Top 5 Best Running Shoes For Wide Feet 2023:
So, you’ve got wide feet?
Be extra careful when choosing your running shoes, that’s all we have to say.
A common problem that wide feet runners face is buying shoes that are too narrow for them.
They usually do this out of ignorance, hoping that the shoes will stretch. However, this never happens, and their feet end up in a lot of pain.
Luckily, there are plenty of models out there designed for people like you, and you just have to learn how to recognize them.
This is where our article jumps in.
We’ve created a list of the best running shoes for wide feet that we could find, and we also included a little buying guide in there as well.
What To Know Before Buying Running Shoes For Wide Feet?
Like we said earlier, finding shoes for wide feet can be tricky, but it’s not as difficult as it may seem.
Still, to make it easier for you, we’ve searched far and wide and were able to pinpoint the factors that you need to think about before going shopping.
Want to find the perfect shoes on your first try?
Read the paragraphs below!
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1. Fit
The fit is the biggest issue that runners with wide feet face, so we’re going to discuss this factor first.
In the past, shoemakers did not pay too much attention to different types of feet, and most of them created “universal” shoes that, of course, didn’t suit everyone.
Now, as these companies progressed, they started to include a multitude of designs and fits, including wider models.
The problem that’s still present is that it’s impossible to make a perfect fit for everyone because everybody’s feet are a bit different. However, it is possible to find a design that’s going to be the most suitable for your specific foot shape.
So, where do you start?
To find a good, overall fit, think about both the forefoot and the rear. Try to find something that’ll be wide enough for the toes but snug in the back, so that your heel doesn’t slide around.
Also, think about how tight or loose you like the upper part of the forefoot to be, as this will have an enormous influence on how your feet feel in the shoe.
2. Comfort
The comfort of the shoe depends a great deal on how well it fits your feet, and we’ve covered that part in the previous section.
Now, we’d like to talk about other factors that have an impact on comfort.
Cushioning is one of the essential parts here, and you need to figure out how much of it you need.
Some models have uneven cushioning, which means that they place more in one part of the shoe and less in the other. Of course, there are shoes which have equal cushion spread throughout the sole, too.
Folks with flat feet will also want to look into models with more arch support, and this can be provided with either extra cushioning in the midsole area or a suitable insole.
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3. Stability
Stability is somewhat of an umbrella term that encompasses many aspects.
For example, outdoor runners will need anti-slip soles that create a lot of traction, so this is one feature that can be placed under the “stability” banner.
Other factors that make a shoe more stable include extra support beams, rock plates, and even cushioning. All of the above mentioned are crucial in preventing ankle twists as they will not allow your foot to roll sideways.
People who suffer from overpronation should look into the stability aspect with great detail as they need it badly.
4. Flexibility
If stability is the yin, then flexibility is the yang; its polar opposite.
Both of them have a purpose, and it is imperative to strike a balance between the two.
Why does this matter?
A shoe that’s too stable will not allow your feet to flex a lot, which will inhibit your ability to run as mother nature intended.
Just imagine yourself running in stiff, winter shoes – it just wouldn’t work, would it?
On the other hand, a shoe that’s too flexible will bring along its own set of issues. For instance, it will make you more prone to twists and will provide minimal shock absorption, akin to running barefoot.
You’ll be happy to hear that all of the models on our list are carefully selected to meet the stability and flexibility requirements.
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5. Durability
Nobody wants to buy new shoes after several months of use, and that’s why it’s important to think about the durability of the model you wish to purchase.
The crucial thing to know here is the type of terrain that you’ll be running on. Don’t buy road running shoes if you want to take them on trails, as you’ll likely destroy them very quickly. The same goes for the opposite.
Also, check out what the previous users have to say about the shoes in this regard. If people had bad experiences, you can be sure that they shared them online.
Another thing that you need to do is take proper care of your shoes. Wash them according to the manufacturer’s instructions, wear them with suitable socks, and you probably won’t have any issues.
6. Cost
Just like with any other product, we like to think that the shoes’ price is the measure of their quality. However, this isn’t always the case, as certain brands tend to sell way overpriced shoes.
With this being said, you should find a model with the optimal cost-to-quality ratio. A good way to do this would be to compare similar shoes from different brands and see how much they cost.
Models that are significantly more expensive than the rest in their category should spark a red light for you.
Of course, there’s nothing wrong with spending an extra few bucks if you can, just be aware that you probably won’t get a superior quality for the money.
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5 Best Running Shoes For Wide Feet In 2023: Detailed Reviews
Now that you’ve learned about all that it takes to find good running shoes, it is time to use that knowledge and pick the model that’s right for you.
To make the search short but effective, we’d like to present you with some of the top models of running shoes for wide feet.
Below, you’ll find detailed reviews of each pair, and all you have to do is read.
Let’s jump into it.
1. Brooks Ghost 12
Ghost 12 is a model from Brooks’ popular Ghost series, and it has been one of the best sellers of the company. This shoe is every wide foot’s dream, and now we’re going to put it under the magnifying glass.
As you could have guessed, this model has a wide toe box that will accommodate wide feet of all sizes. The top is covered with mesh, which provides a comfortable and not-so-snug fit. The latter might be a problem for people who like things to be a bit tighter.
When it comes to support, these shoes fall into the “neutral” category, meaning they’re not for people who need additional and rigid support. However, they do provide a lot of cushioning and softness to protect your stride.
