Got wide feet? Struggling to find shoes that fit? Well I’ve got news for you – Most shoes available today, even the “wide” ones, are made with a distorted view of width. Your feet aren’t the problem, it’s the shoes that suck!
In this article we’re setting the record straight on width in shoes and sharing the best options that are actually good for wide feet. You and your feet will be forever changed.
Debunking the Wide Shoe Myth
There are a variety of shoes out there that offer “wide” as an option for people who don’t fit into “regular” shoes. And indeed they are in some ways wider than their standard counterparts, but not throughout the entire shoe. Suspiciously, the toe box remains pointy in these so called wide shoes.
This leaves me with plenty of space at the ball of my foot and at the heel, but my toes are still pinched together, as if toes just don’t count when it comes to width. But here’s the thing – they really do count, and there’s a good chance the lack of toe space is why most shoes feel horribly uncomfortable for you.
Foot Shaped Shoes Are Best For Wide Feet
“Wide” is subjective and open-ended – you can add width to any part of a shoe while other parts remain narrow.
By contrast, “Foot Shaped” suggests the shoe matches a natural anatomical shape that is asymmetrical and leaves space for all the toes. The width in a foot shaped shoe is distributed according to human anatomy.
This is why you should stop looking at shoes marketed as wide, and instead look for foot shaped shoes.
To be sure, not all feet are shaped the same (in fact I wrote a whole article about this) but the majority of the time an unadulterated foot will be widest at the toes. We see it in young children who haven’t started wearing shoes yet, in unshod populations, and I also see it all the time in people who switch to foot shaped shoes and start taking care of their feet. Yes, your feet can change shape depending on what you do with them!
So it makes a lot of sense that putting a foot that is widest at the toes into a shoe that is narrowest at the toes would be quite uncomfortable. And it gets worse: Evidence increasingly points to footwear as the cause for the bunion epidemic that rages in industrialized cultures. And yet few people question the pointy shape of most shoes.
It’s time for a new paradigm when it comes to shoes. The best shoes for wide feet are the ones that match the shape of those feet!
If this is a new concept for you and you want to dig deeper into shoes that respect the natural functioning of the foot, take a segue on over to my article on the Benefits of Barefoot Shoes that covers everything you need to know.
Where Do You Need Your Width?
Now that we’ve established that conventional shoes are not serving the needs of our feet, let’s move on to another important width distinction.
To determine which are the best wide shoes for you, take a look at your feet. Where exactly do you need your width?
Some people have straight feet that don’t taper in significantly at the arch area. Others have fan shaped feet with a big width difference between their toes and their heel. You can see how what would be good for one would be uncomfortable for the other!
Of course most people will fall somewhere in between these extremes, and that’s perfectly fine. Now you have the language to define your shoe fit woes, and that will make it easier to intentionally select the wide shoes most likely to work for you!
The shape and contour of your toes can also play a role in how shoes fit. Here we’re just focusing on width, but you can read this article to dig deeper on foot shapes and to find shoes for narrow and average width feet!
What If My Feet Aren’t Widest At The Toes?
If you’ve spent your whole life in tapered footwear, there is a good chance it has affected your feet (feet can change, remember? And it goes both ways). So foot shaped shoes might give you more toe space than you can actually fill! The amazing thing about the human body is that it is adaptable – give your feet space and over time there is a good chance they will fill it. Go for a shoe that fits you comfortably today with enough space for your toes to spread out. As long as the shoe fits securely without flopping, the space around your toes shouldn’t be a problem.
But Are My Feet Actually Wide?
Many people come to me believing they have humongous feet, but then learn that all they need is a foot shaped shoe! Tiny, tapered shoes have really F-ed up our understanding of what’s “normal”. At first it can be hard to know how wide of a shoe you actually need, so expect some trial and error as you shift to this new paradigm.
To help people hone in on the right shoe for their foot, I created The Barefoot Shoe Finder. This is a searchable, filterable database of hundreds of natural footwear brands, plus a quiz to match you up to the right one. This is where to look if you don’t need the extra wide shoes listed below.
The Best Shoes for Wide Feet List
If you do have truly wide feet, the following lists are for you.
To recap, the best shoes for wide feet are:
- Anatomically shaped
- Wide where YOU need it
Many of these shoes can cross over between both lists, just like many feet cross over into multiple categories. You will never know for sure if a shoe will fit until you try it on, so don’t feel limited by these options. Use this is a stepping stone!
And here’s a reminder that the following are all EXTRA WIDE foot shaped brands. For anything less wide than that, use The Barefoot Shoe Finder.
