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The 13 Best Wide Toe Box Shoes of 2025, Tested


Inov8 Men’s TrailFly

Credit: Inov8

Key Specs

Sizes: Men’s 7-15 (medium, wide), Women’s 5.5-11 (medium, wide) | Weight: Men’s 9.9 ounces, Women’s 9.9 ounces | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Drop: 6 millimeters | Best For: Road running, trail running, hiking | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best if you want a secure, comfortable shoe that seamlessly transitions from everyday wear to trail runs and other outdoor activities.

Why We Love Them

Inov8’s TrailFly Shoes earned our top spot for men thanks to their reliable support and spacious fit. During test walks and runs, we appreciated their snug feel around the heel and midfoot, coupled with ample room around the toes, which resulted in an exceptionally stable fit. The roomy toe box offers plenty of room for our bunions, and we didn’t feel any tightness around our toes.

While walking and running on both roads and trails, we noticed that the foam cushioning feels plush but supportive, effectively alleviating one tester’s heel pain. The shoe’s grippy traction delivers confidence while traversing uneven and rocky surfaces. We love nearly everything about these shoes, even the stretchy laces that make maintaining a secure, custom-like fit easy.

Also available in women’s sizes at Inov8.

Potential Flaws

  • We love nearly everything about this shoe, though some wearers may not like its sporty style.

Most Valuable Insight

“I wore the shoes daily during the testing period because they became my favorite shoes. They’re snug and glued to your foot where you want them to be, yet are roomy enough in the toe to be comfortable. My feet just don’t slide around in them at all.” —Eric S., Verywell Fit product tester

Topo Athletic Women’s Ultrafly 5

Credit: Amazon

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 6-12 (medium, wide), Men’s 7-15 (medium, wide) | Weight: Women’s 8 ounces, Men’s 9.9 ounces | Materials: Recycled mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Drop: 5 millimeters | Best For: Running, walking | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best for runners who train across various surfaces and distances.

Why We Love Them

Topo’s Athletic Women’s Ultrafly 5 Shoes are exceptionally comfortable and supportive. During testing, we appreciated the roomy toe box that’s designed to mimic the natural shape of the foot—ideal if you need more space in the toe box but not necessarily a wide-width shoe. Plus, the soft, stretchy upper delivers flexibility for a comfy, custom-like fit.

During test runs, we noticed ample space for our toes to splay, preventing flare-ups of one tester’s Morton’s neuroma, or foot numbness. Our feet remained secure without sliding during both easy and intense runs, including long distances. We also appreciated the shoe’s moderate arch support, which provides stability without overcorrecting our stride.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Road Runner Sports, and Zappos.

Potential Flaws

  • While we found this pair comfortable and supportive for running, some wearers may prefer more cushioning.

Most Valuable Insight

“They are the first wide toe box shoe that doesn’t aggravate my Morton’s neuroma and doesn’t give me blisters. They will probably become my go-to for regular runs and long runs.” —Anisa A., Verywell Fit product tester

Asics Gel Kayano 31

Credit: Asics

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 5-13.5 (narrow, medium, wide), Men’s 6-16 (medium, wide, extra wide) | Weight: Women’s 9.2 ounces, Men’s 10.7 ounces | Materials: Engineered mesh upper, foam and gel midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Maximum | Drop: 10 millimeters | Best For: Running, walking | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best for distance runners with plantar fasciitis, neutral or low arches, or flat feet who want a breathable, wide toe box shoe with cloud-like cushioning and solid arch support.

Why We Love Them

From the treadmill to the trail to the pavement, we love the cloud-like cushioning, solid arch support, and perfectly roomy toe box that Asics’ Gel Kayano 31 Shoe offers. Like other Asics shoes, there’s no need for a break-in period, as this pair begins to mold to the shape of your foot as soon as you slip it on. We found that the quick-drying mesh upper provides solid ventilation, keeping our feet dry and comfortable, even during the sweatiest of walks or long-distance runs. 

The heel drop makes it easier to settle into a comfortable, light-on-your-feet run, while the arch support and overall stability of the shoe help us feel grounded and sturdy with every step, regardless of terrain. It can be tough to find a shoe that offers a comfortable balance between stability and plenty of toe space, but this shoe nails it. We think these shoes are ideal for longer runs, when you need ample space, support, and exceptional, highly-cushioned comfort.

Also available in men’s sizes at Zappos and Asics.

Potential Flaws

  • The thicker sole and rocker shape may take some time for some wearers to get used to.

