10k
There are a lot of pros to having wide feet.
You’ve got more lateral stability, better athletic performance, and a lower risk of corns, hammertoes, and bunions as you age because your toe bones are spread out better.
Unfortunately, there’s also one big con: most standard-sized shoes just don’t fit.
Sports shoes tend to break either on the inner or outer edge. Work boots can compress the sides of your feet. Dress boots? Let’s just say the sleek, narrow-fitting boots don’t look or feel quite right.
Thankfully, bootmakers have come to understand that a significant portion of the male population have wider-than-average feet and need boots to match.
Work boots, in particular, are often sold in Wide (E) and extra-wide (EE and beyond) sizes designed with a roomier fit.
The items on this list are the best work boots for wide feet that we’ve found. They’ll be absolute game-changers for more comfort and support for your wide feet.
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How Did I Come Up With My List?
I’ve had thick, wide feet pretty much my entire life.
I spent my childhood having to buy new shoes every six months or so because I outgrew them so fast. It wasn’t just that my shoe size kept climbing, but my feet kept getting wider.
As an adult, finding work boots has been a struggle, to say the least.
I have to spend an extra week or two breaking in any new pair of leather boots, and the pressure on the side of my feet can be intense and painful. Worse, my pinky toe always gets crushed by the outer edge of any steel or composite safety toe.
After too many years of suffering, I set out to find work boots built explicitly for my foot type.
I tested every pair I could get my hands on, talked to all my tradie buddies, and pored over hundreds of reviews to find the best work boots for wide feet.
My deep dive into finding the best-fitting, most comfortable pair of work boots possible has led me to put together this list of work-friendly footwear that will serve any wide-footed guy well.
The Best Wide Fit Work Boots
Best Overall: JK Boots Superduty S
Early on in my research, JK’s Superduty S boots caught my attention for both their good looks and their sturdy construction.
The combination of smooth and roughout leather for the upper makes it both a handsome and durable boot. The Superduty is 100% handmade in the U.S.A., using high-strength NFPA-rated adhesives and fire-resistant Technora thread that won’t fray or tear with regular use.
It’s also fully work-safe, thanks to its integrated ASTM-rated safety toe and VibramX slip-resistant outsole.
But what really sealed the deal for me was their roomy fit.
The leather insole and midsole will mold to your feet and expand as the boots wear in, offering more space to accommodate your wide feet.
Best of all, though, the boot comes in extra-wide sizes all the way up to 5E. No matter how wide your feet, these boots will fit—and fit comfortably.
What I Like
Sizes ranging from D (normal) to 5E (extra-extra wide).
Handmade in the USA using premium-quality, highly durable materials.
Fully resolable and rebuildable, should last you at least a decade if properly cared for.
Tough, handsome, and ultra-reliable work boots.
Once broken in, they’ll become incredibly comfortable and supportive.
What I Don’t Like
The price tag on the Superduty S boots is high, but understandably so given its industry-leading quality. You definitely get what you pay for.
What Other Reviewers Say
Hard to believe it, but the Superdutys have a 5.0-star rating even after amassing more than 100 reviews.
Most of the reviewers insist these JK boots are the most comfortable, reliable, and best-quality boots they’ve ever owned.
The only real complaint my research turned up was that the wide (E) size wasn’t quite as wide as one user had hoped, so they had to return it and upgrade to the extra-wide (EE) size.
However, once the fit is dialed in, the Superdutys’ longevity scores very high marks, with some guys wearing them daily for anywhere from five to ten years with no signs of damage or deterioration.
The Verdict
If you’ve got the budget, I strongly recommend the JK Boots Superduty S. They’re built to last longer, go harder, and offer more support and comfort.
Though they’re sold as work boots, you’ll find they’re really more “all-purpose” boots you can take hiking, hunting, riding, ranching, and backpacking, too.
The Superduty is a classic logger boot, and JK’s most popular style. And while this boot may be built for heavy duty work detail, it’s also ridiculously good looking, especially in a smooth upper and rough bottom combination.
Best on a Budget: Wolverine Lace-up 6″ Work Boot
Wolverine’s boots caught my eye for two reasons: first, they’re affordable, and second, they’re wonderfully supportive.
Wolverine’s proprietary DuraShocks technology provides shock absorption that does an incredible job of reducing foot fatigue when I’m on my feet all day. They also offer ample support for my big, heavy (6’6”, 250 lbs.) frame.
Of all the Wolverine boots I tested, the Harrison fit my wide feet best. Though they only come in three widths—M, EW, and 4E—I found the extra-wide (EW) spacious enough in the forefoot that my feet weren’t squeezed.
Granted, there is no safety toe, so it’s not suitable for all work sites. But for any light-duty jobs or renovations around my house, they’re my go-to, thanks to their versatile, lightweight, and extra-wide construction.