One final note before I launch into the list – if you look at any of the size charts for these brands and you might think they look too narrow by the numbers. I encourage you to read this FAQ on interpreting a size chart to learn why there’s more to width than the measurement!
Shoes for Wide Fan Feet
Here are 12 of the widest shoes that fan at the toes, for fan shaped feet.
*skip to the list for Wide Straight Feet by clicking here*
Pro Tip: If you have narrow heels, you might struggle with heel slippage. These Narrow Heel Fit Hacks can help make your shoes fit better.
Softstar Primals (US) – Sizes 5U-15U. Amazing shoes for the widest fan shaped feet. Note that not all Softstar Shoes are shaped like this, you want to look specifically at the Primal line.
Peerko (EU) – Sizes EU 37-45. This stylish brand disguises an extra wide toe box for a more mainstream look. The quality is also top notch.
Use code ANYASREVIEWS10 for 10% off the EU shop. Select styles available seasonally at Anya’s Shop.
Ahinsa (EU) – Sizes EU 36-47 – Some models available in extra wide, but all are fan shaped and vegan.
Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 10% off, and you can find the Jaya at Anya’s Shop!
Shapen Poppy Wide (EU & US) – Sizes EU 36-43. My favorite dressy women’s shoe for extra wide feet. So pretty! Choose wide width for max toe space, regular is only average width.
Code ANYA5 gets you 5% off the EU shop. And you can find them at Anya’s Shop (US)
Everleigh Meadow (US) – Sizes US Womens 6-11. These are available in 3 width options with Wide/Full Splay offering lots of toe space. Read the Everleigh Meadow Review here.
Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 10% off
Wyde Footwear (EU) – Sizes EU 37-45. Really wide square shaped toe box. Has a 13mm stack height and a very breathable mesh upper.
Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 10% off
Luks Barefoot (EU) – Sizes EU 27-48. These handmade shoes are very soft and leave plenty of toe space for fan shaped feet. They run long, I wear one size smaller than usual (but defer to their size chart).
No(N)s (EU) – Sizes 37-44. Really excellent craftsmanship! Some customizations available (I had the ankle and calf of my boots customized to my measurements)
Altra Running (US & EU) – Sizes US Women’s 1 – Men’s 16. Altra shoes from the “Widest” section have a thick cushioned sole, but are still zero drop and have a fan shape.
Realfoot (EU) – Sizes EU 33-47. These are for extremely fan shaped feet!
Jenon Leather (EU) – Sizes EU 36-48. This brand just recently started shipping to the USA and we love them! They offer standard and custom sizes/shapes.
ZlaTush (EU) – Sizes EU 36-46. Really soft leather, and one of my favorite shoe styles (t-strap). She makes a whole range of shoe styles in addition to feminine dress shoes.
Tikki Sandals (EU & US) – Sizes EU 36-43. The lightest sandals for wide feet you’ll try! Vegan options as well.
Toetem Sandals (US) – Sizes US W6-M13. These all have an extra wide forefoot for really fan-shaped feet. Read our Toetem Review here
Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 7% off
Shamma Sandals (US) – Unique Sizes 4-14. Read my Shamma Reviews here! My personal favorite all purpose sandal brand – they fit a wide variety of foot types.
Use code ANYASREVIEWS2023 for 10% off from Shamma, or find the Warrior model at Anya’s Shop!
Goes Both Ways
These 8 shoe brands fit nicely in both categories – they provide ample space for fan shaped feet and the stay wide in the middle for straight feet.
Tired of scrolling? Skip to the list for Wide Straight Feet by clicking here.
Be Lenka (EU & US) – Sizes EU 36-47. Read all my Be Lenka Reviews here! Be Lenka has so many practical everyday shoes, as well as dressy/stylish options. All in an extra wide shape (works for straight feet as well).
Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 5% off directly from Be Lenka (EU), or find many models at Anya’s Shop (USA)
Bohempia Wide (EU & US) – Bohempia barefoot shoes come regular and wide. Choose wide if you have extra wide feet. They’re the coolest foot-shaped sneakers available! Works for straight feet as well.
Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 10% of Bohempia EU. Select models are available at Anya’s Shop (USA) for easier access.
Groundies Barefoot+ (EU & US) – Groundies is one of my favorite brands and they now offer an extra wide option labeled Barefoot+. Read all my Groundies Review here
Select models will be available at Anya’s Shop (USA)
Freet Barefoot (UK) – Sizes EU 30-49. Read my Freet Reviews here! A super practical brand for athletic use and hiking.
Use code AR-10 for 10% off
Angles Fashion (EU & US) – Sizes 35-46+. Lots of great everyday/dressy styles. Read my Angles Fashion review here. Works for straight feet as well.