Most Valuable Insight

“As a runner and parent who is constantly chasing after my child, these shoes provide exceptional, cloud-like comfort, solid support, and top-notch breathability.” —Amanda B., Verywell Fit product tester

MBT Sport 4 II

Credit: Amazon

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 6-11, Men’s 5-12.5 | Weight: Not listed | Materials: Mesh and synthetic leather upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Drop: Not listed | Best For: Walking | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who They’re For

Best if you’re trying to increase your step count or already walk 10,000 steps daily

Why We Love Them

If you’re an avid walker or trying to become one, MBT’s Sport 4 II Shoe delivers the comfort, support, and reliable traction you need for safe high-mileage treks. And with a spacious toe box, there’s plenty of room for wide feet. We wore them for hours, and our feet felt comfortable and well-supported thanks to the cushioned foam midsole. 

As we clocked miles, we also noticed that the shoe’s rocker shape propelled us forward, promoting a more efficient stride. Plus, the upper’s blend of breathable mesh and durable leather delivers a lightweight yet sturdy feel. We also love the shoe’s chunky style, so much so that we consistently preferred this pair over others.

Also available in men’s sizes at MBT and Amazon

Potential Flaws

  • We found these shoes best for walking, but they felt slightly too heavy for running.

Most Valuable Insight

“The shoe accommodates my wider-splayed toes very well and allows for a wide range of movement. They have an insole built in that supports my flat feet in a great way, and my feet tend to feel better after a normal day of walking than with other shoes.” —Kelly B., Verywell Fit product tester

WHITIN Men's Wide Toe Box + Zero Drop Sole Road Running Shoes

Credit: Amazon
Pros

  • Lightweight feel

  • Soft, flexible upper for custom-like fit

  • Reflective elements for visibility

Key Specs

Sizes: Men’s 8-13 (wide), Women’s 5-11 (wide) | Weight: Not listed | Materials: Knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Lightweight, responsive | Drop: 0 millimeters | Best For: Walking, cross-training | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who They’re For

Best if you prefer a zero drop shoe for walking, road running, and casual wear.

Why We Love Them

If you prefer a zero drop shoe and need a wide toe box, we love WHITIN’s Road Running Shoes. During testing, we were impressed by the shoe’s sturdiness, especially given its sleek style and lightweight feel. We love that the design mimics your natural foot shape, providing plenty of room around the toes and allowing for a more natural stride.

The soft, breathable upper makes the shoe comfortable for long walks or all-day wear, while the durable rubber outsole delivers reliable traction. We also like the shoe’s reflective elements—a convenient feature for running or walking safely at night.

Also available in women’s sizes at Amazon.

Potential Flaws

  • Since cushioning is minimal, this pair may not work if you prefer thick, plush comfort in a running shoe.
  • This shoe doesn’t offer much arch support, so it may not be a good option if you have high arches or flat feet.

Most Valuable Insight

“I find these shoes to be sturdy and enjoyable to wear as everyday shoes. I think the quality holds up well under wear and tear.” —Jared A., Verywell Fit product tester

Altra Lone Peak 8 Trail Running Shoe

Credit: Amazon
Pros

  • Excellent shock absorption

  • Durable, water-resistant material

  • Reliable traction

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 5.5-12 (medium, wide), Men’s 7-16 (medium, wide) | Weight: Women’s 9.2 ounces, Men’s 10.7 ounces | Materials: Ripstop mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Drop: 0 millimeters | Best For: Trail running, hiking | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who They’re For

Best for casual trail runners and hikers.

Why We Love Them

If you’re a trail runner with wide feet, you need shoes with a secure fit to stay steady and confident on uneven terrain. Altra’s Lone Peak 8 Shoe features grippy traction and a spacious toe box that allows toes to splay for a more stable, comfy ride. Our feet stayed in place during test runs, and we didn’t notice any numbness, irritation, or blisters.

The shoe’s cushioning delivers good shock absorption without feeling too bulky or heavy. Throughout testing, we never experienced foot fatigue. We also liked that the upper material is durable and water-resistant but still allows our feet to breathe and not overheat.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Altra, and Zappos.

Potential Flaws

  • If you’re not used to running in zero drop shoes on trails, these may take some getting used to. 

