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The 10 Best Running Shoes for Wide Feet for Comfortable, Pain-Free Runs

Recommended and approved by our expert running coach

By
Christine Luff, ACE-CPT
Christine Luff
Christine Luff, ACE-CPT
Christine Many Luff is a personal trainer, fitness nutrition specialist, and Road Runners Club of America Certified Coach.
Learn about our editorial process
Updated on March 05, 2024
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by
Rich Scherr
Rich Scherr
Fact checked by Rich Scherr

Rich Scherr is a seasoned journalist who has covered technology, finance, sports, and lifestyle.

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A collage of running shoes for wide feet we recommend on a colorful background

Verywell Fit / Reese Herrington

If you have naturally wide feet or they tend to swell a lot while running, finding the right running shoe is key to staying comfortable and pain-free on the run. Running shoes should feel comfortable from the start, with no break-in period required. If they’re too tight, it could lead to pain, blisters, corns, calluses, bruised toenails, ingrown toenails, and more, according to podiatrist Michelle Castiello, DPM. An improper fit may also cause toe numbness or tingling and even affect the running gait of wide-footed runners.

Fortunately, many of the top running shoe companies offer models with wide and extra-wide sizes to accommodate those who need the extra space. They typically have the same features and price as the regular-width versions of the shoes, but offer a roomier toe box and midfoot. To find the best running shoes for wide feet, we researched dozens of options from top-selling brands and evaluated them based on several key features. We also pulled several wide-feet friendly products from our recent shoe tests.

In This Article
Pros

  • Excellent cushioning

  • Lightweight and bouncy

  • Good traction

Cons

  • Thick sole

  • Runs big

New Balance specializes in shoes for wide feet, so it makes sense that one of their high-performance running shoes takes our best overall spot. The Fresh Foam X 1080v12 is designed for slightly wider than average feet, giving runners extra space in the toe box. It also comes in wide and extra-wide sizes for those who need even more room.

Designed to keep your feet comfortable with plush landings and springy push-offs, the shoe’s full-length cushioning cradles the foot from heel to toe. When we tested this shoe, we found it offers the perfect balance of soft comfort and springiness. Additionally, the rubber outsole has good traction and stability when running on roads, sidewalks, and trails, as well as in all types of weather conditions. The shoe does have a chunky sole, which might not be aesthetically pleasing to some wearers, but we appreciate the support and comfort it provides.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon and New Balance.

Sizes: 
Key Specs:Women’s 5-13, Men’s 7-16 | Weight: 8.3 ounces | Drop: 8 millimeters | Cushioning: Maximum

  • Person running on a trail in the woods while wearing New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12 shoes

    Verywell Fit / Holly Klamer

  • Person wearing New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12 shoes standing on the ground

    Verywell Fit / Holly Klamer

  • New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12 shoes sitting on the floor

    Verywell Fit / Holly Klamer

Pros

  • Excellent cushioning

  • Very comfortable fit

  • Lightweight and supportive

Cons

  • Pricier than some other options

Hoka’s Clifton 9 offers the perfect combination of plush cushioning and lightweight support—making it one of the most popular running shoes on the market today. Some Hoka running shoes are only available in regular widths, but the Clifton 9 does offer a wide option in an extensive range of sizes and colors. Runners with wide feet will appreciate the roomy toe box and soft yet responsive foam cushioning that’s perfect for everyday training.

We love the mesh upper, which offers a secure fit and barely-there feel, while conforming to the shape of the foot. It provides additional comfort, as do the padded collar and tongue. The toe box is spacious, with plenty of room for toes to splay out. Meanwhile, the shoe’s abrasion-resistant rubber outsole can handle tough pavement runs, adding to the shoe’s durability. 

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon and Hoka.

Sizes: 
Key Specs:Women’s 5-12, Men’s 7-15 | Weight: 7.3 ounces | Drop: 3 millimeters | Cushioning: Soft yet responsive

Pros

  • Comfortable and supportive

  • Upper conforms to your foot

  • Made with recycled materials

Cons

  • May feel stiff at first

Comfortable and energetic, the Asics GT-2000 11 is a dependable option for daily training. It’s available in regular, wide, and extra-wide sizes and features a spacious toe box that gives runners plenty of room for their toes to splay.

