Best Running Shoes for Wide Feet

10 Best Running Shoes for Women with Wide Feet

Finding the perfect running shoe when you have wide feet can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Between 20-30% of runners need wide width shoes, so you’re definitely not alone in this struggle. The good news? Shoe companies are finally stepping up their game, offering more wide-friendly options than ever before. For context I am a runner, outdoor enthusiast, and passionate blogger. I also just so happen to have very wide feet, so I decided to do some extensive research on the best ones in the market right now! I have added the width of each shoe within the first part of each section. Ok, now let’s dive into the best running shoes for wide feet!

Why Width Matters in Running Shoes

Running isn’t just about speed – it’s about comfort. For runners with wider feet, a shoe that’s too narrow can turn a great run into a painful nightmare. Shoes that squeeze and pinch can lead to:

1. Blisters
2. Foot fatigue
3. Reduced performance
4. Potential long-term foot problems

Understanding Wide Foot Running Shoes

When we talk about the best running shoes for wide feet, we’re looking for shoes that offer:

1. Roomy toe boxes
2. Flexible uppers
3. Wider platform
4. Multiple width options

Best Neutral Everyday Trainers

New Balance Fresh Foam X880 V14

Width: 96.8 mm

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v14 is a premium every day running shoe designed for comfort, durability, and smooth transitions. New Balance has recently updated some of their shoes to feature their “Fresh Foam X midsole,” technology which delivers enhanced cushioning and responsiveness. They are ideal for both runners and long-distance training. They are not too firm but also not too cushiony.

Key Features:

Fresh Foam X Midsole – Provides a soft, responsive, and smooth ride for all-day comfort.
Engineered Mesh Upper – Lightweight and breathable, ensuring a secure yet flexible fit.

Durable Rubber Outsole – Offers excellent traction and durability on various surfaces.
Neutral Cushioning – Designed for runners who need balanced support without excessive stability features.
Versatile Performance – Ideal for daily runs, treadmill workouts, and long-distance training.

Altra Torin 7

Average Width: 116.0 mm

The Altra Torin 7 is highly cushioned and designed for comfort and natural movement. They are lightweight which is perfect for running a fast 5K. They are also highly cushioned which means that they are great for daily training, walking, or running long distances. The Torin 7 features an upgraded EGO™ MAX midsole for a plush yet responsive feel, along with a redesigned upper for enhanced breathability and fit.

Key Features:

• EGO™ MAX Midsole – Provides soft, lightweight cushioning with a responsive ride.
• Balanced Cushioning™ (Zero Drop) – Promotes a natural foot strike for better alignment and reduced impact.
• FootShape™ Toe Box – Allows toes to splay naturally for improved comfort and stability.
• Breathable Engineered Mesh Upper – Ensures a secure and comfortable fit.
• Grippy Rubber Outsole – Offers durable traction for road running and daily training.

Brooks Ghost 16

Average Width: 96.1 mm

The Brooks Ghost 16 is a versatile, neutral running shoe designed for runners who prioritize comfort, smooth transitions, and reliable cushioning. The stability is unmatched! These shoes are what I would consider “heel huggers.” They are also super breathable, so I recommended using them during the spring or summer. They have been upgraded from a DNA Loft V2 midsole to a DNA LOFT v3 midsole. This latest formulation reduces weight which makes it a great lightweight shoe.

Key Features:

• DNA LOFT v3 Cushioning – Lightweight, responsive, and ultra-soft for a smooth ride.
• Engineered Mesh Upper – Enhances breathability while providing a secure, adaptive fit.
• Segmented Crash Pad – Ensures seamless heel-to-toe transitions.
• Durable Rubber Outsole – Delivers excellent traction and longevity.
• Neutral Support – Ideal for runners who don’t require extra stability features.

Best Cushioned Running Shoes for Wide Feet

HOKA Bondi 8

Width: 101.1mm

The HOKA Bondi 8 is my favorite when it comes to comfort and bounce! You will literally feel like you are running on bouncy clouds. I would recommend going directly to Hoka’s website and select the “wide” option. The Hoka Bondi 8 shoe is well known for smooth transitions and their latest version features an even softer, lighter foam. They have an extended heel geometry for a more balanced and stable feel and its plushier than the Clifton 9 which is another fan favorite.

Key Features:

• Ultra-Soft EVA Foam Midsole – Provides premium cushioning for a plush yet responsive ride.
• Extended Heel Design – Improves stability and creates smoother heel-to-toe transitions.
• Breathable Engineered Mesh Upper – Ensures a comfortable, secure fit.
• Durable Rubber Outsole – Offers excellent grip and longevity.
• Meta-Rocker Technology – Promotes a natural and efficient stride.

On Cloudstratus 3

Average Width: 90.3mm at heel

I own the On Cloud Stratus 3s and love them! They are squishy and the landings are super soft. The way the shoe is shaped gives you sort of forward rocking feel when you land. They are designed for long miles and high performance. Their latest feature is CloudTec® midsole with Helion™ superfoam, whatever that means. Lol but it’s supposed to give you a plush ride. These are built with a wider platform and improved forefoot cushioning which is perfect for individuals with wide feet. They provide extreme support, making them a great choice for everything from daily training to marathon prep.

Key Features:

• Dual CloudTec® Cushioning – Two layers of On’s signature cloud pods absorb impact and return energy for a soft yet propulsive feel.
• Helion™ Superfoam – Lightweight and durable cushioning for a smooth, responsive ride.
• Wider Base for Stability – A broader forefoot design enhances support without feeling bulky.
• Engineered Mesh Upper – Breathable, flexible, and designed for a secure fit.
• Speedboard® Technology – Adds a touch of spring to your stride, helping you push forward efficiently.

