A Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing Wide Running Shoes
If you’ve got wide feet, you’ll know that finding a good pair of running shoes can feel very tiring. Too tight and you’re dealing with blisters and numb toes. Too loose and suddenly you’re slipping around, with no support and no comfort. The good news? You don’t have to settle for “close enough.” With the right fit, running can actually feel good – and it all starts with knowing what to look for.
Measure Your Feet Properly
The first thing to do is to measure your feet properly. You need to know how to do it if you want to get the right fit. It may sound simple, but a lot of people don’t know how to do it. That’s why they’re walking and running in the wrong size. Keep in mind that your foot size can change from time to time depending on any weight changes and age.
It’s best if you measure your feet at the end of the day. This is the time when your feet are slightly swollen and are at their biggest. Grab a piece of paper and stand on it. Take a pen and trace the shape of each foot. Measure the width and length but make sure you stand while tracing. Otherwise, you won’t get the right numbers.
If you’re not sure you can do it on your own, ask someone to help you trace your feet. If this is not an option, you can always go for the professional approach. Go to a shoe shop and they’ll do the measuring with a Brannock device. This way you’ll get the most comfortable men’s wide running shoes.
Understand Shoe Width
You know that not all shoes are created equal. This is especially true when it comes to their width. The most common standard width for men’s shoes in Australia is “D”. If you need wide shoes, you should look for “2E (EE) – Wide” or “4E (EEEE) – Extra Wide.”
You’ll also find manufacturers that use “W” (wide) or “XW” (extra wide) instead of numbers. Keep in mind that the word “wide” is not the same with every brand. There are differences so don’t assume that one size will fit you in every brand. Try a few and see what actually feels right for your foot.
Think About Your Foot Shape
The shape of your foot matters as well. There are things that affect the way the shoe fits, such as high arches, flat feet or bunions. If you’ve got flat feet, for example, you might need extra arch support to avoid discomfort and potential injuries. If you’ve got high arches, cushioning will be more important to absorb impact while you run.
Take a look at the soles of the shoes you’re currently wearing. If there’s more wear on the inside, your feet roll inwards. Shoe brands nowadays design shoes for all types of feet. So, knowing the natural movement of your feet will help you choose a pair that will be very comfortable for a long time.
Try on Shoes the Right Way
Buying your men’s wide running shoes is not about just grabbing your size from the shelves and hoping for the best. There are some things you should do before putting them on. First, wear the socks you usually wear when you go for a run. Their thickness can really make a difference. Second, always try them on later in the day when your feet are swollen.
Third, make sure there’s at least a thumb’s width of space between the end of the shoe and your longest toe. Fourth, use the space in the shop to walk around or even jog. This will show if the heel is slipping or if your toes are squashed. Last but not least, pay extra attention to the toe box. It should be wide enough so the toes can spread naturally.
Features to Look For
Besides finding the right size and fit, your shoes should have certain features. These are the details that can make a difference. Always look for breathable uppers. Go for mesh and knit materials because they’ll allow for enough airflow and will prevent your feet from sweating. You don’t want to have sweaty feet during your run, it can be very uncomfortable.
Supportive midsoles are a must. When you have good cushioning and stability, you’ll have a much better run. This is especially important if you’re running long distance or going through rough terrain. Don’t compromise on durable outsoles. The bottom of your wide men’s running shoes should have a good grip and be able to handle a lot of wear and tear.
A wide, reinforced toe box is a game-changer for wide feet. It can help you a lot by preventing blisters and give your toes room to move. Good lacing systems will allow you to adjust how snug your whole foot feels, not just the top part. Nowadays, brands are making wide shoes stylish as well, so you won’t have to compromise on your fashion and looks anymore.
Rotate Your Shoes
When you find the right pair that fits you comfortably, you should consider rotating them. Have two pairs you can alternate between runs. This is a good idea because every pair will have enough time to recover the cushioning in its original shape and last longer. The rotation also reduces wear and tear.
For example, one pair can be good for wet conditions because it has a better grip, and the second can have better cushioning when you’re going on longer runs or passing through rough terrain. Plus, if something happens to one pair, you’ll always have backup. This is a small thing that can make a difference for your comfort and your budget.