Use code ANYA for 5% off directly from Angles. Select styles also available in Anya’s Shop (USA)
Wildling Shoes (EU) – Sizes EU 36-48. Certain models have an extra wide shape to them, and others do not. This changes seasonally so read each product description and my Wildling Reviews.
Vibram 5 Fingers (US & Worldwide) – Sizes EU 34-50. They’re basically gloves, so highly adaptable to different foot shapes.
Laboo Leather (US & EU) – Sizes EU 35-45. Run a teensy bit small, amazing quality, and the straps are completely adjustable!
Also available from the Laboo Leather Etsy shop which ships from Hungary and offers custom shapes!
Lems (US) – US Sizes W4.5-11.5 & M3-14. All Lems have a stack height around 8-14mm, and not all are zero drop or foot shaped, so read product descriptions.
Read all my Lems reviews here.
Select Lems styles also available at EU retailer Mugavik Barefoot – Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 5% off
Shoes for Wide Straight Feet
Now let’s move on to the best shoes for wide straight feet. Here are 9 extra wide shoe brands that have work well for feet that are wide through the middle.
Barebarics (EU) – Sizes EU 36-47. Read my Barebarics Review here
Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 5% off from Barebarics, or find select styles at Anya’s Shop (USA)
Xero Shoes (US) – Sizes W5-11 & M6.5-15. Read all my Xero Shoes Review here! Excellent brand for the straightest feet out there. Men’s sizes are wider than women’s.
Shop Xero Shoes EU if you live within the EU
FeelBarefoot (Turkey) – Sizes US women’s 3.5 – US Men’s 15. This is one of the more affordable places to get nice barefoot shoes. Read my full FeelBarefoot Review here.
Use code ANYASREVIEWS35
for 35% off
Shapen Barefoot (EU) – Size EU 36-43. Read my in-depth Shapen Review here!
Code ANYA5 gets you 5% off the EU shop. And you can find select Shapen styles at Anya’s Shop (US)
Tadeevo (EU) – Sizes EU 35-53. Read all my Tadeevo reviews here! The Bliss is one of the all time best barefoot running shoes.
Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 5% off
Magical Shoes (EU) – Sizes EU 18-47. This brand is very soft and flexible, great for thick straight feet. Just be aware that the adult models run small so sizing up is advised.
Use code ANYA for 10% off
Sole Runner (EU) – Sizes EU 25-49. Most Sole Runner shoes are wide, but read the product descriptions to find the extra wide options.
Feelmax (EU) – Sizes EU 35-48. Shoes come in and out of stock, so ordering can be a bit tricky.
La Mexa (Mexico) – Sizes 23-28cm. Prices are in Pesos! These are your basic huarache sandal, but with a straight cut sole.
And don’t forget custom options! There are a surprising number of custom shoemakers out there and it doesn’t have to be crazy expensive. This is a great way to cut to the chase and get a perfect fitting shoe. Check out the following guide to ordering custom barefoot shoes if this interests you.
Healthy Feet Are Happy Feet
Feet are a seriously underrated part of our body. Considering that they are our one point of contact with the ground whenever we are standing, walking, or running, it makes sense that unhappy feet would affect our entire well being. Making the switch to shoes that allow your toes to spread out can pay dividends in your life.
Got super wide feet? Now you know what the best shoes for wide feet actually are.
83 thoughts on “Debunking the Wide Shoe Myth – Why Foot Shaped Shoes Are ACTUALLY Good For Wide Feet”
Most wide shoes are only wider at the metatarsal joints.
My feet are wide at the toes. My toes are almost all the same size.
It’s my 4th toe that gets beat up in most shoes, because of the rounded angle of most regular and wide shoes.
The feet in the photos are not like mine at all. Their toes are smaller and shorter.
The shoes accommodate them. But they are far too curved for me.
If mine were like that, I could wear normal wide shoes.
I can’t wear Altras, they are like the “wide” shoes you show in the photos. Your toes have to be progressively shorter and smaller.
I’ve had to take Crocs and stretch them at the top with shoe stretchers. The only other shoes I can sort of wear are Lems.
So nice to read there is someone like me in the world! It doesn’t solve the problem but feels better 😉 Tx!
Great resource! Thanks!
What about extra wide fan-shaped bunion feet?
If you choose extra wide fan-shaped barefoot shoes that fit across the ball of the foot, then they should also offer plenty of toe space as well. Being fan shaped, you usually don’t need to worry about tapering. You can read more about shoes for bunions in this article.
