The 19 Best Nursing Shoes for Wide Feet [BUYING GUIDE]

Finding the best nursing shoes for wide feet can feel like a chore. The worst feeling is finding the shoe of your dreams and discovering they have no wide-width selection! And even among those that are wide width, we still have preferences – some of us prioritize cushion while others look for wide width nursing shoes with a lighter weight or bright colors. 

In a hurry? Our top pick, overall, is the Vionic Walker. A durable, full-grain leather upper and breathable mesh liner keeps your feet cool and dry throughout your long shift.

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The Best Nursing Shoes for Wide Feet

Vionic Walker

Best Overall Nursing Shoe for Wide Feet

The Vionic Walker is our top pick thanks to combined comfort, versatility, and durability. The leather materials won’t wear down for years. Inside is an EVA footbed that can be replaced with your own customized orthotic inserts. The shoes are designed by podiatrists and have received a seal of approval from the American Podiatric Medical Association. The Vionic Walker also ranked among our list of the 15 Best Orthopedic Nursing Shoes for 2024.

• Available in multiple colors
• Leather or suede upper with a synthetic sole
• Removable EVA footbed with arch support
• Elevation reduces shock against the heel
• Podiatrist-designed with APMA seal of approval

Cherokee Women’s Harmony

Most Affordable Wide Width Nursing Shoe

The Cherokee Women’s Harmony shoes are among the best budget shoes on the list. The raised heel and padded insole provide comfort, while the padded collar prevents chafing. Made with genuine leather, these shoes will last for a significant period of time. The lugged outsole creates ideal traction for slippery clinical environments.

• Available in black and white
• Crafted from genuine leather materials
• Excellent budget option
• Padded insole with a raised heel for shock absorption
• Lugged outsole creates traction with each step

Saucony Versafoam

Most Color/Style Options

These comfortable wide nursing shoes are available in 11 colors and styles, making them a great choice for anyone who wants a more unique look. Their synthetic and mesh design is breathable, so they’re great for nurses who want to stay cool. The durable rubber outsole and supportive overlays keep the shoes from wearing down even with heavy use.

• Available in 11 color combinations
• Breathable synthetic and mesh materials
• Rubber outsole with durable rubber overlays
• Patented stability and cushioning system

Skechers Sport

Best Wide Nursing Shoe for Shock Absorption

These are a great choice for nurses with wide feet who want a shock-absorbing shoe. The lace-up closure is easy to slip on, while the padded collar and tongue prevent chafing. The midsole absorbs the shock of each stride, while the outsole provides additional shock absorption on hard surfaces. Skechers Sport is an overall great shoe, and Skechers has done a lot to create shoes that are great for healthcare workers and professionals, which is why we included it in our list of the 13 Best Shoes for Nurses for 2024.

• Available in 4 colors
• Leather construction with an upper sole
• 2-inch heel good for those with short calf muscles
• Easy-on loop and lacing system make it easy to slip on
• Shock absorbing outsole and midsole

Nurse Mates Dove Oxford

Best Wide Leather Nursing Clogs

The Dove Oxford is often favored by nurses who want a clog-style shoe. The leather and rubber materials are easy to clean and highly durable. These shoes are made specifically for nurses and other healthcare professionals. They are slip-resistant and work well for those in demanding clinical environments.

The Nurse Mates Dove Oxford also made our list of the 12 Best White Nursing Shoes for 2024.

• Available in black and white
• 100 percent leather with a rubber sole
• Slip-resistant outsole
• Padded and comfortable insole
• Made specifically for nurses and healthcare professionals

Merrell Siren

Most Breathable

Though these shoes are built for hiking, they work well as nursing shoes for wide feet. The tongue is designed to keep debris out, and the traditional laces are easy to manage. A breathable mesh lining keeps you cool during your shift. There is also a contoured and removable insole that uses a patented support system.