Brooks Glycerin 21

Average Forefoot Width: 117.2 mm

The Brooks Glycerin 21 has ultra-soft cushioning and offers premium comfort. Although, they are better served for running on the treadmill or for easy runs because of how much cushion they provide. The latest version of the Brooks Glycerin features an updated DNA LOFT v3 midsole. This feature delivers a lighter and more responsive cushioning. The breathability is okay although I feel like they are better suited for cold winter months. These are perfect for recovery days or anyone who prioritizes softness underfoot. The best part is that they are wider than most running shoes.

Key Features:

• DNA LOFT v3 Cushioning – Nitrogen-infused foam for maximum softness without added weight.
• Plush Engineered Mesh Upper – Offers a secure yet breathable fit.
• Wider Base for Stability – Ensures a smooth and balanced ride.
• Durable Outsole – Provides long-lasting traction and grip.
  Smooth Heel-to-Toe Transitions – Designed for effortless strides, mile after mile.

Best Lightweight Running Shoes for Wide Feet

New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v3

Approximate Width: 95.9 mm

The New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v3 has a bouncy midsole foam designed for runners who want max energy return. They feature an updated FuelCell midsole with a carbon fiber Energy Arc plate. This shoe delivers a powerful combination of responsiveness and comfort, making it perfect for high-mileage training and fast-paced long runs. These shoes are reputed for being one of the best shoes for marathoners. The redesigned upper enhances breathability and fit, while the stacked cushioning ensures a smooth and bouncy ride.

Key Features:

• FuelCell Cushioning – Ultra-soft, energetic foam for maximum propulsion.
•  Energy Arc Technology – A carbon fiber plate paired with strategic midsole shaping for efficient energy return.
• Breathable Engineered Mesh Upper – Keeps feet cool and comfortable during long runs.
• High Stack Midsole – Provides plush cushioning without sacrificing speed.
• Durable Rubber Outsole – Ensures reliable traction and longevity.

HOKA Solimar

Approximate Width: 93.1 mm

Named after the Southern California Solimar beach, the HOKA Solimar is a versatile, lightweight trainer designed for effortless daily movement. According to Hoka these shoes are super versatile and perfect for everyday use whether you’re logging miles, hitting the gym, or just staying active throughout the day. HOKA’s signature Meta-Rocker technology delivers a fluid, natural ride. It doesn’t hurt that they are very stylish!

Key Features:

• Compression-Molded EVA Midsole – Provides a responsive, cushioned feel without excess bulk.
• Early-Stage Meta-Rocker – Encourages smooth heel-to-toe transitions for an efficient stride.
•  Durable Rubber Outsole – Ensures reliable traction for road running and cross-training.
•  Breathable Engineered Mesh Upper – Keeps feet cool and comfortable.
•  Low-Profile Design – Lightweight and stylish for versatile performance.

Saucony Endorphin Speed 4

Widest part of forefoot approximate width: 96.9 mm

The Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 is a lightweight, fast, and versatile running shoe designed for tempo runs, speed workouts, and even race day. Featuring an updated PEBAX-based PWRRUN PB midsole, it delivers an ultra-responsive, bouncy ride, while the nylon plate provides a propulsive feel without being too rigid. The refined Speedroll technology ensures smooth and efficient transitions, making every stride feel effortless. With an improved engineered mesh upper, the Endorphin Speed 4 offers a breathable, locked-in fit for optimal performance.

Key Features:

• PWRRUN PB Cushioning – Lightweight, high-energy foam for a springy, responsive ride.
• Nylon Plate – Offers snappy propulsion without the stiffness of carbon fiber.
• Speedroll Technology – Encourages a smooth, fast toe-off for an effortless stride.
• Breathable Engineered Mesh Upper – Keeps feet cool and securely locked in.
• Durable XT-900 Rubber Outsole – Provides grip and longevity for high-mileage training.

Best Stability Running Shoes for Wide Feet

Altra Paradigm 7

Approximate Width:  99.8 mm

The Altra Paradigm 7 is a max-cushioned stability running shoe designed for runners who need extra support without sacrificing comfort or natural movement. Featuring Altra’s signature FootShape™ toe box and Balanced Cushioning™, this shoe encourages a more natural stride while providing plush protection for long runs or all-day wear. The EGO™ MAX midsole delivers soft, responsive cushioning, while GuideRail™ technology offers adaptive support to keep your stride stable without feeling intrusive.

Key Features:

• EGO™ MAX Midsole – Soft, lightweight cushioning for a smooth, responsive ride.
• GuideRail™ Support System – Provides adaptive stability for overpronators without being too rigid.
•  FootShape™ Toe Box – Allows toes to spread naturally for improved comfort and balance.
• Balanced Cushioning™ (Zero Drop) – Promotes a low-impact, natural running motion.
• Engineered Mesh Upper – Breathable and supportive for a comfortable, secure fit.

Buying Tips for Wide Foot Runners

1. Always try shoes on before purchasing.
2. Consider wide or extra-wide options
3.  Pay attention to toe box room
4. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different brands

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I know if I need a wide shoe?

A: If your foot hangs over the rubber outsole or feels cramped, it’s time for a wider shoe.

Q: Can I modify regular shoes for wider feet?

A: While possible, it’s best to invest in shoes specifically designed for wide feet.

Q: Do all brands offer wide width options?

A: Not all, but many top brands like Brooks, New Balance, and HOKA offer multiple width choices.

Conclusion

Finding the best running shoes for wide feet doesn’t have to be a marathon of frustration. With more options than ever, you can find comfortable, performance-driven shoes that feel like they were made just for you. Remember, the right shoe can transform your running experience from painful to pleasurable. I hope you enjoyed reading this blog post as much as I enjoyed writing it! Let me know in the comments if you own any of these or if you have any other shoe recommendations.