Author: Ihor Shymechko (26 years of Oly Lifting & Training experience)
Reviewed by: Oleksiy Torokhtiy (Olympian with 21 years of Oly Lifting experience)
While searching for the best training shoes for wide feet, it’s easy to drown in the ocean of countless products on the market. Scrolling through hundreds of brands and scanning all the specs can take you days to succeed. But this experience doesn’t have to be that wearing!
In order to save you time and money, I have prepared a list of the most popular wide training shoes, and compared and analyzed all of them. Now I’m ready with the top pick! Jump into all the details and reveal the winner!
In a hurry?
In a hurry?
In a hurry and can’t keep reading? How about you check out the Reebok Nano X2.
Starting our list of the best cross training shoes is Reebok Nano X2. Their versatility will work well for the same versatile athletes who seek comfort in any workout.
Our team, featuring professional athletes, coaches, and certified experts, meticulously tested 30 pairs of cross training shoes for wide feet to compile a catalog of the 7 most exceptional selections! They assessed the shoes across 6 critical factors, investing well over 300 hours in exhaustive testing.
In addition to their practical evaluations, our experts diligently combed through hundreds of online user reviews. This list is updated on a regular basis, so we encourage you to leave your thoughts, offer tips, and join in the discussion!
Top 7 Best Cross Training Shoes For Wide Feet Reviewed
Today, we have 7 wide toe box training shoes and need to choose the best one. I have compared them by the main qualities: stability, material, durability, comfort, grip, and price-quality ratio. Now, I’m ready with the final decision. Find it in the table below and go straight to all the details!
- Reebok Nano X2 - Best Overall
- Nike Metcon 8 - Runner Up
- Reebok Nano 9.0
- Reebok Nanoflex TR Training Shoes - Budget Pick
- Inov-8 F-Lite 260 V2
- NOBULL Trainer+
- GORUCK Balistic Trainers
1. Reebok Nano X2 - Best Overall
- Heel lift height: 7 mm
- Sole material: rubber
- Upper material: flexweave (textile)
- Sizing: 7.0 - 13.0 (true-to-size)
- Weight (1 shoe): ~ 10.2 oz.
Reebok Nano X2 gain the most scores and become the best fitness shoes for wide feet. Their versatility will work well for the same versatile athletes who seek comfort in any workout.
Let’s start with the material and stitching. The upper is made of textile, in particular flexweave. It provides breathability but at the same time is sturdy enough to handle all the harshness that fitness athletes are likely to put on their shoes. The eyelets are reinforced for the sake of durability as well. Obviously, I haven’t managed to test them for a really long time but a few weeks of training haven’t left any bad traces on them.
As for the sole, it is made of rubber to have the proper grip on different surfaces. Yet, the most interesting part is inside the heel. It has some light cushioning to provide an “energy boost” for your jumps, running, and other exercises that need amortization.
Nevertheless, for some athletes, it may turn out to be a drawback as the heel foam makes the Nano X2 not as stable as some fitness athletes may expect.
Additionally, the shoes aren’t flat but have a 7-mm heel rise which also takes its toll on stability. On the other hand, it helps your ankles with some mobility issues, especially when it comes to squats.
By the way, Reebok has Nano X2 for women as well. So if you are looking for the best women’s cross trainers for wide feet, you should definitely take a look.
All in all, the Reebok Nano X2 are a perfect match for versatile athletes who want to have a good balance of everything in their training shoes.
Positives:
Comfortable for various workouts
Highly breathable upper
Good amortization
Strong stitching
Many colors available
Could be better:
Not very stable
2. Nike Metcon 8 - Runner Up
- Heel lift height: 4 mm
- Sole material: rubber
- Upper material: mesh with textured overlays
- Sizing: 6.5 - 13.0 (true-to-size)
- Weight (1 shoe): ~12.5 oz.
