If you’ve ever experienced discomfort or pain from bunions, you understand the challenges that accompany these bony protrusions. Whether genetically predisposed or aggravated by poorly fitting footwear, bunions can significantly impact your exercise routine and daily life.That's why choosing the best shoes for bunions—with a wide toe box, flexible upper, and well-cushioned midsole—is essential. To curate our list of recommendations, we first consulted five experts, including orthopedic surgeons and podiatrists, for their advice on what key features to look for when shopping. Then, we tested 22 expert-approved shoes as a part of our daily routines. Our team of testers, who all have bunions, spent time wearing and walking in each pair, evaluating them for fit, comfort, support, design, quality, and overall value. We also had an emergency physician from our Review Board review this article for accuracy surrounding what to look for in shoes for bunions, what causes bunions, and how to keep them from getting worse. Our Top Picks Best for Walking: Best for Plantar Fasciitis: Best Recovery Shoe: Best for Wide Feet: Best for Stability: Best for Running: Best Loafer: Best for Hiking: In This Article Our Picks We Also Tested Where We Stand What to Look For How We Tested Our Experts Frequently Asked Questions Why Trust Verywell Fit Our Ratings Fit 5/5 Comfort 5/5 Support 5/5 Pros Spacious toe box Versatile style Convenient pull-on Cons Suede material may get dirty Shoe Type: Boot sneaker | Sizes: Women’s 5 to 12 | Widths: Medium | Material: Suede upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Overall Rating: 5/5 Best if you want a stylish, comfortable shoe for casual or work wear. During testing, Tom’s Fenix Platform Chelsea Sneaker immediately stood out for its versatility and comfort for daily wear, combining the support of a sneaker and the ease of a pull-on boot. We wore these shoes for school drop-offs, walking the dog, and more. The roomy toe box offers plenty of space to accommodate bunions, and we didn’t notice any discomfort or blisters throughout testing. The suede upper offers style for wear in casual and dressy settings. Meanwhile, the foam midsole and rubber outsole offer plush comfort and grippy traction. By the end of our testing period, we didn’t notice any wear and tear—a testament to the shoe’s durability and high-quality materials. “These shoes were so comfortable from the second I put them on—I didn't have any pain or discomfort in my bunion area. I've been wearing them almost every day.” —Carolyn Malcoun, Verywell Fit product tester Our Ratings Fit 5/5 Comfort 5/5 Support 4.5/5 Pros Excellent arch support Stretchy, flexible upper Grippy outsole Cons Rocker shape takes some getting used to Shoe Type: Sneaker | Sizes: Women’s 5 to 12 | Widths: Medium | Material: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Overall Rating: 4.7/5 Best if you need a walking shoe for short and long-distance walks. To boost your step count without exacerbating bunions, we suggest Keen’s WK400 Leather Walking Shoe. The flexible mesh upper relieves pressure on your bunions and the wide rubber outsole ensures dependable traction. During testing, we found these shoes extremely comfortable and supportive for walking, standing, and other activities. Specifically designed with walkers in mind, the shoe’s midsole boasts stellar arch support for shock absorption and energy return on both short and long walks. It also has a slight rocker shape, which we noticed helped propel us forward. Plus, the contoured design provides a custom-like fit for added stability and comfort. Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Keen, and REI. “I could just tell when I walked in them that they were a solid, quality product—they were comfortable from the first time I put them on. I’m very impressed with these.” —Michele Hanson, Verywell Fit product tester Our Ratings Cushioning 5/5 Responsiveness 5/5 Stability 5/5 Fit 5/5 Value 5/5 Pros Excellent arch support Comes in three widths APMA Seal of Acceptance Cons May squeak while walking Shoe Type: Sneaker | Sizes: Women’s 5 to 12 | Widths: Medium, wide, extra-wide | Material: Knit upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Overall Rating: 5/5 Best for all-day wear, especially if you have bunions or plantar fasciitis. If you’re dealing with both bunions and plantar fasciitis, we recommend Orthofeet's Coral Stretch Knit Shoe. Its soft, flexible upper and wide toe box alleviate pressure on bunions, while the generous arch support provides a comfy surface to keep