Skateboarding can be a real pain, literally, if your shoes don’t fit right, especially if you have wide feet. Finding skate shoes that don’t squeeze your feet can be a challenge, but it’s not impossible. Many skaters share this struggle, and thankfully, some brands offer great options for wider feet. This guide explores some of the best skate shoes for wider feet, along with tips to make your skate sessions more comfortable.
While options for skaters with 2E+ widths are scarce due to limited demand, there are still choices for many. If you have extremely wide feet, you might consider brands specializing in wider fits, ideally looking for suede materials. For everyone else, there are several skate-specific shoes that cater to wider feet, offering both comfort and performance. Here’s a quick rundown of some top picks:
- Emerica Reynolds
- Emerica Indicator Low
- Emerica Westgates
- Globe CT-IV’s
- Globe Sabres
- Lakai Griffin
- DC Kalis S
- Etnies Veer
- Supra Stacks II
- DVS Commanche 2.0
- eS Silo
- New Balance All Coasts 574 (EE)
Having personally tested the eS Silo, DVS Commanche, and DC Kalis S, I can confidently say these models never caused discomfort due to their wider fit. The other listed shoes come highly recommended by other skaters who also struggle with finding the right width. Notably absent are Nike and Adidas, which often run narrow, proving incompatible for those of us with wider feet.
Later in this article, I’ll detail why the eS Silo and DVS Commanche 2.0 stand out, especially when considering the needs of skaters with wider feet. Although they might not be the most durable options, they offer exceptional comfort and can handle impacts effectively, making them a top choice.
Top Skate Shoes for Wide Feet
Let’s dive deeper into some specific skate shoes that are known for accommodating wider feet. Both vulcanized and cupsole options are included, as both have loyal fans among skateboarders. Remember, if you need a 4E width, your best bet might be to explore non-skate shoe brands as they simply don’t exist within the traditional skate shoe market.
1. DVS Commanche 2.0
DVS Commanche 2.0 skate shoes on a skateboardThe DVS Commanche 2.0 is a tried-and-true option for skaters with wide feet. Known for their comfort and ability to absorb impacts, these shoes are a great choice despite their tendency to wear out more quickly than some others. Expect noticeable wear, especially after around 50 hours of use, which may be surprising given their bulky design. The wide fit, however, is perfect for those needing extra room.
DVS Commanche 2.0 wear
2. eS Silo
Es Silo Skate shoes on a skateboardSimilar to the DVS Commanche, the eS Silo is another excellent option for wide feet, offering a plush feel and high impact resistance. Although they may feel stiff initially, these shoes break in after a few hours of skating, increasing flexibility and improving the overall fit. The board feel is decent, considering they are cupsoles rather than vulcanized shoes. A great value, especially if you can snag them on sale.
3. Emerica Reynolds (Vulcs)
Emerica Reynolds blue best skateboard shoes.The Emerica Reynolds are a durable and comfortable option, featuring suede construction that offers both longevity and a great feel. The soles provide excellent grip, and the lightweight design improves board feel. These shoes require minimal break-in time and are great for everyday skate sessions. However, their thin, flat soles may not provide enough support for long periods of walking, potentially causing foot soreness for some. With ventilation holes and a seamless nose, these shoes are both functional and well-designed for skateboarding.
4. Etnies Marana (Cupsole)
Etnies maranasThe Etnies Marana are well-regarded as one of the best cupsole skate shoes on the market. Reinforced toes enhance durability, while the heel support is perfect for transition skateboarding. Despite being cupsoles, these shoes offer good board feel and are very comfortable.
etnies marana michelin soleKey features include a low-cut design, rubber-fused toe caps for increased resistance to wear, supportive Pro Foam 1 insoles, and a durable outsole developed in collaboration with Michelin. The padded collar and tongue add to the overall comfort.
Etnies maranas toe capsUnlike the Reynolds, the Etnies Marana can be worn casually, offering arch support and good ventilation without visible stitching. While slightly more expensive, the durability and comfort make them a worthy investment.
5. New Balance Numeric 913
The New Balance Numeric 913 was engineered for intense street skating, designed with input from professional skater Brandon Westgate. These shoes are loaded with features to withstand the toughest skateboarding conditions. The suede and mesh upper, along with the REVlite midsole, provide both durability and comfort.
Key details:
- FantomFit upper using suede or mesh
- REVlite midsole for impact protection
- Side mesh panel for ventilation
- Brandon Westgate’s signature tongue detailing
Although a cupsole, the board feel is satisfactory, improving after a brief break-in period. The Ndurance rubber provides great grip, and the textured ollie area resists abrasion. This shoe, which tapers into square edges at the toe, offers enhanced board control. The REVlite Eva midsole foam, combined with a heel stabilizer and ventilation mesh, provides superior comfort and impact protection.
6. Supra Stacks II (Not Tested)
The Supra Stacks II boasts a lightweight design and breathable material, maintaining the company’s classic silhouette. These shoes offer excellent flexibility, ensuring superior board feel compared to other cupsole brands. The shape is similar to DC Mike Mo, particularly in the toe box, which contributes to both comfort and shape retention.
Key features:
- Eva crash pad for impact absorption
- Suede and PU heel for durability
- Double-density insole for comfort
- Mesh tongue for breathability
- Heightened heel collar for support
While cushioning may not be the best, it’s adequate for lighter skate sessions, although you might consider adding insoles for enhanced comfort. Despite its lightweight feel, the Stacks II offers excellent durability and is available in sizes for both men and women.
