If you have wide feet, buying a soccer cleat often feels like a trap. You find a pair that looks perfect, but the moment you lace them up, the toe box crushes your forefoot and your midfoot feels like it’s in a vice.
Most players try to “break them in,” but for wide-footed players, a standard cleat that is too narrow will likely never truly accommodate wide feet without causing foot pain or premature wear.
The direct answer for those with a wider fit is to stop fighting the shoe. To perform at your best, you need a soccer cleat designed with a wider toe box and a last shape that matches your foot shape.
Brands like New Balance lead the way with true 2E wide options, while classic leather soccer cleats like the adidas Copa Mundial provide a natural stretch that regular cleats simply cannot match.
New Balance: The Gold Standard for Wide Soccer Cleats
New Balance is currently one of the only top brands that consistently offers a wide selection of soccer cleats tailored for players with broader feet.
Unlike other brands that simply use “roomy” uppers, New Balance produces dedicated 2E wide versions of their most popular models.
- New Balance 442: This k-leather soccer cleat is a favorite for wide-footed players because it combines a premium kangaroo leather forefoot with a dedicated wide-fit option. It conforms to your foot quickly while providing extra room where you need it most.
- New Balance Tekela: For players who want a more modern, control-focused boot, the Tekela v4 is one of the few elite-level soccer shoes that comes in a true wide fit.
Adidas: Leather Comfort for Wider Feet
While many modern speed cleats are too tight, adidas cleats like the adidas Copa Mundial remain a staple for those with wide feet. The reason is the material; kangaroo leather is naturally elastic and will stretch to fit the ball of your foot over the first few sessions.
For those looking for modern FG soccer cleats, the adidas Copa line often provides more midfoot volume than the Predator or X series, making them a common choice for comfort among players with wider feet.
Nike Works for Some Wide Feet, Not All
Nike cleats tend to be built on a narrower last, which can be challenging for wide-footed players. However, the Nike Tiempo has traditionally been their “roomier” option. The modern Nike Phantom GX also features an adaptive upper that can accommodate wide feet better than the Mercurial, which is notorious for being very narrow.
How to Measure Your Feet for Wide Soccer Cleats
Finding the right cleats starts with knowing your measurements. Do not rely on standard sizes alone, as soccer cleats are engineered to be snug.
- Place your foot on a piece of paper and trace the outline.
- Measure the widest part of the ball of your foot in millimeters.
- Compare this to brand-specific charts. If your foot is over 100mm wide in a standard size 9, you should prioritize 2E wide options.
Choosing the Right Soccer Cleat for Wide Feet
When you shop wide soccer cleats, look for these features to avoid future foot conditions or pain:
- Natural Leather: Kangaroo leather or soft calfskin conforms to your foot.
- Wide Toe Box: Ensure your toes have room to splay naturally.
- Adjustable Lacing: A central lacing system allows for more width adjustment than laceless models.
Conclusion
You don’t have to suffer through narrow cleats. By choosing wide soccer cleats designed for your foot type, you can focus on your game instead of your pain.
Whether you choose the 2E wide fit of a New Balance 442 or the classic leather stretch of an adidas Copa, the right pair of cleats is out there.
FAQ
Are there 2E wide soccer cleats?
Yes, New Balance is the primary brand currently offering 2E wide widths in their performance soccer cleat lineup.
Do leather cleats stretch for wide feet?
Yes, kangaroo leather soccer shoes can stretch up to half a size in width, providing a custom-like fit for wider-footed players.