plantar fasciitis symptoms at bay. This pair is one of our favorites for plantar fasciitis. The well-cushioned foam midsole offers stability and shock absorption, ensuring protection for our feet and joints—even when walking on cement sidewalks. Three width options and space for orthotics or insoles make these shoes even better for bunions and plantar fasciitis. Plus, they earned the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, meaning a group of podiatrists has determined they promote healthy feet. Pros Roomy fit Convenient slip-on Lightweight Cons May be too wide for narrow feet Shoe Type: Slip-on | Sizes: Unisex sizing (women’s 5 to 11, men’s 7 to 14) | Widths: Medium | Material: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Overall Rating: 5/5 Best if you want a comfy recovery slide for pre- and post-workout or casual wear. One of our favorite recovery shoes, Hoka’s Ora 2 Slides provide the relief our feet need after a distance run, hard workout, or long day of wearing heels. They have a roomy toe box and plush foam midsole that we found relieves pressure, especially in bunion-prone areas. From the first wear, you’ll experience cloud-like comfort that lasts through extended periods of standing and walking. Despite their lightweight and breathable construction, these slides feel sturdy and stable. Plus, additional padding in the heel area enhances overall support and comfort. We also love the sleek, athletic design and convenient slip-on style, which makes them ideal for wearers on the move. “It's hard to find shoes that are both stylish and comfortable—especially ones that also accommodate bunions—but these are both!” —Sidney Burds, Verywell Fit product tester Our Ratings Fit 5/5 Comfort 4.5/5 Support 5/5 Pros Stretchy, flexible upper Versatile style Grippy outsole Cons May be less supportive than other options Shoe Type: Slip-on | Sizes: Women’s 6 to 11 | Widths: Medium, wide | Material: Faux leather, fabric, canvas, mesh, or microfiber upper; foam midsole; rubber outsole | Overall Rating: 4.9/5 Best if you have bunions and want a sporty slip-on shoe for casual wear. Dr. Scholl’s Nova Slip-On Sneakers offer the convenience of a slip-on shoe without sacrificing comfort and quality. The upper is available in faux leather, fabric, canvas, mesh, or microfiber fabrics—depending on your personal preferences and style. And we found that it’s flexible and stretchy enough to accommodate bunions. As one of our favorite slip-on sneakers, these boast a cushioned foam midsole that we noticed delivers comfort for long hours of wear. Plus, the rubber outsole is durable and grippy. We also love that these sleek, versatile shoes can be worn for everyday wear, commuting, traveling, and more. “I wouldn’t change a thing; they are pretty perfect.” —Jessica Fleming, Verywell Fit product tester Our Ratings Cushioning 3.5/5 Responsiveness 2/5 Fit 3.5/5 Value 4/5 Pros Spacious toe box Comes in two widths Well-cushioned midsole Cons Laces aren’t adjustable Shoe Type: Sneaker | Sizes: Women’s 5 to 12 | Widths: Medium, wide | Material: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Overall Rating: 4.5/5 Best for long walks and daily wear—especially if you prefer a classic sneaker style. If you have wide feet and bunions, shoes with a wide toe box are especially essential. We recommend Kuru's Atom Slip-Ons because they offer exceptional comfort, whether you’re aiming for 10,000 steps a day or just need a shoe for casual wear. Not only do they boast a wide and deep toe box, but they also come in two width options for even more accommodation for wide feet and bunions. During testing, our feet felt supported and pain-free thanks to the stretchy mesh upper and durable rubber outsole. We were also impressed with the ample foam cushioning, which reduces irritation and promotes comfort during long walks on various terrains. Also available in men’s sizes at Kuru. Pros Spacious toe box Sturdy and supportive Comes in two widths Cons Thin laces Shoe Type: Sneaker | Sizes: Women’s 5 to 12 | Widths: Medium, wide | Material: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Overall Rating: 4.7/5 Best if you want a sneaker for fitness walking and daily wear. Designed with a wide base and lateral support, Kuru’s Quantum Shoe delivers stability for walking, workouts, and daily wear. This shoe can be especially helpful if you need extra knee or ankle support. We wore it on cobblestone streets and steep inclines, feeling sure-footed on all surfaces thanks to the wide and deep toe box that let our toes splay. In testing, we