Great post! I’ve so far struggled to find a foot shaped shoe that fits me well. I’ve tried vivobarefoot, altra, bohempia and freet. I currently have a pair of altra lone peaks I wear pretty much everyday for work (I run my own handyman business), a pair of vivobarefoot Addis and a new pair of bohempia zerlik. They’re all OK but if I take the insoles out and stand on them my outer toes all hang over the edge. So I think I have straight feet! The bohempia I got in the wide fit and they’re a bit loose unless I wear thick ish socks (bridgedale as that’s all I’ve got-still working on a decent foot shaped sock injinji don’t work for me they’re too tight). I’ll have a look at brands for straight feet as my altras are getting tired now.
Tanx
Why all wide shoes have flat sole (barefoot) also? I’m looking for a normal shoe which is wide also
For some reason the foot-shaped concept hasn’t caught on with mainstream brands. I personally believe flat shoes are best, but you can always swap out the insole and add your own orthotic or arch support if you want a more traditional shoe. Some brands that have a thick cushioned sole but are still foot shaped are Lems Shoes and Altra. You also might like Birkenstock, Duck Feet, and Vibae.
I thought I found “my people” with Birkenstock but I wore the new sneaks today without the famous shoe bed/insert – just too tight with them in. Can’t go up in size – too long!
Очень познавательная статья. Еще есть бренд Be lenka похож на Bearbarics. Хочу их купить, они по форме моей стопы.
EXACTLY! That is so frustrating to me. I wish there were more stacked heel /flatform type shoes that are foot shaped. I don’t love super flat shoes.
Same here, as a flight attendant I would love some fan shaped 2-5 cm heeled shoes, as I also believe that these narrow toe boxes are my issues not so much the heels. I tend to go flat in my spare time to give my feet a well deserved break, and they simply won’t fit into fashion shoes any more. One issue being my heels are very narrow even for normal shoes.
I love your review page, but for most of us with wide feet I think the best answer is to buy and try!
I notice the Shapen Poppy is on your list for “extra wide” but if I compare my foot measurements to the shoe’s internal measurements even their wide size is too narrow.
It’s true, it’s highly individual! Also, it’s really common for people to get mixed up by width measurements on size charts. Oftentimes people measure from a foot tracing which adds some millimeters to the actual width. And a lot of brands use the insole measurements as their width, which sits at the bottom of the shoe and does not accurately reflect the usable internal width. That’s why a lot of brands opt to leave width off the size chart, people complain the shoes are so narrow when they’re really wider than you think! That’s another reason sometimes you just have to try the shoes on before you really know.
This is so good to know!! My feet measure a little wider than the widest shoes I’ve found measurements for. I thought I just had abnormally large flipper feet.
Very helpful reviews and info. One problem I have is that my podiatrist said to take out the insole and put my foot on it to test if the shoe is the correct width. Most times in the wide toe box shoes, the insole is considerably narrower than my foot. I’m guessing I should try the shoe on anyway and go by the amount of give in the material?
I’ve got to be honest with you, that insole check is really popular but I don’t find it always helpful. You’re exactly right, it often looks narrower than your foot. It can be helpful if your toes are majorly hanging off the sides, but in my experience you need to actually try the shoe on your foot to gauge if it’s going to have enough space. Learning what it feels like to not have your toes squished but still be in a well-fitting shoe is a lot more useful than the insole check.
Yup. I bought their wide size and they still squeeze at the ball of my foot.
I have high volume, straight extra wide feet (lymphedema). So far one model (only) of Five Fingers has been my best option. Any recommendations?
Tadeevo Bliss would probably work very well! I review them in this article. You would probably also like the Magical Shoes Explorer (they run small, so size up), and the Xero Kelso sneaker.
I want to buy a pair of shoes boots leather how can I purchase them
There are links throughout my website to all the shoes I talk about, just click the link to be taken to the different online shops.
I have very wide fan, bean shaped feet (with the width on the inside) with a very big toe, big toe joint. Be lenka has so far been my best fit but my toes still feel squished. The big toe does not have enough room at the toe joint and there isn’t enough room lengthwise for my fourth and fifth toes to fully splay. If I go up a size the forefoot is perfect but I have a gap at the heel and my foot slides around. What would you suggest?
I think Softstar Primals will be your brands – they have the widest fan shape of all the brands, with plenty of space for a bean shape and an outer toe splay. You might also like Nons shoes, Ahinsa, and Luks. They have a shape similar to what you’re describing and stay narrow through the heel so you don’t slide around.
Hi, Anya.
