We independently research, test, review and recommend the best products. Medical professionals review articles for medical accuracy. Learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Bunions are a common foot deformity that can cause pain and difficulty when wearing shoes. If you have bunions, it’s important to choose shoes that are comfortable and supportive. The best shoes for bunions will be wide with a soft, roomy toe box, according to Alissa Kizinas, DPMcertified podiatrist and founder of Doctor Ark, a holistic virtual foot care center.

Reviewed and approved

Designed with 4-way stretch fabric and a comfortable slip-on design, Oofos OOmg eeZee low shoe provides a roomy toe box that helps reduce friction on bunions. We also recommend Skechers GO WALK Arch Fit Iconic sneakers that are both affordable and approved by podiatrists.

“A wide toe box is different from a wide shoe,” says Dr. Kizinas. “Wide toe boxes are more fan-shaped and widen at the end of the shoe, while wide shoes are just tapered toe boxes with extra volume.”

Other key features include a soft upper, ample cushioning, and good arch support. The best shoes for bunions are also comfortable enough to wear all day and aren’t too flat or high heeled. We consulted with podiatrists and researched dozens of shoes for bunions, focusing on shoe shape and heel height, as well as finding shoes made from flexible materials like mesh and neoprene.

Here are the best shoes for bunions on the market today.

How we selected the shoes

When selecting the best shoes for bunions, we spoke to podiatrists and spent hours combing through customer reviews to find shoes that would provide the support, cushioning, and space needed to accommodate bunions. We also looked at factors like arch support, weight, heel-to-toe drop, and outsole traction.

To narrow down our list, we looked at shoes designed specifically for bunions or those with a wide toe box. We also looked at shoes with breathable materials to help keep your feet cool and dry and those with extra padding to provide support and absorb shock. And we’ve made sure to include shoes to suit different budgets and activities so you can find the perfect pair for your needs.

What to look for in shoes for bunions

toe box

Bunions form when the first joint of the big toe swells, causing the big toe to point inward. This can crowd your toes and cause pain. When shopping for shoes suitable for bunions, it is essential to take note of the size of the toe box. “Those with bunions should look for a supportive shoe with a wide, rounded toe box that will accommodate the bunion deformity,” says Tim Oldani, DPM, FACFAS, for Missouri Foot and Ankle.

The large toe box provides the extra room you need to avoid aggravating your bunions. “When you have a bunion, no amount of room in the toe area is too much,” says Dr. Oldani. “The number one rule of shoe shopping for those with bunions is to look for a toe box with enough room to accommodate the deformity. If there’s no pressure on the bunion, it won’t there will be no pain in the shoes.”

heel height

It is also essential to consider heel height when buying bunion-friendly shoes. “In general, women with bunions should avoid extremely high heels. If the heel is too high, it will put enormous pressure on the big toe joint and ball of the foot,” says Dr. Oldani. “This will cause increased pressure on the bunion and significant pain.”

Dr. Oldani also notes that the appropriate heel height varies from person to person. “If I had to pick a specific number, I would look for a two-inch heel,” he says. But he notes that the most important thing is to find a heel height that doesn’t cause pain.

Lenght

Shoes that are too narrow can also aggravate bunions. “If the shoe is narrow and the material doesn’t stretch or conform to the shape of the foot, there will likely be chafing,” says Said Atway, DPM, clinical associate professor of orthopedics at Wexner Medical Center at Ohio State University. “Narrow shoes should be avoided if you have a bunion as it can lead to increased pressure and exacerbation of pain,” he adds.

To determine if a shoe is too narrow, it is often enough to try it on and see how it feels. If the shoes are too tight, you may experience pain or discomfort in your toes. Getting the shoes fitted by a professional is always the best way to ensure you get the right width, but be sure to mention your bunion so they can take that into account.

If you buy shoes online, check the size chart and customer reviews to get an idea of ​​how the shoes fit. Some brands also offer large widths, providing the extra space you need to accommodate an onion.

Materials

When buying shoes to accommodate bunions, it is also necessary to take note of the materials used. Some fabrics may be more difficult to stretch. And synthetic materials may not offer as much breathability.

“The recommendation is to wear wide shoes with a mesh or fabric material that can reduce pressure on the bunion,” says Dr. Atway. “Materials that can stretch and conform are best for bunions and other bony prominences. Mesh, soft leather, and materials that can stretch are best.”

Dr. Oldani also recommends shoes made from forgiving materials. “Flexible materials such as soft leather, mesh or neoprene will conform to the contour of the bunion and minimize pressure,” he explains. “Rigid materials such as plastic will have no elasticity and will therefore quickly cause inflammation and pain.”

Shoe styles

There are certain types of shoes you should avoid if you have bunions. “High heels, especially those over two inches, should be avoided as they put increased pressure on the ball of the foot and can make bunion pain worse,” says Dr. Oldani.

Dr. Atway also notes that several shoe styles tend to be narrower than others. “Ballet flats, high-heeled shoes, and flip-flops without arch support are all bad options,” he says.

When it comes to the best shoe styles for bunions, Dr. Oldani recommends anything with a wide toe and flexible materials. “Generally, a casual or athletic shoe will work best for those with bunions. This is because lace-up shoes tend to be wider, and some even come in multiple widths and have a rounded toe,” explains- he. “They will also provide support through the arch and a cushioned footbed.”

Wearing the right shoes can help prevent bunions from developing and relieve pain if you already have them. If you experience foot pain, be sure to see a podiatrist or other medical professional for a proper diagnosis.

Frequently Asked Questions


  • How to stretch shoes for bunions?

    If you have a pair of shoes that are too tight in the toes, there are several ways you can stretch them to make them more comfortable. One way is to wear the shoes for short periods of time to gradually stretch them. You can also use a shoe stretcher or bunion corrector to help with the process. Shoe stretching sprays and solutions are also available and can be used to help stretch shoes to better accommodate bunions.


  • Can shoes fix a bunion?

    There is no definitive answer as to whether or not shoes can correct a bunion. However, wearing proper footwear can help prevent bunions from developing and minimize pain. If you experience foot pain, be sure to see a podiatrist or other medical professional for a proper diagnosis.


  • Are wide shoes better for bunions?

    Try different styles and sizes to find the best fit when shopping for shoes. Wearing wide shoes can help reduce the pain and pressure caused by bunions. Some brands also offer large widths, providing the extra space you need for more comfort.

Why trust Verywell Health

Lindsay Modglin has written for Insider, Forbes, Everyday Health and more. She has a decade of clinical experience in health and wellness as a nurse. She also holds a professional certificate in scientific writing from Stanford University, which has helped her break down complex health concepts into easy-to-understand language. Its number one priority is to ensure that readers have access to accurate and actionable information to make the best healthcare decisions.