Quick Tips: How to know if you need Wide Shoes
(3 min. read)
Think you need a little extra wiggle room in your shoes?
If you answer “yes” to any of the following questions, you might want to consider purchasing wide shoes. Read on to find out more.
- Do your feet go numb when you run?
- Do you use custom orthotics, insoles or braces?
- Do you have a bunion, or consistently get blisters on the sides of your feet?
- Are you prone to foot swelling, or do you stand for long periods of time?
Please note that these problems could be associated with other issues. If you are in need of medical advice, be sure to consult a doctor or other appropriate medical professional.
Do your feet go numb when you run?
If you're noticing that your feet are feeling numb when you run, this could be a sign that you need more accommodation in your toe box. Constant pressure from shoes on wide feet can impact your circulation and cause numbness. If you’d like to run the road in HOKA favourites, the Clifton 9 and Bondi 8 are available in wide. If you also need stability to prevent overpronation, check out the Arahi 6 or Gaviota 5. If you’re looking to go off-road, try the trail-ready Speedgoat 5 and the all-terrain Challenger 7.
Do you use custom orthotics, insoles or braces?
Orthotics, insoles, and braces all take up room in your shoes. Choosing a shoe in a wide size can help make up for that taken space.
Do you have a bunion or consistently get blisters on the sides of your feet?
Constant rubbing from running or other daily activities can irritate bunions or cause blisters. Choosing a wide size shoe may help reduce the rubbing that would take place in a regular-width shoe.
Are you prone to foot swelling, or do you stand for long periods of time?
If you run long distances or stand on your feet for long periods of time, your feet are likely to swell. If this has caused you to feel like your shoes are too tight, you can combat this feeling by choosing a wide shoe. If you are on your feet all day, we would recommend something with ample cushion, such as the Bondi 8 or Gaviota 4. If your feet are swelling from long days on the trail, check out the Speedgoat 5 or Challenger 7.
Take a look
Are your feet extending, or “spilling,” over the last of the shoe? Can you see excessive pressure on the seams? Do you not have enough room for your toes? Do your older shoes have holes or unusual wear or rips? Sometimes you can tell you need a wider fit from just looking. If your investigation reveals any of these problems, you might want to try a wide shoe.
Get fitted
If you’re unsure if you need wide shoes, try reaching out to an expert for advice. Visit a run speciality store and ask to be measured to take out all of the guesswork. Find a HOKA store near you.
There’s a HOKA option offered in wide for every activity. Shop all HOKA wide models here.