Thanks to you, in only one month of barefoot shoes and doing your foot exercises I now have arches! I’ve cured my flat feet, plantar fasciitis and heel pain! Now my cousin wants to try barefoot shoes to see if it will help her bunion but she has trouble finding shoes for her VERY long, narrow feet. She wears a US Womens size 10.5 AAAA in the heel and midfoot, with A width across the toes due to her bunion. I’ve sent her links from your site but she is simply overwhelmed by all the different shoes. She says she can handle a wide toe box if the heel isn’t too sloppy. I’ve suggested heel spacers for that but she is still overwhelmed about selecting a shoe to start. Just a shoe to wear around the house for now. Can you make some suggestions to help “narrow” down her choices? (sorry, bad pun!)
Thanks!
Hi Joy! Thanks for the kind words. I would definitely start with a lace up shoe as they are much easier to secure over the midfoot to prevent flopping. If she just wants something to try with low risk for around the house the Whitin Trail Runners are a good place to start – they go up close around the ankle and have an extra strap you can tighten for even more security. I talk about them in this article (the “Wide Barefoot casual shoes might be too much, the Trail Runners should be good).
https://anyasreviews.com/the-10-best-affordable-barefoot-shoes-for-adults/#whitin-barefoot-shoes
Thank you, Anya. I really appreciate this. You are so kind.
Hi,
It is hard for me to find shoes that fit, and enjoy reading your reviews. Are you planning on reviewing the Leather Softstar Switchback? I tried the Superfabric switchback but it was a bit tight, and I read that the superfabric does not stretch. I am thinking the all leather version might be a perfect fit after it stretched out a bit.
Thanks,
Chris.
I don’t currently have plans to test out the all leather switchback, but I think that is a reasonable expectation (that they’ll stretch more than the Superfabric option)
Hi Anya, Many thanks to your website. Very useful to me. Question- which one is wider in the toe box? -> Barebarics or Lems widest category (e.g primal zen and primal 2).
I would say they are close to the same. Barebarics shoes are lower volume over the top, but also a little wider on the sides. Ultimately they feel pretty similar to me, but if you like vertical space over your toes you might like Lems Primal 2 or Chelsea better.
Hi Can you tell me which shoes are shown in the 5th set of images, it is a black suede slip on which I am looking for.
Thanks
Sheela
Hi! They are the Vivobarefoot Opanka. Looks like they’re a little low in stock, but it’s a perennial style so should be restocked.
this is so great and I love everything about this EXCEPT- the price of these brands! How are we supposed to make the healthy change (especially for fast growing kids) without breaking the bank? Seems so unfair- and children are born with perfect, wide feet. So they need this the most in order to maintain that form. But to buy a pair of shoes for them like this every few years? So upsetting how pricey it is when we all should actually be doing it.
I wish economics favored what is good for us too, but it’s difficult to manufacture these types of shoes in small quantities without them being expensive (because only small businesses are making them). However, I’ve done a lot of research on affordable options and you might be surprised at what’s out there. You can find $40 adult sneakers and $25 kid shoes that meet all the criteria of a barefoot shoe. If you need even cheaper, there are “compromise” options that might not be 100% perfect but get close. You can start perusing the ones I’ve tested and reviews (for kids and adults) here:
https://anyasreviews.com/?s=affordable
Nice article, but what are options for men’s formal oxford dress shoes?
Here are quite a few options! The most formal minimalist shoe is from Carets.
https://anyasreviews.com/barefoot-minimalist-dress-shoes-men/
https://anyasreviews.com/carets-review-barefoot-dress-shoes-men/
Hi, I am interested in purchasing my first pair of barefoot shoes. I always have trouble finding shoes that fit my unusually wide feet. I have always had my feet pressed down in shoes and always had pain from this. but I have no idea what kind of barefoot shoe can suit me. I often get pain from shoes below the ankle and 10 cm behind the toes on the top of the foot, where the shoes are often the tightest on me. What do you think I should think about when ordering my first shoes?
I really hope that you can help me.
Hi Anna! It sounds like you have feet that are both high volume, and wide straight (they stay wide through the middle). I would look for softer shoes with both vertical space AND a wide cut. A couple examples worth checking out depending on your comfort level with thin soles: Oesh Warrior (thick sole), Lems Primal 2 (medium thickness), Tadeevo Bliss (thin sole).
I was lead to your page via an IG account @hypermobilitydoctor on hypermobile feet. I haven’t walked without foot pain since … I can’t even remember. It boggles the mind as to why shoe manufacturers keep making shoes that do not fit the natural foot. I have large feet with narrow heels which fan out from the metatarsals to my very long toes. I see now why I suffer from tendonitis of the metatarsals, a hammer toe on my left foot, and I recently broke my 5th metatarsal bone on the right foot. If only I had shoes that fit! I have gone from orthopedists to podiatrists to no avail. Custom inserts and injections have offered no relief. Your page has given me some hope for finding shoes that won’t hurt. Thanks.
