Wide-Footer Hiking Boots

Do you know of a boot maker who makes really wide boots that are true to size?

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Question:

I wear size 11 EE boots. I have tried to get hiking boots via mail order without success because they are always far narrower than marked. Do you know of a boot maker who makes really wide boots that are true to size? Thanks.

Submitted by – Steven

Answer:

Our wide-footed staffers have some field-tested picks for you. Anything by New Balance

comes in an array of wide sizes. Some Asolo

models do also. We like the AFS 520s and Powermatics.

Merrell

boots, which have historically been on the narrow side, have changed in the last year or so. They are pretty normal in the heel area, but the toe boxes are wider now.

Our wide-footed testers have also had good luck with Kayland boots, but only the Alpine last, found in the heavier boots. Their lighter hikers seem to run much narrower.

One last piece of advice: Since you have a foot that’s not “normal” I highly recommend working with a local shop with a good boot fitting reputation. They’ll help you make modifications, find low volume insoles that still offer support, and will let you try on boots till you heart’s content. Steer clear of mail order—you may end up paying a fortune in return shipping fees.