assistant: Black toenails usually signal either a toe box that's too snug (your toes are jamming forward on descents or during fast running) or a fit that's sliding around too much at the heel, forcing compensatory toe-gripping. Since you have wide feet, a roomy forefoot is non-negotiable — and you'll want a secure heel lock so your foot isn't migrating inside the shoe. I'm seeing three strong candidates for you, all with documented wide forefoot fit and good lockdown: **New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5** — The Run Testers praise its "roomy toe box" with "good clearance" and note it's "true to size" with "no heel slipping." It's a versatile daily trainer (38/32mm stack, 6mm drop) that handles everything from easy runs to tempo work. At $145, it's the value pick and genuinely well-regarded for comfort over distance. **New Balance 880 v15** — Also wide in the forefoot and true to size, with an aggressive rocker that smooths the transition and reduces late-stage toe pressure. Doctors of Running notes it offers "excellent stability for a neutral shoe." It's slightly heavier (281g vs 224g) but the rocker geometry and firm-responsive cushioning make it a solid long-run option. $140. **ASICS Gel-Nimbus v28** — If you want maximum cushioning and protection, this is the max-cushion option (42/34mm stack, 8mm drop). Wide forefoot, true to size, and well-regarded for comfort. It's positioned as recovery/easy-run focused, but the extra stack can reduce impact stress on your toes. $170. **My pick: start with the FuelCell Rebel v5.** It's roomy, secure, versatile enough for all your training, and reviewers specifically call out the toe-box clearance. If you find you need more cushioning for long runs, the Gel-Nimbus v28 is the upgrade path. One clarifying question: are you doing a lot of downhill running or trail work, or is this mostly road? That would help me gauge whether the Rebel's flatter platform or the 880's rocker geometry is the better fit.