When I first put on a “wide” model of sneakers, I wondered why I hadn’t discovered this sooner. Admittedly, I’m not entirely to blame because, as far as I know, these options have only recently become available. In the past, you had to search for models made on a wider last, and there weren’t many of those.
The difference between the standard and wide models of the same sneakers is huge! The standard models in my size weren’t too small, but they always felt a bit tight. You get used to it, so I thought there was no other option. But now, there finally is another option because the wide models of the same sneakers make a significant difference. Finally, I WANT to put the sneakers on rather than feel like I’ve put my feet in a vice.
If you have wide feet or what’s called a “high instep,” I highly recommend looking for wide models of your favorite sneakers (and footwear in general).
Here are a few details.

The picture shows the narrow and wide models of the same sneakers: Hoka Clifton 9, size 46 2/3. They look almost identical, and if you pay attention, you will notice that the model on the right (green-blue color) is wider in the forefoot. Holding the two models in your hand will make the difference even more noticeable.

Another example: the gray On CloudSwift sneakers, size 47, an older model on the left, are the standard width, while the greenish On CloudSurfer, size 47, on the right, is the wide model.
Interestingly, I initially thought the sneaker’s sole was wider, but it’s not. The difference is that the material used to make the shoe is slightly longer (by about one centimeter). This allows the foot to spread out and feel free. The differences are minimal, but if you have wide feet and try the wide models of your favorite sneakers, you’ll never go back to standard models. Of course, this will narrow your choices, and you might have more trouble finding them, but the extra effort will be worth it. Your feet will thank you.
PS
One more note since I compared two brands that have been taking the world by storm lately: Hoka and On Cloud. Both brands have many models with different sole thicknesses (from very deep and soft ones that make you feel like you’re floating in the air to thinner and firmer ones for a quicker response from the ground). Hoka’s design is colorful and playful, while On Cloud has a more minimalist, modern urban look. That part is a matter of taste. However, I’d give a small plus to On Cloud for build quality and durability. For example, the On CloudStratus sneakers, in which I’ve walked and run almost 500 kilometers, look like I took them out of the box a few days ago. On the other hand, some Hoka sneakers already look a bit worn after 250 kilometers. Not all of them, though—Hoka has excellent models that are on par with On’s quality, but it seems some aren’t as good.