Putting on the wrong shoe size is not only uncomfortable but can also cause uncomfortable foot conditions including Morton’s neuroma, ingrown toenails, calluses, corns and even metatarsalgia. To avoid these conditions and for comfort, it is important to switch to the right shoe size, mostly the wide and extra wide fitting shoes. Factors considered when determining the width of a shoe include the length of the foot, the measurement between the widest points of the foot and the instep girth. Many people, however, struggle to find medium or wide shoes as they may not be readily available in most markets. In this article, we will differentiate wide and medium shoes. 

What does Wide shoes mean?

These are shoes designed for people with wider feet. Usually 1/ 4 inch wider than medium shoes, these are available at orthopaedic or medical footwear brands or brands that specialize in the sale of wide shoes. The extra depth design provides pain relief, extra support and comfort. 

For the people who have wider than average feet, finding that perfect pair is not only important but has been deemed a necessity by orthopaedics. Another option is to wear barefoot shoes as they mimic the shape of the feet. However, given that wider feet tend to wear out shoes faster, the lifespan of the barefoot shoes may be limited. Flat shoes should also be avoided as they do not offer support for the feet. 

A woman’s wide shoes are marked with the letter D while a man’s wide shoe is marked with the letter E or EE. 

What does Medium shoes really mean?

These are shoes that are 1/ 4 inch wider than narrow fitting shoes. Although designed for people with wider feet, people with oedema or feet swelling may benefit from these. Medium shoes are however more available as compared to wide fitting shoes. 

While a woman’s medium shoes are marked is marked with the letter B while a man’s medium shoe is marked with the letter C or D. 

Similarities between Wide and Medium shoes

• Both are sized through the width and length

Differences between Wide and Medium shoes

Size variance

Wide shoes are shoes designed for people with wider feet, usually 1/ 4 inch wider than medium shoes and 1/ 2 inch more than narrow fitting shoes. On the other hand, medium shoes are shoes that are 1/ 4 inch wider than narrow fitting shoes.

Labelling

A woman’s wide shoes are marked with the letter D while a man’s wide shoe is marked with the letter E or EE. On the other hand, a woman’s medium shoes are marked with the letter B while a man’s medium shoe is marked with the letter C or D.

Wide and Medium shoes: Comparison Table

Summary of Wide and Medium shoes

Although the variance between wide and medium shoes may be small, the difference can greatly impact comfort. To ensure you get the right shoe, it is always important to try on the shoe before purchase. In case this is impossible, always have your shoe fitting measurements right.

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