What I Like
Roomy fit and lack of safety toe means my feet and toes are more comfortable all day long.
The DuraShocks impact-absorption keeps me moving easily without feeling any fatigue after long hours.
Cushioned footbed adds extra padding and support to accommodate my larger frame.
Nylon shank offers more stability and balance when climbing ladders or standing on scaffolding.
Oiled leather isn’t waterproof, but it does shrug off damp and moisture.
What I Don’t Like
The lack of a safety toe means I can’t wear the Harrison’s on all jobs or work sites.
What Other Reviewers Say
Researching these Wolverine boots, I found there were only a few minor complaints. Some wearers found the laces too short, whereas others found durability issues with the plastic sole.
However, the most frequent complaint was that the sizing on the boots ran too large—which is exactly what made them appealing to a wide-footed guy like me.
Aside from that main con (which is a pro for the purposes of this list), users appear to love the boots. The Harrisons score high marks on comfort, durability, affordability, and performance across the board.
The Verdict
Save a few bucks but avoid “cheap” quality boots with the Harrisons. They’re built to last you for years of hardcore daily use and will provide you the support, cushioning, and roomy fit you need. For the price, you won’t find better.
Save a few bucks but avoid “cheap” quality boots with the Harrisons. They’re built to last you for years of hardcore daily use and will provide you the support, cushioning, and roomy fit you need. For the price, you won’t find better.
Great Value: Carolina Sarge Hi 8″ Steel Toe
Carolina has long been one of my go-to brands for work boots. They build tough, comfortable boots that deliver excellent value for a slightly above-average price.
Their Sarge boot was an immediate standout in my testing.
Not only do they have all the requisite safety features—including a steel toe, EH-rated polyurethane outsole, and slip and oil-resistance—but they’re also available in sizes from the standard D to a very roomy 4E.
The interior is spacious enough for my wide feet, and the combination of a polyurethane footbed and performance cushioning insole offers next-level comfort and cushioning.
To top it off, they’re lined with a DRI-LEX fabric that keeps my feet from getting sweaty and swampy on hot summer days.
What I Like
Very sturdy construction; will last at least five to ten years of daily use.
Stylishly handsome, eye-catching Amber Gold Pitstop oiled leather patinates beautifully.
Poron Permafresh insole offers thick padding while fighting sweat, odors, microbes, and bacteria.
8” shaft offers extra ankle support and protection against hazards.
What I Don’t Like
Thanks to their steel toe, extra-tall shaft, and thick sole, they are definitely on the heavier side.
What Other Reviewers Say
The Sarges are one of Carolina’s newer boot models, so few reviews are available.
None of the reviews posted had anything negative to say about the boots, while all the positive reviews highlighted their comfort and union-made quality construction.
Many users made note of their short break-in time, with some stating they were comfortable “on my first day” or “right out of the box.”
The Verdict
If you don’t have quite the budget for the JK Superdutys but still want a wise investment that will last you years of daily use, the Sarges are my pick. They’re well-built, very comfortable, and tough enough to handle any machine shop, job site, or mine. Really, they’re just great value overall.
If you don’t have quite the budget for the JK Superdutys but still want a wise investment that will last you years of daily use, the Sarges are my pick. They’re well-built, very comfortable, and tough enough to handle any machine shop, job site, or mine. Really, they’re just great value overall.
Best Pull-on: Ariat Big Wig Comp Toe
The Ariat Big Wigs instantly earned my approval as the best pull-on work boots for wide feet.
Their roper design, aggressive Duratread outsole, and four-row stitch patterning on the shaft make the most versatile cowboy-styled pair of work boots I could ask for. Plus, Ariat’s Energy Max anti-fatigue insole is one of the best, most comfortable of any boot brand I’ve tested to date.
The square toe is already naturally roomy, but Ariat takes it a step further by offering sizes up to 4E to accommodate very wide feet.
Thanks to the U-Turn Entry System, you’ll have less trouble slipping your feet in and out of your boots.
What I Like
Convenient pull-on construction built specifically for wide-footed guys.
Cowboy-style boots, work-friendly performance. Great for ranching, riding, roping, and farming.
Very grippy Duratread sole offers impressive traction on muddy ground, wet grass, and slippery floors.
FLX Foam midsole is nicely springy and well-cushioned. Added to the Energy Max outsole, you’ve got plenty of padding and support for big, heavy guys (like me).
The boots are fully waterproof, so my feet stay dry even if it’s rainy or the ground is wet or muddy.
What I Don’t Like
The break-in time is a bit longer than I’d like. While the sole is comfortable right out of the box, the leather upper stays stiff and fairly inflexible for 2-3 weeks.