Most Valuable Insight

“The grip at the bottom is sturdy and feels springy as the shoe propels me to the next stride with great ease. I would definitely recommend these shoes since they are really comfortable, breathable, and have a decent price point.” —Shane H., Verywell Fit product tester

Hoka Clifton 9

Credit: Urban Outfitters

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 5-12 (medium, wide), Men’s 7-15 (medium, wide) | Weight: Women’s 7.3 ounces, Men’s 8.7 ounces | Materials: Engineered mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Protective, responsive | Drop: 5 millimeters | Best For: Running, walking, hiking, trail running | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who They’re For

Best for exercisers who want a lightweight yet well-cushioned wide toe box shoe ideal for plantar fasciitis.

Why We Love Them

With thick cushioning and ample arch support, Hoka’s Clifton 9 Shoe provides essential features for those with plantar fasciitis. Sharkey also loves this shoe and recommends it because of its roomy toe box and solid cushioning and support. During testing, we were impressed with the spacious toe box, which lets toes comfortably splay, and the snug heel cup, which offers a snug, supportive fit, crucial in shoes for plantar fasciitis.

During our test walks, we appreciated the soft, responsive foam cushioning, which was ideal for daily training and long runs or walks. The breathable, flexible mesh upper contoured to our feet, offering a secure fit. Despite the generous cushioning, the shoes still felt lightweight and didn’t slow us down, no matter the distance. Plus, this shoe has earned the American Podiatric Medical Association’s Seal of Acceptance, which means that a group of podiatrists has determined that it promotes good foot health.

Also available in men’s sizes at Hoka, Zappos, and Dick’s Sporting Goods.

Potential Flaws

  • This pair is designed to support runners and walkers for longer distances, so it may not be the best choice for speedwork.

Most Valuable Insight

“I have high arches and am prone to plantar fasciitis, so I need a running shoe that offers good support and shock absorption, especially in the heel area. The Clifton 9 delivers all of that and more, so they’re a regular in my running shoe rotation to prevent that pesky heel pain. I’ve also worn them on days when I know I’ll be on my feet for many hours.” —Christine L., Verywell Fit product tester

Altra Running Experience Flow

Credit: Amazon

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 5.5-12, Men’s 7-15 | Weight: Women’s 7.2 ounces, Men’s 8.4 ounces | Materials: Polyester mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Drop: 4 millimeters | Best For: Running, walking | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who They’re For

Best if you need a lightweight shoe for walking, running, working out, or all-day wear.

Why We Love Them

If you’re looking for a shoe that can do it all, we recommend Altra’s Experience Flow Sneaker. During testing, we were impressed by its lightweight design, which prevents joint and foot fatigue during extended wear. The shoe’s spacious toe box ensures a secure and stable fit. Plus, podiatrist Anne Sharkey, DPM, recommends this brand and especially likes its foot-shaped toe box, which mimics the natural foot shape.

We also appreciate the rocker shape that enhances forward propulsion, making our runs feel effortless. Whether running or walking on pavement, tracks, or treadmills, our feet feel comfortable and well-supported. The shoe’s lightweight construction also includes breathable mesh and air vents to prevent sweat and odors from accumulating inside.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Altra Running, and Fleet Feet

Potential Flaws 

  • While the shoe’s rocker shape makes running easier, it’s not stable enough for heavy weight training
  • This shoe is designed for neutral runners, so it may not offer enough arch support if you have flat feet. 

Most Valuable Insight

“This was my first time wearing Altras, and I think I may be loyal to them from here on out. They fit my foot perfectly; the wide toe box allows for some wiggle room in my toes. I didn’t feel desperate to take these off after wearing them for long periods.” —Abby M., Verywell Fit product tester

Altra Provision 8 Women’s Support Road Running Shoe

Credit: Amazon
Pros

  • Secure, comfy fit

  • Solid stability

  • APMA Seal of Acceptance

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 5.5-12, Men’s 7-15 | Weight: Women’s 8.3 ounces, Men’s 10.2 ounces | Materials: Engineered mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Drop: 0 millimeters | Best For: Running, walking | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5

Who They’re For

Best for extended periods of standing throughout the day.

Why We Love Them

Do you stand for hours at a time? Altra’s Provision 8 Running Shoe provides the comfort and support you need. During testing, these shoes alleviated our foot pain and fatigue while we stood at work for eight to 10 hours daily. We also appreciated the spacious toe box, which allowed our toes to splay naturally and even helped relieve pain from one tester’s neuroma. 

The mesh upper provides breathability and a custom-like fit while preventing rubbing and irritation during runs and walks. It also helps avoid hot spots and blisters. We appreciate that this pair offers excellent lateral support and reliable traction underfoot—just a few reasons they’ve earned the APMA’s Seal of Acceptance.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Altra, and REI.

