The Best Running Shoes for Wide Feet in 2023
We know that runners come in every shape and size, which means their feet do, too. That’s why it’s important to find a shoe designed to meet your individual needs, which is especially true if you have wide feet.
Wide feet aren’t a problem, but if your shoe is designed for somebody with standard or narrow feet, you’ll be uncomfortable and be thoroughly unmotivated to run. One issue with having wide feet is that not every running shoe comes in a wide version.
Below, we’ve rounded up ten running shoes known for being comfortable (and made) for wide feet. Some of these are great for performance, some are stability shoes, and all are quality additions to your running gear collection.
One thing to consider is that these are all wide shoes, meaning they are wide from the front all the way to the back. Sometimes, runners want a wide shoe to have enough room for toes to wiggle around. But if you have narrow feet, or a narrow heel, your feet will slip around in a wide shoe.
Your best bet is to find a shoe with a wide toe box. If that fits your needs, check out this article with the best wide toe box running shoes.
Ready to hit the road? Let’s get started!
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MOST CUSHIONED
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MOST CUSHIONED
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HOKA ONE ONE BONDI 8
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CHECK MEN’S PRICECHECK WOMEN’S PRICE |
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MOST WIDTH OPTIONS
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MOST WIDTH OPTIONS
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NEW BALANCE 990V5
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CHECK MEN’S PRICECHECK WOMEN’S PRICE |
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MOST SUPPORTIVE
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MOST SUPPORTIVE
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BROOKS ADDICTION GTS 15
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CHECK MEN’S PRICECHECK WOMEN’S PRICE |
Most Cushioned Running Shoe for Wide Feet
1. Hoka One One Bondi 8
This shoe has also been a top contender for runners with high arches and runners with bad knees. Part of the reason is its wide platform and high cushioning. This isn’t a shoe that will make you feel like you’ve “run out of shoe” for your foot.
With a heel stack height of 39mm, the Bondi is one of the tallest shoes on the market – that’s almost two inches of pure cushion! Cushioning feels soft at the heel and extremely soft at the forefoot, so if you’ve been frustrated in the past by shoes that don’t have enough padding, this is a great option.
The Bondi utilizes Hoka’s full-EVA midsole and early stage Meta-Rocker technology to guide your foot through a natural and correct gait cycle and avoid unnecessary discomfort and torsion.
The Bondi 8 itself is fairly wide and oversized. Even you need additional width, it also comes in wide sizing.
PROS:
- Stability shoe with very high cushioning levels for comfort and distance running
- Meta-Rocker technology for a smooth running stride
- Best on pavement and treadmills, ok on very light trails
CONS:
- Tall with thick sole – not suitable for anything besides running or light gym
- Thick tongue might make using heel lock lacing technique uncomfortable
Most Durable Running Shoe for Wide Feet
2. Brooks Ghost 15
The Ghost is a favorite of neutral runners, evidenced by it being one of the best-selling running shoes in the entire market. A Runner’s World “Editor’s Choice” award winner, the Ghost is designed specifically for men and women who want a cushioned and supportive everyday trainer.
The Ghost 15 has a wide toe box as is, and a mesh upper for a great fit. But for wide feet, it also comes in three widths: standard, wide, and extra-wide.
The DNA Loft foam midsole provides support without collapsing under pressure. It’s also fairly lightweight, and reviewers appreciate that it conforms to their feet without added pressure or hot spots.
Considering the miles runners have put on this shoe, you can be confident it will go the distance for you, too.
PROS:
- Omega Flex Grooves provide natural-feel flexibility
- Great arch support
- Engineered mesh upper for strong support without additional weight
- Good tread makes it decent for trails
CONS:
- If you want a snug toe box, the shoe is fairly wide near the toes
Top Running Shoe for Wide Feet and Orthotics
3. Saucony Echelon 9
The Echelon 9 belongs to Saucony’s neutral running shoe line, but it’s got enough padding and support that it could almost be considered a stability shoe. The Echelon proves itself to be a wide, stable platform for a neutral runner and benefits from most of Saucony’s latest tech.
The PWRRUN midsole foam provides an extra cushion in the heel pad and along the length of the sole. It gets comfort closer to your foot for exceptional energy return that the company claims won’t break down over time. The sole has a triflex design that offers greater durability, perfect if you’ll be logging a lot of miles.
