This guide takes a look at a series of best basketball shoes that are especially useful for players with wide feet.
I conducted ample research, and tapped into my own 25+ years of personal basketball experience, to properly review and analyze each of the items in this article.
The Embiid 1 is my favorite wide foot shoe because it’s roomy, comfortable, and provides a powerful base.
Where many larger shoes hyper focus on size and durability, the Embiid 1 manages to provide such traits in a lighter and more comfortable package. It provides excellent lockdown through the TPU wing, support through the strong fit, and traction through the tough rubber outsole.
However, as great as the shoes are, those with wide feet have plenty of other options on the market. I cover each one in extensive detail throughout the following sections.
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Who Should Get This
Of course, any basketball player with wide feet will love these shoes. They have extra room on the sides so they don’t constrict or cause any discomfort. They are roomy and flexible as well. That combination makes them extremely useful for big men who tend to need more space.
However, just because the models in this guide are good for players with wide feet doesn’t mean they can’t be used by those with smaller or regular feet as well. As they are premium shoes, they do a wonderful job for all types of players at all different levels.
Top Basketball Shoes for Wide Feet: Our Picks 2022
Throughout this section, I will review the niches and traits of all the best basketball shoes for those with wide feet.
1. Embiid 1
Best for: Overall
Key Features: Die-cut EVA sockliner for premium fit and comfort. Excellent lockdown. TPU wing and ample ankle support. Superior traction.
Fit: True to Size
Weight: 13.9 ounces
Sole: Rubber
The Embiid 1’s are bigger shoes for bigger feet. They come with a slew of features great for larger players, including strong construction, ample support, a powerful base, and some of the best traction on the market. That, mixed with the roomy interior, is perfect for wide feet.
Perhaps the most impressive feature is the comfortable die-cut EVA sockliner. That, backed by the unique 5/8 ankle support and midsole lockdown through the TPU wing, ensure you’ll never have any issues pushing off or running. They are extremely comfortable as well.
Just note that the shoes, for all of their premium features, are definitely on the larger side. They aren’t the pair for players who want something on the slim or unobtrusive side. However, if you don’t mind bigger shoes they are some of the best wide pair models money can buy.
2. KD 13
Best for: Comfort
Key Features: Dual zoom air unit. Midsole cutouts for better responsiveness. Excellent feel. Premium energy return. Various fun designs.
Fit: True to size
Weight: 3.15 pounds
Sole: Rubber
When it comes to wide foot shoes with a focus on comfort, it’s hard to beat the KD 13. The model is a bigger shoe, but still manages to pack in a great feel and plenty of support. The full-length Zoom cushion goes a long way in that regard, as does the soft, flexible design.
These also make my list as a result of their great energy return. Both guards and forwards will love how much spring the shoes have, especially people who like to jump and sprint with all of their might. On top of that, the construction is breathable and prevents you from overheating.
The only area where the KD 13 falls short is the lockdown. The shoe provides a solid base when pushing off, but your feet may slide around when you aren’t in a gym. If you play inside, however, that’s not an issue you’re going to experience.
Best for: Support
Key Features: Responsive with a soft, comfortable cushion. Durable outsole. Heel and forefoot webbing. Secure, snug fit.
Fit: True to Size
Weight: 2.2 pounds
Sole: Rubber
A big part of good basketball shoes, wide or otherwise, is support. The Why Not Zer0.4 has the room bigger feet need, and manages to back it up with a strong base, comfortable feel, and amazing cushion. The double-stacked Air Zoom units especially go a long way in that regard.
This model also gets high marks for the breathable, lightweight construction as well as the laces. Not only do they create a snug fit, but they work perfectly with the forefoot and heel webbing to create exceptional lockdown as you run.
That being said, these shoes could have better traction. The unique pattern is grippy on most surfaces, but you’re going to see problems if dust or dirt builds up over time. It’s important to work to keep the shoes clean.
Best for: Lightweight
Key Features: Interior band. Special laces provide excellent lockdown. Lightweight, supportive design. Attractive appearance.
Fit: True to Size
Weight: 1.9 pounds
Sole: Rubber
One issue a lot of wide foot basketball shoes face is the extra space adds on weight. That’s not a problem with the Flytrap IV. The shoe, coming from the Kyrie line, is light and has excellent ventilation to increase comfort and cut down on annoying sweat or blisters.
