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Gone are the days of limited sizes and styles; running shoes for narrow feet are now a bit easier to find. Brands are increasingly catering to a wider variety of foot shapes, including running shoes for flat feet, high arches, and narrow heels. But with so many options to choose from, a trip to a running shoe store or website can feel overwhelming.
With feet on the slender side, you'll want to choose a specific type of shoe to avoid blisters and discomfort. If you're looking for the best running shoes for narrow feet, certain brands are known for having a more tapered design. Look for styles that come in a narrow option or have design features like a snug upper. If you still can't find a shoe that works with your foot shape, experiment with lacing your shoes in different ways. Sometimes using an extra eyelet will keep the shoe from sliding. Some runners also find success with custom orthotics or extra thick running socks; these things can help fill out the shoe. If you're interested in exploring a wide range of running shoes, not specific to narrow feet, we have compiled a list of the best running shoes available.
The Best Running Shoes for Narrow Feet - Our Top Picks
- Best Running Shoes for Narrow Feet Featured Pick: Nike Pegasus 40
- Best Overall Running Shoes for Narrow Feet: Nike Invincible 3
- Best Running Shoes for High Arches and Narrow Feet: New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080
- Best Designed Running Shoes for Narrow Feet: Nike Winflo 8
- Best Running Shoes for Overpronation and Narrow Feet: Asics Gel Kayano
- Best Women's Running Shoes for Narrow Feet: Nike Free Run 5.0
- Best Trail Running Shoes for Narrow Feet: Reebok Zigwild 6
- Best Stability Running Shoes for Narrow Feet adidas Adizero Adios
- Most Comfortable Running Shoes for Narrow Feet: adidas Ultraboost 22
While running doesn't require a ton of equipment and gear, it's important to get the basics right. Invest in a pair of running shoes that fit correctly and you'll start each workout with a solid foundation. When you're ready to purchase the best shoes for narrow feet, we've come up with a list of options. Read on for our top seven picks.
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Best Running Shoes for Narrow Feet Featured Pick - Nike Pegasus 40
SPECS
- Weight: 10.9 oz (men’s 10.5), 8.5 oz (women’s 8)
- Heel-to-toe drop: 10mm
- Sizes: Mens 6-18, wide option; Women 5-12, wide option
Our featured pick for the best show for narrow feet is the ever-popular Nike Pegasus 40, the newest iteration of Nike’s long-standing Pegasus model. This model is especially good for those with narrow feet thanks to the redesigned midfoot band. This band allows those with narrow feet to get a secure yet forgiving lockdown in the midfoot area without compromising comfort or function. Nike specifically engineered the Pegasus 40 to be comfortable in the foot’s most sensitive areas such as the arch and toes so that when laces are tightened, the foot remains comfortable.
Featuring neutral support, moderate cushioning, and a high-level of responsiveness, the Pegasus 40 provides a comfortable fit for every runner. It is designed with Nike’s React technology with strategically placed cushioning to promote heel-to-toe transitions. One Zoom Air Unit is located in the forefoot and one in the heel which propels your foot forward for smooth and energized toe-off.
This latest version of the Pegasus is engineered with a single layer mesh upper which contributes to its breathability. It is also an especially good option for narrow feet as it allows for natural swelling of the foot even when laces are tied tight. One review on Nike’s website states, “They (the Pegasus 40) don't squeeze my toes or make me feel crammed in like some more narrow shoes do. I can wear these all day without any problems.” So whether you are planning to run 8 miles after work or hit the gym, the Pegasus 40 will keep your narrow feet comfortable.
Best Overall Running Shoes for Narrow Feet - Nike Invincible 3 Road Running Shoes
SPECS
- Weight: 310g (M), 258g (W)
- Heel-to-toe drop: 9mm
- Sizes: 6-15 (M), 5-12 (W), including half sizes
If you're looking for a running shoe with a generous balance of comfort and stability, the Nike Invincible 3 has your feet covered. This shoe is the latest from the Nike Invincible series and features a wider midsole and reduced heel clip, making it especially appropriate for the narrow-footed runner.
The flyknit upper is made from a breathable mesh, and the tongue is non-gusseted with moderate padding and flat laces. You can also choose from four classic color combinations in men's and women's. Additionally, the Invincible 3 uses plenty of Nike's ZoomX cushioning and feels like a dream during long walks or marathon running sessions.
