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5 Best Hiking Boots For Wide Feet (2023 Guide & Reviews)

Buying the best hiking boots for wide feet can be a stressful experience. I’ve written many articles on how important it is to get the right fit to ensure comfort and proper foot protection.

I know this fact well from personal experience, as I have wide feet, and it took me a while to find wide width hiking footwear that I loved. It seems that no matter where you look, the selections cater toward a more narrow foot, and many brands don’t have wide-fit offerings.

To help you out, I used my own experience with wide feet and researched the available options on the market to come up with this buying guide for the best hiking boots for wide feet. I hope that it helps make your selection easier. 

EDITOR’S CHOICE

Merrell Moab 3

Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot.jpg

  • Gore-Tex Waterproof
  • Absorbs shock
  • Vibram TC5+ sole

#2ND BEST CHOICE

KEEN Targhee III

KEEN Targhee III Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot

  • KEEN.DRY waterproof
  • Great Ankle support 
  • Removable footbed

#3RD BEST CHOICE

Salomon X Ultra 3

Salomon X Ultra 3 hiking boots

  • Gore-Tex waterproof
  • Extra durable
  • 100% Synthetic

Our Top Recommended Hiking Shoes For Wide Feet 

1) Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot 

The rubber sole on these leather boots is one of the best for providing maximum traction on various surfaces, and the removable contoured insole allows you to swap in your own insoles for maximum arch support. 

  • Waterproof membrane 
  •  Keeps out debris
  • EVA foam midsole 
Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot

Merrell makes some high-quality traditional hiking boots, and they offer them in wide sizing, which makes me like the brand even more.

The waterproof membrane is a bonus for helping to keep your feet dry, which is essential for day hiking in rainy or muddy environments. The boots also come in various color combinations, so you can choose the ones that best match your style. 

Many wearers say they’re comfortable right out of the box, and I agree. The Merrell Moab hardly required me to break them in before wearing them out on the trails, and I felt comfy immediately. 

Find out more information about this product by checking our Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof review where we tested and analyzed all its features.

PROS

  • Eco-conscious design – made with 100% recycled laces, webbing, and mesh lining. 
  • Updated footbeds and a Merrell air-cushion heel provide all-day comfort. 
  • The waterproof membrane works well in various wet conditions to keep your feet dry. 
  • A protective rubber toe cap and molded nylon arch shank provide extra support and safety. 

CONS

  • Some people reported the sizing of this hiking boot seemed slightly off compared to other hiking shoes they’d purchased from this brand. 

2) KEEN Targhee III Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boot

The nubuck leather of these makes them more flexible and feel almost shoe-like. Many reviewers loved the fact that the wide size is actually wider than a lot of other brands. 

  • Dual-density EVA midsole
  • High traction grip 
  • KEEN.DRY waterproof 
KEEN Targhee III Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boot

The KEEN Targhee III Waterproof Mid leather boot comes in both a low-height and a mid-height, both of which are waterproof and offer wide sizing. Like other Keen boots, they’re made of quality materials and have a very comfortable fit, even for the wide sizes.

In my experience with Keen boots in the past, they’re always very comfortable and provide good traction, but they tend to be a bit less durable than some other brands, especially concerning the soles wearing out.

However, their comfort for my wide feet keeps me returning to this brand time and again, and overall they are a very solid hiking shoe. 

PROS

  • The wide fit sizes are wider than some of the other brands on the market. 
  • They have removable insoles so you can insert your own custom orthotics for added arch support.
  • They are stylish and versatile hiking shoes that can be worn casually and for hiking.  

CONS

  • Some users say that the waterproofing wears out quickly and don’t keep your feet as dry as waterproof hiking boots should. 

3) Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX

Its protective mudguard keeps the sides of the boot from getting too muddy, and the anti-debris mesh uppers prevent debris from getting trapped between your foot and the footbed. 

  • Descent Control Technology
  • 100% Synthetic 
  • Gore-Tex Waterproof
Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid Hiking Boots.jpg

If you’re looking for a synthetic leather hiking boot, you’ll want to consider the Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX. These traditional hiking boots are some of the best wide-width hiking boots because they provide the ultimate level of foot protection no matter what type of trail. 

They are also lightweight hiking boots and not very far from trail running shoes when it comes to weight, which I appreciate for long hikes. The gore-tex membrane makes the boots very waterproof, keeping water out of the upper, even if you’re walking through a stream.

In my experience, Salomon hiking boots are highly durable and worth the money. 

Additionally, you can find this comfortable footwear in the low version. Check our review of Salomon X Ultra 3 GTX.

PROS

  • The waterproofing on these hiking shoes is exceptional, and they are some of the best at keeping your hiking feet dry. 
  • They are some of the most comfortable boots for wide feet that you’ll find on the market, as long as you purchase the wide size. 
  • More lightweight than other hiking boots while still providing great support. 

