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.
Vionic Women's Walker Classic Shoes
These walkers are extremely durable, made with a full-grain leather upper and breathable mesh liner to keep your feet cool and dry throughout your 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
Vionic Women's Walker Classic Shoes
These walkers are extremely durable, made with a full-grain leather upper and breathable mesh liner to keep your feet cool and dry throughout your shift.
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
Cherokee Women's Harmony Shoes
These are pretty affordable slip ons that were built for wear within clinical settings.
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
Saucony Women's VERSAFOAM Cohesion 12 Running Shoe
These comfortable nursing sneakers come in a wide (pun intended) variety of colors and sizing options.
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
Skechers Sport Women's Premium Sneaker
A great Skechers wide shoe option for nurses who are seeking stellar shock absorption.
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
Nurse Mates Women's Dove Oxford
Easy to clean leather slip ons that fit like a glove - you can even go without socks!
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
Merrell Women's Siren Sport 3 Hiking Shoe
With breathable mesh lining, these hiking shoes will keep your feet dry, whether you're hitting a long shift or the trails.
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
Klogs Footwear Women's Boca Chef Clog
With a 1.5 inch heel and cushioning, these clogs are great for nurses with plantar fasciitis.
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
New Balance Women's 411 V1 Training Shoe
Somewhere between athletic and professional, these are stylish comfy shoes.
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
Nike Women's Revolution 5 Wide Running Shoe
Nike running shoes that come in wide sizing that you can wear both in the hospital as well as out on a run!
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
Crocs Unisex-Adult Men's and Women's on The Clock Clog
Our top pick overall, these impressive Crocs offer a unisex appeal and strong workplace protection.
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
Brooks Women s Adrenaline GTS 23
Brooks technology means an easy ride for running with excellent shock absorption that is also great for overpronators.
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
Reebok Women's Princess Sneaker
A super comfortable white leather tennis shoe option that features a sock liner, meaning you can go sock-free if you like.
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
Sanita Cabrio Women's Clog
Comfortable clogs with a glossy finish with an elevated heel and .5 inch platform.
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 Womens Keli Leather Shoes
Another great option built for professionals, these leather clogs are super comfy and durable!
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
Alegria Paloma Womens Shoes
For nurses looking for some fun patterns and designs for their footwear, then look no further than these fun Alegria Paloma flats!
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
Nurse Mates Velocity Sneakers
Full grain leather and lightweight EVA bottom sneaker that comes in a variety of colors and patterns.
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
Skechers for Work Women's Eldred Shoe
A pair of white nursing shoes that works, these have everything you need to be comfortable on the job!
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
Women's Peggy Clog
Clogs that come in leather or suede that feature a contoured and raised heel that provides support for those with foot issues like Achilles Tendinitis and Plantar Fasciitis
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 Women's Gel-Excite 7 Running Shoe
Max cushioning while lightweight, these running shoes by ASICS come in wide sizes.
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
ASICS Women's Gel-Venture 8 Running Shoes
These running shoes come in wide sizes and fit neutral foot types.
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
Fila Women's Memory Workshift-w
These Fila sneakers were created for slippery work surfaces with an outsole that offers enhanced traction.
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.
Cherokee Women's Harmony Shoes
These are pretty affordable slip ons that were built for wear within clinical settings.
If you want a more athletic shoe, the Reebok Princess sneaker is a solid choice.
Reebok Women's Princess Sneaker
A super comfortable white leather tennis shoe option that features a sock liner, meaning you can go sock-free if you like.
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.
FootMatters Professional Boot & Shoe Stretch Spray
Softener and stretcher for leather, suede, nubuck, and canvas.
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.
Vionic Women's Walker Classic Shoes
These walkers are extremely durable, made with a full-grain leather upper and breathable mesh liner to keep your feet cool and dry throughout your shift.
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.
Nurse Mates Women's Dove Oxford
Easy to clean leather slip ons that fit like a glove - you can even go without socks!
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.
Women's Peggy Clog
Clogs that come in leather or suede that feature a contoured and raised heel that provides support for those with foot issues like Achilles Tendinitis and Plantar Fasciitis
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
What’s the best nursing shoes for wide, flat feet?
The Fila Workshift is our top recommendation for shoes that accommodate nurses with wide, flat feet. They are built for the workplace, so you will get the additional benefit of non-slip outsoles.
What are the best nursing clogs for wide feet?
Our top picks in this list for wide nursing clogs are the Cherokee Harmony and the Crocs On The Clock clog.
What nurse shoes are best for wide feet with high arches?
The Vionic Walker sneakers make great wide nurse shoes with additional arch support.
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.
Vionic Women's Walker Classic Shoes
These walkers are extremely durable, made with a full-grain leather upper and breathable mesh liner to keep your feet cool and dry throughout your shift.
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.
