Here are some tips that may help make narrow shoes fit wider feet:
- Stretching: You can try stretching your shoes by wearing them with thick socks, using a shoe-stretching spray or device, or even taking them to a cobbler to have them professionally stretched.
- Using inserts: There are many different types of shoe inserts available that can help fill up the extra space in your shoes, making them fit better. Some examples include arch supports, gel pads, and heel cushions.
- Using a shoe stretcher: A shoe stretcher is a device that can be used to stretch the width of a shoe. You can either purchase a shoe stretcher or use one at a cobbler’s shop.
- Heat molding: Some types of shoes, such as athletic shoes, can be molded to your feet using heat. You can try heating your shoes using a hairdryer and then wearing them until they cool down, which can help them mold to your feet.
- Buy wider shoes: If your shoes are simply too narrow, then it may be worth investing in a pair of shoes that are designed for wider feet. Look for shoes that come in a variety of widths, and try them on before purchasing to ensure a good fit.
Can I wear narrow shoes with wide feet?
If you have wide feet, it is important to wear shoes that fit the width of your feet. Choosing narrow shoes in the hopes of making your feet narrower will only make the problem worse. These tight shoes compress the feet, which swell and appear even wide.
How can I make my shoes wider for wide feet?
If you’d like to make your shoes wider more quickly, however, you can choose from several simple methods. These include blowing hot air onto your shoes with a hairdryer, freezing a bag full of water inside of them, or using a shoe stretcher. Each one of these methods can make your shoes wider within a day or so.
Can you stretch shoes that are too narrow?
To stretch leather shoes, a blow dryer and thick socks are all you need to address too-tight shoes. Put on a thick pair of socks with the shoes, then aim your blow dryer at the tight spots, using medium heat to soften the shoe until it fits comfortably.
Should I size up if I have wide feet?
A wider fit could only apply to one foot, not both. Some people with wide feet will buy a longer length shoe, essentially going up a size, but this does not solve the problem. Sizing up will provide extra width, but the shoe will slip around the heel or in the toe box, causing discomfort when you walk.
How do I know if I need a wide or narrow shoe?
For instance, if your foot fits the length of a shoe, but has extra space on the sides, you probably have narrow width feet. Conversely, if your foot fits the length of a shoe, but is extremely snug on the sides of the foot bed, you could have wide width feet.
What happens if I wear narrow shoes?
If your shoes are too narrow or short, the extra pressure placed on your toe can lead to the edge of a toenail growing into your skin. Ingrown toenails can cause pain and the skin around your nail to become red or infected. Ingrown toenails are most common on the big toe, but can also occur on other toes.
How does a narrow shoe fit?
People with narrow feet will find that they have extra room on both sides of the shoe. To accommodate for the fit, narrow shoes are typically 1/4 inch narrower than regular shoes, and 1/2 inch narrow than wide shoe.
Does going up a shoe size increase width?
Shoe size and shoe width tend to be proportional in standard sizing, so large shoes may run a little wider than necessary if you have long, but narrow feet. However, we’d advise against opting for a larger shoe size, solely for the purpose of getting a wider fit, as this could cause a trip hazard.
Are narrow shoes bad for wide feet?
Making wide feet look narrow
Wearing narrow, tight shoes will only worsen the problem. If you have flat arches, special insoles may make your foot appear thinner while giving you support. In some cases, losing weight or reducing swelling may also help your feet look narrower.