• Available in 3 different colors
• 100 percent leather with a rubber sole
• Breathable mesh lining and upper
• Removable insole uses contoured Kinetic Fit technology
• Flexible and supportive enough for heavy-duty work

Klogs Boca Clogs

Best for Plantar Fasciitis

These shoes are another popular choice for nurses with wide feet who want clogs. They are crafted from synthetic materials and available in more colors than many options. The polyurethane construction makes the shoes more lightweight than genuine leather. The heel is about 1.5 inches, providing adequate cushioning for individuals with plantar fasciitis.

• Available in 5 different colors
• Lightweight synthetic materials with a synthetic sole
• Raised heel for extra padding
• Removable anti-microbial footbed provides support
• Can be easily washed and disinfected

New Balance V1 Training Shoe

Athletic Look and Fit

These shoes are a great choice for anyone seeking a more athletic option. They are built for training, featuring a snug fit and support throughout the midsole. The lightweight design helps prevent fatigue during long shifts. Researchers have tested and refined the design extensively before putting it on the market.

These trainers also made our list of the Best New Balance Sneakers for Nurses in 2024.

• Available in 6 colors
• Synthetic and textile construction with a rubber sole
• Leather mesh upper
• More lightweight than most options on the market

Nike Revolution

Best Running Shoes for Wide Feet

Here’s an awesome pair of running shoes that come in specifically in wide sizes to meet your sizing needs! We love the color options and you’re likely to find a pair that matches your preference among these 19 styles. These running shoes are super lightweight and breathable.

The Nike Revolution made our list of the Best Nike Shoes for Nurses in 2024

• High traction grooves in rubber sole
• Lots of cushioning with soft midsole
• Durable reinforced heel

Crocs On the Clock Clogs

Complaint with OSHA Workplace Regulations

Crocs is well-known for making comfortable shoes. These clogs have a sleek and professional design that doesn’t sacrifice comfort. They’re built specifically for people in demanding professions like nursing and the food industry. You can clean them with gentle soap and water, and the enclosed heel and toe meets OSHA regulations.

• Available in black
• 100% manmade with a synthetic sole
• Built specifically for demanding jobs on your feet
• Easily cleaned with soap and water
• Compliant with OSHA workplace regulations

Brooks Adrenaline GTS

Supportive Enough for Overpronation Relief

These are some of the best nursing shoes on the market. From their comfort to their many available colors, these shoes are great for nurses on the go. The design helps to prevent overpronation. A combination of BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT Crash Pad technology helps to cushion each step while absorbing shock.

The Brooks Adrenaline made it among our list of the Best Brooks Shoes for Nurses in 2024.

• Available in 34 color combinations
• Synthetic and mesh with a rubber sole
• Shock-absorbing heel with responsive midsole cushioning
• 3D Fit Print mesh upper conforms to the foot
• Designed to prevent overpronation in runners

Reebok Princess

Great Budget Sneakers

The Reebok Princess sneaker is another great choice for nurses shopping on a budget. It uses easy-to-clean synthetic leather with a lightweight impact. The die-cut EVA midsole provides cushioning without wearing down over time. A terry lining absorbs moisture throughout the day, so your feet stay dry. There is also a padded foam sockliner for extra cushioning.

• Available in 5 colors
• Synthetic leather with a rubber sole
• Die-cut EVA midsole with foam sockliner for maximum cushioning
• Terry lining absorbs moisture to keep feet dry
• Lightweight materials can be easily cleaned and sanitized

Sanita Cabrio Clog

Glossy Professional Finish

These clogs are good for nurses who want a glossy finish. They are manufactured in Poland and crafted from genuine leather, with a synthetic sole. The 1.75-inch heel elevates the foot to provide optimal cushioning. Meanwhile, the actual platform is about 0.5 inches.

