10 Best Wide Toe Box Running Shoes

Wide toe box running shoes have grown in popularity as people begin to realize they can find more space for their toes without making the entire shoe feel too big. A wide shoe is not the same as a wide toebox, so read on to find out what we recommend from a lot of runners putting in a lot of miles to see what’s comfortable.

When it comes to finding the right running shoe, the width is often overlooked and yet can solve a lot of foot issues. If you’ve been dealing with blisters, bunions or other foot pain it’s time to see if wide toe box running shoes might be something to solve your issues.

A wide toe box refers to the front part of your shoe. Think of how high heels or cowboy boots taper to a peak, that’s generally going to coincide with a more narrow toe box.

That means less room for your toes to spread out and grip the ground for push off. It also means less room for a wider foot to find enough space and avoid issues from rubbing the shoe. Which might lead you to wonder if we should all be looking for running shoes with a wider toe box?

Yes. We probably should!

A wide toe box is not just for those with wide feet.

In fact, a wide foot running shoe has more room throughout the entire width of the shoe. Where a wide toe box is focused on increasing the space for the widest part of your foot, known as the ball of your foot.

First we’ll dive in to more about understanding a wide toe box, wide foot and then look at our top picks for the 10 best wide toe box shoes! If that’s all you want to know, just scroll down a bit and you’ll see details on all the shoes to help fix your discomfort!

Do You Need a Wide Toe Box Running Shoe?

As noted above, most of us could get some benefits out of having more space for our toes. But there are a few clear signs that you really should be looking in to a wider running shoe.

• Running with bunions
• Running with flat feet or fallen arches which cause foot to splay upon landing
• Consistently getting blisters on the sides of your feet or toes
• Feet going numb when you run from too much pressure
• Frequently getting black toenails or runner’s toe
• Corns, hammertoes or other problems with your feet

Or you may simply discover that a regular running shoe doesn’t give you the room that feels good. This could be because you have wide feet or that the additional space around your toes simply provides more proprioception (feeling the ground).

If you’re not sure whether or not you need a wide toe box shoe, it’s always best to consult with a doctor or podiatrist. They’ll be able to help you figure out if you have any problems with your feet that require a wider shoe.

How to Know if You Have a Wide Foot?

You may simply know based on the comfort of many shoes, but there are also measurements that determine foot width.

From the example below, you are going to measure at point B. The determination of a wide foot actually changes based upon the length of your foot as well.

For example, a women’s size 8 at 3.95″ is wide and 4.3″ is extra wide.

A men’s size 8 is considered wide at 3.9″.

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with having wide feet. But now the goal is to find shoes that FIT WELL.

Issues With A Shoe That Is Too Wide

While a shoe with a wide toe box can be great for people with certain foot problems, it’s important to make sure that the shoe isn’t too wide.

If a shoe is too wide, it can cause blisters and other issues. This is because your foot has too much room to move around in the shoe and as a result creates the friction that leads to blisters or even chaffing.

Make sure that you try on the shoe and walk around in it before you buy it to make sure that it’s the right fit.

What Running Shoe Has the Widest Toe Box? Our Top 3 Picks

Before diving in to specific shoe models, there are a few brands that have a lot more options to fit the wider running foot and provide a wide toe box. I want to cover these first so you can look at additional models if needed.

Each of these plenty of room and extra wide sizing so your toes don’t feel cramped.

Altra Running Shoes

Altra boasts its Altra FootShape toe box that allows the toes to fan out naturally while the big toe remains in place. This gives your toes the space they need and allows the foot to naturally stabilize unneeded pronation.

In other words, instead of tapering like a traditional running shoe the Altra shoe remains more rounded for the toes to lay in a more natural position. Mimicking your barefoot posture.

It is important to understand that Altra shoes have a zero-drop platform, meaning that when wearing the shoes, your heel and forefoot are at the same distance from the ground making it a neutral shoe. For some runners, it easily lines up with their natural gait, but it’s not everyone’s thing.

Topo Running Shoes

Top running shoes are great for runners who are looking for more room in the toe box. Similar to Altra they go with a more foot shaped design that’s going to provide that width.

Unlike Altra they are not all zero drop, which can make them more universal. Most are a lower 4mm drop, which works for a lot of folks and they still have a great amount of cushion.

Here’s a little breakdown of Altra Vs Topo as they are the top two options.

New Balance Running Shoes

New Balance has been offering wide widths in their shoes for pretty much forever. They offer different widths for their models of shoes so you can find one that works for your feet especially if you have a wide midfoot.

In fact, they are some of the most expansive when it comes to offering a variety of widths from 2A narrow to 2e and 4e wide.

What about barefoot shoes?

Technically you could say that barefoot shoes have a wide toe box because you’ve gotten ride of the toe box all together. In general, they simply aren’t the first recommendation I provide in any scenario.

There is a transition period to prevent injuries to tendons and muscles, along with overall versatility as footwear. Most folks just don’t want to wear them all the time and don’t love the of them for running because, well cushion is nice!