This shoe is roomy with a wide toe box and it readily accepts orthotics. It also comes in wide in both men’s and women’s and extra wide in men’s, so you can be assured of a great fit.
PROS:
- Lots of room for full length orthotics
- Mesh upper with FlexFilm in a no-sew process to add support and reduce irritation
- Very soft cushion feel in the heel and forefoot
CONS:
- Some find the synthetic upper uncomfortable
Widest Running Shoe for Wide Feet
4. New Balance 990v5
What stands out immediately about this 30-year-old design is that the New Balance 990v5 comes in six different widths for men and four different widths for women. Men can find their size in X-Narrow, Narrow, Standard, Wide, X-Wide, and XX-Wide, and women can select from Narrow, Standard, Wide, and X-Wide.
Also, this sturdy, cushion-packed shoe is renowned for its durability, lasting mile after mile after mile. Its durability comes from the blown rubber outsole, EVA and ENCAP technology in the midsole, and a pigskin/mesh upper. You won’t have to replace this shoe anytime soon.
While the 990s tend to look bulky, many runners ultimately don’t mind the tradeoff for high levels of all-day comfort and a customized feel for wide feet.
This is also one of the few remaining shoes that is still 100% manufactured in the United States.
PROS:
- These shoes are part of New Balance’s made in the USA line
- Multiple widths to choose from in men’s and women’s sizes
- Extremely durable and sturdy
CONS:
- Not very breathable
Best New Balance Motion Control Running Shoe for Wide Feet
5. New Balance 1540v2
New Balance does a great job designing for the needs of wide feet, and 1540 is no exception. This model comes in five widths for men and women: Narrow, Standard, Wide, X-Wide, and XX-Wide.
The benefits don’t stop there. 1540 is a stability shoe, and New Balance has loaded it with features to help support proper alignment, reduce impact to your ankles, shins, and knees, and keep your foot from rolling in (pronating). The shoe’s Roller posting system places two posts inside the heel on either side with a composite plate between the two to provide top-notch motion control.
The 1540s upper is breathable, no-sew mesh with synthetic overlays to help lock your foot in place.
PROS:
- Removable footbed for added comfort that you can replace with your own orthotic if desired
- Flex grooves in sole for added flexibility in the forefoot
- Classic style profile
CONS:
- At 14oz, this is one of the heaviest shoes we’re reviewing today
Best Brooks Motion Control Running Shoe for Wide Feet
6. Brooks Addiction GTS 14
One of Brooks’ most stable motion control shoes, the Addiction GTS 15 provides stability and support even for the widest foot. In particular, it takes orthotics very well, so if you’re looking for a way to help with flat feet or special problems, this is a great option for you.
The Addiction has a high heel-to-toe drop which brings a high level of comfort throughout your feet and lower extremities. Reviewers report a soft, springy, bouncy energy return, a testament to the DNA foam Brooks uses to pad and cushion your sole.
Brooks also utilizes Crash Pad technology in the heel to help you minimize impact and carry smooth transitions from the heel to the toes without the arch collapsing. You’ll find superior motion control in this shoe, perfect if you overpronate.
PROS:
- Plush, luxurious feel
- Comes in four widths for men and women (Narrow, Normal, Wide, and Extra Wide)
- Made with Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar (PDRB) technology to increase motion control
- Perfect for flat feet
CONS:
- 13oz make this a heavy shoe
- Won’t be suitable for high arches
Best Zero Drop Running Shoe for Wide Feet
7. Altra Torin 6
Altra is known for creating zero drop shoes (heel and forefoot are the same height) with foot-shaped toe boxes to promote natural running styles. This builds up the muscles in your foot, and allows your toes to splay for more natural form. The wide toe box has the added benefit of supporting runners with wide feet.
Designed as a long distance running shoe, the Torin 6 has high levels of cushion and comfort. With a thick midsole, it gets lots of cushioning but keeps a responsive feel. It’s great if you’re planning on using your shoes for activities beyond running such as weight lifting or cross-training.
Altra uses a blend of EVA and new Quantic cushioning to maintain a low weight and still provide the kind of high cushion you need to support your feet, including your arch.
The latest version of the Torin comes with a new, improved soft midsole for the most cushioned ride yet – plus an enhanced upper.
