Author: D V

Out of all the different types of shoes for women, flats are supposed to be the easiest, most comfortable option. But if you have wide feet, it can be hard to find a pair that doesn’t pinch or rub.

That doesn’t mean you have to settle. The best flats for wide feet deliver on comfort, support, and style—think roomy toe boxes, soft insoles, and designs that work with your feet, not against them.

We’ve rounded up nine of our favorite flats to help you step out in confidence and say goodbye to sore toes.

9 comfortable flats that won’t pinch or squeeze wide feet

Whether you’re looking for the best-fitting shoes to wear with a maxi dress or dressing up for work, these comfortable flat shoes for wide feet are proof that support and style can go hand in hand. 

The best part? Many of these styles are available at budget-friendly prices on ThredUp—you can even save your preferred shoe size and width, making it easier than ever to find perfect-fitting flats.

1. Everlane The Day Glove

Crafted from buttery-soft nappa leather, these wide-foot flats are as sleek as they are supportive. The Day Glove from Everlane features a flattering almond toe, leather sole with rubber traction spots, and a cushioned insole for all-day ease. And since the leather molds to your foot over time, buying them preloved on ThredUp often means they’re already broken in and extra comfy.

Thrift Everlane flats on ThredUp, starting at $29.99.

2. Rothy’s The Point Flat

Sometimes, sizing up is all it takes to find a shoe that fits. These chic pointed-toe flats are a cult favorite for a reason—with just a half-size bump, they’re a comfy go-to for wide feet. Rothy’s The Point features a flexible recycled knit upper, a bendy rubber sole, and a cushioned, removable insole that adds comfort without bulk. With sizes ranging from 5 to 13 and tons of colors and patterns to choose from, Rothy’s truly has something for everyone.

Thrift Rothy’s flats on ThredUp, starting at $12.99.

3. Birdies The Starling Flat

The Starling Flat from Birdies takes its cue from slippers, with a quilted satin footbed, built-in arch support, and a sturdy rubber sole to keep things grounded. While Birdies doesn’t always offer dedicated wide-width sizing, the Starling Flat’s relaxed shape and soft materials make these flats a win for broader feet.

Thrift Birdies on ThredUp, starting at $14.99.

4. Allbirds Flats

Made with breathable merino wool or airy eucalyptus fiber, Allbirds Flats are lightweight, flexible, and perfect for everyday wear. The signature SweetFoam™ soles offer just the right amount of bounce, making these cute flats for wide feet an easy choice for running errands or dressing up casual looks. Available in sizes 5 to 11 and a range of earthy, go-with-everything shades, Allbirds’ soft, stretchy materials make them a comfy pick for wide-footed thrifters.

Thrift Allbirds flats on ThredUp, starting at $19.99.

5. Vivaia Pointed Toe Flats

If you’re after something polished yet practical, Vivaia‘s pointed-toe flats deliver style without the squeeze. Their sleek silhouette hides a subtly wider toe box, making them perfect for wide feet. Crafted with stretchy recycled knit fabrics and designed with cushioned insoles and flexible rubber soles, these are flats you’ll actually wear from morning ’til night. The Vivaia Pointed Toe Flats are available in solid shades like classic black and bold red in sizes 5 to 11. 

Thrift Vivaia flats on ThredUp, starting at $25.99.

6. Sam Edelman Ballet Flats

Keep an eye out for Sam Edelman‘s Felicia Ballet Flat, a fan favorite you can often find on ThredUp in wider widths. With a soft leather or suede upper and a roomy, rounded toe box, these ballet flats for wide feet are all about easy, everyday comfort. An elasticized edge keeps them snug (but never tight), while a plush footbed cushions every step. The Felicia Ballet Flat is available in a rainbow of colors and prints—from timeless black to bold animal patterns—in sizes 5 to 11.

Thrift Sad Edelman flats on ThredUp, starting at $11.99.

