How to Choose Running Shoes for Wide Feet

What are wide running shoes?

If you have wide feet, regular-width running shoes may lead to sore feet, an uncomfortable running experience. Wide running shoes are specifically designed with more side-to-side and bottom-to-top space for runners with wider foot types. With options for both men and women, it's easy to find recommended ASICS wide running shoes for you. 

How do you know if you need wide running shoes?

If you're running in a regular-width shoe and noticing any of the following signs, a wider shoe could be a better option. 

1. Your running shoes are stretched or bulged on the sides 

Take a look at your current running shoes. Are they stretched and projecting outward along the sides? If so, your running shoes might be too narrow. 

2. Your regular-sized running shoes don't fit 

If you buy running shoes in the same size as your regular shoes, but they feel too snug, you may want to try on a wider shoe. 

3. The discomfort in your feet increases toward the end of your run 

A running shoe that feels just a little tight at the beginning of your run may become uncomfortably snug by the end as your soft tissues naturally swell. 

4. Your foot doesn't feel supported when you run 

If your running shoes feel like they’re lacking arch support, or if the laces feel like they apply pressure to the wrong parts of your feet, you may want to consider wide running shoes.

5. Your foot doesn't feel supported when you run

If your running shoes feel like they’re lacking arch support or like the laces apply pressure to the wrong parts of your feet, you may want to consider wide running shoes.

Understanding ASICS shoe sizes

Shoe width is marked with four categories: Narrow (B), Standard (D), Wide (2E), and Extra Wide (4E). The width classification is the same for men’s wide running shoes and women’s wide running shoes. If you’re shopping on ASICS.com, you can filter by width or look for WIDE or EXTRA WIDE in the product name.  

Which ASICS shoes are recommended for wide feet?

When it comes to choosing wide shoes for running, ASICS offers a variety of options for various runners.  
 
Recommended wide shoe for neutral runners: GEL-NIMBUS® 28 WIDE 

Approximately 20g lighter than its previous version, the GEL-NIMBUS® 28 WIDE shoe offers excellent cushioning and lasting comfort. Its engineered mesh upper provides a breathable, flexible fit can can help accommodate a wider foot comfortably. FF BLAST™ PLUS foam in the midsole and PureGEL™ technology in the heel work together to deliver cloudlike, responsive cushioning in every step.  

Shop the GEL-NIMBUS® 28 WIDE 

Recommended wide stability shoe for overpronators: GEL-KAYANO® 33 WIDE 

The GEL-KAYANO® 33 WIDE shoe is our pinnacle running shoe for stability and comfort. New FLUIDSUPPORT™ technology adapts to your gait in each step, supporting natural foot motion with gentle guidance for overpronation. FF BLAST™ PLUS and FF BLAST™ MAX foams are combined in the midsole, creating a blend of stability, cloudlike softness, and responsive energy return.  

Shop the GEL-KAYANO® 33 WIDE 

 
Recommended wide shoe for tempo runs and races: MAGIC SPEED™ 5 WIDE 

Looking for ASICS wide running shoes for tempo runs? The MAGIC SPEED™ 5 WIDE running shoe is built to fly through runs and races with more speed. It combines a full-length carbon plate with FF BLAST™ PLUS cushioning and a layer of FF LEAP™ foam – our lightest, bounciest midsole material yet. A lightweight, breathable mesh upper supports your foot while reducing the need for additional overlays. 

Shop the MAGIC SPEED™ 5 WIDE 

 
Recommended extra wide stability shoe: GT-2000™ 14 EXTRA WIDE 

For runners with extra wide feet, the GT-2000™ 14 EXTRA WIDE shoe can be a great option. PureGEL™ technology helps absorb more impact, while an updated midsole adds FF BLAST™ MAX cushioning for responsive energy return. This shoe also features the 3D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™ for adaptive, on-demand stability that helps prevent overpronation. 

Shop the GT-2000™ 14 EXTRA WIDE 

Tips for choosing running shoes for wide feet

The following tips can help ensure you find the best ASICS running shoes for wide feet. 

1. Get an accurate measurement 

The easiest way to see if you need wide shoes is to visit an ASICS store. A professional can get an accurate measurement of your feet and help you find the right running shoe for your goals. ASICS recommends measuring your feet in the late afternoon or evening – your feet tend to swell throughout the day, and it’s best to measure them at their widest size.  
 

2. Wear your socks when you try on running shoes 

Measure your feet with the socks you usually wear to run, so that you can accommodate them in the measurements. A shoe that’s comfortable in bare feet can be uncomfortably snug once you’re wearing socks. 

3. Research your gait and foot shape 

By getting a gait analysis, you can determine your foot’s pronation and find out if you have high, low or fallen arches. The recommended ASICS wide running shoes for you are designed to accommodate your gait as well as your foot size. 

Don’t let poor-fitting running shoes stop you from achieving your goals. ASICS offers a variety of wide running shoes that are designed for improved comfort, fit and added stability. 

Please note: The information contained herein is for informational purposes only and does not contain or constitute medical advice or a medical opinion. Always consult with your qualified and licensed medical professional prior to beginning or modifying any diet or exercise program.