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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Georgie Darling

Best wide fit running shoes for comfort and support in 2024, tried and tested

Finding the perfect pair of running trainers is a tight walk balance between comfort and support to secure the shoe that will help you perform at your best. It’s highly personal but all the more so when you have wider feet.

Not all performance footwear is created equal, but your choice can make all the difference in how you feel during your run - and after.

What should you look for in wide-fit running trainers?

The first thing to look for in wide-fit running trainers is, of course, the width options available. Many brands offer variations in width, from standard to extra-wide, ensuring a more tailored fit.

You’ll want a shoe that gives you plenty of space in the toe box, allowing your toes to spread naturally as you run, without feeling cramped. This extra room can prevent discomfort and help reduce the risk of blisters or black toenails: a common complaint among runners with wide feet.

Support and cushioning are equally important. Look for shoes that offer a balance between firmness and shock absorption, which will protect your joints from the repetitive impact of running. Pay attention to the sole and midsole construction as well. A flexible yet sturdy sole will offer good traction and stability, while a cushioned midsole will keep your feet feeling comfortable, even on longer runs.

Breathability is another key factor. Running shoes made with lightweight, breathable materials will help to keep your feet cool and dry, even during those intense training sessions. Look out for moisture-wicking linings to further reduce the risk of irritation.

Finally, don't overlook the importance of arch support. Many wide-fit running trainers come with enhanced arch support, which can help prevent issues like plantar fasciitis and improve your overall running form.

We’ve rounded up all of the best wide-fit running shoes.

New Balance 1080v13 2E Wide

A popular choice in the world of wide-fit running shoes, these New Balance's Fresh Foam X 1080v13 2E are one of the brand's premium neutral road running shoes, in a wide fitting. The main update is the increased stack height and added cushioning in the midsole which makes the shoe even more comfortable, right from your first run.

The upgraded upper is lighter and more breathable; designed to hold your feet whilst feeling soft and comfortable. The new groove design on the outsole encourages a smooth roll through your stride.

Buy now £160.00, Sports Shoes

Hoka Skyflow Wide

Designed to elevate your daily running practice, the Skyflow combines premium Skyward X-inspired geometry with upgraded foam compounds, making everyday miles easy to achieve without any compression around the toes.

Super-critically foamed EVA offers an extra cushy, springy ride, while a supportive heel-focused Active Foot Frame cradles the foot and a smooth forefoot rocker profile encourages effortless strides. They're constructed with a sleek upper and extra-durable outsole too.

Buy now £150.00, Hoka

Asics Gel-Kayano 30

Asics' Gel-Kayano 30 are something of a rockstar in the running shoe world: a great option for those with wide feet, flat feet or feet that need a little extra support. Asics' most advanced stability shoe yet, it’s designed to help you run further for longer.

The shoe’s 4D guidance system technology is a revolutionary stability system that will help steady your stride on your run, paired with the brand's new PureGEL technology and soft FF BLAST PLUS ECO foam, which means you’ll experience impressive comfort each time you hit the road.

Buy now £126.00, Sports Shoes

BROOKS Adrenaline GTS 23 D Wide

For many years the GTS has been the ‘go-to shoe’ for many runners who need anti-pronation support. This version features a soft and flexible midsole.

A perfect fit and innovative support are the attributes that make this running shoe a bestseller. The improved DNA 2 cushioning delivers a super soft and responsive ride to keep your feet and legs feeling happy.

Buy now £160.00, Sports Shoes

On Mens Cloudrunner 2 Shoes

The On Men's Cloudrunner 2 Shoes are designed to provide exceptional comfort and support for runners with wide feet. These premium running shoes feature a spacious upper that offers ample room in the midfoot and forefoot, ensuring a comfortable fit from your very first run.

The main update is the inclusion of Helion Superfoam in the midsole, which delivers enhanced cushioning and a softer ride, making each step feel light and responsive. The upgraded upper is lighter and more breathable, designed to hold your feet securely while feeling soft and comfortable.

Buy now £140.00, Runners Need

Altra Paradigm 7

The Altra Paradigm 7 is one of the brand's premium stability road running shoes, designed with a wide fitting. The upgraded upper is lighter and more breathable, designed to hold your feet securely while feeling soft and comfortable while the new trademarked GuideRail system and InnovArch technology offer dynamic support, encouraging a natural and smooth roll through your stride.

Perfect for runners seeking stability and comfort, the Altra Paradigm 7 combines innovative technology with thoughtful design to meet the needs of wide-footed runners.

Buy now £123.00, Altra

Adizero Boston 12

The Adizero Boston 12 Shoes are built for mid- to long-distance running and especially for long distance runners with wide feet. They bring a race-day feel to training with a propulsive feel that comes from the glass-fibre infused ENERGYRODS 2.0, which limit energy loss underfoot.

They're fast, but that does not come at the cost of durability: the midsole layers ultra-light LIGHTSTRIKE PRO cushioning with a new version of durable LIGHTSTRIKE 2.0 EVA.

Buy now £140.00, Adidas

New Balance 880v14

Whatever your preferred running routine looks like, no shoe handles it quite like the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v14. This trainer is an evolution in everyday reliability, featuring superior underfoot cushioning and a structured, supportive upper.

The Fresh Foam X midsole delivers an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride, ensuring comfort and responsiveness with every step. The engineered mesh upper is designed to provide a secure yet flexible fit, adapting to the natural shape of your foot while offering excellent breathability.

Buy now £140.00, New Balance

Nike Pegasus 41 Men's Road Running Shoes

Perfect for daily runs or competitive races, the Nike Pegasus 41 Men’s Road Running Shoes combine innovative technology with thoughtful design to meet the needs of wide-footed runners. The all-new ReactX foam midsole is 13 per cent more responsive than previous React technology, providing lightweight energy return that propels you forward with every step.

The dual Air Zoom units at the forefoot and heel enhance cushioning, delivering a smooth and energised ride.

Buy now £129.99, Nike

Zen Running Club FUTUREone

An award-winner in a sleek blue shade, the FUTUREone has the seal of approval from running experts. This fast, responsive model is made with the brand's new midsole which has the highest bio content of any performance foam, including enzymes that help the shoe degrade in landfill. The knotted construction of the shoe means it adapts to the unique shape of your foot, ensuring comfort at all sizes and widths.

Buy now £180.00, Zen Running Club

Verdict:

The New Balance 1080v13 2E Wide stands out as the best wide fit running trainer for its exceptional comfort, generous toe box and responsive cushioning. Its lightweight, breathable design combined with excellent arch support makes it ideal for long runs, ensuring both stability and comfort for wide-footed runners.

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