When it comes to finding the perfect pair of shoes, many of us focus solely on length. But did you know that shoe width plays an equally important role in making sure they are comfortable and fit properly?

Sadly many online shoe retailers often neglect to provide detailed information about widths, which can lead to discomfort, improper fit, and even long-term foot issues. 

Today, we'll cover everything you need to know about women's shoe widths, helping you make more informed decisions when shopping for shoes, be it online or in store.

First, Why Does Shoe Width Matter?

The width of your shoe can significantly impact your overall comfort. A shoe that’s too narrow can pinch your feet, cause blisters, or even lead to more serious foot problems like bunions or hammertoes. 

On the other hand, a shoe that’s too wide may cause your foot to slide around, making them uncomfortable to wear due to their lack of stability. 

Unfortunately, the majority of shoes are only made in one width, and shoe brands often do not follow a standard width-sizing system. 

This makes it even more crucial to understand the different width options available.

Common Challenges with Shoe Widths

• Most shoe brands produce their shoes in only one width, often a medium width (marked as "B" in the U.S.).
• Unlike shoe length, which is generally uniform across brands, shoe width is not standardized. A narrow width from one brand might differ from another, creating confusion for shoppers.

Tips for Finding the Right Shoe Width

• If your standard-width shoes feel slightly off, try opting for a wider shoe, but go half or one size smaller to balance the fit.
• If you have wide feet but can't find shoes in your width, try a standard width in a larger size. Adding heel grips can help if the shoes are too long.
• Women's shoes from UK and European brands are often wider compared to U.S. brands. Men's or unisex shoes tend to be naturally wider, making them a good option for women with wider feet.

Understanding Shoe Width Sizing Systems

Shoe width sizing isn’t universal, and different brands follow different systems, using letters to denote width. 

Letters at the start of the alphabet signify narrow shoes, whereas those further along the alphabet represent wider shoes. 

• Narrow Widths: Marked as "A" or "AA" in the U.S., narrow shoes are ideal for women with slim feet. The more A’s you see (e.g., AAAA), the narrower the shoe.
• Medium Widths: Denoted as "B" in the U.S., medium widths are the standard for most women's shoes.
• Wide Widths: A "D" width in the U.S. signals a wide fit, while brands may use "E" or "EE" for even wider sizes.
• Extra Wide Widths: Shoes marked as "EEE" or "EEEE" are the widest options and cater to women with especially wide feet.

The key here is that each letter represents a different level of width, with narrow shoes using earlier letters like "A" and wider shoes using letters like "E."

Regional Differences in Shoe Widths

Confusingly, shoe widths can vary significantly between countries. Take a look at these examples:

• In the U.S., "D" typically indicates a wide fit, whereas in the UK, it’s considered a standard fit.
• British brands, such as Clarks, offer "D" as a standard width, with narrower "C" sizes also available.
• In Europe, German brands like Gabor use their own system, where "F" is a standard width and "G" offers a more generous fit.

These variations mean that understanding the width systems of different regions can help you make better decisions, especially when shopping internationally.

How to Measure Your Foot Width?

To measure your foot width accurately at home, start by gathering a few materials. You’ll need a flexible tape measure, a ruler, and a hard, flat surface to stand on.

Next, prepare your feet by standing on the floor with the socks you plan to wear with the shoes you're measuring for. It’s important to measure while standing, as this gives the most accurate reading of your foot’s size and shape.

Begin by measuring the circumference of your foot. Take the flexible tape measure and wrap it around the widest part of your foot, which is usually across the ball of your foot. Make sure the tape is snug but not too tight.

Now, measure the width of your foot. Place your foot flat on the ruler and measure the distance between the two widest points on either side of your foot.

Once you’ve taken these measurements, write them down for both feet. Since one foot is often slightly larger than the other, use the measurements from the larger foot when selecting shoes.

Does the Width of Shoes Increase if a Larger Size is Bought?

Yes, when you buy a larger shoe size, the width usually increases as well. This is because shoes are designed to accommodate the three-dimensional shape of your feet. 

So, if you go from a size 10 to a size 11, for example, the shoe will be both longer and slightly wider. However, the increase in width is usually quite small—typically only about 1/8 inch for each full size. 

While this difference may seem minor, it can still affect how the shoes fit and feel, so it’s important to choose a size that suits both your foot’s length and width for the best comfort.

Takeaway

Shoe width is an essential part of finding the right fit, but it's something I often overlook—and you might too. 

By understanding how width-sizing works across different regions and brands, you can make sure you're choosing shoes that aren’t just the right length but also the right width. 

Whether your feet are narrow or wide, taking a moment to measure your foot width and checking brand-specific size guides will help you find shoes that feel as comfortable as they look.

Also Read:

Guide to Finding Large Size Women's Boots in the USA