The 15 Best Sneakers for Wide Feet in 2023 — Sneakers for Women

Mar 13, 2024

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No need to squeeze into these.

Sometimes, size matters. I’m talking about shoe size, of course, especially for someone with wide or hard-to-fit feet. If trying on shoes feels like a constant emulation of the step-sisters cramming into Cinderella’s petite glass slipper, you may need to put your trust in a style that’s a little bit roomier. And what could be trustier than the multifaceted, ever-pliant sneaker? The best sneakers for wide feet should not only have a broader toe box but also offer adequate support that parallels your favorite arch support sandals.

Before you resign yourself to a lifetime of orthotics, take solace in the fact that a lot of the best-known sneaker brands already offer their signature styles in wide or double-wide widths, which means you can continue to match them to both your workout leggings and casual summer tennis dresses.

To help make the shopping process easier for you, I went ahead and researched the most comfortable sneakers to fit your widths you don’t have to, consulting the likes of Runner’s World as well as customer reviews. Below, shop the 15 best sneakers for wide feet.

When it comes to sneakers for wide feet, New Balance is often top-rated across a variety of styles, and a favorite brand amongst reviewers. The latest in the Made in USA series, this 990v6 is upgraded with midsole FuelCell cushioning to propel all of your steps forward, all day long. This particular style is available in four different widths and tends to run a little large, so check out New Balance’s online measuring guide and consider sizing down.

Sizes: 5-12

Colors: Grey, Black/White

Material: Pigskin suede, rubber, synthetic

Widths: Narrow, Standard, Wide, X-Wide

Customer review: “I’m a hard-to-fit size—women’s 6.5 EE. New Balance is the one brand that has faithfully made the 990 in my size and width...what a relief. This is the only shoe that keeps my little Fred Flintstone feet running mile after mile.”

These cute, casual sneakers have a 4.7-star rating from over 2,100 reviews and a 94 percent recommendation rating. Not only do they boast memory foam insoles and breathable canvas, but every purchase also means a donation to shelter animals in need. So there’s no reason not to buy these.

Sizes: 5-11

Colors: 10 options

Material: Canvas

Widths: Medium, Wide

Customer review: “I already had a pair of Bob’s B Cute in Navy, so when I had room for a new pair of shoes, it was just a matter of choosing which color appealed most. These are comfortable from the get-go, no breaking-in needed. Breathable, comfortable, chic, and each purchase benefits animals. What’s not to love!”

As the brand behind the original skater sneaker that never goes out of style, Vans now makes a few of its signature styles in multiple widths.

Sizes: 5-17.5

Colors: True White, Black, Black/White

Material: Canvas, rubber

Widths: Regular, Wide

Customer review: “Really happy that Vans FINALLY put out a wide version. At this point I’ll never go back to the original, I no longer get pinches in the toe box after wearing them and walking around all day.”

Skechers is almost synonymous with comfort, and these athletic knit sneakers are especially adaptive to wide feet that are always on the move (in other words, it’s one of the best walking shoes out there).

Sizes: 5-13

Colors: 31 options

Material: Textile, synthetic

Widths: Standard, Wide

Customer review: “I have been looking for a good arch support athletic shoe that didn’t cost an astronomical amount of $$$. These are so comfortable! Walked three miles the first time wearing and had no foot or leg pain. Highly recommend.”

If you need more concentrated support, this orthotic-fit sneaker is equipped with a premium insole and arch support to relieve pain and benefit over 20 podiatric conditions—like arthritis, heel pain, achilles tendonitis, and plantar fasciitis.

Sizes: 5-12

Colors: 8 options

Material: Synthetic, knit fabric

Widths: Standard, Wide, Extra Wide

Customer review: “I rarely write reviews but I felt I needed to after we had tried so many shoes for arch support and none worked as well as these. They are comfortable and lightweight, supportive and flexible with decent grip.”

The highly-anticipated Gel-Kayano 30 provides a host of supportive features in addition to its sleek design. If you’re susceptible to overpronation (meaning your foot rolls slightly inward when you walk or run), this sneaker assists with stability and controlled impact through gel foams, eco-cushioning, and an adaptive 4D guidance system.

Sizes: 5-13

Colors: Black/Sheet Rock, Black/Glow, Black/Lilac, Rose Dust/Light Garnet

Material: Recycled materials

Widths: Narrow, Standard, Wide

Customer review: “WOW WOW WOW! The best stability trainers on the planet. The difference between the 29’s to 30’s is huge! The comfort, fit, and bounce of the shoe have improved massively. I can’t wait to put these on and run!”

Easy come, easy go. You don’t fully appreciate the convenience of a slip-on until you’re running out the door with untied or too-tight laces. Try this style from Rykä that focuses on shock absorption and comfort for wide or double wide sizes.

Sizes: 5-12

Colors: 7 options

Material: Textile, rubber

Widths: Medium, Wide

Customer review: “This was love at first wear; these fit perfectly. They hug your heel and slide on easily; this is rare for me as I have a very high instep. I ordered the wide and my feet are so happy. Feel great, look nice, win all around.”

