What are the best shoes for bunions?
Argh, the dreaded B word! Bunions! The bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe that can be downright painful if not managed properly.
Bunions can certainly take the wind out of your sails when shopping for a somewhat fashionable shoe, or if you’re simply looking to alleviate discomfort and prevent the condition from worsening. When dealing with bunions, choosing the right footwear is essential for happy feet, and an absolute game-changer when you find a shoe that works for you.
Bunions (hallux valgus) affect a significant portion of the adult population. Studies estimate that between 23 and 36 per cent of adults suffer from bunions. Women are more commonly affected than men, and the condition is more prevalent in older adults, with up to 60-70 per cent of older adults experiencing them.
Arch Support
At The Right Shoe, our Certified Fit Specialists regularly help customers who come into the store looking for suitable footwear to alleviate bunion pain. The first thing we address during our one-on-one journey with a customer who has bunions is proper arch support. An unsupported arch will eventually worsen the condition, and cause the bunion to get larger and more painful.
For indoor (or outdoor) wear we will often recommend a Birkenstock or a supportive indoor slipper by Haflinger. If you’re looking for a casual shoe, Dansko offers excellent arch support and often a roomier toe box, and comes in regular and wide widths.
Fit
Equally important is a good fit. Immediately defaulting to wide or extra-wide models may compromise fit, as the shoe may become sloppy through the midfoot or heel. Often a regular-width shoe with a more generous toe box will alleviate bunion pressure. Working with a Certified Fit Specialist and trying on different brands and models for a proper fit is critical.
Shoes for bunions that tend to have a wider toe box, and that we carry at The Right Shoe, include Altra, Keen, Hoka, Dansko and New Balance.
Shoe Construction
Examining a shoe’s construction and features is important when finding shoes for bunions. Shoe models with a broader base/sole will provide better support for the toe joint. Good cushioning provides additional padding under the foot, reducing the impact on the bunion when walking. It’s also important to look for soft, flexible upper materials. Shoes made with flexible upper materials, such as soft leather or fabric, can adapt to the shape of your foot, including bunions. Stretchable fabric reduces friction and pressure on the bunion, helping to prevent irritation and discomfort. Shoe adjustability can also be helpful for bunion relief. Shoes or sandals with adjustable straps can help you customize the fit. In the sandal category, a Birkenstock Franca or a Wolky Jewel may offer a solution. The HOKA Ora Lux slide is another option.
In the running shoe category, try the Brooks Ghost Max 2 for walking and running, the Asics Nimbus 26 or the Altra Olympus. As an indoor slipper or recovery shoe, try the HOKA U Restore.
Last, but certainly not least, is heel height. Shoes with a low, broad heel (less than two inches) can provide better stability and reduce pressure on the front of the foot. Lower heels help distribute weight more evenly across the foot, which can alleviate stress on the bunion.
If you are experiencing bunion pain, arch support, a proper fit and examining a shoe’s construction and features to ensure they meet your needs is critical to finding greater comfort and mobility in your daily life. It’s also important to work with an expert to find the right shoe for your needs. At The Right Shoe we offer you one-on-one support and take the time required to find your perfect fit!
Book an appointment or drop into our store to experience our memorable customer journey.