The GT-2000 11 offers a generous amount of cushioning to help protect your joints without making the shoe too heavy. Plus, the shoes’ gel cushioning in the heel delivers extra comfort and shock absorption for that area. When testing these shoes, they felt comfortable and responsive, offering just the right amount of bounce when running. Made of at least 50% recycled polyester, the shoe's breathable mesh upper adapts to the foot's shape, offering a secure fit.

Key Specs: 
Sizes: Women’s 5-12, Men's 7-15 | Weight: 9.7 ounces | Drop: 8 millimeters | Cushioning: Moderate

Best for Long-Distance Running

On Cloudstratus

On Women's Cloudstratus

On

View On On-running.com
Pros

  • Excellent cushioning

  • Supportive for distance running

  • Sleek, stylish design

Cons

  • Pricier than some other options

  • Heavy

Distance runners need plenty of room in the toe box, since feet tend to swell during long runs. On Running’s Cloudstratus running shoe has a spacious forefoot, while also delivering the comfort, support, and reliable traction that’s necessary for high mileage running.

With full-length, maximum cushioning, the shoe offers a plush underfoot for good impact absorption and comfort. Plus, the plastic in the midsole provides a responsive foundation for springy push-offs when you’re ready to pick up the pace. What’s more, Cloudstratus’ durable rubber outsole is extremely grippy, providing outstanding traction on the pavement and keeping distance runners prepared for changing conditions.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon and On Running.

Key Specs:
Sizes: Women’s 5-11, Men’s 7-14 | Weight: 10.7 ounces | Drop: 6 millimeters | Cushioning: Maximum

Pros

  • Provides good motion control

  • Comes in four widths

  • Has reflective accents

Cons

  • Not for neutral runners

Another popular New Balance shoe for wide-footed runners, the Fresh Foam X 860v13 is known for its flat feet-friendly features. It provides supportive cushioning in the arch area, as well as a medial post to keep your foot from overpronating, or rolling inward with each stride. And even though it’s a stability shoe, it still has plenty of plush, comfortable cushioning that provides energetic toe-offs.

The shoe’s structured and breathable engineered mesh upper feels soft and supportive. It also comes in narrow, regular, wide, and extra-wide options, so you can find your perfect fit. Plus, the shoe has reflective accents to help you be seen when you’re running in low-light conditions.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon.

Sizes:
Key Specs: Women’s 5-13, Mens 7-16 | Weight: 8.6 ounces | Drop: 10 millimeters | Cushioning: Moderate

Pros

  • Good support and motion control

  • Excellent cushioning

  • Very comfortable fit

Cons

  • Heavier than some other options

  • High heel-to-toe drop may not work for some

If you need a wide running shoe that also offers supportive cushioning and good stability, Brooks’ Adrenaline GTS 22 is an excellent choice. The popular shoe helps overpronators run steady and smooth, thanks to its supportive construction that keeps excess movement in check. In addition to regular sizes, it comes in wide and extra wide and has a lot more color options than most wide running shoes.

The upper provides structure and support for your foot, while also offering enough flexibility to move with it. When we tested this shoe, we were impressed with its comfy fit and good support. We also like the shoe's responsiveness that provides good energy return, even towards the end of long runs.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon and Brooks.

Sizes: 
Key Specs:Women’s 5-12, Men’s 7-15 | Weight: 9 ounces | Drop: 12 millimeters | Cushioning: Soft yet responsive

  • Person stepping up on a block while wearing Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 Running Shoes

    Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples

  • Person standing on concrete while wearing Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 Running Shoes

    Verywell Fit / Michael Navarro

  • Person wearing Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 shoes walking on a treadmill

    Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples

  • Person putting on a Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 shoe

    Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples

  • Person holding the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22

    Verywell Fit / Tamara Staples

Pros

  • Excellent cushioning 

  • Excellent grip

  • Can also be used for hiking

Cons

  • Limited color options in wide 

  • Zero heel-to-toe drop may not work for some

Trail runners with wide feet need shoes with a secure, accurate fit, so they can stay steady while tackling rough terrain and hills. The Altra Lone Peak 7 trail running shoe comes in wide sizes and features the brand’s spacious, foot-shaped toe box that allows toes to react and splay for a more stable ride.