Nike Metcon 8 almost got to the top but still finish in second place among the best workout shoes for wide feet. They offer a snug fit along with super stability but fall behind our winner in terms of durability.
The upper material is mesh to let sufficient airflow inside, but, compared to the previous Metcons, these have some textured overlays to make them more resistant. Nevertheless, some athletes who managed to buy these shoes once they were released and tested them for a longer time complain that Metcons 8 are not as durable as they are supposed to be.
Considering a higher than average price, you better treat them carefully or pick a different pair of wide cross training shoes.
Still, what I like most about Nike Metcons 8 is their sole and heel. There is a little bit of cushioning inside but the rise is only 4 mm. It creates a great balance in terms of stability and comfort. If you are looking for a flat stable sole that will be effective even for the deadlift, perhaps, you should skip the winner and go for Nike Metcons right away.
By the way, they also have rubber wraps on the sides to give you a good grip on the rope.
As for other pleasant benefits, you may really fancy this option in case you are a fan of bright gear. Nike offers a few interesting designs that may make your feet showy once you put them on.
All in all, harsh workouts can make Metcons’ life quite short but if you value comfort and stability, treat them carefully and they may win your heart.
Positives:
Great stability
- Wide flat sole
- Snug fit
- Strong grip
- Plenty of designs available
Could be better:
May wear out quickly
- Heel lift height: 4 mm
- Sole material: rubber
- Upper material: flexweave (textile)
- Sizing: 6.5 - 14 (true-to-size)
- Weight (1 shoe): ~12 oz.
Reebok Nano 9.0 are definitely in the lead when it comes to cross training shoes with wide toe box. Their special design will fit even the widest feet comfortably and make them work hard at any workout.
If you are desperately trying to find a perfect fit for your feet but all shoes just torture them, you should take a look at this option right now. A super wide toe box is designed specifically for athletes who have such a problem but are still struggling to comfort their feet for the most effective training.
What I also like about Reebok Nano 9.0 is their breathability. The upper material, which is flexweave, is so lightweight that you can train comfortably even in the hottest weather. Also, it provides great flexibility so you can perform any dynamic exercises without excessive sturdiness.
As for the sole, it has some moderate cushioning but is not too much. I guess, it is just a perfect balance if you like some amortization but want a confident grip on the platform. However, I wouldn’t call Reebok Nano 9.0 a 100% stable option. If you are a fan of a completely flat sole, these may not work for you.
All in all, Reebok Nano 9.0 are a great match for athletes with especially wide feet who want to finally find their perfect shoe.
Positives:
Comfortable fit
- Suitable for very wide feet
- Moderate cushioning
- Highly flexible upper
- Lightweight material
Could be better:
Not very stable
4. Reebok Nanoflex TR Training Shoes - Budget Pick
- Heel lift height: 7 mm
- Sole material: rubber
- Upper material: mesh
- Sizing: 6.5 - 14
- Weight (1 shoe): ~10 oz.
Reebok Nanoflex TR are a great starter option for those who aren’t ready to splash out on a pair of specific fitness shoes. They work well for basic workouts and can even become your favorite daily shoes.
The price of Reebok Nanoflex might be a pleasant surprise if you are a beginner who wants to train comfortably and effectively for a reasonable sum. Nevertheless, don’t expect any special benefits from these shoes as they are just a good basic option.
Yes, Nanoflex TR will behave decently while performing regular workouts and might become the best gym shoe for wide feet at this price point. If you are a beginner or intermediate athlete, you may fall in love with their versatility, which is the biggest advantage. You can wear them for any workout as well as put them on for your daily activities.
On the other hand, Reebok Nanoflex are not meant to handle harsh sessions. Thus, you may find them giving up after a few months of intensive workouts. Also, you won’t find any specific benefits such as a super stable sole and heel, rubber wraps on the sides, etc.
All in all, Reebok Nanoflex TR are a great budget choice for beginners or just regular gym-goers but might not satisfy dedicated advanced athletes.
