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Best Running Shoes For Wide Feet
Possessing shoes that fit you correctly, provide enough cushioning like cushioned running shoes, and grants you with enough flexibility are all key. Not only will finding the right shoes helps your feet feel better, but it will also help your entire body feel better. Right shoes will make you feel like a completely new runner and could even shave off a few seconds from your mile time.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Comfort
A lot of design elements make up great running shoes and to be honest, a lot of them are dependent on your preferences. Everyone has different feet and a different running style; which sometimes makes shopping for trail running shoes even harder. Yet, no matter how you feel one way or another, your shoes need to be comfortable. For the issue such as plantar fasciitis, you could choose the best plantar fasciitis socks, which will provide more comfort besides your running shoes for wide feet. Who on earth wants to run in shoes that provide irritation and an overall level of discomfort? However, it is not as easy as merely designing a pair of running shoes out of nothing but cushion. In order to maximize the comfort, durability, and other elements, specific cushioning needs to be integrated.
One key location that you will find the need for cushioning is in the midsole. More or less, the midsole’s purpose in running shoes for wide feet is to provide you with shock absorption and cushioning. After all, each step you take creates a shock when you touch the ground. But, some midsoles are thicker than others, and some are firmer. While soft midsoles provide more cushion, they may also wear down quicker. Yet, a firmer midsole may not provide enough comfort for you. Again, it is a matter of preference.
Flexibility
Without question, this section can be the most difficult to assess when people are buying their first running shoes. Much like with the midsole, the amount of stiffness you desire is going to be up to you. Not everyone will have the same running preferences and before you look into a pair of wide feet running shoes, you should understand yours. However, the issue with stiffness versus flexibility is also complicated because some manufacturers will be very vague about the information that regards it.
So, how can you get a better understanding of what you may prefer? Well, as a general rule of thumb, if you are a low-arched runner then you may prefer a stiffer midsole. However, note that this can compromise the comfortability. But, if you are a high-arched runner than a flexible midsole may suit your needs better. Think about it in this manner; when you are running would you rather feel dexterity with your feet or feel as if they are not going to move at all?
Breathability
If you are in the market for athletic clothing and apparel, aside from comfort, no design feature will come up more than breathability. It does not require a Master’s degree to understand that when people work out, they will start to sweat. When moisture builds up, it can create clammy clothing, and the fabric becomes nearly impossible to breathe out of. Alright, so how do manufacturers adjust for sweat build-up when they design their running shoes? It is quite simple, actually.
Most of the time, there will be some sort of mesh material utilized in the shoe, with it being on the top portion of the shoe a majority of the time. This ensures that your feet receive a little bit of air when they are inside of the shoe. However, a fabric liner that wicks away moisture is also another key to maintaining a high level of breathability. Although, what happens if you want to run in frigid conditions? If you do not want the heat to escape, you could opt for a less breathable shoe. Yet, most people will want to run in relatively moderate weather and at the end of the day, you are going to sweat either way.
Durability
Among the sections being presented to you, this is the most self-explanatory. When you buy anything in life, you would like it if it is built to last and running shoes are no different. Given how much abuse they can take, though, you need to pay special attention to the durability. As a prime example, assess the design of the outsole. This is the portion of the shoes that will take the most abuse and it should be built to withstand some punishment. But, where do you plan on running? Will you encounter terrains that are uneven and rugged? It is just common sense that a rougher terrain will wear down an outsole quicker and if these are your intentions, aim for one with highly-durable rubber.
Top 10 Picks
1. New Balance W990v4
New Balance has never been known to make the flashiest shoes on the market but when it comes to practicality, they certainly make some of the best. Their w990v4 branded running shoes are a terrific example of that and despite their immense price tag, you get what you pay for.
Read moreComfort
Thanks to the ideal blend of stability and cushioning, you are delivered with amazing comfort from mile to mile. In fact, these New Balance shoes boast a dynamic performance in a timeless silhouette.
Flexibility
While there have not been a lot of negative feelings towards this running shoe, some runners felt that they were not able to achieve the flexibility that they wanted; stating the shoes were just a little too stiff.