Potential Flaws

  • This pair may not offer enough cushioning for runners who prefer a plush underfoot feel.

Most Valuable Insight

“The wide toe box on this shoe was great for my feet. It accommodated the natural shape and width of my feet, which I need because my feet are wider than normal feet. My foot felt very secure in the shoe and did not slide around at all during my runs.” —Rachel M., Verywell Fit product tester

Birkenstock Bend Low Leather Sneakers

Credit: Nordstrom

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 4-12.5 (medium, wide), Men’s 6-17.5 (medium, wide) | Weight: Not listed | Materials: Leather upper, cork-latex footbed, rubber sole | Cushioning: Moderate | Drop: Not listed | Best For: Casual wear | Our Overall Rating: 4.4/5

Who They’re For

Best if you want a casual, comfy shoe for daily wear and travel. 

Why We Love Them

If you’re searching for a casual, comfy shoe for daily wear, we recommend Birkenstock’s Bend Low Sneakers. These unisex sneakers feature a contoured, cork-textured footbed that forms to your foot over time. We appreciate the wide toe box and deep heel cup, which provide maximum stability and security.

During testing, we also loved the look and feel of the natural leather upper for its durability and ability to stretch to fit various foot shapes. The shoe’s attractive style complements both casual and dressier outfits, making it an excellent choice for travel.

Potential Flaws

  • At first, the cork footbed feels slightly stiff, but it molds to your foot over time for a more comfy fit. 

Most Valuable Insight

“The shoes nicely accommodated the natural shape and width of my foot. They’re made of a really nice leather that looks really polished.” —Margo R., Verywell Fit product tester

Topo Athletic Men's Cyclone 2

Credit: Amazon
Pros

  • Responsive cushioning

  • Lightweight feel

  • Good arch support

Key Specs

Sizes: Men’s 8-13, Women’s 6-11 | Weight: Men’s 6.9 ounces, Women’s 5.5 ounces | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Drop: 5 millimeters | Best For: Running | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who They’re For

Best for runners who want a lightweight, responsive shoe for tempo runs and speedwork.

Why We Love Them

Looking to run faster? Choose Topo Athletic’s Cyclone 2 Shoes, known for their lightweight design and responsive cushioning that enhances stride efficiency. On test runs, we immediately noticed that the bouncy foam midsole absorbed impact and promoted smooth transitions. The shoe also offers plenty of room in the forefoot and a snug heel cup for a secure fit.

Although these are among the lightest shoes on our list, they still deliver excellent support and stability. Despite their minimalist style, they provide solid arch support and feel highly durable. This pair quickly became our go-to choice for both running and walking—we never experienced any foot fatigue or discomfort. Plus, Sharkey recommends this brand and notes that its wide toe box allows toes to splay naturally, and its low heel-to-toe drop promotes a natural stride.

Also available in women’s sizes at Amazon, Topo Athletic, and Zappos.

Potential Flaws 

  • While great for short-distance runs, these may not offer the proper support for super long distances.

Most Valuable Insight

“The wide toe box truly exceeded my expectations in accommodating the natural width of my feet, especially in the forefoot area. It provides enough room for my toes to splay naturally, preventing the dreaded feeling of cramped feet. It will be hard to go back to my prior pair of running shoes after using these.” —Ryan S., Verywell Fit product tester

Altra Running Mont Blanc Carbon Men’s Trail Running Shoe

Credit: Altra Running
Cons

  • Upper feels slightly flimsy

  • Initial strong, unpleasant odor

Key Specs

Sizes: Men’s 7-15, Women’s 5.5-12 | Weight: Men’s 10.9 ounces, Women’s 10.9 ounces | Materials: Mesh upper, foam midsole, carbon fiber plate, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Drop: 0 millimeters | Best For: Trail running, trail racing | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Who They’re For

Best for serious trail runners who need a lightweight, high-performance shoe for racing.

Why We Love Them

Altra’s Mont Blanc Carbon Trail Running Shoe is a solid pick for experienced trail runners who want a supportive, responsive shoe that can handle fast trail runs. During testing, the supportive cushioning felt just right for a trail shoe. We could feel the contours of the rocks and the trail underneath without being poked by sharper points. Plus, the shoe’s embedded carbon plate gave us some extra bounceback for a very responsive ride.

