We know runners (or non-runners) come in different shapes and sizes and so will their feet. Sometimes finding the right fitting shoes for those large feet individuals can be somewhat challenging. Don’t let the width of your feet discourage you from finding comfortable running shoes! If your shoes are designed for someone with normal width or narrow feet then that may be the cause of your discomfort which can even be why you feel demotivated.
At XL Feet, we want to ensure that you walk out a happy customer by making sure that your shoes fit properly and comfortably from heel to toe. Whether you’re purchasing your first wide shoes or your fiftieth, browsing in-store or on our website, we are always here to make that process easier!
Check Your Shoe Fit:
We usually advise that you come into our store to get a proper shoe fitting so that we can offer you different models and ensure that you end up with the best running shoe for your foot strike and foot shape. However, if you cannot make it in-store, our customer service representatives are there to happily help you!
- A proper fitting running shoe should feel snug in the heel and midfoot while still having wiggle room around the toes.
- When standing, check for the right length and width of your shoe by pressing your thumb down next to the ball of your foot and around your toes. A good fitting shoe should allow for a half to a full thumb’s width of space
- While holding the back of your shoes and raising your heels, there should be little to no movement.
- Make sure to check the eyelet rows on both sides of the tongue. They should be close to parallel with each other.
Upper:
An upper is anything above the sole. Make sure that the upper is shaped like your foot and should be smooth whenever it touches, not binding or chaffing everywhere.
Heel Counter:
A heel counter is a piece of supportive material that is placed in the back of your shoes to stabilize and support your heel. Make sure to look for a heel that allows a comfortable ankle motion.
Ankle Collar:
The top of the shoes provides stability around the ankles and holds the heel down in place. When looking for the right running shoes for men, make sure to pay attention to whether your heels slip, how the padding affects the side of your ankles, or whether the curve on the back irritates your Achilles tendon
Saddle:
This is the area around the arch of your foot between the ball and the ankle that interacts with the laces to hold your shoes securely. Remember to pay attention to how the saddle fits. It should provide a secure feeling without slippage.
Midsole:
Midsole is a layer between the insole and the outsole of a shoe, designed to cushion the runner from any impact forces. When running, always look for the thickness and material that feels comfortable--not too soft or too firm.
Outsole:
The outermost part of the running shoe comes in contact with the ground. Look for materials that are durable and grip without stiffness, and for a footprint shape that matches yours.
Toebox:
Toe Box is all the upper area from the front of the eyelets to the end of the shoes. When looking for the right shoe, look for a toe box that stays out of the way, allowing your foot to naturally move and spread in width and length without rubbing your toes.
Heel to Toe Drop:
Heel-toe drop is the difference in the amount of material under the heel and the forefoot of a shoe. What you want to look for is how it feels throughout the stride from touchdown to toe-off.
