The Importance of Wide Toe Box Shoes (Plus Expert-Recommended Styles)!
Wide feet? Not a problem!
Jewels Busenberg, Senior Running/Cycling Footwear Buyer at Zappos.com, is back again with recommendations for the best footwear for women over 50. This time, we’re talking shoes with a wide toe box. But first, how do you know if you need shoes with that feature?
“If your feet are rubbing against the sides of your shoes, your foot folds over the bottom or you find your toes are being squeezed together in your shoes, it might be time to look for a shoe that is offered in a wide width,” Jewels tells us. “Gone are the days of having blisters and irritation on your feet due to improper shoes and small toe boxes. Finding shoes that accommodate a wider foot can sometimes be a challenge but there are actually more options out there than ever before.”
Find out which sneakers Jewels recommends for those who need sneakers with a wide toe box for the ultimate comfort!
Shopping for Shoes With a Wide Toe Box
“Shoes that will provide the most comfort for wide feet will be offered in a width other than medium to make it suitable for a wider footbed,” Jewels explains. “his means it was built with a wider last at the factory and will allow for extra room in the toe box. The length will be the same as a regular shoe, but the width measurement will change.”
You can find some styles on the market that naturally have a wider footbed, but they’re labeled as a medium width. Jewels says a “true width style will be labeled something other than medium width.” For clarity, the notations for wide feet selections are as follows:
- Womens – 2A- Narrow, B – Medium, D – Wide
- Mens – D- Medium, 2EE – Wide, 4E – Extra Wide
Benefits of a Wide Toe Box
There are a lot of reasons someone might opt for a wide toe box when shopping for shoes. “When your sneakers are too tight, you risk experiencing blisters, corns, calluses, ingrown toenails, bunions and injuries,” says Jewels.
“A lot of shoes in different categories come in a variety of widths,” she adds. “Athletic shoes, lifestyle, and dress shoes are all offered in extended-width options; however, to maximize comfort and support, athletic shoes are recommended.”
But what should you do if you want find a shoe in a wide option? “You could try sizing up,” Jewels starts. “But that could also induce slippage in the heel or around the toe box.” Instead, she recommends opting for the choice that does have the wider toe box if you cannot find a true wide option.
Wide Toe Box Shoes From Zappos
Of course, Jewels wouldn’t leave us without providing any of the best options when it comes to wide toe box shoes! Below are some of her favorites as far as most comfortable shoes for wide feet go.
Brooks Glycerin 21
Features You’ll Love:
- Maximum cushion for softness and a plush feel under your feet
- Designed to deliver comfort and durability for a neutral stride that doesn’t need additional support
- Wide platform heel
Hoka Bondi 8
Features You’ll Love:
- APMA Approved
- Removable cushioned insole for elevated comfort
- Beveling on the heel provides added durability
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26
Features You’ll Love:
- PureGEL® technology helps provide lightweight cushioning and softer landings
- Knit collar and midfoot fit help provide a comfortable feel
- FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO technology midsole cushioning creates a more responsive toe-off
New Balance Classics Made in USA 990v6
Features You’ll Love:
- FuelCell foam midsole cushioning
- Round toe design
- ENCAP midsole cushioning combines lightweight foam with a durable polyurethane rim
Jewels also has some suggestions when it comes to performance shoes. Below are her favorites!
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23
Features You’ll Love:
- GuideRails® technology that adds support
- DNA LOFT v2 midsole cushioning for a comfortable stride
- A little bit more cushion for those that like to run or walk on the soft side
Hoka Clifton 9
Features You’ll Love:
- CMEVA foam midsole
- Plusher heel
- Round toe design with plenty of space
On Cloudrunner 2
Features You’ll Love:
- Helion™ superfoam midsole
- Rubber outsole compound with enhanced traction pattern
- EVA insole
ASICS GEL-Kayano® 30
Features You’ll Love:
- 4D Guidance system™ provide stability
- Puregel™ technology to provide softer landings
- OrthoLite™ X-55 footbed
If you’re looking for something more stylish without sacrificing on the wide toe box, Jewels has options for that as well! After all, having wide feet does not mean you can’t still be stylish.
“To style up your shoe picks, try the Naturalizer Vera Sandal, an everyday sandal with a 2 ½ in heel great with black pants and a cute top,” she says. “The Vionic Zinfandels is an open-toe block heel great, for the office or a casual date night with jeans,” she adds. “Stuart Weitzman Nearlynude is a great, dressy style heel perfect for a wedding. Finally, the Lucky Brand Basel is a cute fall bootie, perfect to pair with a long dress at a winery or a day out.”
No more squeezing into shoes that are too narrow and spending the days waiting to take them off, thanks to our shoe expert! There are many shoe selections that support a wider foot and offer the comfort and chic look you deserve. Shop Zappos for these wide toe box options and more.
Want more shoe shopping? Keep reading!
How To Find the Best Marathon Running Shoe Plus Expert Recommendations
Must-Buy ASICS Sneakers According to Zappos Customers
Best Walking Shoes for Women, Plus the Features You’ll Want That’ll Make Your Feet Extra Comfortable
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