What Other Reviewers Say
Reviewers agree with me that Ariat’s Big Rig boots are a pair worth wearing. Positive reviews emphasize their comfort, particularly in the wide, roomy toe box.
A couple of users mentioned quality control issues with the toe wearing out or the seams fraying. However, overall, durability and reliability earn rave reviews from the majority of users.
The Verdict
The Ariat Big Wig Comp Toes are a great choice if you’re looking for pull-on boots. They’re not too pricey, but deliver excellent value in terms of comfort, versatility, convenience, and protection from on-the-job hazards. And you can’t go wrong with their handsome cowboy style, either.
The Ariat Big Wig Comp Toes are a great choice if you're looking for pull-on boots. They’re not too pricey, but deliver excellent value in terms of comfort, versatility, convenience, and protection from on-the-job hazards. And you can’t go wrong with their handsome cowboy style, either.
Best for Cold & Wet Conditions: Carolina Waterproof Insulated Comp Toe
Through the rainy and cold seasons here in British Columbia, I’ve found these Carolina boots to be a game-changer.
To start off, they’re made out of horse leather rather than cowhide. Horse leather is naturally tougher and more resilient, less prone to being damaged by moisture, mud, and dirt.
The leather is also reinforced with a SCUBALINER that makes them waterproof.
For cold and snow-proofing, the boots feature 400g Thinsulate insulation that’s capable of withstanding sub-freezing temperatures. While they’re not extreme winter boots (you need 600g or 800g insulation for Arctic conditions), they keep my feet snug and warm eleven months out of the year.
Features like a polyurethane footbed and moisture-wicking taibrelle nylon lining make them incredibly comfortable to wear all day long, while their integrated composite safety toe, EH-rating, and internal met guard offer excellent protection on the job.
Best of all, if I’m slogging through snow or mud, the rubber lug outsole is highly aggressive and provides impressive traction.
What I Like
Amazing traction on wet, muddy, icy, and snowy terrain.
Waterproof and insulated against all but the worst winter cold.
Horse leather is tougher and more resilient than cowhide, with a very unique look.
Sturdy welt construction, heavy duty steel linesman shank, and extra-thick outsole.
Tough enough for heavy-duty work without being cumbersome.
What I Don’t Like
The boots can feel a bit hot in the dead of summer, thanks to the thick insulation.
What Other Reviewers Say
In all my research, I’ve mostly seen positive reviews posted by real-life wearers. These Carolina boots get a lot of love for their all-day comfort, the warmth provided by the insulation, and years-long durability.
Really, the only complaints I found were that the break-in period was long and the boots didn’t come in 4E or 5E sizes for extra-extra-wide feet.
The Verdict
After three winters with no frozen toes, I’m happy to recommend these Carolina boots. They’re tough, reliable, comfortable, and nicely heavy-duty, but not so heavy you’ll feel the weight dragging on you over long hours on your feet. The addition of insulation and waterproofing makes them a pair you can wear all year round through even the ugliest weather.
After three winters with no frozen toes, I’m happy to recommend these Carolina boots. They’re tough, reliable, comfortable, and nicely heavy-duty, but not so heavy you’ll feel the weight dragging on you over long hours on your feet. The addition of insulation and waterproofing makes them a pair you can wear all year round through even the ugliest weather.
Best Wedge Sole: Nick’s Boots Moderate Arch Work Boot
I love a good wedge sole work boot. The thicker, heavier-duty sole offers good cushioning and support for my heavier-than-average frame.
Of all the wedge sole boots I’ve tested, none were quite as handsome, long-lasting, or comfortable as these Nicks boots.
They look similar to the JK boots, combining smooth and roughout leather for the upper, but they’re welted onto a chunky wedge sole.
Their ten-inch height makes them extra protective and supportive. My feet have never felt safer or more snug than when they’re in these Nicks boots.
What makes them so great—aside from the wedge sole—is that they are fully customizable. You can choose every aspect of the build, from size and width to leather style to safety toe (celastic, composite, or steel) .
Though they’re pricey, when you try them on, you’ll see that they are an investment that will last you for easily a decade or two—and look beautiful all the while.
What I Like
Incredibly handsome, stylish pair of work boots.
Chunky wedge sole offers next-level support and cushioning for big-boned guys like me.
Customizable design lets you make them exactly how you want them.
Handmade quality leads to a nearly unrivalled fit and comfort.
An all-around excellent pair of work boots.
What I Don’t Like
The time to build these shoes is around 24-26 weeks, which is slightly longer than average for custom handmade boots.
The price tag is steep. However, you definitely got top-notch quality for the high initial investment.
What Other Reviewers Say
As one of Nicks’ newer offerings, these wedge sole boots haven’t yet earned any reviews from real-life users.