7. Lakai Griffin (Not Tested)
The Lakai Griffin is highly recommended by many skaters with wide feet. This shoe offers a comfortable, supportive fit, especially around the heel. If you’re considering this shoe, it’s best to try it on at a local skate shop to ensure the correct fit.
Key details:
- Synthetic sole for good grip
- Low-cut design
- Seamless toe wraparound bumper sole for durability
- Herringbone tread for extra grip
- Lightly padded collar and tongue for comfort
Always choose the suede version, as it’s far more durable than canvas, which can quickly tear during skate sessions.
Tips for Stretching Narrow Skate Shoes
If your skate shoes feel too tight, you don’t need to give up on them right away. There are a few ways to stretch them out. Sometimes, loosening the laces and wearing them for a couple of weeks is enough, but for more stubborn cases, you may need to take a more hands-on approach.
The “Ice Bag” Trick
This method uses the power of freezing water to expand the shoe and create more space.
Items needed:
- Ziplock bag
- Water
- Old skateboard wheels
Steps:
- Prepare the bag: Fill a ziplock bag halfway with water, removing as much air as possible before sealing it.
- Insert the bag: Carefully place the bag into the toe of your shoe, pushing it as far as it will go. Loosen your laces to ease the insertion.
- Maintain shape: Place old wheels behind the bag, filling the shoe and ensuring it holds its shape while stretching. Tighten your laces to keep everything in place.
- Freeze: Place the shoes in the freezer overnight. As the water freezes, it will expand, gently stretching the toe area of your shoe.
After freezing, wear the shoes for a few hours, walk around or skate, to help them mold to your feet. You may need to repeat this process several times to get the desired stretch.
What Makes a Good Skate Shoe for Wide Feet?
Es Silo Skate shoes on a skateboardWhen choosing skate shoes for wide feet, there are several key factors to consider. A shoe might look great, but if you can’t break it in, it’s not the right choice. Essential features include flexibility, lightweight design, board feel, ventilation, and stability. If you’re prone to heel bruises, shoes with quality insoles are a must. While insoles can enhance comfort, they typically need replacing every few months if you’re an active skater.
Shoe Cut for Wider Feet
shoe sole sizeThe most important factor is the shoe’s width. A wider cut is crucial for skaters with wide feet, as narrow cuts can be very uncomfortable and cannot be broken in easily. While wider cuts may provide slightly less stability for narrow feet, this isn’t an issue for those with wide feet. A good example of a wide-cut shoe is the Globe Sabre, which helps prevent toe pain.
Lacing Can Make a Difference
The way you lace your shoes can also improve their fit. You can customize your lacing to give your feet more room by skipping certain eyelets. Experiment with different lacing patterns to see what feels most comfortable for your feet.
Stability, Balance, Pronation
Stability is key for any skate shoe. Shoes that allow too much foot movement can hinder your ability to perform tricks and may increase errors. Proper pronation (the natural movement of your foot) is essential for absorbing shocks efficiently. Your feet need some movement but not too much, as overpronation can lead to muscle strain.
Shoes Need to Breathe
Sweaty feet are inevitable while skating, so good ventilation is essential to prevent bad odors. Look for shoes with perforations at the nose and sides. If your shoes are still in good condition, you can also try using powders or sprays to eliminate odors.
Vulcanized, Cupsoles and Board Feel
Cupsoles are usually more durable and supportive than vulcanized shoes and offer better arch support and impact protection, but they sacrifice some board feel. Vulcanized shoes offer superior board feel because their soles are more flexible and thinner, so it’s a trade-off. Both cupsole and vulcanized shoes are available with wider cuts, making them suitable for wide-footed skaters.
Picking the Right Size
The best way to find the right shoe size is to try them on, preferably in the afternoon when your feet are at their largest. Pay attention to how the shoe fits around your big toe, pinky toe, arch, and ankle. If they feel comfortable in these areas, you’ve probably found a great shoe. It’s also beneficial to stick with a specific shoe once you find one that fits perfectly.
Skate Shoe Width
Skate shoe brands often don’t provide specific widths, which makes finding the right fit particularly challenging for those with extra-wide feet.
Here’s a guide to shoe widths:
- D (Normal Fit): This is considered a medium width, typically between 3 to 5 inches across the ball of the foot.
- E (Wide Fit): Wider than a D, but still generally manageable to find skate shoes. Width is between 3.2 and 5.2 inches.
- EE (Extra Wide): This width, between 3.4 and 5.4 inches, presents more of a challenge when trying to find a proper skate shoe fit.
- EEE+: Skate shoe options in widths beyond 2E are virtually nonexistent. Individuals with feet requiring a 3E or wider fit often have to explore non-skate brands to find comfortable and supportive shoes. However, some users have reported success with certain models from brands like Globe, Puppy Heath, Nurse Mates and Sperry.
For those with 4E wide feet, it’s also worth noting that some skaters have had good experiences with Vans Half Cabs, which tend to stretch over time, or the use of the “ice bag” trick mentioned earlier.
Last Words
The selection of skate shoes for those with wide feet (2E+) is extremely limited. The skate industry may be too small to produce wider options profitably, leaving skaters to explore non-skate brands for suitable suede sneakers. I recommend visiting your local skate shop to try on shoes, as sizes and shapes vary. This is the most reliable way to find a shoe that fits and offers the support you need.
Finding the right skate shoes for wide feet can be tricky, but it’s crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable skateboarding experience. I hope this guide offers some helpful insights. Happy skating and good luck finding the perfect fit!
Ruben veeBy Ruben Vee
An experienced skateboarder passionate about sharing knowledge and finding the right gear.
