Converse Wide Width vs Regular or Standard Width: Key Differences and Fit Tips

Finding the perfect pair of Converse sneakers can be tricky if you have wide feet. While the iconic canvas shoes come in a variety of colors and prints, they are known for running narrow.

If you’ve ever squeezed your feet into Converse only to feel pinched toes and sore heels after a few hours, you know the struggle is real. But don’t fret – there’s a solution. Converse now offers many of its classic shoe styles in wide width options to accommodate wider feet.

In this guide, we’ll dive into Converse wide width and regular and break down the key differences between Converse’s regular and wide widths. You’ll learn how to convert your regular shoe size to wide, find out which wide width Converse models are available, and get tips for achieving the ideal fit.

With the right info, you can confidently order wide width Converse that will be comfy all day long.

So, what is Converse Wide Width vs Regular? Converse wide width shoes are approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch wider on each side compared to regular width shoes. This extra width provides more room and comfort in the toe box for people with wider feet while maintaining the classic Chuck Taylor look. The wide sizes are labeled “(Wide)” on the Converse website. Leather Converse models stretch more and may also suit wide feet. For proper sizing, measure feet and use Converse’s size chart.

Also Read: What Socks to wear in Converse High tops

Regular Converse Width and Fit

Converse Chuck Taylor shoes have a reputation for running narrow, especially in the toe box area. This can make them uncomfortable for people with wide feet.

The flat rubber toe cap on Chucks limits stretch in the front of the shoe, while the canvas upper also has little give.

As a result, many find their toes feeling pinched and cramped in regular width Converse.

Sizing Down in Converse is Common But Can Worsen Width Issues

It’s very common for people to size down 0.5 to 1 whole size from their regular shoe size when buying Converse. This is done to prevent a loose, sloppy fit since the shoes don’t have much structure.

However, sizing down when you have wide feet can make the width issues even worse. Suddenly that already narrow toe box gets even tighter.

Potential Solutions for Accommodating Converse Width

There are a few potential solutions for making regular Converse work better for wide feet:

• Size up instead of down: Going a half or full size up from your regular size can allow more width room while the laces can be tightened for security.
• Try leather versions: The leather on shoes like One Stars and Pro Leathers molds better over time, stretching to accommodate your feet.
• Wear thin socks: Thinner socks take up less interior room compared to thick cushy socks.
• Remove the insole: Some Converse shoe models have removable insoles. Removing the insole can free up a little extra space.
• Break them in: Canvas Converse will give slightly over time and shape to your feet.

Wide Width Converse Overview

Converse Chuck Taylor sneakers have long been a popular footwear choice, with their simple canvas upper, rubber toe cap, and minimalist low-top design.

However, those blessed with wider feet have often struggled to fit comfortably into the notoriously narrow Converse silhouette.

Fortunately, Converse has finally acknowledged the plight of the wide-footed among us with their new wide width designs. These kicks provide some extra wiggle room that makes all the difference.

What Makes Converse Wide Width Wider?

The key difference between regular and wide width Converse styles is the measurement across the shoe itself. While specific dimensions aren’t provided by Converse, user reports suggest the wide versions are about 1/8 to 1/4 inch wider on each side compared to the standard width options.

This results in a slightly roomier interior, especially in the toe box area. The extra space is enough to solve the dreaded pinched toe issue wider feet often encounter in regular Converse Chuck Taylors.

Who Are Wide Width Converse For?

The wide width Converse are ideal for those who need just a tad more space than the average foot provides.

Folks with wide or extra wide feet will find the most benefit, as they can finally enjoy the classic Converse style with ample room to spread their toes.

The wider dimensions allow more flexibility and comfort during all-day wear compared to squeezing into narrow standard sizes.

For some, sizing up in regular widths still doesn’t cut it. The wide widths are a game changer. Even those with “only slightly wide” feet report a noticeable positive difference.

However, some extra wide feet may require even more space than these provide. While a bonus 1/8 to 1/4 inch makes a big difference, those with the widest feet may still find tightness or pinching.

The wide width Converse may not fully solve fitting issues for every individual body. Those familiar with 4E or 6E sizing may need to look at brands offering even wider options.

Try Wide Width Converse First

Since the wide vs. regular sizing difference is quite subtle, trying on Converse wide widths in person is ideal prior to purchasing. However, this can be tricky since wide sizes are often limited to online-only ordering directly through Converse.

Few physical shoe stores carry the full range of wide width selections. Calling ahead to check inventory is advised. For online orders, taking advantage of free shipping/returns policies can allow experimenting with both standard and wide sizes to determine ideal fit.

Sizing Down for Wide Width Converse

An interesting quirk of Converse wide sizing is that most users recommend ordering a half or even full size smaller than one’s regular Converse wide shoe size.

This appears counterintuitive – shouldn’t wide shoes be the same numerical size?

But comments reveal that the proper fit for wide width Converse seems to be achieved by sizing down.

This may be because the basic shape and internal proportions are still based on the original narrow design. So, consider buying a half or full size smaller than usual when purchasing wide-width Converse models for optimal comfort.

Wide Width Converse Availability

At the moment, the wide-width options from Converse appear limited to their classic Chuck All Star styles. As demand increases, hopefully, wide sizing will expand into additional styles and colors for more choice.

Converse Width and Fit Comparison

Converse makes classic Chuck Taylor shoes in both regular/standard widths and wider widths specifically designed for people with wider feet. There are some key differences between the two that affect the fit and comfort.

Toe Box Room

New wide-width Converse All Star styles provide noticeably more toe box room and width. Users report the wide sizes allow their toes, especially the pinky toe and big toe, to spread out more comfortably with less pinching and rubbing.

So, for those with wider feet, the extra toe box room in the wide widths can make a big difference in comfort.

Fit and Sizing

When sizing wide width Converse models, it is generally recommended to get the same size one normally wears in regular width Converse. Those who size up or down in regular widths should do the same for wide.

However, some users caution that wide sizes can run large and may require sizing down half a size. This may produce a slight “flop” sound when walking if too big. Trying both one’s regular and half size down is recommended for the best wide width fit.

Wide Width Converse Good for Those Wanting Tight Lace Look

An interesting side benefit of the wide Converse styles is that they can also appeal to those with average width feet who simply want a tighter laced look.

Some wearers opt for wide sizes so they can really crank down on the laces without the shoe’s sides bending inwards. The extra width prevents the shoes from deforming while still allowing a tightly cinched lace-up look.

So the wide widths work well not only for accommodating wider feet, but also for people who prioritize a particular aesthetic and don’t want their shoes to bend and warp too much when pulling the laces tight. This added appeal makes the wide widths versatile for different preferences.

Converse Wide Width vs Regular FAQs