Hi Anya,
thank you in advance for your great job and interesting information.
My story short is i had twice an injury in my right foots big toe (turf toe) and since the second injury the trouble started, being unable to get rid of the inflammation and wear conventional shoes.
Now i am in a phase 2 years later that i have started my transition about a month ago combined with foot exercises and already i see difference.
As it seems this time was needed.
I am changing between Altra Superior 5 and my Teva Sandals. so that i have something with a drop that i was used to.
My feet are v shaped, average to slightly high volume, and average to wide width (right feet is wider and has more volume).
I was noticing in the Altra superiors the right big toe couldn’t come to its proper alignment (i have to push the side of the shoe )and when walking in the wrong toe alignment is causing me discomfort even this little push and slightly misaligned position.
I tried to wear them without insoles. The feel in the toes was better but it gave me pain in the back due to its hardness that i am not used to and probably my gait etc.
So do you thing Altras lone peak(they seem they have more volume an as they say in altra they have the original footshape since they now produce shoes with standart foot shape and slim foot shape) would be a good option to continue my transition or any other thought?
Generally i have the feeling that nothin in terms of footwear works better than sandals.
Hope you’re fine.
Josef
Josef,
I’m sorry to hear about your injuries. Particularly when you’re in pain any kind of pressure on the foot can be uncomfortable. So it’s a good idea to listen to your body and stay away from any brands that don’t feel good. The Lone Peak is the only Altra shoe I have tried, so I unfortunately can’t compare it to the models that have a slimmer shape. In my experience the Lone Peak has a wide, square toe box that works for many people with wide feet, but again I can’t say for sure if it will be right for you. Sandals are really nice for toe freedom! You might also want to check out the Lems Primal 2 for a sneaker with a wide toe box and a bit of cushion.
Just wanted to thank you for this review – also nice to see there are other people with the same issue! I’m 51 and have been looking for extra wide shoes that are only wide at the toes and this is really the first comprehensive review I’ve ever seen. Thank you so much!
Hello. My feet extra wide straight+extra wide fan, length 300mm (EU 46,5, US men 12,5), width 125mm (4,9 inch). I have to use bigger normal shoes (EU 48-49, US men 14-14,5), because I can’t find extra wide good shoes in Europe. Look left to right third type, brown shoe: https://anyasreviews.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/AnyasReviews.com-shoes-that-are-actually-good-for-wide-feet-e1657223606658-768×574.jpg I looked in every 9+8 stores here in “Shoes for Wide Straight Feet” and “Goes Both Ways” category, but couldn’t find such shoes. Where is the brown shoe picture from? This is the only suitable type of shoe for me.
Those are the Magical Shoes Explorer. I think those and the Tadeevo Bliss would be good candidates for you because they also come in extra large sizes. Both are located in Europe and fit extra wide straight feet.
Here is more info on the Tadeevo Bliss: https://anyasreviews.com/10-best-barefoot-running-shoes-for-healthy-feet/#2-tadeevo-bliss
I haven’t written more about the Magical Shoes Explorer, but they both have a similar fit type.
Magical Shoes Explorer and Tadeevo Bliss visible here in “The Shoes for Wide Straight Feet” category, 5th and 6th. These shoes not OK for me. This is the only suitable type of shoe for me, left to right third type, brown shoe: https://anyasreviews.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/AnyasReviews.com-shoes-that-are-actually-good-for-wide-feet-e1657223606658-768×574.jpg My feet are widening fast, and I have long and crooked toes. No shoe meets these parameters.
From my heel distance (cm)—-10–13—-16,5–22,5–25–27–28
Internal width required (cm)—10–11,5–12,5–12,5–11,5-10–8
Please email communication, this better.
What Whitin shoe size should I use if my feet are 10.5″ x 4″, high volume, and extra wide straight?
Currently using size 13 (normal textile sneakers).
Spent this morning at 4 shoe stores and couldn’t buy anything.
Most likely you would enjoy a size 13 in Whitin’s Wide Barefoot shoes (make sure you are looking in that section and not just the “Barefoot” section). Their size chart isn’t super helpful, but I’ve found they are pretty true to size in their Wide section.
I just received my Poppy and wow they are THIN! SO neat! I was nervous about buying the wide because I used to wear “narrow” in traditional shoes. I ignored the labels and went with the measurements and I’m glad I did. These are going to be great!
I’m so glad I found you! I struggle finding shoes for my extra wide straight (and short!) feet. I see mostly sneakers, do you have recommendations for sandals? Even in normal wide size 7 non-barefoot sandals, my feet can sometimes be too wide in the middle.