• Available in 3 colors
• 100% leather with a synthetic sole
• Raised heel for extra cushioning and shock absorption
• Shiny, professional appearance

Alegria Keli

Stain-Resistant

These shoes are ideal for anyone seeking a leather option with many available colors and designs. The gores make it easy to slip the shoe on and off. The stain-resistant leather upper can be easily cleaned, while the outsole is slip-resistant. The insole is crafted from comfortable suede leather. The Alegria Keli also made our list of the Best Nurse Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis in 2024.

• Available in 46 colors and patterns
• 100% leather with a rubber sole
• Elastic gores make it easy to slip on and off
• Leather lining and upper are easy to clean
• Comfortable suede leather insole

Alegria Paloma Flat

Most Fashionable Wide Nursing Flats

If you’re looking for a stunning pair of fashion-forward shoes, the Paloma flats are a great place to start. They’re available in over 50 beautiful patterns and feature hand stitching. The leather upper can be easily cleaned, while the suede insole is comfortable. The adjustable closure comes with its own unique ornamentation as well.

• Available in 54 colors and patterns
• Leather and suede with a rubber sole
• Hand-stitched shoes
• Adjustable closure comes with unique ornamentation
• Beautiful shoes that are great for fashion-conscious nurses

Nurse Mates Velocity

Built for Custom Orthotic Inserts

This option from Nurse Mates is a good choice for those who need room for their customized orthotics. Built specifically for nurses, the design is constructed with lightweight full-grain leather. The lightweight EVA bottom provides cushioning, while the stabilizing composite shank keeps your stride steady.

• Available in 11 colors and styles
• Leather with a rubber sole
• Adjustable stretchy laces
• Lightweight EVA foam bottom with stabilizing technology
• Space for customized orthotics

Skechers Eldred

Best Extra Wide Width Nursing Shoes

These extra wide width nursing shoes are a popular choice for nurses. They have memory foam cushioning that reduces pain against your pressure points. The relaxed fit works well for people who need a roomier toe box. At the same time, the lace-up closure secures the shoe to your foot so that you don’t slide around in slippery areas.

• Available in black and white
• 100% leather with a synthetic sole
• Roomy design with a relaxed fit
• Memory foam interior for extra cushioning

B.O.C. Leather Clogs

Best for Achilles Issues

These clogs are a good choice for nurses who want a more casual fit. They are crafted using a combination of full-grain leather and suede. The soles use lightweight synthetic materials. These shoes feature a contoured and raised heel that provides support for those with foot issues like Achilles Tendinitis and Plantar Fasciitis.

• Available in 16 colors and styles
• Leather, suede, and rubber with a synthetic sole
• Casual slip-on clog with a lightweight outsole
• Raised 2-inch heel for extra cushioning
• Contoured heel for additional support

Asics Gel-Excite

Most cushioning

These athletic shoes are a good choice for nurses who want a more flexible and adaptive ride. The AmpliFoam technology allows you to receive maximum cushioning without too much density. That way, you get additional flexibility in your stride. The shoes also feature a sockliner that wicks away moisture and increases overall breathability.

• Available in 17 colors and patterns
• Synthetic and mesh upper with a rubber sole
• Durable AmpliFoam midsole adapts to your stride
• Ortholite sockliner wicks away moisture and provides breathability
• Great choice for nurses seeking a flexible, responsive shoe

Asics Gel Venture 8

Best Running Shoes

Here’s another pair of Asics sneakers that you can’t go wrong with! The Gel Ventures have made our lists over the years among our favorite orthopedic nursing shoes as well as the Best Shoes for Male Nurses. The differences between the Gel Venture 7 and 8 are minimal, so find a color scheme that’s your favorite!

• Gel cushion absorbs shock
• Neutral support
• Breathable mesh upper
• High traction

Fila Women’s Memory

Slip Resistant Outsole

These shoes are designed with occupational use in mind. They have a memory foam liner and midsole for extra cushioning, while the outsole provides significant traction. Durable overlays have been stitched together to prevent the shoes from wearing down. The laces give you a relaxed fit, while the perforated upper allows for breathability.

