Shoe brand recommendations for wide toes and narrow heels?

Laura J

I want to find comfortable pumps and other dress shoes for a new job. I'll embark on a couple of long range shopping trips since my local area doesn't have much shopping. I have a very hard time finding comfortable dress shoes. For a long time, I simply ignored the pain of squishing my toes. Now I'd like to put effort into finding a few pairs of dress shoes I can stand to wear all day at work and walk in them. I've had random success with Max Studio shoes as well as Nine West. For sneakers, I favor Vans. When I've tried wide dress shoes I haven't been able to get the heel narrow enough. I want to try Cole Haan shoes. I welcome any other recommendations!

11 years ago

Dressing

6 replies

Latest reply was from Ledonna N.

Von

Veteran

I have the same problem, For me, I cannot stay in a pair of Nine West shoes, I walk out of everything! I have found that Sam Edleman's fit me really well. Anything with an ankle strap is a win...that means I can't walk out of it. I do routinely buy Clarks + Naturalizers and many Cole Haans, but never walked out with any Coles - still a little too snug for comfort in the toes, and I hate the waiting game hoping shoes loosen up. Danskos has a few dress shoes you could get away with (under pants!).

It's hard finding shoes with a modern shape that are wider in the toe and will stay on the heels!

11 years ago

rachylou

Veteran

I have this problem too. I rely on the ankle strap and used to do mary janes, but have gotten tired of that look. I've had some Me Too and Børn shoes that worked well and that were straight pumps, no straps. I actually find a lot of work-wearable shoes at Payless.

11 years ago

Suz

(website)

Veteran

Is your foot truly wide? Or are your heels just narrow with a regular width toe area?

I ask because I fall into the latter category. Finding pumps of low vamp shoes that will stay on my feet is a constant (and frustrating) challenge. But, some brands that have (occasionally) worked include:

Ecco
Munro (although I only have booties so I don't know about low vamps)
Stuart Weitzman (ditto above)
9 West (one pair of baby wedges that stay on)
Vince Camuto (wedge pumps with elastic that keeps them on, similar to a ballet flat elastic)
Sam Edelman (but these all have straps, so perhaps are not a good test case)

What you need is a last that is designed for a narrow heel. A double last, I think they call it.

I cannot wear Clarks, Danskos, etc. -- these are all too wide for me.

11 years ago

Liz A.

Veteran

I have luck with Corso Como. Or you could try some heeled oxfords.

11 years ago

Laura J

Active Member

My toes are truly wide and my heel is truly narrow. It's a pain to find shoes that really fit. For my new job, I need to dress formally. I want to see if I can find pumps that will fit even if I need to have the toe area stretched or add heel inserts. If not I'll go with ankle strap shoes which have been my go to style for most of my life. All brand suggestions are welcome.

11 years ago

Ledonna N.

Veteran

Ok, I know some might not like Payless shoes but I find they have a line called Dexflex that are all day comfort and support. On my many many many post about my 11w flat feet. I have a narrow heal and a wide foot. I find that these are comfortable look nice and professional and the prices are affordable so you wont break the bank. Good luck on your journey.

11 years ago

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