The spacious toe box allowed our toes to splay comfortably, adding to our stability on the trail. We were also impressed with the grippy, rugged outsole, which offered good traction but wasn’t too knobby. Plus, these shoes are extremely breathable and dry quickly if you run into some puddles or wet weather.

Also available in women’s sizes at Altra and REI

Potential Flaws

  • We noticed that the upper material, while lightweight and breathable, felt a little flimsy.
  • The shoes had a strong, unpleasant odor at first, but it mostly dissipated after a week or so. 

Most Valuable Insight

“I was not in any discomfort running with these shoes, no matter the type of trail or length of run. I had just the right amount of space and never felt at risk of blisters. The carbon plate offered extra energy transfer and support without taking away my ability to feel the trail.” —Brett M., Verywell Fit product tester

Asics Women's Gel-Cumulus 27 Running Shoes

Credit: Asics
Pros

  • Good arch support

  • Super-lightweight and breathable

  • Responsive, comfortable cushioning

Key Specs

Sizes: Women’s 5-12 (narrow, medium, wide), Men’s 6-16 (medium, wide, extra wide) | Weight: Women’s 8.1 ounces, Men’s 9.3 ounces | Materials: Recycled engineered mesh upper, foam midsole, foam and rubber outsole | Cushioning: Moderate | Drop: 8 millimeters | Best For: Running, walking, cross-training | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who They’re For

Best for exercisers who appreciate a lightweight shoe with solid arch support that can handle long walks, runs, and gym sessions. 

Why We Love Them

Asics’ Gel Cumulus 27 Sneakers feel like a Goldilocks hug around the arch of the foot—not too loose, not too tight, just right. The roomy toe box immediately adjusts to meet the unique contours of the foot, making this a perfect fit for those who experience discomfort with overly structured toe boxes. We love their instantly broken-in fit, which doesn’t require the awkward period between buying new shoes and making them the most comfortable option in your closet. 

The comfortable cushioning offers the perfect balance of foot protection while allowing you to connect with the ground, making these shoes a great fit for long walks, road running, and urban adventures alike. Plus, they feel super lightweight, breathable, and responsive, whether we wear them walking around town all day, at the gym, or while running on uneven roads. Bonus: The elastic heel loop makes it easy to put these shoes on and take them off.

Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon and Asics.

Potential Flaws

  • We found this shoe incredibly comfortable, thanks to its toe box that contours to the foot; however, it might offer too little structure for those who prefer a stiffer shoe.

Most Valuable Insight

“I love wearing these on walks around town and on longer road runs. They’re super lightweight and provide solid arch support, and I especially love how well the wide toe box contours to my feet for a truly customized fit.” —Amanda B., Verywell Fit product tester

What to Look for When Shopping for Wide Toe Box Shoes

  • Toe Box Shape: When shopping for shoes with a wide toe box, choose styles that conform to your natural foot shape and avoid those that taper at the front, says podiatrist Miguel Cunha, DPM. He suggests tracing your foot on a piece of paper and placing the shoe over the tracing. If your foot outline extends beyond the shoe, especially at the toe box, the shoe is too narrow. For the best fit, he suggests looking for foot-shaped or anatomical designs.
  • Shoe Type: Some shoes are for casual wear, while others are designed for specific activities, from fitness walking to gym workouts. For running outside on the pavement, choose a flexible, well-cushioned running shoe with a breathable upper. If you plan on wearing your shoes on uneven or slippery terrain, opt for a pair with textured rubber outsoles. 
  • Durability: When choosing shoes, pick ones made with high-quality uppers and outsole materials—like leather or mesh uppers and sturdy rubber outsoles—since these will last the longest. You should also look for reinforced stitching in high-wear areas, including the toe box. Cunha says you can tell if the toe box is reinforced if it resists compression when pressed down on with your thumb. Sharkey adds the toe box may also have protective coatings like a laminate for added durability.
  • Personal Preferences: When choosing a shoe, consider your tastes and preferences. Do you like a plush feel or firm cushioning? Do you prefer a sleek, stylish shoe or one that’s wider, more hefty, and rugged-looking? 
Testers wore dozens of wide toe box shoes during long walks, runs, hikes, and daily activities.

Verywell Fit


How We Tested the Wide Toe Box Shoes

To find the best wide toe box shoes, we tested dozens of pairs, wearing them in our Lab and at home while taking long walks, running indoors and outdoors, hiking, and more. When testing wide toe box shoes, we evaluate each pair based on the following key criteria.