10 Best Wide Toe Box Running Shoes

There are a lot of factors to consider when you’re choosing a new pair of running shoes. If you’re looking for a pair with a wide toe box, these are our 10 picks for the best running shoes you can buy right now.

We’ve looked at some of the best brands and shoes so that you can be sure that your feet will be happy no matter how far you run.

#1 Best Overall Wide Toe Box Running Shoe – Topo Cyclone

When the toe box is your primary focus, this is a winning daily trainer.

My immediate thought upon picking this shoe up was “holy cow how is it so light?” When that’s the first thing you notice, it’s definitely going to be a fun shoe for some up speed workouts!

When you aren’t looking for a max cushion shoe (because we don’t always need that), but a shoe that’s light and still comfortable for the run, this is a great option. It doesn’t have a massive stack height, which means it is also a bit more stable for a lot of folks.

There is a slight rocker design to it, but I can’t say I noticed this much in my runs. I just thought was a nice sensible daily trainer that was a bit more responsive than a bigger cushion. If you want something for tempo runs, intervals, or even a race day light weight shoe this wide toebox will keep that big toe doing it’s job.

• 5 mm drop
•  5.5 oz women’s, 6.9 oz men’s
•  $150

#2 Best for Stability – On Cloudflyer Wide

Cloudflyer running shoes are known for their comfort and style. They feel super nice on your feet, due to their soft cushioning, but they also have the stability you need. Having run in these, I’d label them as a firmer shoe providing more support and less of that plush cushion.

Great if you need some additional stability features or arch support. For that reason, it’s also one that might be best if you’re dealing with Plantar Fasciitis.

The wide version of a Cloudflyer shoe still has all the luxuries but is constructed 4mm wider than the regular fit. It might sound like a small amount of difference, but your toes will thank you the very first time you go for a run in them!

Admittedly this is not my favorite On running shoe. I really prefer the On Cloudmonster or the On Cloudsurfer for things that aren’t as stiff.

• Stability running shoe
• 7mm heel drop
• Moderate cushion
• 14.8 oz women’s
•  $159.99

#3 Best Traditional Shoe – New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v14 Wide

This shoe made my list of best long distance running shoes because I personal love training in it. Now you get the benefit of all these features simply in a wide size!

New Balance is one of the few brands to offer extra-wide sizes in some models. And while we aren’t looking for overall wide fit, but a roomy toe box…frequently the two go together.

New Balance’s Fresh Foam is every bit as lovely as it sounds for long runs. These shoes feel fabulous when you slip them on and yet maintain good responsiveness. Unlike the super plush HOKA Bondi that you can sink in to, you’ll remain quick off the ground in these shoes.

These shoes do not have a padded collar which some runners may dislike, but I didn’t notice any issues with that. I did the normal heel lock lacing as will all my shoes and they felt great.

• Weight: 10.5oz Men’s, 8.3 oz Women’s
• Stack Height:  38mm
• Heel Drop: 6mm
• Available in 8 Colors
• Available in Wide and Extra Wide
• Available on NewBalance.com for $165

• Read my full New Balance 1080 review >>

Other commonly recommended options in traditional running shoes are the Brooks Glycerin, Cloudmonster 2, and Asics Novablast.

#4 Best Zero Drop Road Trainer – Altra Torin

The Altra Torin has emerged as a game-changer in the world of running footwear. A zero drop shoe that has enticed many to test out the lower heel drop running life!

I was not a fan of the previous version due to the tongue, but that’s been resolved and now we’ve got a great cushioned daily trainer here!

As with all Altra shoes, you’ll enjoy the FootShape toe box. Their marketing is that this allows for a more natural foot movement, which is a yes and no. What it absolutely does is provide more room for your toes which can feel amazing AND allows for you to get more power out of that big toe by keeping it straight. Did you know your big toe provides a lot of umph in your stride?

• Heel Drop: 0mm
• Stack height: 28mm
• Weight: 8.1 oz women’s, 9.8 oz men’s

• Highly cushioned with more of a maximal shoe style
• Available now for $150 on Altra.com

Really I could list a ton of ALTRA shoes as best wide toe box running shoes, so you might just check them out in general. But I wanted to give you a variety of brands because we all have one’s we like best.

#5 Best Wide Toebox Trail Shoe – Topo Athletic Ultraventure 3

Similar to Altra, Topo shoes stick to that foot shaped deign which is going to result in more space in the toebox.

I’ve only recently had a chance to run in a few of their models and was immediately impressed with the cushion and comfort. They are hugely popular among many trail runners and have been recommended to me a million times over when I ask what people are currently loving.

This particular model is amping up the stack height to provide you a ton of cushion for your trail time.

Also fun to note is that they used recycled plastic bottles in the mesh upper. I love seeing how brands are trying to incorporate sustainability.

The Ultraventure specifically comes in wide sizes, which means even more room for your foot to enjoy.

• 10.1 oz. Men’s / 8.3 oz.  Women’s
• 5 mm heel drop
• Highly cushioned with more of a maximal shoe style
• Designed for the road, but the outsole would do great providing grip on basic trails
• Available now for $140

#6 Best Carbon Fiber Shoe For Wide Feet –On Cloudboom Strike

After seeing Helen Obiri win Boston, a lot of runners stood up to take notice of what On was doing with carbon fiber. It’s a very different type of shoe than Nike and for a lot of runners, that’s a good thing.