Breathability
To start, New Balance implemented breathable fabric lining for their running shoes. If that were not enough, they also integrated a breathable mesh material for the upper section.
Durability
Without question, this is why runners keep coming back to New Balance. As several reviewers have alluded to, the durability of these shoes is tremendous.
Size and Fitting
Even though this is a buying guide for wide-feet running shoes, runners with narrow feet can also find a pair that suits their preferences. In addition, the lace keeper is a nice feature as it secures both the laces and tongue in place.
Overall
While these shoes may not win you any fashion contests, they will surely satisfy your feet on long runs. Their performance and durability are practically unmatched and at the end of the day, can you really ask for much more?
2. Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 34
Ask yourself this question. What would a buying guide predicate on shoes be without at least one mention of Nike? As a manufacturer, they are one of the most popular in the world of sports and they just so happen to make fantastic running shoes for wide shoes.
Read moreComfort
For the most part, it seems to be a general consensus among runners that the comfortability experienced from the Air Zoom Pegasus 34 Running Shoes is high. Yet, there have been a few that have claimed it has irregular padding.
Flexibility
There is a rubber strip along the bottom of the shoe and this assists in making the heel to toe transition smoother. In addition, the small cuts offer a more flexible feel when running.
Breathability
With this design, Nike implemented an updated version of its Flymesh material. This time, the material is even lighter and this helps reduce the amount of heat build-up. The end result is a more breathable shoe.
Durability
There have been a few users that have stated they experienced durability issues with their Nike Air Zoom shoes; claiming that they had a tendency to fall apart quickly.
Size and Fitting
Granted you choose the right size, an integrated firm heel cup and incredibly strong cables will ensure that your feet stay in place while you are running.
Overall
Despite the build quality which has been questioned by a couple of users, Nike delivers yet another stellar pair of running shoes into their long line of quality products. Not all users experienced these same durability issues, which is important to remember.
3. Asics Nimbus 18
If you are looking for shoes that provide a tremendous amount of cushioning and bounce-back properties, excellent moisture management, and enhanced gait efficiency then you need to look into the Nimbus 18 Running Shoes from ASICS.
Read moreComfort
ASICS did not hold back with their cushioning that is for sure. With integrated rearfoot and forefoot gel technology, this will absorb as much shock as physically possible to ensure there is less stress on your feet.
Flexibility
To enhance the gait efficiency, there is a vertical flex groove that decouples the tooling along the line of progression. In addition to this, the heel clutching system provides improved support.
Breathability
In order to ensure that their Nimbus 18 had a perfect amount of breathability, ASICS decided to go with a registered trademark of ATP Manufacturing. That, of course, being Ortholite technology and this allows the shoe to efficiently manage moisture.
Durability
Various testers have had different experiences with durability. For instance, one claimed after long-running sessions that stayed intact wonderfully; while another stated the contrary and reported that holes were starting to appear in the heel.
Size and Fitting
ASICS aimed to create a glove-like fit with their design and perhaps, it is too glove-like. As a few users have brought to attention, the toe box is a bit narrow and the newer model appears to be tighter than the previous.
Overall
A lot of accreditation and praise needs to be given to ASICS for their design. Still, a wider toe box would have been a welcome sight for some runners.
4. Brooks Ghost 10
When the discussion is brought upon who makes the best running shoes for wide feet, Brooks will always be mentioned. Their Ghost 10 Running Shoes, in fact, are often their most highly-touted of them all; and there are good reasons for that.
Read moreComfort
Brooks designed their Ghost 10 shoes with a segmented crash pad. The idea is that no matter how hard you land, the pad will adapt to each fall for the smoothest ride possible.
Flexibility
Thanks to the power of the omega flex grooves in the forefoot of this running shoe, runners are almost guaranteed an optimal amount of forefoot flexibility on their long runs.
Breathability
The strategically placed stretch material has been implemented throughout but what really stands out is the engineered mesh upper section. It almost disappears on your feet to deliver excellent breathability.
