- Lace Up Your Shoes and Get Running
Why Would You Need Wide Running Shoes?
It can be easy to assume that people with wide feet are the ones that need wide running shoes. And while that’s not necessarily wrong, that certainly isn’t the whole story. Just as not all wide running shoes are the same, the reasonings for purchasing wide running shoes also range. All bodies are unique, and the same goes for feet.
Here are some of the most common reasons to opt for a wide running shoe:
You actually have wide feet: This one is the most obvious. If your feet bulge over the sides of a shoe platform with a standard-width shoe, you could benefit from a wider platform and fit.
You have high-volume feet: High-volume feet are larger in a three-dimensional way, not just larger in actual width. This can mean a taller instep, higher arches, and just generally a “fuller” foot across the midfoot and top.
You need a wider toe box: Even if you have a narrow heel, you may still benefit from a running shoe with a wider toe box if you’re someone with a wider forefoot or who experiences squeezing around the toes. This is very common and can go undetected, because those with this need may not have typically wide feet in other areas.
You experience forefoot pain and pressure: If your toes can go numb, or you easily get blisters or hot spots, a wider shoe should be of benefit to you.
Benefits of Wide Running Shoes
Again, not all wide running shoes are the same, so some pairs may benefit you in certain regards compared to others. But, here are some of the benefits you can expect from a wide running shoe:
Less compression: If your shoe is too narrow, you’ll experience foot pressure, which can lead to pain, numbness, tingling, blisters, and just general discomfort. Wide running shoe styles should help ease this, or eliminate it all together.
More toe splay: If your wide running shoes specifically have a wider toe box, then your toes will be able to splay naturally. This is great for those with bunions, too.
More foot spread: Pretty straightforward, but a wider running shoe should overall give your foot more space to spread, especially when your feet get swollen during running or walking.
More stability: If your foot is too wide or has too much volume for a standard-width running shoe, then a wide running shoe is going to make you feel much more stable. It’ll allow your foot to spread and move naturally. Of course, the converse of this is that if the shoe is too wide, your foot will move around too much, which is why it’s important to get properly fitted.
Types of Wide Running Shoes
Just because a running shoe is labeled “wide,” does not mean all wide running shoes are exactly the same. Some wide running shoes are quite literally wider, while some have a wider toe box or forefoot. Additionally, many popular wide running shoes come in different styles, so you can have everything from a wide trail running shoe to a wide everyday cushioned trainer..
Our Top Running Shoes Recommendations for Wide Feet
HOKA Clifton 11 Wide Running Shoes
The much-loved HOKA Clifton running shoe comes in a wide version for a roomier fit. The Clifton is super cushioned with a CMEVA midsole and HOKA’s signature MetaRocker geometry. The engineered mesh upper delivers breathable comfort, which only further enhances the comfort of this running shoe. Perfect for everyday wear and runs, you’ll be extra comfortable if your foot needs a wider fit.
On Cloudrunner 3 Wide Running Shoes
With this running shoe, you’ll get a little less cushioning than the HOKA Clifton, but more stability. The On Cloudrunner 3 Wide is an example of a stability running shoe that comes in a wide version. That being said, you can absolutely still expect this running shoe to be comfortable, with CloudTec cushioning pairing up with Helion foam for medium cushioning.
Brooks Ghost 18 Wide Running Shoes
Here’s another everyday trainer option with neutral support and medium cushioning, but with extra room with the wide version. The Brooks Ghost 18 Wide Running Shoe is a lightweight model with a substantial 10mm drop to keep you moving forward, while feeling light on your feet. The Ortholite X-60 sockliner adds extra rebound, too.
Altra Torin 9 Wide Running Shoes
Not only does the Altra Torin 9 Wide Running Shoe have a larger width, but we also want to direct your attention to the shoe’s toe box. This running shoe has a foot-shaped design, rather than a toe box that’s tapered. This allows for natural foot movement, while maintaining a secure midfoot hold. The P35X Dual Density Cushioning delivers a balanced blend of softness, energy return, and stability to support you on runs short or long.
Altra Lone Peak 9+ Wide Trail Running Shoes
Looking for a trail running shoe that comes in a wide version? Look no further than the Altra Lone Peak 9+ Wide Trail Running Shoe. This running shoe is made for tackling rugged terrain, thanks to its Vibram Megagrip outsole. It has zero drop geometry for natural alignment, which is only more enhanced with the wide model to accommodate those with wide feet.
Common Questions About Wide Running Shoes
How do I know if I need wide running shoes?
If your feet just get pushed over the edge of the shoe, and you're getting blisters or those awful hot spots right along the edges, or if your toes feel like they're squished in, then yes, you probably need a wider fit. People with high volume feet, a particularly high instep, or a real wide forefoot are other good signs. Really, the best way to be sure is to get someone to take a proper look at your feet while trying on shoes.
What is the difference between wide and extra wide running shoes?
Wide running shoes try to give a bit more room in the shoe for feet that don't quite fit into the standard width. Extra wide shoes give even more space and are best for people with really wide or really high-volume feet, which is why some brands will offer the same shoe in both a wide and an extra wide version, like the Brooks Ghost 18.
Are wide toe box shoes the same as wide running shoes?
Not exactly. A shoe can be wide across the board or just have a wider toe box, and they address different issues. Wide toe box running shoes are great for people whose toes need room to spread out, but whose heel and midfoot are pretty narrow. They can help with bunions, toe pressure, and that annoying numbness.
Can I wear wide running shoes if I have high arches?
Yes, it's not a problem. Width and arch height are two separate things, meaning a shoe can be wide and still support a high arch. If you have both wide feet and a high arch, just look for a shoe with a bit more room across the platform, make sure the cushioning is right for your level of arch support, and then of course get fitted to be sure.
How should wide running shoes fit?
You're looking for a shoe where your foot just sort of slips in and sits comfortably without banging up against the edges, and you want a bit of wiggle room in the toe box so your toes can spread out without hitting the front of the shoe. You want the midfoot and heel to be secure and not giving you any pressure points, no pinching. And don't get a shoe that's too wide or your foot will just feel like it's floating around in there. Proper fit is just as important as getting the right width.
Lace Up Your Shoes and Get Running
Your own unique foot shape should never stop you from finding a great pair of running shoes. Whether you have wider feet overall, have high-volume feet, or just need a roomier toe box to really let your toes splay, there are a ton of wide running shoes to choose from in different styles..
As no two pairs of feet are created equal, don’t be shy to ask one of our Outdoor Experts to assist you in finding the right wide running shoes for you. Stop by one of our Sun & Ski Sports locations or visit us online to chat today.
About the Author, Sydney Fogel
Hi, I’m Sydney! I’m a writer and editor living in San Francisco. After attending college and kicking off my career in Boston, I made my way back to the Bay Area, where I grew up. When I’m not working, you can find me enjoying everything my beautiful area has to offer, from spending time at the beach (I live just a few blocks away!) to climbing those San Francisco hills to check out the latest restaurant. I’m also super into working out and have been dancing my entire life. Feel free to reach out at Sfogel@sunandski.com