This is a big stack height and slightly higher heel drop than many of the other super shoes on the market. Compared to the Nike Vaporfly 2 or 3, that are very narrow, it’s a 100% different fit and feeling.

This was a shoe we fell in love with immediately and are excited to see where it goes. While it’s absolutely considered a top end carbon plated racing shoe, a lot of runners are going to have fun with hitting some speed in it.

It feels incredibly light and bouncy!

• Heel Drop: 4 mm
• Weight: 6.8 oz women’s and 7.7 oz men’s
• Stack: 40mm
• Carbon fiber neutral shoe
• Not available in wide
• Available at On Running for $280
• Detailed review of the On Cloudboom Strike >>

#7 Best for a Speed Workout – HOKA Mach 6

While no where near as wide as the Topo or Altra options, in general I have found Hoka to have a little  more toe box room. Again, that’s not to say they are wide through the whole foot.

When you’re ready to turn on the speed, the Mach is your HOKA of choice. It’s not a carbon fiber shoe, instead it’s a lightweight shoe designed to spring off the ground and help you find that quick turnover. And yet somehow it’s still got a nice amount of cushion so it can go the distance.

This shoe is best for runners who are looking for a fast and responsive shoe to take on long-distance races or interval training. 

The Mach features a lightweight foam midsole that provides a quick, lively feel, while the meta-rocker design helps to encourage a more natural gait.

While many shoes promote something like a meta-rocker to help propel you from heel to forefoot, I will say I did actually notice it a bit in the Mach. That’s super unusual, normally I’m wondering what on Earth they mean.

• Heel Drop: 5 mm
• Weight: 6.8 oz women’s, 8.2 oz men’s
• Stack: 37mm
• Available in 9 colors
• Available in Wide in some colors
• See all HOKA Mach models $140
• Read our full review of the Mach 6 >>

There is also a Mach X2 which is a carbon plated version of this shoe. Really it’s an entirely different fast shoe and would also work as an option for wider foot runners.

#8 Best for Speedy Trails – Brooks Cascadia

If you’re a trail runner and need a wider shoe, Brooks Cascadia has got you covered. It is an extremely protected shoe so you don’t have to worry about your feet getting banged up on rough terrain, while remaining light and agile.

I used these on all the trails when we first moved to Colorado! I like the lugs on these because it’s enough to provide grip, without feeling like I’ve lost ground feel.

They’re also built for distance meaning they won’t wear down on you. Trail runners need shoes that offer stability and comfort whether their feet are wide or narrow. Cascadia delivers.

• Stability running shoe
• Heel Drop: 8mm
• Weight: 9.5 oz oz for women’s, 10.5 oz men’s
•  Available on Brooksrunning.com for $160

#9 Best for Road to Trail – Nike Pegasus Trail

The Nike Pegasus line is a popular line of running shoes and for good reason! The Nike Pegasus Trail is great for trail-to-road running.  Its durability allows it to perform well on both surfaces and looks super stylish as well.

The traction is not designed for slick rock or super technical trails, but will hold up to most easy trails, gravel paths, etc.

My husband has been using this shoe and with his flat feet, it’s felt like a really great ride. It remains comfortable for your wide feet even for long trail, marathon, or ultra training runs.  All of this while still offering a quick ride so you can keep up that speed!

Because these are designed for road to trail, you’ll find more flexibility than with many trail shoes or hiking boots, which make them a more comfortable fit for many.

• Neutral running shoe
• Heel Drop: 9.5 mm
• Weight: 9.2 oz for women’s, 10.4 oz men’s
• Available on Nike.com for $150
• Also available with GoreTex for wet runs
• Read our full review of the Nike Pegasus Trail Shoes >>

#10 Best for Hiking or Rocky Trails – Salomon Speedcross 6 Wide

Many experienced trail runners swear by their Salomon Speedcross shoes. The Salomon Speedcross Wide takes everything we already loved about the Salomon Speedcross and adapted it to a wider shoe.

100% this is listed as a trail running shoe and you make love it for that if you’re doing technical and super rocky trails. Otherwise, I actually really just love this for hiking. It’s sturdier and provides a great feel underfoot.

This shoe prides itself on its push-off and braking grip on all types of surface conditions. It cradles your heel, making it both comfortable and stable, but also giving a clean foot strike.

• Stability hiking shoe
• Heel Drop: 10 mm
• Moderate cushion
• Weight: 9.2 oz for women’s, 10.5 oz men’s
•  Available from RunningWarehouse.com for $144

Hopefully this helped provide you with more understanding about wide toe box running shoes and wide running shoes in general. They really can be more comfortable for many runners and are just worth seeking out.

Looking for additional running shoe information?

• How to Tell if Running Shoes Fit?
• How to Buy Running Shoes Online?
• How to Break in Running Shoes
• When to Replace Running Shoes
• ALTRA Vs HOKA running Shoes

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