These sneakers also make great shoes for nurses with flat feet. They made our list of the 16 Best Nursing Shoes for Flat Feet for 2024.

• Available in black and white
• 100% synthetic with a rubber sole
• Leather and synthetic overlays provide durability
• Slip-resistant outsole is designed for extra traction
• Memory foam midsole and sockliner for additional cushioning

How to Choose the Best Nursing Shoes for Wide Feet

Understand the Terminology for Wide

Before you can choose the right nursing shoes, you’ll need to understand how wide shoes are labeled and how to measure yourself prior to purchase. That way, you know what size you’re looking for.

Having an accurate measurement is especially important if you buy your shoes online, as you won’t be able to try them on first.

How Wide Shoes are Labeled

The nursing shoes wide width classification is different depending on the manufacturer and the gender.

For men, wide shoes are usually E, 2E, 4E, and 6E. You can double-check the individual manufacturers to find the right wide width professional nursing shoes for your needs.

Women’s shoes are usually classified as D to indicate wideness. For extra width nursing shoes, look for shoes marked EE. You can have a look at this shoe chart that goes from narrow to extra wide-width sizes.

US Size	Narrow (AA) (inches)	Narrow (AA) (cm)	Medium (M or B) (inches)	Medium (M or B) (cm)	Wide (D) inches	Wide (D) (cm)	Extra Wide (EE) (inches)	Extra Wide (EE) (cm)
5	2 13/16″	7.1 cm	3 3/16″	8.1 cm	3 9/16″	9 cm	3 15/16″	10 cm
5.5	2 7/8″	7.3 cm	3 1/4″	8.3 cm	3 5/8″	9.2 cm	4″	10.1 cm
6	2 15/16″	7.5 cm	3 5/16″	8.4 cm	3 11/16″	9.4 cm	4 1/16″	10.3 cm
6.5	3″	7.6 cm	3 3/8″	8.6 cm	3 3/4″	9.5 cm	4 1/8″	10.5 cm
7	3 1/16″	7.8 cm	3 7/16″	8.7 cm	3 13/16″	9.7 cm	4 3/16″	10.6 cm
7.5	3 1/8″	8 cm	3 1/2″	8.9 cm	3 7/8″	9.9 cm	4 1/4″	10.8 cm
8	3 3/16″	8.1 cm	3 9/16″	9 cm	3 15/16″	10 cm	4 5/16″	11 cm
8.5	3 1/4″	8.3 cm	3 5/8″	9.2 cm	4″	10.1 cm	4 3/8″	11.1 cm
9	3 5/16″	8.4 cm	3 11/16″	9.4 cm	4 1/16″	10.3 cm	4 7/16″	11.3 cm
9.5	3 3/8″	8.6 cm	3 3/4″	9.5 cm	4 1/8″	10.5 cm	4 1/2″	11.4 cm
10	3 7/16″	8.7 cm	3 13/16″	9.7 cm	4 3/16″	10.6 cm	4 9/16″	11.6 cm
10.5	3 1/2″	8.9 cm	3 7/8″	9.9 cm	4 1/4″	10.8 cm	4 5/8″	11.8 cm
11	3 9/16″	9 cm	3 15/16″	10 cm	4 5/16″	11 cm	4 11/16″	11.9 cm
11.5	3 5/8″	9.2 cm	4″	10.1 cm	4 3/8″	11.1 cm	4 3/4″	12.1 cm
12	3 11/16″	9.4 cm	4 1/16″	10.3 cm	4 7/16″	11.3 cm	4 13/16″	12.2

What About Narrow Shoes?

Narrow shoes are also classified using letters. A tends to be the narrowest, while B might be narrow or standard.

As a general rule, the further the letter is in the alphabet, the wider the shoe will be.

Women’s shoes don’t tend to go past 2E. But men’s shoes might have widths of up to 6E, which is extremely wide.

Measuring Your Foot

If your shoes are often too snug at the sides but not in the toes, you might need a wider option.

