If you have wide feet, finding comfortable and supportive shoes can be a real challenge. Many popular shoe brands simply don’t offer enough width options to accommodate those of us with a little more foot real estate. But when it comes to shoes for wide feet, the Skechers brand is often touted as a great option.
But are Skechers truly a good choice for those with wide feet? That’s exactly what we’re going to explore in this comprehensive guide. We’ll dive into the brand’s history with wide widths, discuss the specific Skechers styles that work well for wide feet, and share some expert tips on how to find the perfect Skechers fit.
By the end, you’ll have all the information you need to determine if Skechers are the right shoes for your wide feet.
A Brief History of Skechers and Wide Widths
Skechers was founded in 1992 with the goal of creating comfortable, stylish, and affordable footwear for the masses. From the very beginning, the brand recognized the importance of providing ample width options to cater to a diverse range of foot shapes and sizes.
In fact, Skechers was one of the first mainstream shoe brands to really prioritize wide width offerings. While many competitors were focused solely on narrow and medium widths, Skechers made a concerted effort to design their shoes in a wide variety of widths, from narrow all the way up to extra wide.
This commitment to inclusive sizing has only grown stronger over the years. Today, the vast majority of Skechers styles are available in wide and even extra wide widths, making the brand a go-to choice for those with feet on the wider side of the spectrum.
Of course, just because Skechers offers wide width options doesn’t necessarily mean that all of their shoes will be a perfect fit for your wide feet. There are certain Skechers styles that tend to work better for wide feet than others. Let’s take a look at some of the brand’s most wide-foot-friendly offerings.
Top Skechers Styles for Wide Feet
When it comes to Skechers and wide feet, there are a few standout styles that are consistently praised by those with broader tootsies. Here are some of the top Skechers options for wide feet:
1. Skechers GO Walk line
The Skechers GO Walk collection is designed with comfort and support in mind, making it a great choice for wide feet. These shoes feature responsive 5GEN cushioning, lightweight and flexible materials, and a roomy, wide toe box. Some of the most popular GO Walk styles for wide feet include the GO Walk 5 and GO Walk Joy.
2. Skechers D’Lites
The D’Lites line is another Skechers favorite for wide feet. These retro-inspired sneakers have a nice, broad base that provides ample room for wider feet. They also offer superior arch support and shock absorption, two key features that wide-footed folks tend to really appreciate. The Classic and Memory Foam versions are both great options.
3. Skechers Wide Fit line
For those with especially broad feet, Skechers offers a dedicated “Wide Fit” collection. These styles are specifically designed with an extra wide toe box and relaxed fit to accommodate larger, wider feet. Some popular Wide Fit styles include the Reggae Fest and the Bobs Plush – Peace and Love.
4. Skechers Sport line
Many of Skechers’ athletic and sporty styles, like those in the Sport collection, also work well for wide feet. These shoes typically have a roomier, more generous fit that allows for natural foot splay. The Flex Appeal 3.0 and the Skech-Air Dynamight are two Sport options worth checking out.
5. Skechers Work collection
If you need a shoe that can handle long workdays on your feet, the Skechers Work line is a great choice for wide widths. These durable, supportive styles are available in a variety of wide and extra wide sizes to accommodate larger, flatter feet. The Slip Resistant Work and the Soft Stride – Softie are two noteworthy Work styles.
Of course, even within these wide-friendly Skechers collections, some individual styles may fit wider than others. The key is to pay close attention to the specific width options offered for each shoe. Don’t just assume that all Skechers shoes will work for your wide feet – do a little research to find the styles that are truly designed for a roomier fit.
Tips for Finding the Perfect Skechers Fit for Wide Feet
Now that you know which Skechers styles tend to work best for wide feet, let’s talk about how to actually find your perfect fit. Here are some expert tips:
- Get your feet measured. Before you start shopping, make sure you know your true foot size and width. Getting professionally measured at a shoe store is the best way to determine your ideal fit. This will help ensure you select the right Skechers width from the start.
- Order multiple widths. Even if you think you know your width, it’s a good idea to order a few different options when shopping online. Skechers’ wide and extra wide sizes can vary in their actual fit, so you may need to try a couple to find the perfect width for your feet.
- Pay attention to the toe box. When it comes to wide feet, the toe box is one of the most important factors. Look for Skechers styles with a roomy, spacious toe area that allows your toes to spread out naturally. Styles with a pointy or tapered toe box are less likely to work.
- Consider a lace-up design. Lace-up Skechers shoes, like many of the sneaker styles, tend to offer a more adjustable and customizable fit compared to slip-on options. The ability to tighten or loosen the laces can help you achieve the perfect width.
- Opt for flexible materials. Shoes made with flexible, breathable materials like mesh or knit uppers are generally more accommodating for wide feet. Stiffer, less pliable materials may restrict foot movement and feel too tight across the top of the foot.
- Don’t be afraid to size up. If you find that your usual Skechers size is feeling a bit snug in the width, don’t hesitate to size up. Going up half a size or a full size can make a big difference in providing that extra width you need.
- Break them in gradually. Even if a pair of Skechers feels perfect in the store, it’s important to break them in slowly. Wide feet can be more sensitive to new shoes, so wear them for short periods at first to allow the materials to mold to your unique foot shape.
By following these tips and focusing on the wide-friendly Skechers styles we highlighted, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect fit for your wide feet. And remember, if you ever have any doubts or questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to Skechers’ customer service team – they’re always happy to provide personalized fit recommendations.
FAQs About Skechers and Wide Feet
Still have some lingering questions about Skechers and wide feet? Here are a few frequently asked questions that might help:
Q: Do all Skechers styles come in wide widths?
A: No, not all Skechers shoes are available in wide or extra wide sizes. However, the brand does offer a very wide selection of wide width options across many of their most popular collections, including GO Walk, D’Lites, Work, and Sport.
Q: What’s the difference between Skechers’ “wide” and “extra wide” sizes?
A: Skechers’ “wide” size typically corresponds to a standard EE width, while their “extra wide” size is equivalent to a 4E or 6E width. The extra wide options provide even more room and space for those with very broad, flat feet.
Q: How do I know which Skechers width will fit my feet best?
A: The best way to determine your ideal Skechers width is to get your feet professionally measured at a shoe store. This will give you an accurate read on your true foot width. You can then use that information to select the appropriate wide or extra wide size when shopping Skechers styles.
Q: Are Skechers good for plantar fasciitis?
A: Many Skechers styles, especially those in the GO Walk and Work collections, are well-suited for those with plantar fasciitis. The brand’s podiatrist-approved arch support and shock-absorbing cushioning can help alleviate heel and arch pain associated with this condition.
Q: Can I wear Skechers for long periods of time if I have wide feet?
A: Yes, Skechers are generally comfortable for extended wear, even for those with wide feet. The brand’s focus on comfort features like memory foam, flexible materials, and roomy toe boxes make their shoes suitable for all-day wear. Just be sure to select the right width for your feet.
conclusion
Ultimately, when it comes to finding shoes that are a great fit for wide feet, Skechers is definitely a brand worth considering. With their wide array of width options and their comfort-focused designs, Skechers provide a wide-footed solution that is both stylish and supportive. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect Skechers fit for your unique feet.