Best Running Shoes for Kids with Extra Wide Feet — Available in Extra Wide Widths (XW)!

June 1, 2025 Extra Wide Shoes Juan Valenzuela 0 - Comments

Is your child getting into running, but you’re struggling to find a pair of true running shoes that fit their extra wide feet? Whether they’re preparing for their first 5K or joining a track or cross-country team, the right footwear is essential for performance and injury prevention. The best running shoes for kids with extra wide feet offer extra depth, roomy toe boxes, and come in true extra wide widths to ensure a comfortable, supportive fit.

Watch Out for Running Shoes That Are Too Narrow for Your Child

Narrow shoes can cause friction and pressure on your child’s feet, leading to blisters, corns, and calluses. Over time, these issues can result in more serious conditions such as bunions or hammertoes. It’s crucial to recognize the signs of a poor fit early to prevent long-term damage.

An image showing a child with a painful blister on the pinky toe, caused by wearing running shoes that were too narrow and tight.
An image of a child with a painful blister on the back of the heel, likely caused by friction from poorly fitting shoes.

This discomfort can be discouraging and may even cause your child to lose interest in running altogether.

Key Features of Extra Wide Running Shoes for Kids

Feature One: Rounder Toe-Boxes. A round toe-box design is vital for accommodating extra width and allowing the toes to move freely. This design minimizes pressure on the toes and prevents discomfort during physical activities. The round toe-box also supports natural toe splay, which is crucial for balance and stability during running and jumping.

shoes-with-round-toe-boxes-for-kids-with-flat-feet
A side-by-side comparison of two running shoes—same length and width, but noticeably different toe box shapes—highlighting why the right design matters for comfort and fit.

Feature Two: Extra Depth. Shoes with extra depth provide additional space for the foot, accommodating wider feet and high insteps. Extra depth helps in distributing pressure evenly across the foot, reducing the likelihood of developing pressure sores or calluses.

A visual comparison showing the added depth of the New Balance shoes I recommend versus another style—perfect for accommodating wider feet and high insteps for a more comfortable fit.

Feature Three: Lightweight and Flexible. Running shoes should be lightweight and flexible to allow for natural foot movement. This balance is crucial in ensuring that your child is comfortable and can move freely, enhancing their overall experience during physical activities.

children's-shoes-with-the-correct-amount-of-flexibility
Your child’s shoes should flex right at the ball of the foot—nowhere else! This ensures natural movement and proper foot development.

Best Running Shoe Brands for Kids with Extra Wide Feet

When it comes to finding the perfect pair, some brands stand out for their wide-fit options and commitment to comfort and quality. New Balance and Saucony are my top picks for kids with extra wide feet thanks to their roomy fit and excellent support.

Worst Running Shoe Brands for Kids with Extra Wide Feet

Under Armour, Nike, Adidas, and Asics are some of the most popular when it comes to kids’ fashion, but don’t be fooled by their style appeal. These brands don’t offer extra wide width options and typically only fit children with narrow to medium feet.

Does Your Child Have a High Instep?

Some children not only have extra wide feet but also high insteps, making it even more challenging to find running shoes that offer a comfortable and supportive fit.

This image highlights the location of the instep of the foot.

Best Running Shoes for Kids with Extra Wide Feet in 2025

Based on my experience and feedback from parents, here are my top recommendations for running shoes in 2025 that cater to kids with extra wide feet. Disclosure: Some links are affiliate links—we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

1. Shoe Style Fresh Foam 625 by New Balance

These New Balance extra wide running shoes are perfect for kids who need a reliable all-around shoe, capable of supporting diverse sports engagements.

New Balance running shoe for girls.
Red New Balance running shoe for boys.

Key Features

  • Available for big kids
  • Order the shoe Fresh Foam 625 by New Balance on Amazon or the New Balance website
  • Available in wide and extra wide widths
  • Fresh Foam midsole cushioning provides an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride
  • Padded collar and tongue
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

2. Shoe Style Rave Run v2 by New Balance

These extra wide New Balance shoes provide extra depth and round toe-boxes. Parents like that these shoes are offered at an affordable price point.

New Balance Rave Run shoe with round toe-boxes for kids with wide feet in pink and grey.
New-Balance-Rave-Run-shoe-with-round-toe-boxes-for-kids-with-wide-feet

Key Features

  • Order the shoe style Rave Run by New Balance on Zappos, Amazon, or the New Balance website
  • Available in wide and extra wide widths
  • Breathable mesh upper
  • Padded collar and tongue
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size

3. Shoe Style Wind by Saucony

Known for their lightweight design and excellent traction, these Saucony extra wide shoes are great for active kids. The shoe’s durable construction and grip make it suitable for various terrains, from playgrounds to trails.

Extra wide width Saucony shoes for boys.
Extra wide width Saucony shoes for girls.

Key Features

  • Order the shoe Wind by Saucony on Zappos and Amazon
  • Available in wide and extra wide widths
  • Breathable leather and mesh upper
  • EVA midsole
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

4. Shoe Style 990v6 by New Balance

These extra wide kids’ shoes provide a robust outsole that helps distribute weight evenly across the foot and reduces strain on the muscles and joints. The downside that many parents complain about is the high price tag.