One way to get your exact measurements is by using a Brannock Device. This device is built specifically to measure the length and width of your foot.

You don’t even need to go to a shoe store. It’s possible to download and print your own Brannock at home for free.

Changing Foot Width

It is possible for the width of your foot to change as you age. 

This might be because of natural changes in the tendons and ligaments, or it might occur due to weight gain.

If your current shoes are too tight, you might need to switch to a wider pair.

Budget

Your budget makes a big difference when picking the wide width nursing shoes that are right for you.

Materials like genuine leather tend to be pricey. With that said, they can also last for decades, so they’re worth the purchase if you have the money.

Inexpensive Shoe Options

If you don’t have the money to invest in a long-term pair of shoes, you can still get the supportive cushioning and durability you need.

The Cherokee Women’s Harmony shoes are among the best budget shoes for nurses with wide feet.

If you want a more athletic shoe, the Reebok Princess sneaker is a solid choice.

How to Set Your Budget

When setting your budget, keep in mind that you’ll be wearing these shoes for hundreds of hours every month. If you look at the hourly cost of these shoes, we’re talking pennies per hour!

Even if you don’t feel the need to spring for luxuries like hand-stitched genuine leather, it’s important to budget for comfortable and durable options.

Read Reviews

I wish all shoes exactly matched the size they claim to be, but unfortunately, you’ll need to double check reviews to make sure the shoe fits true to size. Similarly, you may discover that some customers have had issues with blisters or can say, with firsthand experience, that wearing the shoes for 12 hours straight kills their feet.

Some Fabrics Are Better Than Others

Certain materials are more supportive and comfortable than others. Soft leather and suede both tend to mold better to the feet than other materials, including synthetics and patent leathers.

Patent leathers are treated with a coating that prevents stretching, which also prevents them from conforming to your foot. This means that patent and synthetic leathers will never really work their way towards the comfort that a real leather will over time.

Stretching Tough Shoes

If you do invest in patent leather shoes or tough synthetics, you may be able to loosen them with a shoe stretching spray.

You can also get a manual stretcher, which is a more old-fashioned solution.

It’s also possible to bring your shoes to a shoe repair shop. The employees will probably have access to a stretcher machine.

Molded Shoe Options

Leather shoes like the Vionic Walker are built to mold to the foot. They also have strategic arch support, so they’re helpful when you’re working long shifts without a chance to sit down.

The Dove Oxford shoes are also a good choice. These are built specifically for use by nursing professionals. The genuine leather molds to the foot after a short break-in period.

Heel and Toe

In addition to the width, the heel and toe of the shoe make a difference.

If the toe of the heel is pinched and constricting, the shoes will likely be uncomfortable for those with wide feet.

But if the toe has a more box-like and roomy construction, you’ll have space to spread out and breathe.

Heel Features

The heel of your nursing shoe should be enclosed to comply with workplace safety regulations.

Raised heels help to create a smoother transition from heel-to-toe with each stride. The B.O.C. Leather Clogs feature a 2-inch contoured heel for this specific purpose.

In addition, some heels are built with shock-absorbing padding, which is excellent for people with painful conditions like plantar fasciitis. For those looking for additional padding, you can look at buying a pair of insoles that help those who stand all day.

Wide Nursing Shoes FAQ

Best Wide Shoes for Nurses – Wrap Up

The best nursing shoes for wide feet are the shoes that allow you to do your job comfortably and safely. Wide shoes will keep your feet from being pinched. Some have a roomy toebox to prevent the development of bunions and cramps.

Our top pick overall is the Vionic Walker. These leather nursing shoes have an orthotic arch support to help during long shifts. The material molds to the foot. There is also a removable EVA footbed that reduces pressure on the joints. In fact, these shoes have received a Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association.

As long as you understand your needs and budget, you should be able to find the right shoes for you. Make sure you learn about how manufacturers mark their wide shoes, and you’ll be ready to go.