We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Running We Found the 11 Best Wide Toe Box Shoes for Long Walks, Hikes, Runs, & More Our expert-approved picks are roomy, comfortable, and supportive By Christine Luff, ACE-CPT and Gabrielle Applebury, MA, LMFT Updated on January 23, 2025 Medically reviewed Verywell Fit articles are reviewed by board-certified physicians and nutrition and exercise healthcare professionals. Medical Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more. by Erin Pereira, PT, DPT Print In This Article View All In This Article Our Top Picks Reviews Who They're For What to Look For How We Tested Our Experts FAQs Why Trust Verywell Fit Verywell Fit / Brett Mickelson Wide toe box shoes can help with stability and balance, even if you don't have foot conditions like bunions, says podiatric surgeon Diana Valencia, DPM. Keep in mind that if your toes feel cramped in a short or overly narrow toe box, it's not only uncomfortable but may also lead to foot conditions, including callouses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis (inflammation of the tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes), and more. To find the best wide toe box shoes, we first spoke with experts, including a podiatrist and podiatric surgeon, about what key features to look for. We then tested dozens of pairs in The Verywell Testing Lab and at home, wearing them on long walks, hikes, indoor and outdoor runs, and more. We evaluate each wide toe box shoe for its fit, comfort, quality, design, and value to find the top options on the market. We also had a certified physical therapist from our Review Board review this article for accuracy regarding what makes quality wide toe box shoes and how to evaluate them properly. Who Would Benefit From Shoes With a Wide Toe Box? If you have bunions and other foot conditions or are prone to blisters, you will appreciate the extra space, which relieves pressure on the toes and eliminates rubbing. If you’ve had balance or ankle instability issues, a spacious toe box may be helpful. It gives your toes room to splay naturally, creating a wider base of support. Athletes may benefit because the extra space allows them to flex and move their feet naturally. Their feet will strengthen and be more prepared for longer periods of exercise. If you spend long hours on your feet, shoes with a wide toe box can help prevent toe cramping, numbness, and overall foot fatigue. Our Top Picks Best Men's Overall: Inov8 TrailFly at Amazon $150 Jump to Review Best Women's Overall: Topo Athletic Ultrafly 5 at Amazon $140 Jump to Review Most Versatile: Altra Running Experience Flow at Amazon $140 Jump to Review Best Zero Drop: SALE WHITIN Wide Toe Box + Zero Drop Sole Road Running Shoes at Amazon $44 $37 Jump to Review Best for Trail Running: SALE Altra Lone Peak 8 Trail Running Shoe at Amazon $140 $110 Jump to Review Best for Long Walks: MBT Sport 4 II at Amazon $123 Jump to Review Best for Plantar Fasciitis: Hoka Clifton 9 at Amazon $195 Jump to Review Best for Standing All Day: Altra Provision 8 Running Shoe at Amazon $140 Jump to Review Best for Casual Wear: Birkenstock Bend Low Leather Sneakers at Amazon $168 Jump to Review Best for Short Runs: Topo Athletic Cyclone 2 at Amazon $120 Jump to Review Best Men's Overall Inov8 TrailFly PHOTO: Inov8 $150 at Amazon $160 at Zappos View on Inov8.com Pros Snug but comfortable fit Plush, supportive cushioning Excellent traction Cons Not very stylish 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 Steinmehl, Verywell Fit product tester PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Eric Steinmehl PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Eric Steinmehl PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Eric Steinmehl PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Eric Steinmehl PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Eric Steinmehl PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Eric Steinmehl Best Women's Overall Topo Athletic Ultrafly 5 PHOTO: Amazon $140 at Amazon $140 at Zappos View on Topoathletic.com Pros Moderate arch support Versatile for runners Soft, stretchy upper for a custom-like fit Cons Some may prefer more cushioning 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 engineered mesh, 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 Arsenault, Verywell Fit product tester PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Anisa Arsenault PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Anisa Arsenault PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Anisa Arsenault PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Anisa Arsenault PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Anisa Arsenault PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Anisa Arsenault Most Versatile Altra Running Experience Flow PHOTO: Amazon $140 at Amazon View on Altrarunning.com View on Fleetfeet.com Pros Lightweight feel Very breathable Rocker shape promotes efficient strides Cons Not suitable for weight training Lacks arch support for flat feet 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 searching for one 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. 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 Moore, Verywell Fit product tester PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Abby Moore PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Abby Moore PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Abby Moore PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Abby Moore PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Abby Moore Best Zero Drop WHITIN Wide Toe Box + Zero Drop Sole Road Running Shoes PHOTO: Amazon $44 $37 at Amazon Pros Lightweight feel Soft, flexible upper for custom-like fit Reflective elements for visibility Cons Some may prefer more cushioning Lacks arch support for high or low arches 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 Annear, Verywell Fit product tester PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jared Annear PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jared Annear PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jared Annear PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jared Annear PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jared Annear Best for Trail Running Altra Lone Peak 8 Trail Running Shoe PHOTO: Amazon $140 $110 at Amazon $112 at Zappos $99 at REI Pros Excellent shock absorption Durable, water-resistant material Reliable traction Cons Zero heel-to-toe drop may not work for some 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 Huffstead, Verywell Fit product tester PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Donna Freydkin PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Donna Freydkin PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Donna Freydkin PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Donna Freydkin PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Donna Freydkin PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Donna Freydkin PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Donna Freydkin Best for Long Walks MBT Sport 4 II PHOTO: Amazon $123 at Amazon View on Mbt.com Pros Excellent arch support Very comfortable Rocker sole promotes efficient strides Cons May be too heavy for running 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 Meehan Brown, Verywell Fit product tester PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Kelly Meehan Brown PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Kelly Meehan Brown PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Kelly Meehan Brown PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Kelly Meehan Brown PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Kelly Meehan Brown PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Kelly Meehan Brown Best for Plantar Fasciitis Hoka Clifton 9 PHOTO: Hoka $195 $182 at Amazon $145 at Zappos $145 at Nordstrom Pros APMA Seal of Acceptance Plush cushioning for maximum support Lightweight feel Cons Not ideal for sprinting or speedwork 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 neutral runners who want a lightweight yet well-cushioned shoe. Why We Love Them With thick cushioning and ample arch support, Hoka’s Clifton 9 provides essential features for those with plantar fasciitis. 