A side shield structure for a PMR write head is disclosed that narrows write width and minimizes adjacent track and far track erasure. The side shield structure on each side of the write pole has two sections. One section along the ABS and adjacent to the pole tip has a height (SSH1) defined by SSH1≦[(0.6×neck height)+0.08] microns. There is a non-magnetic gap layer between the first section and a second section that is formed adjacent to the flared sides of the main pole layer and serves to suction leakage flux from the flared portion and prevent unwanted flux from reaching the first side shield sections. A fabrication method is provided that includes electroplating the first side shield sections, depositing the non-magnetic gap layer, and then electroplating the second side shield sections. Subsequently, a main pole layer and a trailing shield are formed.