Durability
Several runners have praised the construction throughout this running shoe. However, there always seem to be a few that have issues and one runner reported the shoe was deteriorating within two weeks.
Size and Fitting
It does not appear that too many users have had issues with the fitting. In fact, several feel the sole is not too bulky and that the shoelace holder works well to keep the tongue in place.
Overall
Judging running shoes based on a few user experiences can be difficult because you do not know how they are running. Still, in the long run, durability could end up being a concern but all things considered, Ghost 10 is a marvelous shoe.
5. Brooks Addiction 12
The Addiction 12 Running Shoe just barely missed out on being Brooks’ best-running shoes for wide feet. While nearly every design area is impeccable, the quality is hurt a bit by the reported issue of the upper mesh section’s durability.
Read moreComfort
No matter the shape of your feet or your running style, the adaptive cushioning present in this shoe grants you a comfortable ride.
Flexibility
To promote a smoother transition throughout the gait cycle, an extended progressive diagonal rollbar has been integrated to help control the pronation.
Breathability
A huge bright spot to the design of the Addiction 12 is the breathability. On top of featuring Element mesh upper sections with synthetic overlays, the Textile Element lining also manages to wick moisture away from your skin.
Durability
While a few consumers noted the upper mesh sections tend to wear out quickly, long-lasting durability is delivered in all the high-wear areas of the outsole.
Size and Fitting
Again, the adaptive cushioning tailors towards runners of all shapes and sizes. However, also noteworthy is the incredibly spacious toe box which was raved about by some runners.
Overall
Because of the spacious toe box and exceptional breathability, it is no surprise why the Addiction 12 Running Shoes are a fan favorite. Add on to this the long-lasting potential of the outsole and it creates one of the best running shoes on the planet.
6. Under Armour Bandit 3
Under Armour is widely revered because of its base and athletic clothing. Yet, their Bandit 3 proves that they have the good to design a high-quality pair of running shoes, as well.
Read moreComfort
The molded and high-rebound EVA sock-liner delivers a responsive and comfortable ride. Meanwhile, the charged cushioning midsole also aids in comfortability as it uses compression molded foam.
Flexibility
Overall, the flexibility provided by Bandit 3 is neutral but this is certainly not a bad thing as it balances out with the cushioning. Yet, the anatomically placed flex grooves do offer enough flexibility in key areas.
Breathability
The upper portion of the Bandit 3 is designed with a lightweight and breathable material. It seems to be agreed upon by the runners that this material performs sufficiently.
Durability
One of the key areas of a shoe is its outsole and its durability. It is safe to say that with all the high impact zones covered, this solid rubber outsole offers an impressive amount of long-lasting potential.
Size and Fitting
Although some buyers felt as if the toe box was a bit too narrow for their liking, the firm external heel counter ensures that your heel stays in place during aggressive runs.
Overall
All in all, Under Armour, more than delivers with their Bandit 3 Running Shoe. Some runners still may feel the toe box is not as wide as it should be but for the most part, they seem to fit stable and secure.
7. Saucony Cohesion 10
It is easy to assume that cheaper products will be made with cheap material and thus, not have ideal durability. Surprisingly, though, many runners have reported these shoes have held up well over their runs (considering the price point).
Read moreComfort
The EVA midsole provides both the shock absorption and responsive cushioning present in this shoe. However, in total, the cushioning distributed throughout is moderate.
Flexibility
As opposed to previous models of the Cohesion, several runners agree that the 10th model is a bit stiffer; meaning the flexibility is sacrificed a bit.
Breathability
While the flexibility you receive from the Cohesion 10 Running Shoes may be disappointing, the breathability will certainly not be. This is thanks to the breathable fabric lining and meshes upper with synthetic overlays.
Durability
The price point is not at all indicative of the durability of this shoe. Many runners reported they were shocked with the impressive durability and this is especially true with the high-abrasion rubber outsole.
Size and Fitting
Whatever your current shoe size is, you may want to increase it one. According to some runners, these shoes tend to run a bit small and narrow. To adapt to this, it may behoove you to order a size up.