Positives:
Affordable price
Wide size range
Very versatile
Great shock absorption
Snug fit
Could be better:
Not durable
Not stable enough for heavy lifting
- Heel lift height: 8 mm
- Sole material: rubber
- Upper material: mesh
- Sizing: 7.5 - 15.0 (true-to-size)
- Weight (1 shoe): ~ 10 oz.
Inov-8 F-Lite V2 are a good multi-purpose option in case you have some more spare cash. They can turn out to be quite a long-term investment, though.
The main peculiarity of these shoes is a higher heel-to-toe drop – 8 mm. On the one hand, it might work well for athletes with ankle mobility issues but still seeking maximum comfort, especially for squats.
The cushioning also gives a great deal of shock absorption for the sake of a snug feel inside and easy dynamic moves. On the other hand, you may not like such a heel in case you prefer complete stability. Then, you better look for a flatter sole with less cushioning.
Nevertheless, Inov-8 F-Lite 260 V2 are a great choice for versatile workouts. You can use them for plenty of exercises and they will work equally well. You can even wear them on a daily basis and still enjoy their durability. Yes, the price is not that pleasant at the first sight but it will pay back in the long run.
For a wide foot, these Inov-8 are a fairly good match, too. The toe box is enlarged but you should also remember that the midsole is not that wide. So they might not work for everyone – you better check your feet twice.
All in all, if you are ready to spend some more cash on a pair of really versatile shoes with a wide toe box, check these out.
Positives:
Lightweight material
Great for low ankle mobility
Huge sizes available
Could be better:
Quite pricey
Not stable
- Heel lift height: 4 mm
- Sole material: rubber
- Upper material: mesh
- Sizing: 4.5 - 14.0 (true-to-size)
- Weight (1 shoe): ~10 oz.
Nobull Trainers+ are well-known due to their comfort, durability, and versatility. Still, the price is on the higher end which is off-putting for many athletes.
The main peculiarity of Nobull Trainers+ is their seamless construction which makes them more durable than most cross-training shoes on the market. The strong upper mesh also contributes to the long life of Nobulls but, on the other hand, needs some time to break in.
Thus, if you have wide feet, these shoes may fit a bit tight at first but after a few workouts, you will reveal all the benefits. By the way, the sole is also expanded in this Nobull model.
By the way, the heel-to-toe drop is only 4 mm and they also have moderate cushioning so it appears to be just a middle ground in terms of stability and shock absorption.
However, if you ask several athletes who have tried these shoes, you are likely to get completely different reviews. I guess the problem might be the high price. Yes, Nobulls are in the lead when it comes to quality but not everyone can notice it behind the sky-high price tag.
All in all, though Nobull Trainers+ are frankly pricey shoes, they still keep winning athletes’ hearts, especially when they are looking for the widest fitness shoe.
Positives:
Very durable
Additional bumper toe for explosiveness
Very wide sole
Minimalistic design
Could be better:
High price
Need some time to break in
- Heel lift height: 8 mm
- Sole material: rubber
- Upper material: nylon
- Sizing: 6.0 - 14.0 (true-to-size)
- Weight (1 shoe): ~ 13 oz.
GORUCK Balistic Trainers will be a good match for general fitness. They offer good stability, a comfortable sole with variable cushioning, and two inserts to let you choose the best one for you.
These shoes are meant to be a great basic pair to create comfort for any workout. Their key feature is a variable sole that provides amortization in the front but keeps stability in the heel. Additionally, the brand gives us two inserts (a thin and a high-density one) to make its shoes even more versatile and suitable for different athletes.
As for the material, it’s quite controversial. On the one hand, such a nylon upper is resistant to harsh sessions and will last longer.
On the other hand, strong material combined with a quite thick sole may sometimes feel hot and heavy on your feet. So if you a fan of lightweight shoes that give a barefoot feeling, you better scroll up and find something there.