7. Naturalizer Flats

Known for their comfort-first designs, Naturalizer makes some of the best flats for wide feet, with cushioned insoles, flexible construction, and a variety of foot-friendly materials. Whether you’re keeping it classic for work or going bold for brunch, you can find Naturalizer Flats in a wide range of colors and patterns for every vibe.

Thrift Naturalizer flats on ThredUp, starting at $26.99.

8. Salvatore Ferragamo Flats

If you’re looking for a luxury option for a special event, Salvatore Ferragamo Flats are a timeless pick. Crafted from buttery leather or velvety suede and often topped with the brand’s signature grosgrain bow, these flats feel as elevated as they look. Certain styles—like the iconic Vara flat—offer a bit more room, making them a stylish option for slightly wider feet. You’ll find flats from Salvatore Ferragamo in classic shades like black, navy, and burgundy, plus seasonal hues and occasional patterns.

Thrift Salvatore Ferragamo flats on ThredUp, starting at $33.99.

9. Birkenstock Sandals

Birkenstock sandals are beloved for a reason—their anatomically shaped footbeds and wide-width options make them one of the best flats for wide feet, hands down. With adjustable straps in natural leather or durable Birko-Flor™, these casual favorites offer a custom-feel fit and all-day support. You’ll find Birkenstocks in earthy tones like brown, tan, and black, with seasonal colors and fun patterns sometimes available. 

Thrift Birkenstock sandals on ThredUp, starting at $30.99.

How to pick shoes for wide feet

If your shoes constantly pinch, squeeze, or leave your feet feeling sore by day’s end, it might be time to check your width. Dealing with pressure at the ball of the foot or the dreaded “spilling over the sides” look? Those are classic wide-feet woes. If you suspect your feet are on the wider side, look for sizes labeled with a “W,” “D,” or “EE” to find your perfect fit.

Keep these key tips in mind when you’re on the hunt for cute flats for wide feet:

• Know your width: If you’ve been squeezing into standard widths, getting your feet measured by a pro will help you shop for wide-foot shoes that go with everything—and actually fit. 
• Consider the toe box: That too-fight feeling up front? It could mean the toe box shape just isn’t right. If sharply pointed-toe styles feel more like toe traps, try flats with rounded or square toe boxes for extra wiggle room. They’re especially good for warmer days when your feet need space to breathe.
• Material matters: Look for comfortable flat shoes for wide feet made from flexible materials like stretchy knits, soft leather, or buttery suede. These materials mold to your foot more easily, skipping the painful break-in period—especially key if you’re looking for shoes for clubbing or anything else that keeps you on your feet. 

Give your feet (and wallet) a break with ThredUp’s flats for wide feet

Finding truly comfortable flats for wide feet doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune or sacrificing style. On ThredUp, you can score gently used, name-brand flats that fit just right, for way less than retail. From cushioned insoles to reliable arch support, the preloved styles on ThredUp check every box—without the brand-new price tag.

Whether you’re after shoes that go with wide-leg pants or the perfect pair for bootcut jeans, ThredUp has you (and your feet) covered. 

FAQs

Can people with wide feet wear ballet flats?

Yes, people with wide feet can wear ballet flats—the trick is to find pairs designed with a wider toe box or made from flexible materials like soft leather or knit. Some even come in true wide widths, with bonus features like arch support for extra comfort.

Which women’s shoe brands run wide?

Brands like Vivaia, Everlane, Sam Edelman, ASOS Design, and Margaux are top picks for wide-foot flats that combine style with comfort. You can thrift many of them on ThredUp—just use the Width filter to zero in on your best fit.

Are ballet flats supposed to be tight?

No, ballet flats for broad feet aren’t supposed to feel restrictive. While they’re designed to fit snugly enough to stay on without slipping, ballet flats shouldn’t feel tight or pinch your toes. Your feet should rest naturally in the toe box, with enough space to flex and breathe. The right pair will mold to your foot’s shape without squeezing or causing discomfort.

Should I size up if I have wide feet?

