If you have wide feet and are shopping for running shoes, there are several factors you should consider to ensure you find a comfortable and supportive shoe:
Size: A well-fitting pair of running shoes should fit snugly but not be too tight. There should be about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe.
“Not only is it important to buy shoes that are fitting properly in length, but it’s exquisitely important to buy them so that they fit properly in the width category,” says Mendeszoon. So check the width, too (even if you’re buying a ‘wide’ size). Make sure the shoe is wide enough to accommodate your foot without being too loose or too tight, especially in the toe box and midfoot.
Running style: Think about whether you tend to land on the balls of your feet or your heels when you run. Different shoes are designed for different types of runners, so understanding your running style can help you choose a shoe that will best suit your needs.
Terrain: Where will you be running most often? If you’ll be running on pavement, opt for a shoe with good shock absorption. If you’ll be running on trails, you’ll want a shoe with good traction, a thick sole, and stability.
Cushioning: The level of cushioning you need depends on your running style, joint considerations (injuries, etc.), and the terrain you’ll be running on. If you are recovering from a knee injury, opt for a heavily cushioned shoe, if you are running on trails, you’ll want something less plushy.
Support: If you have flat feet or low arches, you’ll want to look for a shoe with built-in arch support, or one that’s compatible with an arch supporting insole of your choice. A well-fitted shoe should provide good heel support, too. You’ll want to feel a snug fit around the back of your foot, which helps to prevent slippage and blisters.
Breathability: Look for shoes with breathable uppers made of mesh or other lightweight materials to ensure you’ll feet will stay cool and dry, regardless of the hard work you’ll logging in them.
Flexibility: The only thing that feels worse than a too narrow shoe is a too stiff shoe, so look for shoes that bend and flex easily, allowing your feet to move naturally.
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