The shoes’ removable insole is made from a material called BioMoGo DNA, which is eco-friendly and durable.
So, where can you run in them?
Ghost 12 is designed for long-distance, road running, treadmills, or cross-training, so you should use it for one of these purposes. This means that you shouldn’t take them out on trails unless you want to end their life prematurely.
All in all, these are high-quality trainers that’ll make your feet happy and are sold for a fair price.
Pros
- Very comfortable
- Well-made and durable
- Reasonable price
Cons
- Toe box doesn’t provide a snug fit
2. Asics Nimbus 20
From the Asics lab, we have the Nimbus 20 running shoe, another excellent model for wide feet. This model has taken the market by a storm, so we decided to take a closer look and see what it’s all about.
In case you didn’t know, this model is the 20th edition of the Asics’ Nimbus series, meaning there are 19 models before it. Compared to those previous designs, Nimbus 20 has a more spacious toe box, which can be a pro or a con depending on what you like.
Next, the outsole is made out of rubber, giving the shoes shock absorption needed for running long distances. The midsole includes Asics’ trademark FlyFoam material, which creates a lot of responsiveness, so the shoe is ideal for runners who like more bounce.
The top and the sides are covered with breathable mesh that provides excellent ventilation and prevents overheating.
The construction of Nimbus 20 is somewhat sophisticated and high-tech, so they’re definitely not for someone looking for a minimalist feel.
A thing that might throw off some potential customers is the price, as these are by far the most expensive shoes on the list.
Pros
- Breathable top and sides
- A lot of bounce and responsiveness
- Available in several colors
Cons
- Pricey
- Not for minimalist shoe lovers
3. Altra Olympus 2.5
If you like to go running on well-groomed trails, then Altra might have something in store for you. We’re talking about their Olympus 2.5 shoe, so read on to find out more about it.
At first glance, the shoe might look bulky, but it’s like that because of its purpose – trail running. The thick, layered outsoles provide zero drop, thus keeping your feet in their natural position.
Midsoles are made from double-layered EVA provide heaps of cushioning and rebound that’ll soften the impact of your steps.
Due to everything we mentioned above, Olympus 2.5 is a bit heavier than other similar models, but we’re talking about nuances, so this shouldn’t be a huge issue.
Now, this model is very wide around the toes, and it’s entirely possible that it is too wide for some feet, so look out for that.
Also, the upper mesh, while providing great breathability, isn’t very durable and is likely to get damaged if you’re not careful.
The shoes are available in three color combinations, and they go for a very good price. If you need something to keep your feet safe on trail runs, it’s hard that you’ll go wrong with Olympus 2.5.
Pros
- Very wide toe box
- Excellent cushioning
- Zero drop
Cons
- Upper mesh prone to damage
- Toe box might be too wide
4. Mizuno Wave Rider 20
Mizuno is a company with a long tradition; over a century, to be precise. Well, they are still going strong, and the success of the Wave Rider 20 proves it.
The upper of this shoe is 100% mesh, which means that this model is optimized for maximum breathability. And indeed, if the shoes fit your feet shape well, you’ll find that they provide a lot of ventilation.
The issue with these shoes is that they’re too tight for many users, both regarding the width and height of the forefoot. In this case, their all mesh exterior won’t prevent your feet from sweating.
Remember all that talk about stability and flexibility from earlier in the article?
Well, Wave Rider 20 manages to get the best of both worlds thanks to its intricately designed outsole.
This component includes a mix of soft and hard rubber that’ll give the feet enough freedom to flex, but also protect them from twisting and rolling.
Still, the shoes are made mainly for road running or use at the gym, as they’re not optimized for trails or uneven terrain.
As for the price, Mizuno’s shoes are among the cheapest on today’s list, which makes them especially attractive to shoppers on a budget.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Great ventilation
- Great stability/flexibility ratio
Cons
- To tight for some users
- Only suitable for road/treadmill running
5. Hoka One Clifton 6
We’ve saved the most stylish shoes for last, and now it’s time to meet Hoka One Clifton 6!
Hoka One has become one of the biggest stars of the running scene, so let’s see if their shoes are that good.
This model has a good balance between weight and cushioning, which was the manufacturer’s primary goal.
The thick rubber outsole is great at shock absorption, and it’ll help spare your joints from the beating they take. You can run in them on trails or roads, as they’re made to accommodate both.
Another upside of this shoe is the soft padding, which spreads out throughout the shoe, providing supreme comfort to every part of the foot.
A field where Clifton 6 lacks is responsiveness. They’re not sluggish per se, but they do require a bit more effort to get them off the ground. This goes hand in hand with their very high sole, which isn’t for everyone.
The price of this model falls in line with most of the models in this category, so we say it’s fair.
Pros
- Stylish design
- Durable and suitable for various terrains
- Excellent cushioning
Cons
- Not for users who don’t like tall soles
- Poor responsiveness.
Conclusion
Well, it’s the end of the race for these shoes (pun intended), and it’s time for you to find out about the winner.
After hours of careful consideration, we chose to award Brooks Ghost 12 with the first place. We feel that this is the ideal model for wide feet, and if you’ve never bought such shoes before, these are an excellent choice.
They’re comfortable, responsive, durable, and you won’t have to go bankrupt to buy them. What’s not to like?
However, we want to give full autonomy to you, the shopper, to decide which model you like the most. It’s really hard to make a mistake with any shoes from today’s list.