  • Fit: When we first put the shoes on, we assess whether the toe box is wide enough to accommodate our foot’s natural shape and width. As we walk and run in them, we consider the following: Is there any tingling, numbness, or irritation? Do the shoes feel secure? Are we stable, or do our feet slide around?
  • Comfort: Your shoes must provide comfort during extended wear. Next, we assess how the wide toe box enhances overall comfort: Do we experience foot fatigue or discomfort during activities like walking or working out? Is the upper material soft and flexible, and do we sense any pressure points or irritating seams? We also evaluate whether the shoe’s cushioning and support meet our expectations for all-day comfort.
  • Quality: When we first try on the shoes, we inspect them for any manufacturing flaws or defects in their construction or materials. We also evaluate the quality of features, such as the laces, eyelets, and soles. Throughout the testing period, we assess whether the shoes retain their shape and structural integrity or display signs of wear and tear.
  • Design: When testing each pair, we assess how well the shoes’ design accommodates various foot shapes and sizes, including differences in toe splay and width. We also consider if shoes feature any functional design elements, such as adjustable straps or breathable mesh panels, that enhance their usability, overall functionality, or appeal. 
  • Value: We don’t check the price until our testing is complete to assess each pair’s value fairly and accurately. We then assess whether we’d pay the full price or possibly more. We only recommend shoes that we’d wear regularly or personally purchase ourselves.
Testers assessed whether they experienced foot fatigue during activities such as walking and hiking.

Verywell Fit


Our Experts

We consulted experts at each stage of our research, testing, and reporting process. The following experts advised us on what key features to look for in a quality pair of wide toe box shoes and what to avoid. Although we choose products independently, expert input influences our decisions.

  • Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, podiatric surgeon at NYC Foot & Ankle Center in New York City
  • Michelle Castiello, DPM, podiatrist at White Plains Hospital in White Plains, New York
  • Anne Sharkey, DPM, podiatrist at North Austin Foot and Ankle Institute in Texas
  • Miguel Cunha, DPM, podiatrist and founder of Gotham Footcare in New York City

Frequently Asked Questions 

How do I know if my toe box is wide enough? 

When trying on shoes, pay attention to how much room your toes have. They’re wide enough if you can comfortably splay them without feeling squished, says Sharkey. It’s also a good idea to try shoes on at the end of the day when your feet may be a bit swollen, says Cunha. If your toes feel cramped in your shoes, it’s not only uncomfortable but may also lead to foot conditions, including calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis (inflammation of the tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes), and more.

Does a wide shoe mean it has a wide toe box? 

A wide shoe will be wider throughout the shoe, from the toe box to the heel area, whereas a shoe with a wide toe box focuses solely on additional width in the front part of the shoe.

Are wide toe box shoes better for your feet?

Wide toe box shoes may be better for your feet if you have foot conditions like bunions and hammertoes. Plus, wide toe box shoes can help with stability and balance, even if you don’t have foot conditions, says Valencia.

How should wide toe box shoes fit?

Wide toe box shoes should fit comfortably without feeling too loose or tight. The rear of the shoe should fit snugly, and your heels shouldn’t slip out while you walk or run. If your toes feel squished without any room to spread out, the toebox is too narrow, but if you splay your toes and they don’t touch the sides of the shoe, the toe box may be too wide, says Sharkey.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

As a Verywell Fit writer, certified personal trainer, running coach, and avid runner, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, understands the importance of getting the right shoe fit for optimal comfort and performance. Christine frequently recommends Altra and Topo running shoes to her trainees who have wide feet or a history of bunions.

Additional reporting contributed by Gabrielle Applebury, MA, LMFT, and Amanda Berkey, M.Ed.

Gabrielle Applebury, MA, LMFT, is a licensed marriage and family therapist, runner, and the associate editor for Verywell Fit. She covers topics such as targeted workouts and fitness gear, and has tested various types of workout equipment, apparel, and shoes, including walking and running shoes. Whether focusing on workout gear, apparel, or other products, she’s dedicated to providing recommendations based on thorough research and testing.

Amanda Berkey, M.Ed., has worked at Verywell Fit since 2022 and is currently a writer for the brand. As a former personal trainer and group fitness instructor, she specializes in testing fitness equipment and recovery gear, including gym towels, Pilates mats, vibrating foam rollers, running shoes, and more. For this roundup, she used her expertise and tested several wide toe box shoes to recommend high-quality options to Verywell Fit readers.

For this article, the authors hands-on tested and reviewed insights from our experts and the Verywell Fit testing team to thoroughly evaluate each pair of wide toe box shoes.

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