The high top design is useful when it comes to support and injury prevention, while the interior band goes a long way for people that need to make quick moves when playing a game. The lockdown is quite solid too.
The only problem you’ll see with this pair is their impact protection. It won’t be something you notice a lot during a game, but you’re definitely going to feel hard landings or tough sprints.
5. Lebron 18
Best for: Performance
Key Features: Max Air impact cushioning. Molded TPU heel counter. Padded collar.
Fit: Large
Weight: 2.62 pounds
Sole: Rubber
The Lebron 18 is a shoe for wide feet that puts a premium on performance. It’s incredibly versatile, and comes loaded with high-end features. That includes the KnitPosit 2.0 construction, Zoom Air Unit, great impact cushioning, as well as a padded collar.
That combination makes the shoes comfortable and responsive at the same time. It doesn’t matter what position you play or how much you get on the court, these shoes help bring an extra dimension to your game.
Just be aware they do tend to fit on the bigger side. Getting a half-size down when possible tends to be the best way to go, especially if you’re someone who has fit issues with other shoes. If you do that, you’ll get a strong shoe that delivers time and time again.
Best for: Power
Key Features: Soft, flexible construction. Sock-like design. Snug fit and primeknit upper. Laceless design. Stable.
Construction: Knit-synthetic
Weight: 12.8 ounces
Sole: Synthetic
Despite its synthetic design, the Adidas N3xt L3v3l is a shoe that puts a large focus on strength. The footwear has all of the essential features it needs to handle wider feet, and it manages to pack them in around a solid base and stable construction.
You’ll be able to get a good grip with these, and you can use that to push off with a lot of force. They are perfect both in the gym and outside. That versatility is then backed up by a unique look and incredibly comfortable sock-like design that cushions your foot from all sides as you run.
These shoes are great, but they aren’t the best right out of the box. You have to put in some time to break them in. Don’t be afraid to walk around with them on for a while before lacing them up for the court. It might take a day or two, but that will be worth it in the long run.
Best Basketball Shoes for Wide Feet: What to Look For 2022
Every trait in this section is a key part of an excellent basketball shoe.
Durability
Most players with wider feet tend to be big men who spend a lot of time pounding down low on the block. That means your shoes will take quite a bit of abuse. Well built models prevent that. When getting any basketball shoe make sure it has premium materials that will last a long time.
Comfort
Of course, a big reason to get wider shoes is for their fit. You want them to be comfortable, especially if you play a lot. Get a shoe that’s both flexible and cushioned. Padding is important. Thicker collars and more sole support is great. Breathability and ventilation are key as well.
Size and Weight
Anytime you’re dealing with shoes for wide feet, you need to keep their size in mind. It’s easy to go overboard when picking out a pair, but you want to stay as lightweight and as reasonable as possible. Get something that’s sturdy, but still easy enough to run full speed in.
FAQs
Does Nike Make Wide Basketball Shoes?
Yes. As one of the largest brands on Earth, Nike carries shoes in both wide and extra wide.
Are Adidas Basketball Shoes Good for Wide Feet?
While not all Adidas shoes are good for wide feet, some models certainly work well. It depends on sizing, as well as the line you’re choosing.
Do Any Basketball Shoes Come in Wide?
There are many basketball shoes that come in wide, especially ones from the larger brands like Nike, Adidas, and Reebok.
Is Kyrie 7 Good for Wide Feet?
The Kyrie 7s, despite their various useful features, aren’t the best wide foot shoes on the market.
Is Lebron 18 Good for Wide Feet?
Yes. As noted above, the Lebron 18 is a solid shoe that is great for those with wide feet.
Useful Tips and Resources
Having wide feet is normal, but it’s not something you should simply ignore. Finding the right pair of shoes that can accommodate your feet is crucial for comfort and performance on the basketball court.
Even when you aren’t playing, it’s important to consider other options because they can greatly improve your comfort and general health. Stay away from tight-fitting shoes and give your feet the room they deserve.
Cramming your feet into shoes that are too small can lead to a range of problems.
My verdict
The Embiid 1 is my favorite shoe for wider feet. Not only does it come with plenty of interior space to help you move without being too restricted, it also has some of the best lockdown on the market. The TPU wing is incredible, as is the extra ankle support.
Few shoes give you the Embiid 1’s reliability. It isn’t the sleekest piece of footwear on the market, but if you need strong traction, comfort, and a reliable base, it delivers in a big, big way.
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