How to Tell If You Need a Wide Shoe

The question "Do I need a wide shoe?" is one our fit experts answer regularly. From the beginning, size inclusivity has been something that's important to us (and why almost all of our styles come in three widths and are available in from US 3 to 14). The concierge offering we're built out includes live chat, private fit appointments, and a text line; all are easy ways to connect directly with one of our experts to understand more about wide widths and whether it might be appropriate for you.

To help field some of the most common questions, we asked one of our longtime fit experts, Augusta, to share some of her insights.

"I'll often ask people, 'Are you usually comfortable in a medium or has the width of a shoe ever been a fit concern? Do you often find shoes feel too loose or too tight, but the length feels good otherwise?'" she explained.

The physical difference between a medium and wide comes down to a manner of millimeters in Margaux, which isn't much at all but can make a large difference in the fit.

"Thinking about the measurements isn't that helpful of a comparison. Instead, I always suggest thinking about how the sizes relate to each other," Augusta said.

When you move up a half size in a medium width, the shoe itself is getting slightly longer and wider. When you stay within the same size (or length) and opt for a wide, you're getting something that feels like a bigger shoe without increasing the length of the shoe.

"It would give you the feeling of having gone up a half size, but you're not actually changing the length of the shoe. It's the best of both worlds. If you feel like you're between sizes, you can get the feel of that half-size up but at your proper length so you won't encounter fit issues elsewhere, like slipping at the heel. Think of it as a quarter step between a half size. You get the feeling you want without comprising on the fit length-wise."

Our wide shoes are designed with extra space only at the front of the foot, an important distinction that allows for the very best fit possible.

"The width is concentrated in the ball of the foot; the heel is still a medium width," Augusta explained. "It’s a very thoughtful design where it's just a little wider where you tend to need it, not at the heel where your foot might pop out or it would feel too wide throughout."

Augusta's work has allowed her to meet with plenty of people in our community as they figure out the just-right fit. Consequently, she's been able to spot a few common questions that usually lead her to think a wide might be a smart option.

"If someone says, 'Sometimes I wear an 8 or an 8.5 depending on the shoe,' I'll ask if the 8 would have been a better fit if it was just a little roomier. That clicks with people. 'I have done that! I go up a half size because it feels more comfortable, but sometimes there's too much room.'"

For one-on-one help or further information about wide shoes, learn about booking a fit appointment here. You can also text directly with a fit expert at 917-451-3483.