What We Like
- Wider midsole well-suited to narrow feet
- Reflective pull tab for easy on/off
- ZoomX foam cushioning
- Breathable flyknit mesh upper
What We Don't Like
- May not be ideal for speed runs or wet terrain
- May require some breaking in
BUY: Nike Invincible 3 Road Running Shoes
Best Running Shoes for High Arches and Narrow Feet - New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080
SPECS
- Weight: 10.3 oz. (M), 8.8 oz. (W)
- Heel-to-toe drop: 8mm
- Sizes: 6.5-16 (M), 5-13 (W)
The 1080 is one of New Balance's most popular shoes and it just happens to work well for high arches and narrow feet. Runners like its ultra cushioned feel and neutral design, and the Hypoknit upper hugs the foot for an almost custom fit. The Fresh Foam X midsole offers up generous cushioning while the blown rubber outsole is built to last.
This shoe is offered in narrow to extra wide sizes, so almost anyone can find the right fit. In addition to a cushy ride, we also like the reflective elements for low-visibility runs and the fact that it uses bio-based materials in the construction.
What We Like
- Generous amount of cushioning
- Good traction on the outsole
- Comfy knit upper
- Uses bio-based materials
What We Don't Like
- Not a great option for faster runs or workouts
- Neutral profile—runners needing stability should choose a different shoe
BUY: New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080
Best Designed Running Shoes for Narrow Feet - Nike Winflo 8
SPECS
- Weight: 10 oz.
- Heel-to-toe drop: 10mm
- Sizes: 6-15 (M), 5-12 (W)
While this shoe lacks a ton of tech, it's a good option for new or casual runners who aren't racking up a ton of mileage. The shoe features a narrow, shallow design and the upper isn't stretchy, so it's ideal for cradling slender feet. The flywire lacing system allows wearers to tighten up the laces for a locked in fit.
The translucent upper is stylish and overall looks like a more expensive shoe than it actually is. Wearers liked the durability of this shoe and noted it held up well to daily use. The Zoom Air cushioning could be more robust, but as long as you aren't logging double digit runs, it should feel just fine. At under $100, this is a great budget option for narrow-footed runners.
What We Like
- Budget price
- Flywire lacing system
- Comfortable upper
- Stylish design
What We Don't Like
- Not a ton of cushioning
- On the heavy side
Best Running Shoes for Overpronation and Narrow Feet - Asics Gel Kayano
SPECS
- Weight: 10.5 oz. (M), 9.5 oz. (W)
- Heel-to-toe drop: 10mm
- Sizes: 6-16 (M), 5-13 (W)
The Kayano is a tried and true shoe that's designed for overpronators. The combination of the LITETRUSS™ stability feature and the external heel counter provide support and prevent excessive inward rolling of the foot (aka overpronation). And for longer runes, the FF BLAST™ PLUS cushioning keeps the ride soft and comfortable.
We like that 50 percent of the shoe's upper is made with recycled materials and the OrthoLite™ X-55 sockliner does a great job hugging the foot. Wearers reported that the upper can feel a bit toasty on warm-weather runs, but otherwise looks and feels comfy. If you're a narrow-footed overpronator, the Asics Gel Kayano is a solid option.
What We Like
- Low profile external heel counter
- Utilizes recycled materials
- External heel counter and LITETRUSS™ in midfoot provide a lot of support
What We Don't Like
- Ride feels a bit stiff
- Upper has the tendency to run hot
Best Women's Running Shoes for Narrow Feet - Nike Free 5.0
SPECS
- Weight: 6.1 oz. (W)
- Heel-to-toe drop: 8mm
- Sizes: 5-12 (W)
The Nike Free uses a loop-based lacing system called flywire technology that allows wearers to get a snug fit. Overall, the shoe runs a bit narrow, which is what you're probably looking for if you're reading this. The insole isn't removable, which could be an issue, but overall wearers liked the form-fitting, sock-like fit of the upper.
This shoe is extremely lightweight, coming in at just over 6 ounces, and is made from 20 percent recycled content. The lack of weight is made possible by a very flexible outsole. Runners who like extra support and stability might find this shoe lacking, but for most runners, it's a good option for short jaunts.
What We Like
- Pull tab on the heel makes for easy on/off
- Extremely lightweight
- Breathable mesh upper
What We Don't Like
- Not a ton of cushioning, best for shorter runs
- The insole isn't removable
- Some users find the outsole to be too flexible (not responsive enough)
Best Trail Running Shoes for Narrow Feet - Reebok Zigwild 6
SPECS
- Weight: 15 oz.
- Heel-to-toe drop: 4mm
- Sizes: 6.5-15 (M), 5-11 (W)
With a unique zig-zag design in the outsole and a '90s-inspired aesthetic, this shoe doesn't look like anything else on the market. The stylish upper fits narrow and is made with synthetic textile materials. In addition to looking cool, it's also exceptionally breathable.
