Shoe Width Size Chart
Use our shoe width size chart to find the right width for your feet. Includes conversion for men, women, and kids. Covers narrow, regular, wide, and extra wide options. Finding the correct width is just as important as finding the correct length for a comfortable, properly fitting shoe.
Many people focus only on shoe length, but width is equally important for comfort and foot health. Shoes that are too narrow can cause blisters, bunions, and other foot problems, while shoes that are too wide can cause your foot to slide around, leading to instability and discomfort.
Understanding Shoe Width Sizing
Width Size Categories
Narrow (B, C, D for women; B, C, D for men):
Designed for feet that are narrower than average. Less common but available from some brands.
Regular/Medium (D for women; D for men):
The standard width for most shoes. This is the default width if no width is specified.
Wide (E, 2E for women; E, 2E for men):
Designed for feet that need more room. Common width option from brands like New Balance.
Extra Wide (4E, 6E for men):
For feet that need significantly more room. Less common but available from specialized brands.
How to Determine Your Width
- Measure Your Foot Width: While standing, measure the widest part of your foot (usually across the ball of your foot) in inches or centimeters.
- Compare with Size Charts: Use the width measurement along with your foot length to find your appropriate width category on the size chart.
- Consider Your Foot Shape: Some people have wider forefeet but narrower heels, or vice versa. Consider your overall foot shape when selecting width.
- Try Different Widths: If you're unsure, try shoes in different widths to find what feels most comfortable. Remember that width can vary between brands and models.
Shoe Width Conversion Table
See the main width chart for more details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a wide shoe size?
Wide shoes are designed for feet that need more room across the ball of the foot. They are typically marked with letters like E, 2E, or 4E (for men) or D, E, or 2E (for women). Wide shoes provide extra space to prevent pinching, blisters, and discomfort. See the width chart above for specific measurements and details.
How do I know if I need a wide or narrow shoe?
Measure the width of your foot at its widest point (usually across the ball of the foot) and compare with the width chart. If your foot is wider than average for your length, you likely need a wide shoe. Signs that you need a wide shoe include: your feet spilling over the sides of regular-width shoes, frequent blisters on the sides of your feet, or feeling like your toes are cramped even when the length is correct.
Can I just size up instead of getting a wide shoe?
While sizing up can provide more width, it also increases the length, which can cause other problems like heel slippage and instability. It's better to get the correct length in a wide width for the best fit. However, if wide widths aren't available, sizing up half a size can be a temporary solution.
Which brands offer wide width options?
New Balance is well-known for offering extensive width options (D, 2E, 4E for men; B, D, 2E for women). Other brands like Brooks, ASICS, and some athletic shoe manufacturers also offer wide widths. For dress shoes and fashion brands, wide options are less common but available from some specialized retailers.