While it sometimes works, sizing up isn’t always the answer. Shoes that are too long can slip at the heel and throw off your stride. Instead, look for styles marked specifically as wide widths; they’re built with extra room where it counts, like in the toe box and across the ball of the foot. Skip the guesswork—use ThredUp’s Width filter to find your next pair of comfortable flats.

Since 2022, the tech industry has faced a wave of layoffs due to economic uncertainty and other factors like job automation, cost reduction, and readjusting hiring policies after over hiring during the pandemic. 

If you’re a startup looking to hire new talent amid the most recent wave of tech layoffs, you might be feeling unsure about how to move forward. While this may seem like a daunting time for startups, it’s important to remember that this market shift has also created new opportunities to attract top talent. 

You can still attract top candidates and build a strong team by exploring three key strategies for successful hiring: understanding the job market, setting clear expectations, and marketing your company culture. Here’s how you can make the most of each strategy.

1. Understand the job market

First things first: it’s essential to understand the current job market for tech talent. To do this, research your competition and pay attention to salary trends, required skills, and other key factors. Online resources like LinkedIn and Glassdoor can provide valuable insights. 

For example, LinkedIn’s Talent Insights tool offers real-time data on industry trends and competitor insights. Glassdoor provides company reviews and ratings from current and former employees, giving you an idea of what your competition is offering in terms of benefits, perks, and company culture. (P.S. We send out trends, insights and news in our weekly newsletter).

Next, you need to understand the pain points of laid-off tech talent. While many tech workers will end up earning more in their next job, other candidates, particularly visa-holding immigrants, may be experiencing financial uncertainty or may be looking for a way to remain in the country. Use this knowledge to offer competitive compensation packages, job stability, and other benefits that may appeal to candidates based on the profile you’re targeting, such as a preferred hybrid work environment, according to a Gallup study.

2. Set clear expectations to filter potential candidates 

Once you have a clear understanding of the job market, it’s time to set clear expectations for potential candidates. In addition to creating a detailed job description that outlines the responsibilities, qualifications, and other important details of the position, be transparent about what the role entails and what your company expects from its employees. 

Communicate how a particular position fits in your business’ overall goals and the direct benefits a candidate would enjoy in this position. Some great examples include greater agency over their work, more creative control, professional development, or the opportunity to perfect and apply in-demand industry skills.

And while you may want to hire someone based on their technical expertise, don’t overlook candidates’ soft skills, which will allow them thrive in your company’s working environment and are, ultimately, essential to building a team that works well together.

3. Market your company culture to attract your ideal candidates

In 2023, candidates aren’t just looking for a job; they’re looking for a company that aligns with their values and provides a positive work environment. It’s crucial to communicate your company culture, values, and social engagement, but don’t just stick to a job description to advertise these. Candidates today expect to see proof of how you express your company culture, whether it’s on your company website or preferred social media account.

For example, promote company culture through your company website: create a “Culture” page highlighting your mission statement, core values and employee benefits. Post moments where your team is together on social media, like during fun team-building events, happy hours, or charity runs. Transparency and authenticity are key to attracting top talent, so use social media to regularly showcase company events, employees’ personal stories, and other aspects of your company culture.

Additionally, platforms like LinkedIn or Twitter, where like-minded professionals can share ideas and network with other professionals in an informal setting, can be a great place to find eligible candidates driven by the same mission your company is. Whether you’re committed to environmental sustainability or working toward resolving societal issues, giving concrete examples illustrating how your company culture manifests itself can help candidates determine if they’re a good fit and vice versa. 

Another key element in your company culture strategy is highlighting what your company does to retain its employees. Successfully demonstrate to potential candidates that you value your team and are actively engaged in top tech skill development and overall wellness, as mental health in the workplace is a top concern for Gen Z workers.

While layoffs may create uncertainty for many, they also provide opportunities for startups to find the right candidates to drive their business forward. By understanding the job market, setting clear expectations, and marketing your company culture, you can attract top talent and build a strong team capable of taking your vision forward.