What to Look for When Shopping for Wide Width Sandals
If you’re shopping for sandals that will be comfortable for wide feet, a good rule of thumb is to see if the shoe has a noted wide width option (e.g., 7W or 7 Wide). However, in the case that this isn’t an option, there are a few other cues you can look for to discern whether a sandal is wide feet-friendly.
Brand: When you’re not sure about a specific shoe, it can help to learn more about the shoe’s brand as a whole, as the measurement standards used are likely to be similar. Some brands are known to generally carry shoes that are comfortable for wide feet, including Birkenstock, Naturalizer, Soda, Clarks, Torrid’s, Crocs, and OluKai.
Material: The material that’s used to construct the sandal is an important factor, as it determines the flexibility of your sandal and the support/cushioning your feet receive. For example, calfskin is an ideal choice for those with wide feet, as it tends to stretch out over time and mold to the shape of your foot. Additionally, sandals with footbeds that offer soft cushioning an durable arch support will help keep your feet secure and comfortable for longer periods of time. Some popular brands that are known for their comfortable fit are Birkenstock, Crocs, and OluKai.
Design: While this last point may seem relatively straightforward, some specific pointers to look for are a roomy toe box and supportive footbed. Additionally, you can look for ‘minimalist’ sandals, which are designed to closely mimic the experience of walking barefoot. Because of this, they’re designed with the natural shape of your feet in mind, giving your toes plenty of room to move around.