also noticed that the mesh upper feels lightweight and flexible, preventing pressure on painful bunions. Plus, the solid arch support keeps our feet free of pain and fatigue—even after a long day of walking. We also appreciate that the sleek, sporty shoe doesn't carry the usual heaviness or bulkiness often associated with stability shoes. Also available in men's sizes at Kuru. “These shoes feel very well made and sturdy!” —Brie Goldman, Verywell Fit product tester Our Ratings Fit 5/5 Cushioning/Knee Protection 5/5 Comfort 4.5/5 Responsiveness 5/5 Stability 5/5 Pros APMA Seal of Acceptance Versatile style Comes in four widths Cons Not for runners with flat feet Shoe Type: Sneaker | Sizes: Men’s 7 to 15 | Widths: Narrow, medium, wide, extra-wide | Material: Engineered mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Overall Rating: 4.8/5 Best for neutral pronation runners with bunions who need a wide, supportive running shoe. Painful bunions can stop a runner in their tracks, but wearing the right running shoes can make a huge difference. Brooks’ Ghost 15 Sneakers boast plush cushioning in the arch and heel, which we found alleviates pressure and pain. During test runs, the wide toe box and stretchy mesh upper also help to keep irritation at bay. What’s more, the padded tab, collar, and tongue enhance overall comfort. And the shoes are also APMA-approved. We enjoyed wearing this versatile pair for running, as well as walking and gym workouts. Plus, we love that the shoes come in four different width options to accommodate a variety of foot shapes and sizes. Also available in women’s sizes at Amazon, Brooks, and Zappos. Our Ratings Fit 2/5 Comfort 3.9/5 Support 5/5 Pros Excellent arch support Convenient slip-on APMA Seal of Acceptance Cons May run large Shoe Type: Loafer | Sizes: Women’s 5 to 12 | Widths: Medium, wide | Material: Leather or suede upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Overall Rating: 4.2/5 Best for women who need a comfy, supportive shoe for casual wear, work, or going out. Vionic’s Cheryl II Loafers serve as proof that shoes designed for bunions can be streamlined and attractive. This sleek, stylish slip-on boasts a wide toe box and comes in wide sizes, accommodating bunions. Plus, it narrows in at the rearfoot, gently hugging our heel to provide more stability. During testing, we found that the podiatrist-designed footbed provides plush comfort, and the thick rubber outsole offers grippy traction. Notably, these shoes have also earned the APMA Seal of Acceptance, adding to their appeal. “Most bunion-specific shoes are not very attractive and often come in sneaker or sandal form. I love that these are really cute loafers.” —Jenny Hughes, Verywell Fit product tester Our Ratings Comfort 4/5 Fit 4.5/5 Performance 5/5 Durability 5/5 Value 5/5 Pros Flexible Good for multiple terrains Great waterproofing Cons Heavier than other options Shoe Type: Hiking shoe | Sizes: Women’s 5 to 11 | Widths: Medium | Material: Leather and mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber sole | Overall Rating: 4.7/5 Best for beginner to advanced hikers with medium to wide feet. Keen’s Targhee 3 Hiking Shoes offer the stability and traction you need for hiking, without putting pressure on bunions. The spacious toebox and grippy rubber outsole keep us sure-footed when traversing uneven or slippery terrain. Plus, the midsole shank helps stabilize our feet even more. The best hiking shoes should not only provide stability but also protect your feet from whatever you may encounter on the trail. That’s why we appreciate this boot’s waterproof layering that keeps feet dry and comfortable. Despite keeping water out, the upper remains breathable, ensuring that your feet stay cool and don't overheat. Plus, the shoes feature natural anti-odor protection to maintain a fresh scent. Also available in men’s sizes at Amazon, Keen, and Zappos. Our Ratings Cushioning 4.8/5 Responsiveness 5/5 Stability 5/5 Fit 4.9/5 Value 4.8/5 Pros Excellent arch support APMA Seal of Acceptance Stretchy, flexible upper Cons May be too wide for narrow feet Shoe Type: Sneaker | Sizes: Women’s 5 to 12 | Widths: Medium, wide | Material: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Overall Rating: 4.9/5 Best for those with flat feet who need a supportive walking shoe. One of our top shoes for flat feet, Rykä’s Devotion X Walking Shoes are also a great choice if you have bunions. The soft, stretchy mesh upper gently hugs the foot while allowing for enough flexibility so as not to aggravate bunions. Plus, the