Benefits
Wide-fit trainers come with a wealth of benefits. They are specifically designed for broader feet and can help people avoid the discomfort of strained arches and pinched toes often associated with standard-width shoes.
They are versatile enough to support you when you’re heading to the gym, running errands, or just going for a walk and can help you avoid ailments like arch pains, bunions, and blisters by providing you with a proper fit. They enable you to achieve the perfect blend of comfort and style and are great for prolonged periods of wear.
If you’re a fitness fan, wide-fit trainers can boost stability and reduce foot injury risk. These shoes are also compatible with bespoke orthotics and insoles, giving you the space you need to accommodate them without reducing fit quality. Wide-fit trainers also work well with casual outfits and workout gear as well as various other forms of attire.
They’re also suitable for various terrains including trails and treadmills. They’re able to handle a wide range of surfaces with ease. Many well-known brands offer wide-fit versions of their most popular footwear so you don’t need to miss out if you do have wider feet.
How To Choose
Fit and width
Trainers tend to be available in various widths. These can include standard, wide and extra wide. Look for the best match for your feet to prevent discomfort.
Toe box space
Spacious toe boxes enable your toes to splay naturally, giving you a better base for balance and reducing the risk of blisters.
Material
Breathable fabric is great for moisture management and odour prevention.
Leather can mould to the shape of your feet, whilst synthetic materials can offer lighter weights and high durability.
Support and cushioning
Arch support is vital for people who have flat feet or high arches. Quality arch support can both alleviate pain and minimise strain.
Heel cushioning reduces the impact on the joints when you’re running or walking.
A denser midsole can give you extra stability, whilst a soft one can boost comfort.
Outsole
Grip and traction: These are essential for safe movement across different terrains, especially if you’re wearing your footwear during outdoor activities.
Flexibility: This is important for natural foot movement when you’re embarking on activities like dancing and running.
Purpose
If you’re using the shoes for running, you should make good traction and shock absorption key priorities. Look for high comfort and good arch support if you need footwear for running. If you need the shoes for the gym or cross-training, try to strike a balance between stability, flexibility and support. Comfort and aesthetics are important to consider if you need shoes for casual wear.
Lacing and closure
Traditional laces enable custom fit adjustments, whilst straps and Velcro are simple to put on and adjust. These can be ideal for people with mobility issues. Slip-ons are noted for their ease of use and convenience.
Aesthetics and design
Personal preference and intended use are two of the main factors you should think about when you’re choosing a colour. You can also choose between subtle branding and prominent branding. Some people prefer larger logos due to brand loyalty and their stylistic preferences.
Durability
Reinforced stitching can enhance the longevity of your footwear, as can high-quality materials.
Toe-box depth
You need to think about the depth of a shoe and its width when seeking the right footwear for your needs. Some feet are wide and have a higher instep too. A deeper toe box can help you stop the top of your feet from rubbing against your shoe.
Material flexibility
Look for trainers that have been manufactured with flexible materials like mesh over rigid materials. Flexible materials have a greater ability to adapt to the shape of your feet. They can give you a snug fit without constricting your feet.
Midsole density
Midsole density can affect comfort and fit. Softer midsoles can compress under weight and make feet feel cramped, but a denser midsole can maintain its shape.
Insole replacement
Some trainers have removable insoles which you can replace with bespoke orthotics or other special insoles. If you need specific foot support, this feature could be essential. For example, if you have flat feet you could replace a standard insole with an orthotic that gives you superior arch support.
Tread pattern
Opting for trainers with more extensive tread patterns can give you more stability and grip. Wider tread patterns can help you avoid slips and falls when you’re walking across uneven terrains.
Seam position
You also need to pay close attention to the internal seams of your trainers. These seams should be smooth or located away from pressure points to cut the risk of discomfort and chafing. If you have a foot condition, poorly placed seams can cause irritation.
Heel counter rigidity
The back of the shoe is known as the heel counter and delivers structure and support. A firmer heel counter can give wider feet greater stability, though it needs a break-in period.
Types
Mesh upper wide-fit trainers
These trainers have a breathable mesh upper material to deliver maximum air circulation. These are great for people who have sweatier feet or reside in hotter climates as they can keep feet cool during various activities. Mesh is lightweight enough to reduce foot fatigue during long periods of wear.
Leather upper wide-fit trainers
These are manufactured with genuine leather and offer a fantastic fusion of functionality and elegance. They’re particularly suitable for people looking for a blend of durability and style, especially in cooler environments. Leather has natural water resistance, so these trainers can protect your feet during light rain.
Memory foam insole wide-fit trainers
These trainers feature memory foam insoles that mould to feet to provide a custom fit. They can provide cushioned support for long periods and are great for spending whole days walking around the city. Memory foam was first developed for NASA aeroplane seats in the 1960s.