I do! This article is a good place to start to get oriented to the different barefoot sandal options. I include width and sizing info, and there are some custom options linked as well (which can be good if even the wide fitting options aren’t a good fit for you).
https://anyasreviews.com/10-best-barefoot-sandals-hiking-running-walking/
I appreciate all of the information. I’m looking for a shoe that won’t crush my toes, especially my baby toenails, and that my heels won’t slip out of. I have calluses on the sides of my big toe, little toe nails, and on bottom of my feet. I have a pair of Naturlizer sandals that tick all the boxes–suede lining, criss-cross at toes but baby toenail is free, adjustable buckle straps, no lumps or bumps in the sole, and soft leather. Problem is I’ve worn them out. Sneakers are fairly comfortable if I can keep them from slipping in the heel but there is either too much bulk which makes my feet sweat and swell or too minimalist, no padding at all in the sole. Sigh.
You might want to check out the options in this list of Barefoot Shoe Brands for Beginners (wide toe box shoes but with more cushion). Oesh sounds like it could be a good brand for you, you also might like Whitin shoes. They come with an insole that has some padding, but you could also swap it out for your own if you need a little more.
You are a foot genius!!!! This is so remarkable and such a compendium of valuable information. Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!! I don’t see Birkenstock – I like their regular width shoes (not what is typically listed as medium but the wider ones). Are those considered too narrow? I do notice they are way more foot shaped than most other shoes. Now many more possibilities to try. Wonderful.
I’m so glad this is helpful! Birkenstock does indeed have a good foot shape to them, I think they are a great option if you want to use arch support. But I’ve personally stopped wearing Birkenstocks because I wanted to move away from the intense arch support and strengthen my feet so that they didn’t need that support any more. You can read more about this here (but of course for some people they are still great) https://anyasreviews.com/why-birkenstocks-arent-long-term-solution-foot-pain/
Your website is amazingly informative. I have a frozen right big toe and the other four with some neuropathy. The big toe also has a bunion. My physical therapist directed me to your website. I think many of the shoes would help me but I have a question about the flexible sole trait of minimalist shoes. The podiatrist I saw wanted me to use a carbon fiber insert to keep the sole of the shoe more rigid. This means two different kinds of thinking since she wanted me to use a roller bar shoe and not a shoe with minimal sole. Perhaps you can give me insight here. Is there something in between that would help me? My foot is very wide across the toes.
If you are planning on using a stiff insert in your shoes, I would suggest looking at some of the thicker more cushioned options from this list: https://anyasreviews.com/best-barefoot-minimalist-shoe-brands-beginners/
Barebarics in particular is a good one. You can get the benefit of a flat shoe with toe space and still use the carbon fiber insert if that’s what your feet need right now. And on the side you can be working on your foot strength/mobility. It’s possible that with time you could move toward a thinner, more flexible sole.
You don’t have my favourite on your list: Aylla (men’s sizes)!
I have Tikki sandals (Soul) and while they are wonderfully wide they are also low volume causing the straps to bend akwardly across my high volume feet.
Which Wildling models are extra wide? I tried their North Wolf (description said ”runs a little wider) but they were waaay too narrow, even when I tried sizing up.
Thanks so much! This is a real help 🙂
I would love to know what brand the top left and top right shoes are in the first image of this article!
Top left is the Softstar Shoes Switchback hiking boot and the top right is the Luks Primavera
What brand is the red t-straps? Also, I have a high arch, 9.5″ in length and 4.5″ in width. What is the best way to get the right size?
Hi Jen!
Those are from Gea Soles. You can read the Gea Soles Review for some more information on the brand.
I’m wondering if anyone at AnyasReviews is familiar with the the two different varieties of Ahinsa shoes: Barefoot and Comfort. Many of their shoes are available in both varieties.
The Comfort variety is supposed to be a “barefoot” shoe after the insole is removed. I need to know if the Comfort and Barfoot varieties are the same shoe, just that the Comfort includes a removable insole. Or if they are indeed two different shoes made on different lasts. I can’t find any way to submit this question to the company.
Yes, they’re the same shoe. The only difference is that the Comfort models come with a removable orthotic insole, whereas the barefoot models come with an extra removable flat insole.
Thanks Anya!
And thanks to your discount code, I just saved the cost of shipping a pair of Ahinsa Bindu2 Airnet comfort in beige. I’m so stoked! (will toss the orthotic insole)!