990v6 New Balance shoe with laces in black for kids.
New Balance 990 for kids with laces in purple color.
990v6 New Balance shoe with laces in black for kids.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers, little, and big kids
  • You can order the 990v6 with laces on the New Balance website, Amazon, or Zappos
  • Available in wide and extra wide widths
  • Also available in pink and navy blue
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

5. Shoe style Arisihi by New Balance

These New Balance extra wide width running shoes are lightweight, supportive, and provide a wide toe box and extra depth.

Extra wide width New Balance shoes for girls.
Extra wide width New Balance shoes for boys.
  • Order the shoe Fresh Foam Arishi by New Balance on Amazon
  • Available in wide and extra wide widths
  • Lace-up closure
  • Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered to deliver an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride
  • Ultra Heel design hugs the back of the foot for a snug, supportive fit
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

Contact Me via Email for Personalized Shoe Recommendations

Every child is different, and I understand that finding the right shoe can be challenging. I offer personalized solutions that consider your child’s foot shape, activity level, and any specific concerns you may have. If you need personalized advice, feel free to contact me via email.

How to Order the Correct Shoe Size Online

To ensure the best fit, consider using my virtual shoe fitting service, which offers a convenient and accurate way to determine your child’s shoe size. It’s a convenient way to avoid the guesswork and ensure that you order the correct size. This service provides precise measurements, reducing the likelihood of purchasing ill-fitting shoes that can cause discomfort.

How Can You Check If Your Kids’ Running Shoes Are Fitting Correctly?

A quick check: look at the outer side of the shoe—if you see a small bump or bulge where the pinky toe sits, that’s a sign the shoe is too narrow and squeezing your child’s foot. This can lead to discomfort, blisters, and even long-term foot issues.

An image showing a child wearing shoes that are too narrow, with visible pressure points and the pinky toe pushing against the side.

Are Running Shoes Really Worth It for Your Child?

Expensive doesn’t always mean better—many well-priced running shoes offer excellent comfort and support. While some families hesitate to invest in running-specific shoes due to cost and growth spurts, a quality pair can be a smart investment for your child’s foot health and performance.

Reason One: Running shoes deliver far superior support and cushioning compared to regular everyday sneakers. The good news? The ones I recommend aren’t just for running—they’re versatile enough for daily wear, keeping your child’s feet comfortable whether they’re sprinting or strolling.

supportive-shoe-for-children-with-flat-feet
A side-by-side comparison showing how the running shoes I recommend offer noticeably better arch and heel support than a less supportive style.

Reason Two: Running shoes are designed with targeted cushioning in key pressure zones—especially around the heels—to help prevent injuries like ankle rolls, shin splints, blisters, and overall foot or leg pain. This extra support goes a long way in keeping your child comfortable and injury-free during runs and active play.

An image showcasing a pair of running shoes designed with extra heel cushioning and plush padding—perfect for protecting kids’ feet and preventing blisters during high-impact activities.

Reason Three: Running shoes deliver superior traction, helping kids stay steady and avoid slips and falls during every step.

Why Properly Lacing Your Kids’ Running Shoes Matters

Laced shoes offer superior support and stability compared to slip-ons or Velcro. I recommend a proven lacing technique, shared by a shoe fitting expert with over 20 years of experience, that locks the heel in place—preventing slippage and keeping your child’s feet secure during every run.

Best Running Socks for Kids with Extra Wide Feet

Choosing the right socks is as important as the right shoes, as they play a vital role in foot health and comfort. Running socks for kids should provide moisture-wicking properties to keep feet dry and comfortable. Moisture-wicking socks help prevent blisters and fungal infections by drawing sweat away from the skin.

1. Nike Kids’ Everyday Cushion Crew Socks

Breathable and durable running socks for kids.
  • Order these socks made by Adidas on Amazon
  • Dri-FIT fabric and spandex for a comfortable secure fit
  • Strategically placed cushions target key impact areas
  • Mesh fabric enhances ventilation

2. Adidas Youth Athletic Cushioned Crew Socks

Running crew socks for girls.
  • Order these youth athletic cushioned crew socks by Adidas on Amazon
  • 96% Polyester, 4% Spandex
  • Cushioned heel and toe for comfort
  • Size callout added to the bottom of the foot
  • Moisture-wicking yarn keeps feet dry from sweat

3. New Balance Girls’ Performance Cushioned Low Cut

New Balance no-show running socks for girls.
  • Order these socks made by New Balance on Amazon
  • 97% Polyester, 3% Spandex
  • Moisture-wicking technology and knit-in vents help to keep feet cool and dry
  • Seamless toe closure is designed to minimize friction

4. New Balance Youth Active Low Cut Socks

New Balance running socks for kids.
  • Order these low cut Socks socks made by New Balance on the New Balance website
  • Anti-odor and anti-bacterial technology
  • Comfortable cushioned footbed
  • NB DRY fast-drying technology wicks moisture away

One of the standout features of these socks is how they gently hug your child’s feet, staying securely in place during every stride. By minimizing friction and enhancing comfort, they help your child focus on their run—improving both performance and enjoyment.

My commitment is to your child’s health and comfort, and I take pride in helping parents make informed decisions. Feel free to contact me either through the comments section below or via email.