Best Shoes for Wide Feet in Australia (Recommended by Experts)

Struggling to find comfortable shoes that actually fit wide feet? You’re not alone. Whether you live with bunions, swollen feet, diabetes, or simply need more space across the forefoot, finding supportive, stylish shoes in Australia can be tough. That’s why we created this clinician-reviewed guide to help you discover the best wide-fit shoes for all-day comfort, better mobility, and medical peace of mind. Plus, many of the options below are NDIS-approved — so you don’t need to compromise on support or funding.

Why Foot Width Matters More Than You Think

Most people focus on shoe length, but foot width can make or break your comfort. Wearing shoes that are too narrow can lead to:

• Blisters and corns

• Bunions and hammertoes

• Poor circulation

• Pain in the arches or forefoot

This is especially important if you have conditions like diabetes, arthritis, or oedema. Shoes designed specifically for wide feet reduce pressure, promote circulation, and help prevent long-term foot complications.

How to Tell if You Have Wide Feet

Not sure if your feet are wide? Here are some signs:

• Standard shoes feel tight across the ball of your foot

• Your little toe often rubs or gets squished

• You remove your shoes at the end of the day and feel immediate relief

• Know your feet shape!

You can also measure the width at the widest part of your foot and compare it to width sizing charts. Most wide feet benefit from a 2E, 4E, or extra-wide fit.

Key Features to Look for in Wide-Fit Shoes

When shopping for wide shoes, look for these clinically-backed features:

• Wide toe box to prevent rubbing or crowding

• Adjustable fastenings (Velcro, laces, straps)

• Removable insoles (for orthotics or extra depth)

• Supportive arches to reduce strain

• Soft uppers that stretch with swelling

• Lightweight sole to support balance and reduce fatigue

Tips for Getting the Right Fit

1. Shop later in the day: Feet swell by evening.

2. Try both shoes: One foot is often wider than the other.

3. Wear your usual socks or orthotics when trying shoes.

4. Check return policies before buying online.

5. Visit a specialist retailer like Barefoot Freedom for expert fittings.

NDIS and Wide-Fit Footwear

If you’re an NDIS participant with a diagnosis that affects your feet (e.g. diabetes, stroke, cerebral palsy, arthritis), you may be eligible for funding. Look for shoes classified as:

• Medical-grade

• Extra-depth or extra-width

• Clinician-recommended

At Barefoot Freedom, we work with NDIS participants, plan managers and allied health providers to ensure proper footwear access.