Finding the right pair of shoes can be a hassle – in fact, according to some studies, nearly 88% of women wear shoes that are too small for them. You wouldn’t walk around in jackets, hats, or jeans that were too small, would you? Well, you shouldn’t do it to your feet, either. 

Many women are discovering that they may need wide-fit shoes. Wide shoes aren’t just about the width of the sole of your foot, they also accommodate a larger instep (from the top of your foot, starting at the base of your toes and extending to the front of your ankle). Pro tip: the best time to try on shoes is at the end of the day and (if it makes sense) with socks on, since our feet tend to be at their biggest at the end of the day.

If it feels like your shoes are squeezing your feet, that might be a sign that you should try a wider size – remember, beauty doesn’t have to be pain. Wearing shoes that are too small can lead to callouses, heel pain, blisters, and more. Let’s get rid of the stigma that wide-fit shoes can’t be stylish and trendy. Here are some of our favorite brands with wide-fit options!

Hokas

Hokas are one of the most popular shoes out there right now, and it’s with good reason! Their line of comfortable, supportive running shoes is ultra-comfortable and ultra-cute, with a variety of colors to choose from. Most of their sneakers come in Medium/Wide for Women and Medium/Wide/X-Wide for Men. The Clifton 9 is particularly popular for runners and daily walkers, while the Bondi 8 are a great everyday sneaker.

Birkenstocks

Birkenstocks are a classic for a reason. They use European sizing, so you might not have caught on to their options for wide feet, but the majority of their core shoes come in what they call “Regular Width”...which is actually equivalent to an American Wide. Some of their seasonal styles come in Narrow Width for Women, which is the equivalent to Medium Width in American shoes (here’s a handy sizing chart if you want more information). The other nice thing about Birkenstocks is the adjustable straps, making it easier to customize them to your foot depending on what you need. 

Vionic

Finding heels in wide widths can be difficult, but Vionic has a stellar selection of stylish and functional shoes. They started as an orthotic company, so foot health is always their top priority. They make some of our very favorite formal options, proving you don’t have to sacrifice style for pain-free footwear. Merlot is one of their new Spring 2024 styles that we love, and it comes in both Medium and Wide. Wear them to work or dance the night away with a pair of these pain-free heels.

SAS Shoes

We couldn’t even imagine writing an article about properly-fitted shoes without mentioning the ultimate comfort and fit brand. Whether you need to be on your feet all day at work or you just can’t stand another day in uncomfortable shoes, SAS Shoes is known for their variety of sizes and widths, from Slim to Double Wide (and even Triple Wide for men). They offer a variety of styles, from non-slip work shoes to loafers, sandals, and pumps, so you can experience the highest level of comfort no matter the occasion. They’re also made right here in the U.S., which isn’t something most shoe brands can say!

Finding shoes that fit your feet is critical for your health and your sanity. Figuring out that you need a wider shoe option will do you so much good in the long run – and there’s no need to sacrifice your style for that level of comfort. Shop our favorites and make your feet happier and healthier.