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 contours to our foot, offering a secure fit. And despite the generous cushioning, the shoes still felt lightweight and didn't slow us down, no matter the distance. A huge plus: This shoe has earned the American Podiatric Medical Association's Seal of Acceptance, which means that a group of podiatrists have determined that it helps promote 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 Luff, ACE-CPT, Verywell Fit writer and product tester for the brand PHOTO: Verywell Fit PHOTO: Verywell Fit PHOTO: Verywell Fit PHOTO: Verywell Fit PHOTO: Verywell Fit PHOTO: Verywell Fit PHOTO: Verywell Fit Best for Standing All Day Altra Provision 8 Running Shoe PHOTO: Amazon $140 at Amazon $140 at REI View on Altrarunning.com Pros Secure, comfy fit Solid stability APMA Seal of Acceptance Cons Some may prefer more cushioning 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 8 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 Marek, Verywell Fit product tester PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Rachel Marek PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Rachel Marek PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Rachel Marek PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Rachel Marek PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Rachel Marek Best for Casual Wear Birkenstock Bend Low Leather Sneakers PHOTO: Nordstrom $168 at Amazon $160 at Zappos $140 at Nordstrom Pros Versatile for travel Contoured, comfy footbed Durable natural leather upper Cons Cork footbed feels stiff at first 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 need 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 Ryan, Verywell Fit product tester PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Margo Ryan PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Margo Ryan PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Margo Ryan PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Margo Ryan Best for Short Runs Topo Athletic Cyclone 2 PHOTO: Amazon $120 at Amazon $100 at Zappos View on Topoathletic.com Pros Responsive cushioning Lightweight feel Good arch support Cons Not ideal for long-distance runs 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 Athletic 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. And 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. 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 Sisson, Verywell Fit product tester PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Ryan Sisson PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Ryan Sisson PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Ryan Sisson PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Ryan Sisson PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Ryan Sisson PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Ryan Sisson Best for Trail Racing Altra Running Mont Blanc Carbon Men’s Trail Running Shoe PHOTO: Altra Running $260 $224 at Amazon $260 at REI View on Altrarunning.com Pros Responsive cushioning Reliable traction Breathable and quick-drying 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 PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Brett Mickelson PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Brett Mickelson PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Brett Mickelson PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Brett Mickelson PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Brett Mickelson PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Brett Mickelson What to Look for When Shopping for Wide Toe Box Shoes Toe Box Shape: When shopping, be mindful of the shoe's toe box shape, as it can range from round to square to more like a fan. Pick an option similar to your foot shape for the most comfortable fit. 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. 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? Verywell Fit / Anisa Arsenault 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 like 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. Verywell Fit / Brett Mickelson 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 Frequently Asked Questions How do I know if my toe box is wide enough? When trying shoes on, pay attention to how much room your toes have. They're wide enough if you can comfortably splay them without feeling squished. It's also a good idea to try shoes on at the end of the day when your feet may be a bit swollen. 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 experience balance or ankle instability issues or have foot conditions like bunions and hammertoes. How should wide toe box shoes fit? Wide toe box shoes should fit comfortably without feeling too loose or tight. Ensure your shoe doesn’t pinch, rub, or put pressure on your feet. The rear of the shoe should fit snugly, and your heels shouldn’t slip out while you walk or run. Why Trust Verywell Fit Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, has over 20 years of experience writing and editing health and fitness content and product recommendations. As a Verywell Fit writer, she understands the importance of getting the right fit for optimal comfort and performance. She's also a certified personal trainer, running coach, and avid runner. 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 Gabrielle Applebury, MA, LMFT, is a licensed marriage and family therapist and the associate editor for Verywell Fit. Whether focusing on workout gear, apparel, or other products, she's dedicated to providing recommendations based on thorough research and testing. 1 Source Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Buldt AK, Menz HB. Incorrectly fitted footwear, foot pain and foot disorders: a systematic search and narrative review of the literature. J Foot Ankle Res. 2018;11(1):43. doi:10.1186/s13047-018-0284-z By Christine Luff, ACE-CPT Christine knows that the right fitness gear can improve your motivation and workouts. She uses her expertise and experience as a fitness writer and personal trainer to recommend products she can stand behind. See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Review Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? Helpful Report an Error Other Submit