Thank you for this! I never understood why even ‘wide’ shoes never felt wide enough, but now I see it’s because I need it wide throughout the heel/arch. Why has no one ever been able to explain it to me like that before? It doesn’t solve the problem of actually being able to easily find such shoes (though your links are a helpful starting place), but it does feel validating to understand the issue. I had had such high hopes for the Xero Dillon– the Prio had fit like a glove (well, sock, actually) but I prefer more of a sneaker. I was so disappointed when the Dillon arrived and was too narrow in the bottom half. Thanks to your reviews (wish I had found them earlier) I’m going to try a men’s Kelso. Cheers.
oh my word where have you been my whole life?? I am so overwhelmed and mind-blown! I cannot wait to find some shoes that actually fit my feet! When I was a teenager I wished that I could just cut my pinky toe and that side of my foot off cause NOTHING ever fit me. Especially cute shoes or heels. I live in wide chacos in the summer and wide bear paws in the winter. But now I’ll be able to find some close-toed shoes that look nice and professional! Thank you!!!!!!!!!!
Do you have any shoe recommendations that are not in Europe and can be bought in Canada or even the USA? Thanks for any direction.
I’m replying to my own comment… My apologies, I do see the USA options I don’t know why I initially passed over that info. I would prefer Canada but I’ll start with the US options.
Great article! I am sorry to see so many others who also have wide feet! I am having a difficult time finding a men’s shoe specifically designed for court play (pickleball) that comes in a 10.5 6E. I have a high instep but average heal. New Balance fits me well since several of their athletic shoes come in 6E, but their “court” shoes don’t come that wide. Any suggestions for a sturdy 6E court shoe? Thank you!
Hm, the first one that comes to mind is the Xero 360. It is a cross trainer with a grippy outsole that is meant to work for court sports as well. Xero has some other good options for the court too, like the Prio Neo, the Forza Trainer, even the Kelso (which would be the widest option). In Men’s Xero is quite wide, but they also tend to be wide through the heel. So if heel security is a concern for you I would consider the Forza Trainer. You can see Xero’s fitness shoes here.
Hey Anya, maybe I didn’t spot them, but have you heard of Duckfeet shoes? They are amazing! I have several pairs. They are also responsibly produced and last forever!
http://Www.duckfeet.com
Hi there! I do know of Duckfeet! They look really nice, and I think they are a great option for a lot of people. I personally am recommending here zero drop shoes that are totally flat because that has also been an important factor in my foot-healing journey. You can read more about the criteria I’m using here.
I’m having trouble understanding which brands you are recommending for narrow fan feet.
My top recommendation for narrow fan feet would be Vivobarefoot. I also like the Origo Derby and the Crupon Trevi for narrow fan.
Fantastically informative! I started wearing toe socks and no-drop, barefoot, wide toe box shoes about 6 months ago. I’ll never go back! Tell me, what are the whoolish looking socks with the ‘Real’ boots picture? Ive been searching for comfortable extra warm toe socks, as we just moved to New England.
I can’t wait to try out many of your suggested brands. Thanks so much for sharing. Cheers Bal
I’m so glad you found it useful! Those socks are from Knitido Plus.
I’m looking for shoes for my teenage son. He wears large plastic orthotic braces, he needs shoes with a wide bottom of the shoe for universal balance, also preferably deep in the shoe to accommodate the brace. Any suggestions?? Been searching long and far. Thank you
Hi Garrett,
I would suggest looking at Bohempia sneakers in wide (we are low in inventory right now, but getting more in a week or so). You might need to size up for enough space to accommodate an orthotic insert, which I’m assuming you already have experience with if you’ve been trying to find shoes for him for a while. But the base is really wide, there is a good amount of vertical space, and a removable insole for a little extra space. Lems is another brand that has a lot of vertical space and removable insoles. A final option is Barebarics, but they fit a little more shallow than the other two I’ve mentioned so might not have enough vertical space even without the insoles that come inside them. Could be worth a try though.
Thanks for this very comprehensive list. I’ve been wearing Altra runners for a few years now. Because of the added comfort and space for my toes I have been able to increase my walking mileage. The downside is that I have now overdone the walking and it has caused Achilles tendonitis. I have had to add heel lifts in my Altras in order for the back of the shoe not to touch the lump that has developed on my Achilles. But this defeats the purpose of the zero drop. Can you please recommend a shoe that will not touch or at least not rub on my Achilles so that I can continue my many miles? I’m open to a higher top shoe that completely covers the Achilles.
Thank you so very much.
Zara
Hi Zara, sorry to hear you’ve been having trouble with your achilles. The Oesh Warrior is an option that comes to mind and that has a similar thickness to Altra. The other recommendations I have are significantly thinner, like the Wildling Nebula – feather soft on the achilles not even a hint of rubbing (I use a NorthSole insole inside my Nebula because they are so thin). I also like the Mukishoes Igneous as a soft boot that doesn’t rub.