However, combing over reviews for the rest of Nicks’ line of boots, it’s immediately clear that their offerings are high-end in every sense of the word—not just pricing, but also durability, reliability, comfort, and performance.
The Verdict
These Nicks boots earned my appreciation for their supportive, comfortable wedge sole and high-quality construction. They’re a smart investment that you won’t regret because of their customizable build, incredibly comfortable fit, and industry-leading durability.
These Nicks boots earned my appreciation for their supportive, comfortable wedge sole and high-quality construction. They’re a smart investment that you won’t regret because of their customizable build, incredibly comfortable fit, and industry-leading durability.
What to Look for in Wide Fitting Work Boots
Adequate Width Options
Most boots are available in six width options:
- D (regular/standard fit)
- E (wide fit)
- EE (extra-wide fit)
- EEE (triple-wide fit)
- C (narrow fit)
- B (extra-narrow fit)
However, some boots—for example, the JK Superdutys or Ariat Big Wigs—offer even more width options, going as high as 4E or 5E.
These are great for guys with ultra-wide feet that just won’t fit in the more “standard” width options.
Durability and Quality Construction
Fit is just one factor to consider; you also want the boots to be built tough enough to last at least 5 years (though 10 to 20 is better).
Obviously, the high-end boots like the JK Superdutys will be constructed with decades-long durability in mind. They’ll be rebuildable and resolable, so you can repair them in case of any issues.
However, a good pair of “budget-end” boots (like the Wolverine Harrisons or the Ariat Big Wigs) should last you up to five years with the proper care and maintenance.
Durability is determined by the materials used (for example, heavy-duty leather, Technora fire-resistant thread, and Vibram rubber) as well as the construction (stitchdown and Goodyear welt).
Great Comfort
When it comes to wide fit work boots, comfort is determined by a combination of factors:
- Fit, both the correct width and length for your foot shape, as well as the configuration of the safety toe (so it doesn’t crush your feet).
- Cushioning, typically provided by the insole, an integrated footbed, or a combination of both.
- Support, usually ample arch and heel support from the midsole, as well as ankle support from the boot shaft.
- Waterproofing and/or insulation, which keep your feet dry in the rain and warm in the snow.
A good pair of work boots will have all of these factors dialed in, and the result will be truly comfortable footwear.
Wide Feet? No Problem!
Just because your feet are wide, that doesn’t mean you’ve got to put up with pinched toes or crushed forefeet.
All you have to do is look for boots with a spacious fit and wider-than-average construction, and you’re good to go.
Every day on the job will be so much more comfortable with a pair of work boots built to fit your wide feet.
Of all the pairs I tested, the JK Boots Superduty Ss were far and away the best overall. They nailed everything from durability to versatility to all-day comfort, a solid investment you will never regret.
The Superduty is a classic logger boot, and JK’s most popular style. And while this boot may be built for heavy duty work detail, it’s also ridiculously good looking, especially in a smooth upper and rough bottom combination.
But if the Superdutys are a bit out of your price range, the Wolverine Lace-up 6″ Work Boots make for a great budget-friendly buy. Don’t let their price tag cost fool you: they’re still tough and reliable enough to be worth the cost.
The Carolina Sarge Hi 8″ Steel Toes strike the ideal balance between cost and value. Though slightly pricier, they will last you nearly as long as the top-rated handmade boots and deliver the performance you need.
If you don’t have quite the budget for the JK Superdutys but still want a wise investment that will last you years of daily use, the Sarges are my pick. They’re well-built, very comfortable, and tough enough to handle any machine shop, job site, or mine. Really, they’re just great value overall.
If you want comfort and convenience, the pull-on cowboy style of Ariat Big Wig Comp Toe is a game-changer. If you’re working in the wet or cold, you can’t go wrong with the Carolina Waterproof Insulated Comp Toe.
And if you’re like me and want a thick, supportive wedge sole for more comfort for your heavy frame, the Nick’s Boots Moderate Arch Work Boot are just the thing.
FAQs
Should you get a size bigger in work boots?
If you find that work boots tend to run small even after being broken in, it may be worth getting a half-size bigger.
However, if boots tend to be the right length but feel too narrow, you may want to get a wider pair rather than size up.
How do you stretch out work boots?
The quickest, easiest method for stretching out work boots involves a boot-stretcher, a device purpose-built for exactly this task.
You simply insert the boot stretcher and twist the handle to extend the expanders. Once you’ve reached the desired stretch point, you let the boots sit for 12-24 hours to give the leather time to expand.
For more in-depth information on stretching out work boots, you can read the
complete guide on how to make work boots more comfortable.
What is the widest boot you can get?
6E is the widest size you can find, but only a very few shoe or boot manufacturers offer it. However, a number of brands—including JK, Nicks, and Ariat—offer 4E and 5E widths.
