It’s funny how shoe manufacturers make shoes for feet that don’t exist. At VeraVise Outdoor Living, I’m on a mission to help others with bunions find the best wide-toe box shoes for every occasion.
Most shoes want you to shove a round peg in a square hole, while feet are naturally larger at the toes and narrow toward the heel.
That would mean the logical way to manufacture a shoe would be to make a wide toe box shoe that gradually gets more narrow at the heel, but, as most women will attest, most of our shoes are narrow at the toe box and wider toward the heel.
Compounding this problem is that many of us suffer from bunions, hammer toes, flat feet, and all other manners of feet issues. This certainly makes keeping your feet happy if you enjoy using them to walk and hike as much as I do.


For years, I thought the pain I suffered at the end of the day was due to the normal wear and tear on my feet, but I now know it is because I was wearing the wrong shoes.
I now know that as a bunion sufferer, I have to have wide-toe box shoes.
If you suffer from bunions or other issues with your feet that cause them to be wide in the toe box but narrow everywhere else, you also need wide-toe box shoes.
Best Wide-Toe Box Shoes
It can be so frustrating dealing with bunions and wide feet when trying to find the perfect shoe. I remember struggling to find the best dressy shoe to wear on a cruise and feeling like the only woman in the world who couldn’t wear cute pumps with my cocktail dress.
It really is hard to understand why shoe manufacturers make shoes the way they do when no one’s feet are shaped that way.
Even if you don’t suffer from bunions, your foot was not made to be shoved into a tiny box that is smaller at the front and larger at the back.
All feet are naturally wider at the top of the shoe, known as the toe box, and more narrow toward the heel. Steven Sashen of Xero Shoes says,
“Most shoes squeeze your toes, restrict your motion, insulate you from the ground, affect your posture, and mute the signals that your brain wants to hear. Wearing most shoes, you may as well try to play tennis in a body cast.”
- The Best Boots For Bunions
- The Best Sandals For Bunions
- The Best Winter Boots for Wide Feet
- The Best Ski Boots for Wide Feet
- The Best Wide-Toe Box Running Shoes
- Fashionable Wide Toe Box Shoes
- Top Wide Toe Shoe Brands
- Latest Wide Toe Box Dress Shoes For Women
- Best Women’s Snow Boots for Wide Feet
- Best Walking Shoes For Women With Bunions
- The Best Extra Wide Wide Women’s Snow Boots
- Best Men’s Snow Boots For Wide Feet
- Best Waterproof Wide Toe Box Shoes
- Best Wide Toe Box Hiking Shoes

I am always looking for a better sandal, dress shoe, or hiking boot to accommodate my wide-toe box needs, but here are a few resources I’ve already put together of my favorite wide-toe box shoes.
Wide Toe Box Shoes For Women
Finding the ideal shoe to tackle your outdoor adventures can be tricky, especially if you have wide feet. But don’t despair—we’ve got you covered!
- Latest Wide Toe Box Dress Shoes For Women
- The Best Women’s Snow Boots for Wide Feet
- The Best Walking Shoes For Women With Bunions
- The Best Extra Wide Wide Women’s Snow Boots
Be sure to check out these resources on the best wide-toe box shoes for women looking for a comfortable fit that allows their feet plenty of room to move and stretch without sacrificing style.
How To Pick Shoes For Wide feet?
When choosing shoes for wide feet, it’s important to find a pair that provides enough room and support. To do this, try looking for styles with extra cushioning or arch support and wider sizes. It’s also beneficial to look for materials like leather or canvas, which stretch over time.
Here are some ways to find the right size and fit:
- Measure your feet first: Use a ruler or tape measure to get an accurate measurement of your foot length and width. Choose shoes that are at least a half inch larger than your actual measurements for extra room.
- Try them in-store: It’s always best to try shoes on before purchasing them. Make sure the shoes fit comfortably without pinching or slipping when you walk.
- Look for adjustable features: Shoes with straps, laces, buckles, and other adjustable features are ideal for wide feet since they allow for more room and customized fitting.
- Choose brands with larger sizes: Some shoe manufacturers offer extra wide sizes in certain styles. Look for brands that specialize in wide feet or have a good track record of providing comfortable, supportive footwear.
- Finally, always break the shoes in slowly before wearing them all day. Wear them around the house and do short walks to ensure they fit correctly and provide support. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to find the perfect pair of shoes for your wide feet.
- Additionally, if possible, try on the shoes before making your purchase to ensure they provide adequate fit and comfort.
Wide Toe Box Shoes For Men
Whether scaling mountains or long-distance hiking, having shoes that support the width of your foot and keep it comfortable is key in finding the right gear. Luckily, there are several great options on the market designed specifically to meet this need!
Here are some resources to learn more about qualities to look for when selecting wide-toe box shoes for men perfect for any adventure.
Wide Toe Box Shoes for Bunions
- The Best Boots For Bunions
- The Best Sandals For Bunions
- The Best Shoes For Women with Bunions
- The Best Walking Shoes For Women With Bunions
Fun & Cool Hiking Clothes
Related Outdoor Living Resources
- Best Hiking Shoes Resource Guide
- How To Fit Hiking Boots Like A Pro
- Ultimate Outdoor Gear Guide
- Seasonal Hiking in the Smoky Mountains Vacation Guide
MORE RELATED RESOURCES
If you are to go on a hike and have bunions, here are some of the best hiking shoes for bunions that you can check out.
If you’re camping and need something to keep the kids busy, moving, and learning, these nature scavenger hunt printables from Mom On The Side for an even more fun camping trip!