It also has balanced cushioning at the heel and forefoot, providing good protection when you’re running off-road. And the heel cup keeps your foot securely in place so you can stay confident on uneven ground. Like all Altra running shoes, the Lone Peak 7 features a zero millimeter heel-to-toe drop, which means the heel and forefoot are on the same level. They keep the foot in a natural position, which is good for trail running, but may not be comfortable for those who are used to heel striking.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon and Altra.

Key Specs:
Sizes: Women’s 5.5-12, Men’s 7-16 | Weight: 11 ounces | Drop: 0 millimeters | Cushioning: Moderate

Pros

  • Excellent shock absorption

  • Soft and breathable

  • Versatile

Cons

  • Not lightweight enough for speedwork

Another all-around performer from Brooks, the Ghost 15 offers soft cushioning and a smooth ride that make it a fan-favorite for road running. Its spacious toe box and wide sizes help prevent blisters, bunions, and other foot issues that are common among distance runners with wide feet.

Ideal for neutral runners, the Ghost 15 features high-energizing cushioning that can withstand the pounding of long runs on pavement or sidewalks. The shoe’s cushioning delivers exceptional shock absorption and plush comfort in the heel, while also offering a responsive feel in the forefoot. When testing this shoe, we were impressed with its exceptional support and cushioning. We also like the soft, breathable, and stretchy upper, which offers a comfortable fit and helps with blister prevention.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon and Brooks. 

Key Specs: 
Sizes: Women’s 5-13, Men’s 7-15 | Weight: 9.1 ounces | Drop: 12 millimeters | Cushioning: Moderate

Pros

  • Excellent cushioning

  • Versatile

  • Budget-friendly

Cons

  • High heel-to-toe drop may not work for some

Finding high-quality, affordable running shoes in wide sizes is not easy, but Saucony’s Cohesion 15 is a great option for everyday training. It’s available in two widths and has a spacious toe box that allows your toes to splay, helping to boost your stability and push-offs. The shoe’s moderate cushioning helps absorb shock from impact and provides overall comfort. 

Meanwhile, the light and breathable mesh upper keeps your feet fresh and cool during warm weather runs, and a rubber outsole adds to the shoe’s durability. With a 12-millimeter heel-to-toe drop, the Cohesion 15 will work well for heel strikers, but may not be the best fit for midfoot or forefoot runners. Overall, it’s a solid choice for road or treadmill runners or walkers, as well as anyone who needs a dependable, comfortable shoe for spending lots of time on their feet.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon and Zappos. 

Key Specs: 
Sizes: Women’s 5-12, Men’s 7-15 | Weight: 9.1 ounces | Drop: 12 millimeters | Cushioning: Moderate

Pros

  • Very lightweight

  • Comfortable, secure fit

  • Excellent cushioned

Cons

  • Not as durable as heavier shoes 

  • Tongue is thin

Another popular wide-foot friendly Hoka running shoe, the Rincon 3 is remarkably lightweight, despite its plush and supportive cushioning. Whether you’re new to running or training for another marathon, it’s a versatile option for short or long distance runs on all surfaces. 

The shoe’s rocker shape provides super-smooth landings and efficient turnovers, while allowing for a natural gait. Plus, the engineered-knit upper conforms to the shape of the foot for a custom-like fit. The shoe is also very breathable, keeping your feet cool no matter how far you’re running. The thin, lightweight tongue is not as plush as some other options, but it does give your foot a secure lockdown.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon and Hoka.