CONS

  • Some users say they wish they had a wider toe box, which is something to consider when you purchase. 
  • More expensive than most hiking boots

4) Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II WP

The upper of these boots is made from PU-coated leather, suede, and mesh, which means they are leather but not full-grain leather. 

  • Waterproof full-grain leather 
  • Durable lightweight hiking boot
  • Solid footing on ice and snow
Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof

If you’re looking for a more budget option for boots for wide feet, you’ll want to consider the Columbia Newton Ridge. This boot is a great choice for winter hiking because it’s warm and waterproof.

Many say these are best suited if you’re doing some light hiking, and I agree with that assessment. They’re slightly less durable than other brands, so I wouldn’t expect them to last for the long haul or if you’re consistently hiking long distances.

However, these lightweight hiking boots make a good choice for the weekend recreational day hiker. Learn more about this product by checking our review for Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II WP.

PROS

  • A good hiking boot for people looking for boots for wide feet on a budget. 
  • A variety of different color combinations are available to match different styles. 
  • They provide good ankle support and are comfortable to wear for extended periods. 

CONS

  • Not a lot of padding in the insoles. Hikers had to add extra to get the cushioning they needed.
  • Some say that even the wide sizes feel tight when you wear them with hiking socks.  

5) Timberland White Ledge Mid Ankle Boot

They have great shock absorption as well due to their EVA rubber midsole. The rubber lug outsole is made from recycled materials, making it an eco-conscious choice. 

  • Timberland Limited Warranty
  •  Waterproof membrane 
  • Rugged outdoor-tested
Timberland White Ledge Mid Ankle Boot

I was so happy to see that Timberland made hiking boots that fit wide feet, as this brand makes some of the best-looking boots on the market.

These full-grain leather upper boots have a waterproof membrane to keep your feet dry and comfortable no matter the weather conditions. 

Many users say that wearing these helps prevent foot fatigue because of the rigid internal TPU shank, which makes them popular with wide-footed hikers. I’ve noticed that Timberland boots tend to fit true to size, which makes finding the right size easier than other brands. 

PROS

  • Easy to break in and comfortable right out of the box. 
  • The waterproof design is great for keeping your feet dry. 
  • Better looking design than other hiking boots, making them versatile for hiking or work boots. 

CONS

  • The overall quality of the boots is not as good as expected based on past experience with Timberland. 
  • A few hikers said they were not as waterproof as they claimed to be and more water resistant.

Wide Feet Hiking Boots Buyer’s Guide  

a pair of hiking boots for wide feet sitting on a table for pictures

When looking to buy the best hiking boots for wide feet, it’s essential to consider many different features. Here are some of the main things to look for in wide hiking boots. 

We considered all of these different factors as we came up with our recommendations for the most important hiking gear.

1. Fit

Choose wide hiking boots that have a secure fit without feeling too tight or loose. Make sure you buy a brand that offers a wider-fit shoe, not just a standard size.

However, remember that what’s considered “wide widths” varies by different manufacturers, so you’ll need to try them on and assess them for comfort. Learn more about how much toe room in your hiking boots is enough for a good fit.

2. Weight 

Buy a hiking boot with the right weight for the terrain you will most frequently visit. A lightweight hiking boot will not provide as much protection as a mid-weight shoe.

However, if you plan to hike the most rugged terrain, you’ll want a heavy-weight boot for support and durability [1]. 

3. Tread 

pair of lightweight hiking boots on a wooden floor

A thick rubber outsole with a deep tread will give you the traction you need for uneven surfaces [2].

You’ll want to ensure that your wide-toe box hiking boots can cling well to rocks and dirt so that you don’t slip or get injured.

Good traction is one of the most important things you can look for when purchasing hiking shoes. 

4. Cost 

A good pair of wide width hiking boots can be a serious investment.

However, even if you need to stick to a budget, you can still buy hiking boots for wide feet that are durable and well-constructed. Many synthetic leather boots are cost-effective and hold up well on outdoor adventures.   

5. Ventilation

Always consider breathability when purchasing a new pair of boots. As you hike, your feet will sweat, and you’ll also have foot swelling. A boot made of breathable material or that has a breathable membrane made of mesh will ensure long-lasting comfort. 

6. Comfort 

Of course, you do not want your boots to feel uncomfortable, especially on technical trails. That’s why it’s important to look for wide-width boots and not settle for standard size, which will likely feel too narrow. 

For ideal comfort, your foot should feel snug in the boot, but they should not compress the foot tightly. The right hiking boots won’t give you blisters or pressure points as you hike.   

7. Materials 

pair of nubuck leather hiking boots sitting on a white table for pictures

If you’re looking for the most durable type of hiking boot that you can buy, you’ll want to stick with real leather.

However, some good leather and mesh options provide durability and breathability, and they also make good options. 

Many manufacturers are using more and more synthetic materials for their boots.

These boots will be more lightweight and flexible than leather, but not quite as durable.

However, the technology keeps improving, so many of these hold up almost as well as leather ones. 

The best hiking boots will always have a rubber sole to provide a high traction grip on rough terrain. 