Take a hike in these all-terrain trail sneakers that host plenty of features for taking on the great outdoors. Balanced cushioning, outsole lugs, and a roomy toe box enable you to conquer the toughest terrain and power through your next adventure.

Sizes: 5.5-12

Colors: 8 options

Material: Mesh, nylon, rubber

Widths: Standard, Wide

Customer review: “Love these shoes. Wet, dry, sandy, muddy, rocky, doesn’t matter they eat up rough terrain. Took these hiking in Peru through the Inca Trail up to Macchu Picchu and they were golden. They were excellent through the Lava Rocks in the Galapagos and kept me steady through all the trails in Zion. Best trail shoes ever!!!”

First debuted in 1916, the iconic Champion sneaker offers everyday style and all day comfort.

Sizes: 4-13

Colors: White, Navy, Grey, Black, Red, Black/Black

Material: Canvas, twill, rubber

Widths: Standard, Medium, Wide, X-Wide

Customer review: “Keds are such a classic staple piece to have! Love the fact that they now come in wide and extra wide so I finally get to enjoy them. Comfort at its best!”

The latest and greatest in Hoka’s award-winning Clifton franchise, the Clifton 9 is consciously crafted to improve your everyday runs and keep you lighter on your feet.

Sizes: 5-12

Colors: Airy Blue/Ice Water, White, Sand/Eggnog, Black/White, Ocean/Lilac

Material: Knit fabric, rubber

Widths: Standard, Wide

Customer review: “This is probably my 10th pair of Cliftons, and they just get better and better! They’re the perfect balance of comfort and stability.”

Pay homage to the trend that’s welcomed by all ailing feet, the ’90s dad sneaker. Embrace your inner tourist with this version from Easy Spirit, which is also available in an extra-wide width.

Sizes: 5-12

Colors: White, Black/Dark Grey, Light Grey, Indigo, White/Light Grey, White/Blue

Material: Leather/suede, rubber

Widths: Narrow, Medium, Wide, Extra Wide

Customer review: “The best sneaker for not only arch support but for the entire foot. Love the footbed in this shoe!”

If you need an extra-wide fit, you can comfortably put on the miles in the Brooks Ghost 15 sneaker, which was a 2023 Runner’s World Shoe Awards winner.

Sizes: 5-13

Colors: 35 options

Material: Mesh upper, recycled materials, rubber

Widths: Narrow, Medium, Wide, Extra Wide

Customer review: “Love the Ghost 15 even more than the 14 (which I didn’t think was possible). Fits my foot so well, right amount of cushion, great breathability and the toe box room is great! Love em!”

Given the stamp of approval from the American Podiatric Medical Association, these planet-friendly sneakers from Jambu are an apt choice whether you’re adventuring outdoors or just venturing to the grocery store.

Sizes: 6-12

Colors: Olive/Butter, Brown/Tan, Black/Grey, Navy/Pistachio

Material: Mesh, recycled polyurethane, EVA

Widths: Standard, Wide

Customer review: “I was really surprised on how well these fit and how they made my feet feel. They are vegan made and look like they’ll hold up really well!”

Classy and clean cut, these platform tennis sneakers will put a fresh and sporty spin on your favorite sundress or flowy floral midi skirt.

Sizes: 5-12

Colors: White, White/Rose, Taupe, Silver

Material: Leather, synthetic

Widths: Medium, Wide

Customer review: “So comfortable & stylish. Love the height of them, and the splash of color on the back.”

While Cariama doesn’t carry width-specific shoes, users praising this sneaker’s ability to cure wide-feet woes made up a noticeable amount of the 8,400 glowing reviews.

Sizes: 5-13

Colors: 15 options

Material: Cotton canvas, recycled material, rubber

Widths: Standard

Customer review: “So far, these shoes have been the most comfortable shoes I’ve worn. I included the additional soles and this is definitely beating the competition. Also, knowing your purchase is for a great cause makes it better by giving back. I will be buying again!”

Shopping for wide feet may present a little bit more of a challenge, but lots of brands produce styles in wide (or even extra-wide) widths and extended sizes. Shoes can vary between brands, and some may run notoriously wide or narrow even for standard sizes, so it’s a good idea to actually measure your feet before deciding on a width. You can use an online measuring guide like this one to determine if you actually fall into the “wide feet” category. That way, you can reference any sizing guides before making a new purchase.

Wide feet or not, sneakers are usually the recommended footwear choice across the board—as long as they provide enough cushion and support. If you do have wider feet, try to stay away from particularly narrow styles like pointed or peep-toe heels and pumps, since these can be a tough fit for even standard-sized feet.

If you do happen to have wide feet, no need to raise alarm bells. Wide feet in themselves are pretty common and usually not a cause for podiatric concern. However, if you don’t provide substantial support or consistently cram your tootsies into shoes that are too small and narrow, you could run into trouble—in the form of bunions, blisters, swelling, and hammertoes (no bueno).

Wide feet are also a common byproduct of having flat feet, so if you fall into that category make sure you’re buying footwear with adequate midfoot support and stability. If you are experiencing persistent foot or ankle pain, be sure to consult a doctor or podiatrist.

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