Sizes: 
Key Specs:Women’s 5-12, Men’s 7-16 | Weight: 7.7 ounces | Drop: 5 millimeters | Cushioning: Soft yet responsive

How We Selected the Best Running Shoes for Wide Feet

To choose the best running shoes for wide feet, we first asked two podiatrists for their expert advice on what to look for when selecting a pair. Then, we researched dozens of shoes from top brands and evaluated them for fit, comfort, support, purpose, cushioning, breathability, price, and more. We also pulled wide-foot friendly picks from our recent shoe tests, in which we wear-tested the products over the course of several weeks and evaluated each for comfort, cushioning/knee protection, responsiveness, stability, and overall value. 

Our Experts

We spoke to two podiatrists to help us identify which key features to look for in running shoes for runners with wide feet, and which shoe features they should avoid. We also noted specific brands of shoes they recommend for runners with wide feet. Read on for more about our experts:

  • 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

What to Look For in Running Shoes for Wide Feet

Fit 

Finding the right fit in running shoes can be a challenge if you have wide feet. Even when a running shoe has several width options, it can be tough to determine if you need a wide or extra-wide size. And shoe companies often cut their shoes differently, so don’t assume that sizes and widths will be the same across various brands, says Dr. Castiello.

When trying on running shoes, be sure to not just measure the length of your foot, but also the width, says Dr. Ferrigno-Taddeo, who also recommends trying on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are already swollen, for a more accurate fit. Running shoes should fit your feet snugly and securely, without feeling too loose or tight. 

Make sure you 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 your feet swell while running. Additionally, the heel should fit snugly without any slipping or rubbing, according to Dr. Ferrigno-Taddeo.

Comfort

While the right fit is essential, the shoe’s cushioning is also important for optimal comfort. The amount of cushioning is a matter of personal preference, so you should consider whether you want plush softness or a more bouncy feel. Some runners prefer firm, lightweight cushioning that’s springy and responsive for speedwork and racing. 

For longer distances, thicker cushioning will provide comfort and impact absorption to alleviate the harsh pounding that comes with each strife. Fortunately, wide running shoes are available with all levels of cushioning. If cushioning is important to you, we recommend Hoka’s Clifton 9.

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

You’ll definitely want to consider what surfaces you’ll be running on to choose the right pair for you, says Dr. Castiello. If you typically run on the treadmill, look for running shoes that are lightweight, breathable, and responsive. 

For running on pavement, you’ll 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 Dr. Castiello. 

Brooks’ Ghost 15 is a great option for road runners, and for trail runners, we recommend Altra’s Lone Peak 7. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you know if you need a wide running shoe?

If you have a wide foot, you may get frequent foot blisters or experience discomfort or pain when wearing a standard width shoe. 

“Signs that you may need a wide running shoe include feeling that your toes are cramped and experience tingling or numbness in your feet or toes,” Dr. Ferrigno-Taddeo says. “Additionally, if you have bunions or other foot deformities, such as hammertoes, a wide running shoe may be necessary.”

What happens if your running shoe is 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 increased risk of ankle or foot injuries, so it’s important to make sure your running shoes offer a snug and secure fit. 

Which brand of running shoe is best for wide feet?

While most major running shoe brands offer some options for wide feet, New Balance and Brooks are well-known for their extensive range of sizes and widths. 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.

How much can you expect to pay for wide running shoes?

High-quality running shoes from trusted brands that offer wide sizes usually come with a premium price—but there are some bargains to be found. In general, you should expect to pay between $75 and $170 for a pair of high-performance, wide running shoes that are comfortable and durable.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Christine Luff, ACE-CPT has more than 20 years of experience writing and editing health and fitness content and product recommendations. As a certified personal trainer, running coach, and avid runner, she’s always researching and testing running shoes.

2 Sources
Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

  1. Malisoux L, Chambon N, Delattre N, et al. Injury risk in runners using standard or motion control shoes: a randomised controlled trial with participant and assessor blinding. British Journal of Sports Medicine. 2016;50:481-487.

  2. American Podiatric Medical Association. Which Running Shoe Is Right for You?

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