What Does “XXW” Shoe Width Mean?
XXW Shoe Width 2020: The term “XXW” stands for Extra-Extra-Wide, a shoe width designation typically used in North American sizing systems. While there isn’t a fully standardized width system across all manufacturers, XXW generally equates to 5E or 6E in men’s sizing, and similar extended-wide measurements in women’s categories
The American width system begins with narrow letters like A, AA, and progresses through standard (B, D) to wider options (E, 2E, 3E, etc.). XXW corresponds to EEEEE (5E)—a notably roomy fit
Why XXW Width Was Significant in 2020
In 2020, the demand for extra-wide footwear gained traction due to rising foot health awareness and market shifts. People with conditions like diabetes, edema, bunions, or simply wide feet needed shoes that offered room to breathe and prevent pressure points. Wider widths like XXW became especially important for comfort and orthotic accommodation
Although exact trends or sales data from that year are sparse, the publication of width guides highlighting XXW and broader options underscores its relevance in 2020’s footwear market
Understanding Width Measurements—How to Measure for XXW
Finding your correct width starts with precise measurement. Follow these steps:
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Trace your foot on paper, standing fully on it.
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Measure the widest point, typically near the ball of the foot.
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Match this measurement with a width chart.
According to HealthyFeetStore.com’s width charts, manufacturers’ widths span from narrow to 9X Wide, including XXW, which is placed between 5X Wide and 7X Wide
For example, at men’s size 8:
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Medium (D): ~3 ⅞″
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Wide (2E): ~4 ⅛″
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Extra-Wide (4E/XW): ~4 ¼″
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XXW (5E/6E): Approximately 4 ½″—a substantial increase in toe-box space.
These dimensions emphasize how critical it is to identify and match your width for comfort, especially when looking at XXW options.
XXW vs Other Widths—Where It Stands
Navigating width letters and relative sizing is easier with a side-by-side look:
- M / B / D (Medium/Regular) – Standard fit.
- W / E / 2E (Wide) – Slightly broader.
- XW / EE / 3E (Extra-Wide) – Roomier, often called “wide-wide”.
- XXW / EEEEE / 5E (Extra-Extra-Wide) – Much broader, suitable for wider foot profiles.
- Ultra-Wide and beyond (e.g., 6E, 7E, etc.) – Extra-ordinarily roomy, for very broad or orthotic needs.
As of 2025, the XXW designation is recognized as EEEEE or 5E, definitely pushing the limits of standard fit
Availability & Brands Offering XXW in 2020
While 2020 didn’t bring universal availability of XXW across all footwear lines, several specialized brands and retailers offered options:
Rockport, for instance, provided men’s XX-wide shoes (XXW) across various styles like boots, sneakers, and dress shoes
Retailers like HealthyFeetStore.com showcased charts detailing XXW and even wider options—serving niche and medical markets
XXW options also existed on large-size specialty stores like XLFeet, offering men’s shoes up to 6E widths
Why Choosing the Right Width Matters
Selecting the correct width—especially a wide fit like XXW—can drastically improve foot health and comfort:
- Prevent pain from pinching or crowding.
- Allow for foot swelling, common with frequency or certain medical conditions.
- Reduce friction and blisters, aiding overall comfort.
- Enhance gait and balance, by avoiding tightness that alters foot motion
- Promote better orthotic accommodation, essential for many users with supportive insert needs.
Tips for Shopping for XXW Shoes
Here are a few strategic tips for buying XXW shoes, especially if you were searching in or after 2020:
- Always measure both feet—width and length—since one foot might be wider than the other.
- Check manufacturer-specific width charts, as standards vary
- Try at the end of the day, when your feet are naturally at their broadest.
- Use adjustable shoes (with laces or straps) or ones with removable insoles to optimize fit.
- For online purchases, prioritize brands that explicitly label XXW or provide precise width details.
- Consider medical or specialty brands if you require truly extra-wide widths—HealthyFeetStore, XLFeet, and others tend to offer extended ranges.
Conclusion
In summary, “XXW” means Extra-Extra-Wide—typically around 5E in North American shoe sizing. Its importance rose in 2020 as consumers looked for wider options to accommodate broader feet, swelling, or specific foot health needs. Though not mainstream, XXW options were supported by certain brands, medical retailers, and big-size specialists. Measuring accurately, consulting proper charts, and choosing the right source are the keys to comfortable, well-fitting footwear.