All in all, GORUCK trainers may become one of your favorite fitness shoes if you are looking for a very functional option rather than a particular specification.
Positives:
Durable
Two insoles included
Stable sole with variable cushioning
Could be better:
Heavy sole
Need some time to break in
Subscribe!
Get more reviews about training equipment, special offers and discounts from different stores.
How Have I Chosen the Best Cross Training Shoes for Wide Feet?
After a long process of analyzing and testing all the products, I finally came up with the winner and now I want to explain how I did that step by step. Here are the main qualities that I considered while deciding on the top pick.
1. Stability
I gave 10 scores to all cross-training shoes that have a rather flat sole and moderate cushioning. They provide more stability than those which have a higher heel and more shock absorption. The first type works better for lifting weights whereas the second one is great for running and plyometric exercises.
2. Material
If the shoes are light and breathable, they get 10 points. Your feet will feel comfortable during the hardest training or hot weather. If the shoes are thicker, they might not work that great for intense workouts, so 9.5 for them.
3. Durability
First of all, no cross-training shoes will last for years and stay in good form. They are all rather light and meant to provide comfort rather than serve for half a life. But I gave 10 points to options that have some protective elements such as reinforced eyelets, textured pads, or just highly-resistant materials as they are likely to be more durable.
4. Comfort
Most cross-training shoes have comfort as one of their first priorities, and they don’t have any problems with that. However, I gave 9.5 points to GORUCK for being a bit heavier and thicker than other options.
5. Grip
All cross-training shoes have a good grip on the floor to make your training safe and effective. However, some brands use special patterns or other peculiarities to make them stand out even more. For example, if the rubber stretches from the sole to the sides, such shoes will be effective even for rope climbing.
6. Price/Quality
At last, after calculating everything, our winner – Reebok Nano X2 – offers the best value for money. Obviously, the price is not on the lower end but considering all the benefits, you get really first-class training shoes. If you are looking for a budget multi-purpose option, have a look at Reebok Nanoflex TR.
Do You Really Have Wide Feet?
Usually, the term ‘wide feet’ refer to cases when you have a wide distance between your big and small toes. It can also mean that your midfoot is wider than average as well.
Tips From the Champ
Olympic Weightlifting Champion
How to Choose the Best Training Shoe for Wide Feet?
1. Heel Height
If you are a fan of flat shoes or like to train barefoot, be especially careful with this feature. A lot of training shoes have an 8-mm heel-to-toe drop which may not give you the desired sense of stability, for example, in squats or deadlifts. In this case, you better choose a 4-mm heel.
On the other hand, a higher heel can comfort your ankles, especially if they are not very mobile.
2. Cushioning
The same goes for cushioning – if you prefer total stability, choose shoes with less cushioning. But if you love plyometric exercises or running, you may enjoy better shock absorption from thicker cushioning.
3. Sole Width
If you have wide feet, choose training shoes with a wide toe box. It is often stated by the manufacturer if the shoes have this feature. You can also see it in the pictures – if the sole goes large in the front, it is a good sign. Also, pay attention to the midsole – ideally, it doesn’t get narrow but stays wide throughout the whole surface.
What’s the Difference Between a Cross Training Shoe and a Walking Shoe?
There are some good reasons why you should choose specific training shoes for workouts rather than your regular walking ones. Here are the main points to think over.
1. Durability
Training shoes are usually made of quality materials with strong seams resistant to high pressure. They can also have some sturdy overlays and other protective elements on the upper. Thus, a pair of training shoes will definitely last longer than even good walking shoes.
2. Sole
Training shoes usually have a special sole with the proper heel-to-toe drop and cushioning to make it effective for jumps, running, lifting, etc. It has high shock absorption and at the same time, good stability.
Additionally, the sole of training shoes is usually made of rubber that provides a strong grip on the floor. It can also stretch to the sides to make sure that your rope climbs go smoothly.
