Best New Balance Shoes for Wide Feet: SL-2 Last, Top Models & Widths

Quick answer: New Balance is one of the best brands for wide feet for two reasons. First, it makes many shoes in true wide widths: 2E (wide) and 4E (extra wide) for men, and D (wide) for women. Second, classics like the 574 are built on the SL-2 last, a shoe mold with a roomier toe box. Our top picks for wide feet are the 990v6, the 574, and New Balance's Fresh Foam running shoes in wide widths.

A last is the foot-shaped mold a shoe is built around. It decides how roomy the shoe feels inside. New Balance uses different lasts for different shoes.

The SL-2 last is used on the 574 and many New Balance classics. It's known for a roomier forefoot and a deeper toe box than slimmer, sporty lasts. That gives your toes space to spread out as your feet swell during the day, which is why so many people with wide feet like how the 574 feels.

A good fit isn't only about length. It's also about width and how much room there is on top of your foot.

JD Expert Question: If the SL-2 last is already roomy, do I still need a wide (2E or 4E) width?

JD Expert Answer: It depends on how wide your feet are. If your feet are just a little wide, the roomy SL-2 fit of a standard 574 may be enough. If you usually need wide shoes in other brands, go for a 2E or 4E width. And don't size up to get more width. That adds length, not room, and can make your heel slip.

• New Balance 990v6: Our top pick. It offers wide (2E) and extra wide (4E) widths in many sizes, plus a stable ENCAP midsole for all-day support. Shop the New Balance 990.
• New Balance 574: The everyday classic on the roomy SL-2 last. Wide (2E) versions are made in many sizes. See the New Balance 574.
• New Balance Fresh Foam running shoes (like the 880 and 1080): Soft, cushioned runners that often come in wide and extra wide widths.
• New Balance 9060: A chunky lifestyle sneaker with a wide base. It's mostly sold in standard width, so try it on if your feet are very wide. See the New Balance 9060.

• Men's widths: D is standard, 2E is wide, and 4E is extra wide.
• Women's widths: B is standard, D is wide, and 2E is extra wide.
• Vs. Nike and adidas: Many people with wide feet find New Balance roomier than Nike and adidas in the same size. If Nike feels tight, a New Balance 2E is a good next step.
• Tip: Shop late in the day, when your feet are at their biggest, and wear the socks you usually wear.

• What is the best New Balance shoe for wide feet? The 990v6 is our top pick because it comes in 2E and 4E widths and gives great support.
• What does 2E mean in New Balance shoes? 2E means wide for men. 4E is extra wide. For women, D is wide.
• Is the New Balance 574 good for wide feet? Yes. It's built on the roomy SL-2 last and comes in wide (2E) versions in many sizes.
• Should I size up for wide feet? No. Choose a wider width instead. Sizing up adds length, not width.
• Does New Balance run wide? Many New Balance shoes feel roomier than other brands, and the brand offers more width options than most.

Who should buy New Balance for wide feet?

If regular sneakers squeeze your toes or press on the top of your foot, New Balance is one of the easiest fixes. Start with the 990v6 in 2E or 4E for the most support, or the 574 for an everyday classic with a roomy fit. Ready to shop? Browse New Balance at JD Sports.

• New Balance Product Information: Details on lasts, widths, and fit for the 574, 990v6, and Fresh Foam models.
• New Balance Fit Guides: New Balance's published width charts for men's and women's shoes.
• Brand History: New Balance has offered shoes in multiple widths for decades.
• JD Sports Fit Feedback: Sizing and comfort feedback from JD Sports store teams across North America.