PROS:
- One of the few companies to design specifically for men and women, so you can trust you’re not getting a “unisex” fit
- Comfortable knit mesh on the upper
- Super soft and cushioned
CONS:
- Shoe feels somewhat stiff, likely due to high levels of cushioning
- Medium width in heel and midfoot
Best Asics Running Shoe for Wide Feet
8. Asics GT-2000 10
The 2000 series from Asics was designed for feet with mild to moderate roll out (pronation). At just 10.5oz, it’s lighter than most stability shoes which makes it comfortable and sleek on the road.
Thanks to the Asics Trusstic System technology, the strong outer sole is able to provide significant support to the midsole and medial arch, which is especially prone to break down when you’ve got wider feet putting pressure on an area that’s traditionally ignored during shoe manufacturing.
The GT-2000 utilizes FlyteFoam in the midsole to lessen the weight while upping the comfort factor, and the SpEVA soft layer that runs full length will create beautiful bounce-back for your knees, shins, ankles, and feet.
PROS:
- Seamless mesh upper provides ample room through midfoot and arch without sacrificing support
- Reviewers report exceptional durability
- Wider range of colors available
CONS:
- Not great for runners with high arches
Best Stability Running Shoe for Wide Feet
9. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS is another bestseller for Brooks, and the company has kept their popular changes made in version 19. In this shoe, you’ll again find Brooks’ four widths available for men and women (Narrow, Normal, Wide, and Extra Wide) so you can feel confident this shoe won’t be too narrow and uncomfortable for you.
In addition to lots of width availability, you’ll also experience a comfortable heel cup that works in tandem with a padded tongue for a locked-in-your foot feel. An engineered mesh upper provides further support and a dynamic fit to accommodate wider toes.
Continued in this version are guide rails that replace traditional support found the midsole. Guide rails allow for a more custom type of stability. The shoes only correct for as much overpronation as you need. If you are a mild overpronator, the shoes provide gentle support. If you overpronate more, they allow for more support. Guide rails also decrease the weight of the shoes. They provide better, more even wear on the shoes.
You’ll find that this is a stability shoe that will help if you overpronate mildly, but you’ll also find that this shoe feels natural. At just 10oz, the Adrenaline is practically a featherweight in its category!
PROS:
- Variety of widths available for a custom fit
- Lightweight
- Custom support
CONS:
- Its extra stability features might not be appropriate for runners with medium to high arches
Lightest Hoka One One Running Shoes for Wide Feet
10. Hoka One One Clifton 9
Rounding out this best-of-list is the Hoka One One Clifton 9, which strikes a balanced note between cushion and weight. If you’re tired of feeling like you’ve got bricks strapped to your feet, you’re going to love that this model rings in at just 9 oz (on a men’s size 9).
Despite its lightweight, the Clifton still has a whopping 37mm of cushion at the heel. This padding extends throughout the midsole to provide superior energy transfer so you’re not feeling pressure in certain points and increasing the likelihood of energy. Reviewers appreciate this shoe’s responsiveness, despite all that cushion.
In addition, to support underneath your foot, you’ll find a firm, breathable mesh that helps hold your foot over the platform to make sure you’re not losing support where you need it the most.
PROS:
- Stylish aesthetic
- Reviewers report good toe-off from the forefoot
- Extremely durable over hundreds of miles
- Upgraded foam package for superior cushioning
CONS:
- Not be ideal for heavy runners
FAQ
How wide should my running shoes be?
Unlike shoe length (i.e. your standard shoe size), the width of your running shoes is much more subjective. Some people have wide feet and truly need a wide or extra wide running shoe. But some runners straddle the line between standard and wide sizes and can alternate between the two depending on running shoe model.
So how do you know if you need a wide shoe or not?
If you try on a shoe and it feels tight and restrictive on the sides of your feet, you should try a wide (or extra wide). Or if the sides of your feet hang over the foam in the midsole, you should also try a wide.
On the flip side, if you try on a wide running shoe and your heel slips in the collar, you may not need a wide.
Ultimately, if you can fit your foot in the shoe and it feels comfortable, that’s the true test of whether a wide is needed or not. Brannock devices, meant to measure length and width, are a good starting point but aren’t always accurate.
Some runners have more sensitive feet than others and need a wider shoe. The shape of a shoe (also known as the last) plays a role in whether you need a wide shoe. Running shoes that are cut wider in the toe box (like most Brooks and New Balance) may allow enough give to prevent a runner from going into wide sizes.
