If you've ever squeezed into shoes that left you with aching feet by midday, your foot width is likely the culprit, not just your length. Wide-fit shoes exist precisely for this reason, and finding the right fit starts with one simple step: measuring your feet properly.
Why Foot Width Matters
Most standard shoes are designed for a medium (B) width. But a significant proportion of women have feet that are naturally wider, particularly across the ball of the foot. Wearing shoes that are too narrow can cause bunions, blisters, and long-term discomfort. Wide-fit styles are cut with extra room across the toe box and forefoot, so your foot sits naturally rather than being compressed.
What You'll Need
- A sheet of plain paper
- A pencil or pen
- A ruler or tape measure
- A flat, hard floor (not carpet)
Step-by-Step: How to Measure Your Foot Width
- Measure at the end of the day. Feet naturally swell throughout the day, so measuring in the evening gives you the most accurate reading.
- Stand on the paper. Place the paper on a hard floor and stand on it with your full weight; don't sit. This ensures your foot spreads naturally.
- Trace your foot. Hold the pencil upright (not at an angle) and trace all the way around your foot, keeping the pencil close to your skin.
- Measure the width. Find the widest part of your tracing, usually across the ball of your foot, and measure straight across. Note this measurement in millimetres.
- Measure the length too. Measure from the back of your heel to the tip of your longest toe. This gives you your shoe size reference.
- Repeat for both feet. Most people have one foot slightly larger than the other. Always fit to the larger foot.
Understanding Wide Fit Sizing
Wide-fit shoes are typically labelled as E, EE, or 2E width (or simply "wide fit"). As a general guide:
- Standard (D/medium): approximately 85–90 mm across the ball of the foot (for a UK size 5)
- Wide fit (E): approximately 91–96 mm
- Extra wide (EE/2E): 97 mm and above
These measurements scale up with shoe size, so always check the brand's specific size guide when in doubt.
Tips for Getting the Best Fit
- Don't size up to compensate. Going up a full size to get more width often means your heel slips and your toes have too much room lengthwise. A true wide-fit shoe solves the problem without compromising fit elsewhere.
- Check the toe box. You should be able to wiggle all five toes freely. If the sides of the shoe press against your little toe or bunion, the shoe is too narrow.
- Look for adjustable styles. Sandals with adjustable straps, like our Inaya Toe Ring Sandals, allow you to customise the fit across the forefoot.
Shop Wide Fit Styles at Widerry
All Widerry shoes are designed specifically for wider feet, with no compromises and no squeezing. Once you know your measurements, finding the right style is straightforward:
- Wide Fit Flats: everyday comfort without sacrificing style. Our Amaia Ballet Flats are a perennial favourite.
- Wide Fit Sandals: from casual flip flops to elegant toe ring styles. Try the Gina Flip Flop Sandals for effortless warm-weather wear.
- Wide Fit Heels: because wide feet deserve elegant options too. The Katia Kitten Heels offer a refined lift with a comfortable, wide-fit last.
Not sure where to start? Browse our full wide-fit range and filter by style, occasion, or colour to find your perfect pair.