The zig zag lugs on the outsole provide extra cushioning, ideal for uneven and off-road terrain. This shoe does a great job when it comes to shock absorption and traction, but wearers did note that it lacks some durability. If you're looking for a really interesting off-road shoe with plenty of cushioning and design features, give the Zigwild a look.
What We Like
- Unique ZigTech outsole
- '90s-inspired design
- Heel pull for easy on/off
- Grippy feel, great for uneven terrain
What We Don't Like
- Some durability issues
- Heavier than regular trainers
Best Stability Running Shoes for Narrow Feet - adidas Adizero Adios
SPECS
- Weight: 7.7 oz. (M), 6.4 oz. (W)
- Heel-to-toe drop: 8mm
- Sizes: 5.5-14 (M), 5-12 (W)
The adidas Adizero Adios is a neutral, lightweight trainer that's built for speed. Historically, this shoe has run narrow, and while the 7th iteration is a bit wider, it's still a good choice for runners with narrow feet.
The upper is made from breathable mesh and the combination of Lightstrike and Lightstrike Pro cushioning produces a firm and responsive ride. The Adios also features adidas' proprietary Torsionrods for increased stiffness, making it an ideal shoe for stability and for higher arches, if you've got them. And with Continental™ rubber on the outsole, these shoes are able to stand up to however many miles your training requires.
What We Like
- Durable, grippy outsole
- Reasonably priced
- Lightweight
What We Don't Like
- Heel fit is a bit wide
- Tongue and collar feel flimsy
Most Comfortable Running Shoes for Narrow Feet - adidas Ultraboost 22
SPECS
- Weight: 11.8 oz. (M), 10.4 oz. (W)
- Heel-to-toe drop: 10mm
- Sizes: 5-12 (W), 7-13 (M)
The Ultraboost's primeknit upper runs snug which is ideal for narrow feet. And we like that the women's version features design elements specifically tailored to a female foot. The shoe features Boost cushioning in the midsole and Reebok's Linear Energy Push (LEP) system for more propulsion. The outsole features Continental™ rubber for increased traction and durability.
This cushioned shoe is best for easy-paced runs, though it could handle uptempo miles. For track work and races, you'd probably want to choose something lighter and with a bit more energy return. It's important to note that the Ultraboost doesn't come in wide or narrow options, but since it runs a bit snug, slender-footed runners shouldn't have an issue with the standard width.
What We Like
- Heel fit is snug to prevent slippage
- Upper is made from 50% Parley Ocean Plastic
- Extra cushioning makes for a comfy ride
What We Don't Like
- On the heavy side
- Not available in narrow or wide widths
How to Choose the Best Running Shoes for Narrow Feet
If your feet are on the slender side, it's important to look for shoe features that will work with that shape. Certain brands already run a bit snug, but you can also look for specific design features. As you hunt for the perfect pair of running shoes, keep your eyes out for the following specs.
Size
Sizing for narrow, medium, and wide-width shoes can get a bit confusing. A "D" denotes a medium/standard width for men's shoes while a "B" means narrow. Comparatively, a "B" width is the standard width for women's shoes and a "D" is wide. If you're a woman looking for a narrow-width shoe, look for "A" or "AA." If you're a man struggling to find the right fit, consider trying out a pair of women's shoes (size down approximately 1.5 sizes). Women's shoes generally have a more slender profile.
Materials
For feet that are narrow for the entire length (toe to heel), consider a shoe with an upper that doesn't give much. Rather than super stretchy mesh construction, look for things like plastic overlays and stiff material as those features can lead to a more locked-down feel. If you have a narrow heel, look for a shoe with a solid and supportive heel cup.
Lace Closure
To make a running shoe snugger, runners can experiment with how they lace their shoes. When purchasing a pair of running shoes for narrow feet, look for styles with plenty of eyelets. To get a narrow closure, try using a criss-cross design and utilizing the holes nearest to the collar of the shoe (up toward the ankle). Runners may also want to look for shoes with flat laces (rather than rounded), to get the tightest, most secure fit.
FAQs About Running Shoes for Narrow Feet
What width of foot is considered narrow?
For men's shoes, a "B" is considered a narrow size. For women's shoes, an "A" is considered a narrow width. Some brands may also offer an extra narrow "AA" size.
How should shoes fit with narrow feet?
You want to feel snug and secure when you put the shoes on. You shouldn't feel like you're slipping or sliding from side to side. If you have too much room, try a narrower width, different lacing strategies, or thicker socks.
How narrow should my running shoes be?
Narrow shoes are about 1/4-inch more slender than regular-width shoes and about 1/2-inch more narrow than wide-width shoes. In general, look for a locked-in fit that doesn't cause any heel slippage or side-to-side motion. Be careful not to veer too far in the other direction; a shoe shouldn't be so tight that it pinches or rubs.
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