Finding shoes that comfortably fit wide feet can be a challenge, but for nurses, it can be even more difficult.
The shoes not only need to be wide enough to comfortably accommodate the entire foot, they also need to be sturdy and safe.
These are 5 of the best shoes for nurses with wide feet.
*Disclosure: This article on the best shoes for nurses with wide feet may contain affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, I may receive a commission. For more info, please see my disclaimer.
Top Pick
- Best Overall: Women's XP 2.0 clogs
“Wide toe box with arch-supporting technology.” - Runner-Up: Brooks Women's Adrenaline GTS 19 Running Shoe
“Flexible upper with good support system.”
Best Shoes for Nurses with Wide Feet
1. Adidas Women’s Cloudfoam Pure Running Shoe
- Stretchy, mesh running shoes with extra cushioning for all-day comfort
- Stretchable mesh upper for breathability
- Combined Cloudfoam midsole and outsole for step-in comfort and superior cushioning
These Adidas Women's Cloudfoam Pure Running Shoes are easy to slip on, even for those with wide feet, which can often be a challenge.
The opening to the shoe is extra wide so the foot slides in effortlessly.
Once on, the flexible textile upper molds to and hugs the foot, creating a custom, comfortable fit.
The long shoelaces allow you to loosen the shoe as much as you need to, offering even more comfort for wide feet.
Thirteen great color options give you plenty to choose from.
Pros:
- Large shoe opening
- Long laces
- Flexible textile upper
Cons:
- Not very breathable
- Minimal traction
- Upper fabric is difficult to clean
Check the price of the Adidas Women's Cloudfoam Pure Running Shoes on Amazon.com.
Related Article: 5 Best Adidas Shoes for Nurses
2. Crocs Women’s Felicity Clog
- Removable footbeds
- Rubber outsole pods improve traction and durability
- Fully molded and easy to clean with soap and water
Clogs are an excellent option for those with wide feet because they generally run a bit larger than other shoes like sneakers or boots.
These Crocs Women's Felicity Clogs deliver on that promise, with a naturally wider fit that gives the toes plenty of wiggle room.
The insoles are removable so you can add additional arch supports if needed.
These clogs were created with safety in mind, with rubber outsole pods providing plenty of traction on even slippery surfaces.
The 1.5″ heel offers superior shock absorption, leading to fewer bouts with tired, achy feet after a long shift.
Pros:
- Removable insoles
- Rubber outsole pods for traction
- Generously-sized heel
Cons:
- Only 4 color options
- Fits tight across the top of the foot
- Not breathable
Check the price of the Crocs Women's Felicity Clogs on Amazon.
Related Article: 5 Best Clogs for Nurses
3. Dansko Women’s XP 2.0
- ALL DAY COMFORT: Our lighter weight XP 2.0 clogs are ergonomically designed with padded instep...
- LONG STANDING SUPPORT: An EVA midsole provides stability and shock absorption, while the dual...
- QUALITY & STYLE: With a classic clog shape, this practical footwear features high quality leather...
The Dansko brand, known for producing some of the best clogs on the market, bring you these Women's XP 2.0 clogs.
These shoes are made for busy professionals, especially nurses who stand on their feet for long periods of time.
The lightweight EVA midsole absorbs shock with every step and provides support and stability where you need it most- at the heel and arch.
A wide toe box comfortably accommodates any size foot while the removable inserts include Dansko’s Natural Arch Technology, virtually eliminating the need for additional arch supports like standard or custom orthotics.
Pros:
- Lightweight EVA midsole
- Wide toe box
- Natural arch support technology
Cons:
- Black shoe color may stain socks
- Sizing runs a bit large
- Leather upper tends to scuff easily
Check the price of the Women's XP 2.0 clogs on Amazon.com.
Related Article: 5 Best Dansko Nurse Shoes
4. New Balance Men’s 481V3 Cushioning Trail Running Shoe
- Cush+ midsole cushioning delivers ultra-soft, all-day comfort without sacrificing support
- Leather and mesh upper
- Comfort Collar helps prevent irritation and hugs the ankle for a superior fit
The New Balance Men's 481V3 Cushioning Trail Running Shoe is built to be durable and tough, qualities a nurse needs in a good pair of shoes.
Since these are running shoes, they are more flexible than cross trainers and other types of sneakers that have firmer side support.
That makes them ideal for those with wide feet because they aren’t as tight and narrow on the sides.
The leather and textile upper is easy-to-clean while the AT TREAD outsole provides plenty of traction.
A supportive midsole with added cushioning makes this a very comfortable shoe for even the longest shifts.