There are also runners who like the feel of a wide shoe in the toe area. Usually, this is personal preference or due to bunions or some other foot issue. In these cases, look for a running shoe that’s wide in the toe box (like the Brooks or New Balance we just mentioned – Altra is also a good option) but has a standard width in the heel. You could also try a wide shoe but keep in mind the heel gets wider and your foot might slip out the back.
What does the wide letter sizing mean?
Unlike length sizing which runs in half size numbers (9, 9.5, 10, etc), wide running shoes use letters for sizing. In order from narrowest to widest, these letters are:
- AA – women’s narrow
- B – men’s narrow, women’s medium
- D – men’s medium, women’s wide
- EE – men’s wide, women’s extra wide
- EEEE – men’s extra wide
- EEEEEE – men’s extra, extra wide (not common and hard to find in running shoes)
As you can see, width sizing is different for men and women’s shoes. It’s for this reason, that women who require a wide can also wear a men’s shoe to get some extra width. Just remember there is a 1.5 size difference between women’s and men’s shoes. Women’s shoes are sized 1.5 larger than men’s. For example, a men’s 8.5 is equivalent to a women’s size 10.
For women who need a wide shoe, you can often get more shoe options if you are open to wearing a men’s shoe (which is often just a different color). If you needed a women’s size 9 wide (D-width), that is the same as a men’s size 7.5 medium (D-width).
Do trail running shoes come in wide?
There are a few models that do – but many trail shoes are only offered in the standard, medium widths.
It can take some sleuthing to find the trail shoes offered in wide. In our experience, New Balance often has wide trail shoes. Altra – which has a wide toe box but standard width heel – is another brand that can accommodate a wider foot.
And for runners who love the popular Salomon Speedcross, these also now come in wide.
Are some running shoe brands wider than others?
As a general rule, New Balance not only makes many running shoes in various widths (from wide to extra wide) but they also have a wider toe box than many other brands.
Brooks is another running shoe brand that has a wider toe box and also offers many of their models in a wide or extra wide.
Altra and Topo – two footwear brands that make running shoes that promote barefoot running – also have a very wide toe box. These go from wide to extra wide depending on the model.
There are also a few brands that tend to run narrow. Nike is notorious for making shoes that are very narrow. Asics is another brand that is tight in the midfoot and heel and may not be good for runners with wide feet.
What if my heels slip in wide running shoes?
If your heels slip, that’s often a sign that your running shoes are too wide. Try going down to a standard width or narrow.
Some runners need or want a running shoe with a lot of room in the toe box. In this case, you can change the lacing to lock your heel into the back of the shoe. This will prevent your heel from slipping while you run.
Use the last eyelet to feed the lace through to form a loop – do not cross the laces over as if you were tying them – keep them on the same side to form the loops. Do this on both sides of the shoe. Then, feed the laces across as if you were tying them. But before you start to tie them, feed the laces through the middle of the loops. Then pull the laces tightly down towards your heels, then upwards. This will snug your foot into the back of the shoe. Tie normally.
Does Hoka One One make wide running shoes?
Yes, they do. But not every model comes in wide. And Hoka’s wide sizes only come in wide – there is no extra wide or narrow widths. As a general rule, Hoka’s running shoes are fairly wide (compared to other running shoes) to begin with. So the wide shoes, get even wider.
Here are the Hoka running shoes offered in wide:
Does Salomon make wide running shoes?
Only in one model. But it happens to be their most popular trail shoe – the Speedcross 6.
Besides this shoe, no other Salomon shoes are made in wides.
What wide running shoes are good for bunions?
When you have bunions, you need a running shoe with plenty of room in the toe box to accommodate the bunions. But most runners have a standard size heel. The challenge is finding a shoe wide enough for the bunions but narrower in the heel.
If you just choose a wide running shoe, you’ll likely find your heel slips. This can sometimes be corrected with the lace lock we just mentioned; however, a better option might be a shoe with a different shape.
Altra running shoes are best known for their wide toe box and medium width heel. These feel great and come in various degrees of cushioning. But they also have a zero drop. This means the toe and heel are the same height. In most running shoes, the heel is slightly higher than the toe, producing a downward angle from heel to toe.
The zero drop in an Altra takes some getting used to. It helps if you land on your midfoot or ball of your foot, not your heel, when you run.
If you can’t get behind a zero drop shoe, try the Asics GT-2000. These running shoes have a standard width and drop, but include “bunion windows” that are designed to expand on the sides where bunions protrude.
For our full list of running shoes for bunions, check out this article for the best running shoes for bunions available now.