Overall
It is hard to think of a running shoe that accommodates a wider demographic than the Cohesion 10. If the sizing were a bit more consistent, it could have easily climbed higher on this list.
8. Hoka One One Bondi 5
Hoka One One put a lot of time and effort into improving their Bondi series of running shoes and their Bondi 5 has received high acclaim because of it. It not only features more breathable materials than its predecessor but the fitting has also been improved.
Read moreComfort
Several users claimed that the Bondi 5 offered superb comfort for their long days at the office. The full EVA midsole provides a brunt of the cushioning and the 3D puff print frame adds detailed support.
Flexibility
While the midsole does offer Hoka One One’s signature cushioning, many users took issue with the fact that it was stiffer than previously. Because of this, many reported that the experience was worse.
Breathability
This is one of the key areas that Hoka One One improved on with their Bandit 5. Many runners were pleased with the enhanced breathable materials that were used throughout the shoe.
Durability
With the addition of even more rubber for the outsole, it creates a shoe that is ideal for concrete and road surfaces. This added rubber provides a much-needed boost to the outsole.
Size and Fitting
The Bandit 5 is tailored to provide a better and more comfortable fit. As the toe box is wider and the fact that it is available in wide widths, those with wider feet will be more than pleased.
Overall
If nothing else, you have to take your hat off to Hoka One One. It is not as if their Bondi 4 was a bad running shoe; it is just they made the necessary improvements and you can tell the effort was there.
9. Altra Torin 3.0
It is kind of a shame that some runners have experienced durability concerns with their Torin 3.0 Running Shoes because they offer superior shock absorption and feature an updated outsole for enhanced flexibility.
Read moreComfortability
Cushioning is certainly important for comfort but with their dual-layer EVA midsole, Altra also proves that shock absorption and proper energy return can be enormous in enhancing comfort.
Flexibility
Altra utilizes an updated outsole for their Torin 3.0 Running Shoe. This model better maps the natural shape of your bones and tendons of your feet. The end result is more natural flexibility.
Breathability
The mesh upper section has been revamped and for the most part, there have not been too many users that have expressed their disappointment with the breathability.
Durability
Within several miles of running, a few runners claimed that the outsole began to come apart. It could be that they ran across rough terrain but just be aware that this is a potential issue.
Size and Fitting
When you are running, the last thing you want is for your feet to wobbling within your shoes. Thankfully, due to the streamlined fit of the Torin 3.0, this has not been reported as an issue.
Overall
Once again, a manufacturer, this time Altra, did everything in their power to ensure they improved on their previous model. That truly is what it is all about and overall, the Torin 3.0 is going to please a lot of runners.
10. Altra Olympus 2
Enhanced technology and impressive design can be found with the Olympus 2. Yet, it remains lower on this list because of some concerns that can’t be ignored. Still, if you are one of the lucky ones, you will not have these issues.
Read moreComfort
Besides the fact that the outsole delivers a cushioned-feel, an A-bound bottom layer has been added to add an extra spring in each step. In addition, the EVA top layer manages to soften the blow on rough terrain.
Flexibility
Implemented into this shoe is what is known as the natural ride system from Altra. This is set out to achieve a more natural foot motion and does so very well.
Breathability
Altra reduced the overall weight of the Olympus 2 and not only does this provide a much faster ride, but it also will aid in breathability during longer runs.
Durability
One of the better design aspects of this shoe is the Vibram outsole which offers an extreme amount of durability. But, per some runner's experiences, the same can’t be said about the upper as it ripped too easily.
Size and Fitting
The lack of heel support is quite evident with this shoe, as reported by a few users. Yet, the toe box is a welcome sight as it provides both a relaxed and stable feeling for your toes.
Overall
Are there some concerns you need to worry about with the Olympus 2. Yes, there are; but, at its core, it is a lightweight and highly comfortable running shoe that will appeal to several runners.
Sources
- , THE BEST RUNNING SHOES FOR WIDE FEET IN 2018, Running Blog
- , 10 best running shoes for wide feet reviewed, Buying Guide