Pros:
- Flexible sides
- Easy-to-clean upper
- Cushioned midsole
Cons:
- Only 3 color options
- Sizing runs small
- Sole may separate easily
Check the price of the New Balance Men's 481V3 Cushioning Trail Running Shoe on Amazon.
Related Article: 5 Comfortable New Balance Shoes for Nurses
5. Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 19 Running Shoe
- SHOE SIZE: "B" = Medium width, "D" = Wide width, "2A" = Narrow width, "2E" = Extra wide width
- FOOT SUPPORT: Ideal for runners with all arches looking for support. Our new Guiderail Support...
- CUSHIONED FEEL: Soft and protective, these shoes provide just the right amount of cushion in each...
The breathable and flexible mesh and 3D Fit Print upper set this Brooks Women's Adrenaline GTS 19 Running Shoe apart from the rest.
The shoe easily molds to the foot, creating a custom fit for even the widest feet.
The mesh allows the upper to be breathable, keeping feet cool and dry the entire time they’re worn.
The Guiderail Support System fully supports the foot, properly aligning the rest of the body and leading to less ankle, knee, and hip pain.
The midsole cushioning is lightweight so it feels like you’re walking on a cloud.
Pros:
- Flexible upper
- Guiderail Support System
- Superior midsole cushioning
Cons:
- Rear of the shoe may cause blisters
- Takes time to break in
- Sizing runs small
Check the price of the Brooks Women's Adrenaline GTS 19 Running Shoe on Amazon.com.
Related Article: 5 Top Brooks Shoes for Nurses
Shoe Buying Guide for Nurses with Wide Feet
Here’s a shoe buying guide for nurses with wide feet.
1. Textile Upper
A textile upper is made from knit fabric that is more flexible than leather and other stiff materials.
These are ideal for people with wide feet because they have some give to them, molding to the foot and making them easier to put on and wear.
Cleaning textile uppers may be a little more difficult than materials that can be easily wiped down, but they can still be cleaned with mild dish soap and water.
2. Running Shoe Vs Cross Trainer
Running shoes have softer, more flexible sides that are more accommodating for wider feet.
Cross Trainers are built for intense running so they often have stiffer sides that don’t allow for as much movement.
Those with wide feet should consider a running shoe over a cross trainer, unless the cross trainer is specifically designed for wide feet.
3. Breathable
If you’ve ever taken your shoes off and wondered what that foul smell is, it’s trapped water vapors that have permeated in your shoes while you’ve worn them.
The best way to prevent hot, sweaty, smelly feet is by wearing breathable shoes.
Breathable shoes are often made from mesh or other lightweight fabric that allows air to flow in and around the foot, wicking moisture away.
If your shoes aren’t breathable, there are other ways to prevent foul smells, including:
- Letting them air out in between wears
- Keeping your feet clean
- Putting baby powder on your feet before socks
- Deodorizing your shoes with baking soda
- Neutralize Odors – Fight stinky feet with your all-natural foot odor eliminator from FOOT SENSE!
- Powerful Defense – Protect your skin with your boot deodorizer formulated with zinc oxide.
- Extra-Strength – Enjoy all-day relief from foul smells thanks to your long-lasting shoe powder.
4. Safety
The number one safety feature for shoes is a slip-resistant or slip-proof bottom.
Soles that provide plenty of traction, such as rubber soles, are the best options for avoiding slips and spills.
Wet floors are a common occurrence at doctor’s offices and hospitals, so wearing footwear with slip-resistant or slip-proof soles is the best way to make sure you stay safely planted on your feet.
- ♥Really Protect the Sole: most of the self-adhesive soles pads will melt in the sole and...
- ♥Super Durable Design: the thickness of each piece of our anti-slip stickers is between...
- ♥SPECIAL Anti-slip Design: we use granular anti-slip design, different from other brands of...
5. Wide Toe Box
The toe box is the front portion of the shoe where the toes lie.
Even those with narrow feet can benefit from a wide toe box because toes need plenty of wiggle room when you walk.
The feet naturally widen out and flatten when you take a step, which makes a wide toe box even more beneficial.
A toe box should keep the toes at least 1″ away from the front of the shoe and allow for the toes to be freely wiggled back and forth.
6. Shoe Opening
Wide shoes are great, but if you can’t get your foot into the shoe, they aren’t wearable.
That’s why the size of the shoe opening is so important.
The shoe opening is where you slide your foot in.
You should easily be able to slip the shoe on without having to wiggle your foot.
Shoes with laces are more likely to slide on easily than those without.
Final Thoughts
Wide feet can occur for many reasons- whether you’re born with them or they develop over time.
These shoes comfortably accommodate and support wide feet, allowing for a more enjoyable work shift without having to finish with tired, achy feet.
The right shoe can make all the difference.