8. Performance 

Most hikers will want a general hiking boot that holds up well in various conditions and weather. Read the customer reviews before you purchase to see what others say about how well they hold up and their ratings for overall performance in different terrains. 

Comparison Table

BOOTPRICEWATERPROOFWEIGHT
Merrell Moab 3 Mid WP$150 REI»
$150 Backcountry»
Check on Amazon»
Yes2 lbs. 4 oz.
Keen Targhee III Mid
$165 REI»
$131 Backcountry»
Check on Amazon»
Yes, Keen.Dry
2 lbs. 2.8 oz.
Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTXCheck on Amazon» Yes, Gore-Tex2 lbs. 1.5 oz.
Columbia Newton Ridge Plus$99 Backcountry»
Check on Amazon»
Yes1.75 lbs.
Timberland White Ledge Mid$89 REI»
Check on Amazon»
Yes
2 lbs. 4 oz.

Related Articles:

What Else Do We Consider When Choosing Wide Boots?

What we at Outdooradept.com consider when choosing the best shoes for hiking

In addition to the features described above, we also consider the following information when determining which boots to add to our list of recommendations. 

Feedback 

In addition to our own opinion, we scour through hundreds of other customer reviews to see what others say about their experience with the footwear.

We specifically looked at the feedback that mentioned a wide foot and considered what others said about the fit and comfort.  

Shipping

It’s important that the boots on our list not only ship fast and at a reasonable cost but that the companies also offer return shipping in case the boots don’t fit as well as we expected. We also ensured that all the boots on our list arrived in good condition and were packaged well.   

Warranty 

Even though we determined that a shoe has good durability through our use and other customer feedback, it’s crucial that the company also backs up its product.

Therefore, we consider whether or not the manufacturer offers a warranty on the craftsmanship of the boot. 

Manufacturer Reputation

Finally, we always choose well-known brands with a good reputation with the public. Most of the brands on our list have been around for years and have a proven track record.   

Hiking Footwear Brands That Run Wide

a list of hiking footwear brands that run wide-feet hiking boots and shoes

These are well-known companies that accommodate wide-feet hiking boots and hiking shoes: 

  • Keen
  • Salomon
  • Merrell
  • Altra 
  • LaSportiva 
  • Zamberlan 
  • Lowa 
  • Sketchers 

What Is the Difference Between a Regular Shoe and Wide Feet Shoe? 

The main difference between a regular shoe and wide widths is that the widest part of the shoe will be larger and feel roomy.

A benefit to purchasing these types of boots is that you can purchase your regular shoe size without having to size up, where sometimes the shoe could feel bigger.

Our Number 1 PIck 

If we have to choose one selection on our list as the best hiking boots for wide feet, it would be the Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot. We think this hiking gear features all the requirements that make it ideal for outdoor activities if you have wide feet.

Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot 

They’re waterproof, have excellent traction, and don’t require much breaking in, even with wide feet.

Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot 

Even though they’re a bit more expensive than the others, we’ve always found that this brand makes durable boots that last a long time. 

FAQs 

How Can I Determine if Hiking Boots Have a Wide Toe Box?

To determine if hiking boots have a wide toe box, look for boots with explicit “wide toe box” descriptions. Additionally, check for a wider last or silhouette, rounded toe shape, and extra room for toe movement, as indicated in product specifications or customer reviews.

Are Salomon Hiking Boots Wide Fit?

Salomon offers many good options that accommodate wide feet. For this reason, they always make our list of the best hiking boots for wide feet. 

Are Wide Shoes Better for Hiking?

You will want to buy wide shoes for hiking if you have wide feet. Standard-size hiking shoes will often feel too narrow and cause you to discomfort if you walk long distances. 

Are Merrells Good for Wide Feet?

The Merrell Men’s Moab is one of the best wide hiking boots on the market. Merrell also has this boot for women and several other options that accommodate feet needing more width. 

Is Keen Targhee Good for Wide Feet?

Yes, the KEEN Targhee III is one of the best boots for wide feet. They come in both a low-height and mid-height option if you want added ankle support. 

How Do I Properly Measure My Feet to Determine the Right Size for Wide Hiking Boots?

To measure your feet accurately for the right size of wide hiking boots, use a Brannock device or a ruler. Ensure you measure both feet, as sizing can differ. Consider the toe box, as traditional hiking boots may not stretch as much as other footwear.

Do You Need a Wide Toe Box for Backpacking Boots?

Having a wide toe box in backpacking boots is beneficial, especially if you have half-size differences or need extra toe room. A gusseted tongue can enhance comfort and accommodate a wider foot shape during long-distance hikes.

Christina Utz

Christina Utz

Christina Utz is a professional writer, mountain addict, and hiking enthusiast. She successfully finished a rock climbing class and a wilderness survival course, and by the age of 24, she hiked more than 1800 miles and finished over 260 different trails! Her expertise in hiking and outdoors helped numerous people to fulfill their adventurous spirit!

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