What We’ve Updated

• Since publishing our initial tested roundup of the best running shoes for wide feet, we’ve reevaluated our previous picks and hands-on tested five new pairs, bringing our total tested shoes to over 150 pairs. We evaluated each shoe based on its fit, stability, responsiveness, cushioning, comfort, quality, and value, and have incorporated these new insights into our article.
• Based on our new testing insights, we’ve added three new superlatives and replaced four of our product picks, including Best Overall, Best for Trail Running, Best for Overpronation, and Best for Road Running. 
• We consulted two new experts, a podiatrist and a physical therapist, to make sure our advice on choosing the best running shoes for wide feet is accurate and up to date.

How to Choose Running Shoes for Wide Feet

• Width Options: Running shoes are typically available in narrow, medium, wide, or extra-wide widths. You may also see shoe widths represented as letters, such as DD (wide for women), E (extra-wide for women, wide for men), and EE (extra-wide for men). When shopping, keep in mind that shoe companies often cut their shoes differently, so don’t assume that sizes and widths will be the same across various brands, says Castiello. 
• Proper Size: When trying on running shoes, be sure to measure both the length of your foot and the width, says Ferrigno-Taddeo. You should have enough space in the toe box, about a half-inch, so your toes don’t hit the front of the shoe. Most runners, especially those with wide feet, need to go up at least a half size since the feet swell while running. Additionally, the heel should fit snugly without any slipping or rubbing.
• Toe Box Shape: It’s important that the shoe toe box is wide enough to accommodate your foot, but the toe box’s shape is also crucial for getting the best fit. Look for a toe box that matches the natural shape of your foot. You should also opt for shoes with a mesh or soft leather upper so they stretch over the increased width of your forefoot, recommends podiatrist Julie Schottenstein, DPM.
• Running Style: Your running style or gait is another important consideration when choosing the right running shoe. Runners with flat feet or low arches are more likely to overpronate, and stability shoes can offer stiff arch support to lightly control the inward rolling of their feet. High-arched runners tend to underpronate, or roll outward, so they’ll want a neutral running shoe with supportive cushioning (especially in the arch area) for improved shock absorption. Those with regular arches typically have a neutral gait and can choose a neutral running shoe.
• Terrain: Consider what surfaces you’ll be running on to choose the right running shoes for you. If you typically run on the treadmill, look for running shoes that are lightweight, breathable, and responsive. For running on pavement, you want a pair that’s light and flexible but also well-cushioned for impact protection. Meanwhile, trail running requires soles with rugged traction and lugs, or cleats, to grip the uneven surfaces, says Castiello. 

How We Tested the Running Shoes for Wide Feet

To find the best running shoes for wide feet, we tested over 150 pairs from top, trusted footwear brands on treadmills, roads, trails, and more. When testing running shoes, we evaluate each pair based on the following key criteria.

• Fit: When first trying on the shoes, we assess whether the toe box is wide enough to accommodate the natural shape and width of our feet. During test runs or walks, do we notice any rubbing, tingling, numbness, or irritation? We also determine whether the shoe feels secure and if our feet feel like they’re sliding around.
• Stability: We run and walk on a variety of surfaces (treadmills, pavement, trails, and more) and note whether we feel any knee or ankle instability. Is the arch support adequate, and does it help promote a natural gait? How deep is the heel cup? Is there enough support and shock absorption in that area? We prioritize shoes that help us feel steady and balanced on varied terrain.
• Responsiveness: During test walks and runs, we pay attention to each shoe’s level of responsiveness, or how well it propels us forward. Does the shoe feel springy when pushing off? Does it feel like a quick or slow transition to the next stride? Shoes earn high scores if they leave our feet and legs feeling refreshed instead of tired after running in them.
• Cushioning: During our test walks and runs, we assess how the cushioning feels. Is it plush or firm? How well does it absorb impact when our feet hit the ground? Do we notice any pain, discomfort, or fatigue in our joints, legs, and feet? If there’s any extra padding underneath the heel, in the tongue, or around the ankle collar, we note that, too.
• Comfort: We assess how the shoe’s width contributes to the overall comfort of the shoes and note if our toes feel jammed or crowded. Can we run or walk in the shoes without experiencing foot fatigue or discomfort? How does the upper material feel? Is it breathable, and do we notice any pressure points, rubbing, or irritating seams? We also note if the shoe’s cushioning and support meet our expectations for all-day comfort.
• Quality: We evaluate whether the shoes feel well-made and built to last mile after mile. Are they constructed with premium, durable materials, or do they feel flimsy? We also note any unexpected or unusual signs of wear, tear, or odor as we test each pair.
• Value: To fairly and accurately assess each pair’s value, we don't check the price until our testing is complete and we’ve evaluated it in all other areas. We determine whether we’d pay the shoes’ price or possibly more for them. Would we only buy them at a discounted price? We also consider how likely we are to use the shoes regularly and if we’d recommend them to others.

Our Experts

We consulted podiatrists and other foot experts to help us identify which key features to look for in running shoes for runners with wide feet and which to avoid. We also noted specific brands of shoes they recommend for runners with wide feet. While we select products independently, expert input helps inform our decisions.

• Michelle Castiello, DPM, podiatrist at White Plains Hospital in White Plains, New York
• Janine Ferrigno-Taddeo, DPM, podiatrist at St. Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston, New Jersey
• Milica McDowell, DPT, doctor of physical therapy, certified exercise physiologist, and healthcare and wellness entrepreneur
• Diana Valencia, DPM, podiatrist at NYC Foot and Ankle Center in New York City
• Julie Schottenstein, DPM, double board-certified podiatrist at The Schottenstein Center- Advanced Foot, Ankle, and Leg Care in Miami

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if running shoes are too wide? 

If your running shoe is too wide, your feet will slide around inside the shoe, which can lead to painful irritation and blisters. Too much movement may also lead to an increased risk of ankle or foot injuries, so it’s important to make sure your running shoes offer a snug and secure fit.  

What running shoes are good for wide feet? 

While most major running shoe brands offer some options for wide feet, Brooks and Saucony are well known for accommodating wider feet comfortably. If you have wide feet and are looking for high-quality, durable shoes for running or walking, both brands are an excellent place to start your search.

What shoes should I avoid if I have wide feet?

If you have wide feet, it’s important to avoid shoes that are poorly structured for your foot shape. Standard-width shoes, shoes with pointy or narrow toe box designs, and shoes made with materials that lack stretch and flexibility are all likely to cause discomfort for people with wider feet.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Alena Davis, ISSA-CPT, is a Verywell Fit writer and exercise enthusiast. As a former personal trainer and long-distance runner who walks and jogs daily, she knows a well-fitting pair of running shoes is key to a comfortable, confident stride. Her feet definitely swell when she’s cruising through her miles, so she relies on her Saucony Rides for the perfect amount of toe box room, plus luxurious cushioning and extra stability. She also found this pair particularly supportive during prenatal workouts as she navigated transitions in her foot shape and extra swelling due to the nature of pregnancy.  

Additional reporting contributed by Christine Luff, ACE-CPT

Christine Luff, ACE-CP, is a Verywell Fit writer, certified personal trainer, and running coach.  As an avid runner, she’s always on the lookout for a solid pair of supportive running shoes. For this article, Luff reviewed insights from our experts and the Verywell Fit testing team, and also hands-on tested our pick for high arches. To get the right fit for wide feet, she suggests visiting a running specialty store for a fitting and sticking to reputable brands, such as the ones featured in this roundup.