3. Upper Material
Apart from durability, the upper material contributes to the high breathability of training shoes. Mesh is mainly used for the upper to ensure the proper airflow inside during the most intensive workouts. Yet, walking shoes may be made of harder materials, not meant to handle sweat and manage the temperature.
FAQ
Are cross-training shoes good for the gym?
Yes, cross-training shoes are great for the gym. They are meant for high versatility so can be used successfully for various training.
Is it OK to walk in cross-training shoes?
Yes, most cross-training shoes are comfortable even for walking. Yet, you may wear them out faster if you use them all the time.
How often should you replace your cross-training shoes?
A pair of good cross-training shoes can last even for a few years. However, most trainers should be replaced approximately once a year while some low-quality shoes may fall apart after a few months.
Conclusion
To sum up, Reebok Nano X2 become the total winner today! If you are tired of searching for the best cross-training shoes to comfort your wide feet, go to the very top and, maybe, you will find them at last. If not, don’t forget to scroll further and check out the rest of the shoes – believe me, they make a really strong competition!
What is the most important in your future shoes? Can’t wait to see your opinion below!
Also read:
- Best Deadlift Slippers
- Why Do People Wear Converse to the Gym
- Raised Heels Squatting Vs Flat
- Best Cheap Weightlifting Shoes
- Are Basketball Shoes Good For Lifting
- Deadlift With Weightlifting Shoes
- Best Squat Shoes
- Best Cross Training Shoes For Flat Feet
- Best Under Armour Training Shoes
- Best Lifting Shoes for Men
References:
- Wearing Cushioning Shoes Reduce Load Rates More Effectively in Post-Fatigue than in Pre-Fatigue during Landings // National Library of Medecine: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8533174.html
- Photos made by Torokhtiy Media Team.
Why Trust Us?
- Author
- Reviewer
Experience: 26 years
Best Results: Snatch - 208 kg,
C&J - 240 kg
My name is Ihor and I have been a professional weightlifter since 1996. With over 20 years of competition experience, my resume includes European Champion in 2009 and the silver medalist at 2011's Senior World Championships – 105kg division.
I competed at the 2008, 2012 and 2016 Summer Olympics.
After hanging up my own competitive lifting shoes, I decided to share my huge background as a coach. I am currently coaching multiple athletes who are competing at national and international competitions.
If you have any questions/suggestions/any other inquiry, you can reach out to us via email - reviews@torokhtiy.com
Experience: 21 years
Best Results: Snatch – 200 kg,
C&J - 240 kg
My name is Oleksiy Torokhtiy. I am a professional athlete with 20 years of experience in Olympic weightlifting. I have won multiple European, and World titles and have taken part in two Olympic Games (Beijing 2008, London 2012).
After finishing my career, I have committed myself to coach, and as of 2022, I’ve hosted 200+ weightlifting seminars all over the globe. I’m the founder of an international sportswear and accessories brand, Warm Body Cold Mind (my motto), author, and creator of a series of training programs and eBooks.
If you have any questions/suggestions/any other inquiry, you can reach out to us via email - reviews@torokhtiy.com
This article was written by our qualified author and proofread by an expert with proven experience. When writing the article we've used our expertise and data from authoritative, scientific, and evidence-based sources. The list of references is provided at the end of the article.
Our team of authors and experts includes professional athletes (Olympians, winners of European and World titles), PhDs in Sports Science, certified coaches, sports nutritionists, CSCSs, physiotherapists, and others. Read more about the team here, and more about how we test here.
Torokhtiy Team
Hi @Penelope!
The main difference between wide and regular shoes lies in their width and fit. Regular shoes are designed to fit the average foot width, while wide shoes are specifically crafted for individuals with wider feet. Wide shoes offer more room in the toe box and midfoot areas, providing a comfortable fit for people with broader feet. This accommodates better arch support, reduces discomfort, and minimizes the risk of squeezing or pinching your toes.
Penelope
What’s the difference between wide and regular shoes?