Women are more likely to have wide feet than men, for a variety of reasons, from wider hips to changes that occur during pregnancy. Unfortunately, that doesn’t make finding the perfect pair of shoes any easier.
Check out some of the best shoe tips for wide feet, from the right way to find the right shoes to what you can do with the shoes that you already own. Use these simple rules to get the perfect fit while also getting a bit of glamor in your shoes.
Check Out the Wide Selection
When you go shoe shopping, always start with the “wide” selection. If you can’t find anything you like, move on, but keep in mind that most shoes who weren’t especially created for wide feet will cause you some discomfort, as glamorous as they might look. Do the same when you’re shopping online in order to curb your expectations.
Measure Your Feet at the Shoe Store
If you cling to the idea that you’re a certain size, you’re likely to buy uncomfortable shoes that cause pain and misery. One of the best shoe tips for wide feet is to get them measured regularly, once every year, so you’ll have a good grasp of where you’re at. While sizing can be different depending on manufacturers, you’ll at least know where you stand.
If You’re Not Sure, Don’t Buy
Spending money on shoes you don’t know will be comfortable is a bad idea. Even though there is some hope that they’ll stretch after you wear them a few times, you can’t count on that. If you’re already uncomfortable when you’re trying the shoes on in the store, you’re better off walking away and saving your money for gorgeous shoes that actually work for your feet.
See also: 10 Shoe Trends for Spring/Summer 2020
Be Wary of Straps
One of the best shoe tips for wide feet is to keep straps to a minimum. The more straps they have, the more likely they are to be uncomfortable when worn for a few hours. Dainty straps are the worst, and the fabric is also important. Unstitched leather straps are the most comfortable option. Adjustable straps are also a good idea, they’ll help you prevent any muffin tops on your feet.
Choose the Right Type of Leather
If you’re going to risk buying shoes that are slightly uncomfortable, make sure you choose leather with give. Patent leathers doesn’t stretch at all, so it’s not a good idea. However, softer leathers and suede can actually feel more comfortable in the long run. Synthetics don’t usually have much give either, but they’re better than patent leather.
Forget Pointed Toe Shoes
Even though they might be sexy, pointed toes are usually incompatible with wide feet. Sticking to round toe shoes is one of the best shoe tips for wide feet. Even if you love pointed toes, this type of shoe isn’t just uncomfortable for wider feet, it can also cause serious problems for your feet if you wear them for a long time.
Try Thicker Heels
Stacked heels definitely have the advantage over stilettos when it comes to wide feet. A thicker heel can give you more support and even contribute to balance. If you don’t have a stacked heel, your feet will suffer when they push against the sides of the shoe on every step.
Look for the Right Accents
While straps can be tricky, other types of accents can actually make your feet look smaller. From buckles and bows to tassels and lace overlays, choosing footwear with cute accents is one of the best shoe tips for wide feet.
More: Can You Still Wear Shoes That Are Too Small?
Don’t Count on Stretching
If you go ahead and buy shoes that are uncomfortable, there’s still some hope. Sprays and shoe stretchers can sometimes make them fit better, but only if there’s already some give in the leather. Choose the fabrics carefully and get professional help at a shoe repair. Just remember that you shouldn’t buy any type of shoe thinking that you’ll be able to stretch it one way or another.
Accept that Your Feet Will Get Wider
Pregnancy, aging and significant weight gain all contribute to your feet getting wider in the long run. Even if you use all the best shoe tips for wide feet, the problem is likely to get worse, especially if you have a job that requires you to stand for long periods of time.