Slip-on wide-fit trainers
These trainers have no laces and can easily be slipped on or off. They are ideal for those seeking convenience and style and can be great when you need a dependable solution whilst walking through airport security.
Arch support wide fit trainers
These trainers offer pronounced arch support and are perfect for people with specific foot structures. They are very popular amongst people with flat feet or high arches and offer exceptional balance and support. They can prevent foot strain and alleviate back, hip and knee pain.
Alternatives
Fitness and sports training
Traditional athletic shoes can be ideal if you prefer classic designs and aren’t overly concerned about tech integration.
Regular wide-fit trainers
Regular wide-fit trainers can be great for people needing comfort without special tech functionalities. They’re ideal for casual days out and spending time with friends.
Health and well-being monitoring
Wearable fitness trackers track metrics including calories burned and steps taken. If you want to track health metrics but don’t require shoes with built-in tech, you could opt to pair a wearable fitness tracker with conventional footwear.
Adventure and outdoor activities
Specialised hiking and outdoor shoes are mainly designed for grip and durability but don’t have smart features. They are popular with people who need solutions for trekking in rugged terrains where durability is crucial but tech features aren’t needed.
Superior comfort and foot health
Orthopaedic shoes are designed to support the health of the feet and can deliver relief from foot ailments. If foot health is a much bigger concern than in-built tech, these could be ideal for you.
Style, fashion and trendsetting
Designer wide-fit trainers can be ideal if you’re prioritising aesthetics over tech integration. They can be ideal in scenarios where you want to make a big style statement but aren’t as concerned about smart features.
Professional and competitive sports
Performance sports shoes can give you first-class athletic performance without tech features you may not be interested in. If you’re partaking in intense training sessions or competitive sports and tech integration isn’t necessary, performance sports shoes could be for you.
Post Purchase Considerations
Fit and comfort
There can even be width variations in the wide fit category. You may find that not all brands give you the same standard of comfort. This is why it’s important to measure your feet before you go ahead and make a purchase. Do this at the end of the day when your feet are at their largest.
Material and breathability
Trainers manufactured from non-breathable materials can cause you to feel discomfort. Try to seek out trainers that have been manufactured with breathability in mind if this concerns you.
Style and aesthetics
Some wide-fit shoes can prioritise function over fashion. However, many manufacturers of wide-fit trainers offer footwear that looks great but doesn’t force you to compromise on quality.
Durability and usage
Trainers that haven’t been designed for specific activities could wear out quickly. This is why you need to check the product details before buying to find out what the trainers have been designed for. If you need trainers for the gym or running, purchase ones that have been designed with these activities in mind.
Price and value
Some people worry that they will have to pay an extortionate amount for a specialised fit. However, many fantastic wide-fit trainers on the market deliver a great blend of quality and value.
Return and exchange
If you’re worried that your trainers won’t fit you when they arrive at your address, or you won’t like their appearance in real life, find out what the supplier’s return and exchange policy is before you buy. Try to choose a supplier that offers a hassle-free return and exchange policy.
FAQs
What does “wide fit” mean when it comes to trainers?
Wide-fit trainers are specifically designed for people with broader feet. They give you more space across the width of your foot and provide a comfortable fit without pinching or squeezing.
How do I know if I need wide-fit trainers?
If you experience tightness or discomfort across the width of your feet when you wear regular trainers, or if these types of footwear give you blisters on the sides of your feet, it may be best to opt for wide-fit trainers. If you can, measure your feet so you can determine the right width.
Are wide-fit trainers for men and wide-fit trainers for women different?
Design and fit specifications can vary between shoes designed for men and women. Ensure you’re browsing the right gender category to get the best fit.
Can these trainers be used for sports and physical activities?
Yes. Wide-fit trainers are designed with various activities in mind. Just make sure you’re buying a pair that aligns with the specific activity you’re interested in, whether that’s cross-training, running, or casual wear.
What is the best way to care for and maintain these trainers?
You can typically look after these trainers in the same way as regular ones. However, it’s always best to check the manufacturer’s instructions to see if there are any specific actions you need to take or avoid. You’ll normally need to avoid excessive exposure to water and use a soft cloth or brush when you’re cleaning them.
Do all brands offer wide-fit options?
Not every brand has wide-fit variants. If you do need wide-fit trainers and are browsing online for footwear, you could use the filters on the website to find out if wide-fit options are available.
Is there a big cost difference between regular trainers and wide-fit trainers?
If there is ever a price difference between regular and wide-fit trainers, you can normally expect this to be modest. Some things that can determine price include design, brand, and whether any special features are included.
How often do these trainers need to be replaced?
The lifespan of wide-fit trainers can depend on what activities you’re using them for and how well-made they are. It’s wise to regularly carry out checks for wear and tear, particularly on the sole and cushioning, so you can make repairs before the situation worsens and your feet stay well-supported.