How to Buy Shoes for Wide Feet

When you have wide feet, finding shoes that fit comfortably can be a challenge. But, with a little persistence, time and patience, you can find a shoe that fits well in a wide size. And you can do it within the means of your budget and style.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Choose a store. Not every shoe store carries wide sizes, so make sure the store you are in does. Obviously, the larger your city, the more shopping choices you have. Even in smaller communities, stores like JC Penney and Payless Shoes carry wide sizes.

2. Start looking around. The best thing to do when you walk into a store is figure out how it is organized. Some stores put all the sizes of a particular style in one place, some organize by size, and others might have a special spot for wide shoes.

3. Pick out a style you like. Though finding shoes for wide feet can be frustrating, don't settle on something you don't really like, because you can find something to suit your taste if you're persistent.

4. Try shoes on. If you like the look and feel of the shoe, but it doesn't come in a wide size, stores can sometimes order the wider size. Just ask. The worst that can happen is that they won't do it.

5. Consider buying online. This option might not be for everyone since you can't try the shoes on beforehand to make sure they are wide enough. However, many online stores have flexible return and shipping policies, so it's something to look into. Plus, the Internet has stores that specialize in wide shoes, so you can find quality merchandise.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider going a size or a half-size up. This won't work for every kind of shoe, but it works for some. You won't know until you try on a pair.