Podiatrists point shoppers to wider toe boxes for shoe comfort
NBC Select says roomier toe areas may help feet move naturally, with podiatrists recommending several running and casual shoe options.
By Priya Raghavan · Science Reporter
3 min read
Wide toe box shoes are drawing attention from podiatrists because they can reduce pressure on the toes and make walking or running more comfortable. NBC Select reported that shoes that squeeze the big toe or pinky toe may be too narrow, and experts said room at the front of the shoe can affect comfort, balance and stability.
Dr. Alissa Kuizinas, a board-certified podiatrist in Boston, told NBC Select that wide toe box shoes are built closer to the foot’s natural shape, with more space at the front. She said that design lets toes spread, bend and flex during walking.
Dr. Isaac Tabari, a board-certified foot and ankle doctor and owner of NYC Podiatry Center of Excellence, told NBC Select that wider toe areas can also support balance and stability, which may reduce the chance of tripping or falling.
What experts said to look for
NBC Select said its recommended shoes were either suggested by experts or highly rated and consistent with podiatrists’ guidance. The publication focused on shoes that give toes space while also fitting common uses such as running, walking, casual wear and light training.
The guide also distinguished between barefoot-style shoes, highly cushioned running shoes and everyday sneakers. Some models come in wide or extra-wide sizes, while others use a foot-shaped front even in standard widths, according to NBC Select and the brands cited.
Highlighted picks
Whitin Barefoot Shoe: NBC Select named this an affordable barefoot-style option. The shoe has a zero-drop sole, limited cushioning, a removable sockliner and a flexible wide toe box, according to the publication.
Xero Shoes Dillon Classic Casual Sneaker: Kuizinas recommended this casual shoe to NBC Select, citing its wide toe area, soft upper materials, flexible sole and enough cushioning for hard surfaces.
Brooks Ghost Max 3: NBC Select said this running and walking shoe won a 2026 NBC Selected Wellness Award. Senior editor Nikki Brown said her toes had room to move and praised the arch support, according to the publication.
Asics Novablast 5: NBC Select listed this as a running pick and another Wellness Award winner. The publication said it has wide sizing for men and women, a cushioned sole and neutral support.
Altra FWD Via: Tabari told NBC Select he likes Altra running shoes for their wider, foot-shaped toe boxes. Altra says the model has a rocker-shaped sole and compression foam for comfort, according to NBC Select.
Lems Primal Zen: Kuizinas recommended this model for casual wear and light strength training, according to NBC Select. The publication said it has a wide toe box, flexible sole and attached tongue.
Hoka Clifton 10: NBC Select described this shoe as roomy, cushioned and suited for running. The brand says it has a breathable mesh upper and a slightly rockered bottom, according to the publication.
Prices in the NBC Select guide ranged from about $30 for the Whitin Barefoot Shoe to more than $120 for several running models. The publication also said it may earn a commission when readers buy through its links, while independently deciding what to cover and recommend.
This story draws on original reporting from NBC News.