wide toe box provides plenty of room to accommodate lumps and for toes to splay. The midsole offers great arch support and reliable shock absorption—exactly what flat-footed wearers need. During test walks, this APMA-approved pair kept our feet comfy for hours at a time. And we found these shoes to be exceptionally high-quality and durable, making them well worth the already budget-friendly price. “My favorite thing about these shoes was the quality and comfort—they felt good from the first time I put them on.” —Michele Hanson, Verywell Fit product tester We put 22 pairs of shoes for bunions to the test but only included 11 in our final list of recommendations. While these four didn’t make the cut, we did find some noteworthy features worth mentioning. After testing 22 pairs of shoes for bunions, Tom’s Fenix Platform Chelsea Suede Sneaker is our favorite thanks to its spacious toe box, comfortable fit, and versatile style. As we continue to test shoes at home, we’ll update this list with the latest information and recommendations. To find the best shoes for bunions, we tested more than 22 pairs from top, trusted footwear brands. When testing shoes, we evaluate each option for the following critical criteria: In our research and testing, we consulted a total of five foot and shoe experts. Some experts helped us inform our tests, while others provided advice on what key features to look for when shopping. Bunions occur from pressure on the big toe as it leans toward the second toe. The initial pressure on the big toes is usually due to improperly fitted shoes, inherited foot and toe shape, or an inflammatory condition such as arthritis. Yes, poorly fitted shoes can make bunions worse. Bunions can occur or worsen when you wear shoes that are too short, high-heeled, too tight, or that have a pointed toe; these force the toes into an unnatural position. To keep your bunions from getting worse, always wear properly fitted shoes. Choose shoes with a lace-up or otherwise adjustable closure to allow for a custom fit. For flats and sandals, make sure the edge of the shoe, straps, or seams don't rub against the bunions, as that can irritate. You can also consider adding calf stretching, foot mobility exercises, and toe spreaders into your regular routine. To create wider shoes (especially if you do not want to purchase new shoes), you can use a stretcher, available at shoe stores or big-box retailers. Yes, wide shoes will have a roomier toe box, which is crucial for giving the toes room to spread out, according to Maloney. They’ll also help avoid putting pressure on or irritating the bunions. As a running coach, marathon runner, personal trainer, and fitness writer, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, has spent years researching and recommending running and walking shoes to clients and friends. Although she doesn’t have bunions, she knows how important it is to find the right support to avoid pain. To stand, walk, and even run in comfort, she suggests getting properly fitted for shoes and replacing them regularly.Best Overall
Toms Fenix Platform Chelsea Suede Sneaker
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Best for Walking
Keen WK400 Leather Walking Shoe
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Best for Plantar Fasciitis
Orthofeet Coral Stretch Knit Shoe
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Best Budget
Dr. Scholl’s Nova Slip On Sneaker
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Best for Wide Feet
Kuru Atom
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Best for Running
Brooks Ghost 15
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Best Loafer
Vionic Cheryl II Loafer
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Best for Hiking
KEEN Women’s Targhee III Waterproof
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Best for Flat Feet
Rykä Devotion X
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Shoes for Bunions We Also Tested
Where We Stand
What to Look for When Shopping for Shoes for Bunions
How We Tested Shoes for Bunions
Our Experts
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes bunions?
Can poor-fitting shoes make bunions worse?
How can I keep my bunions from getting worse?
How can you stretch shoes for bunions?
What shoes do podiatrists recommend for bunions?
Are wide shoes better for bunions?
Why Trust Verywell Fit
FAQs
We Wear-Tested the Best Slides, Slip-Ons, and Sneakers for People With Bunions? ›
Scholl's Nova Slip-on Sneaker is our pick. Despite the lower price, they had some of the highest marks in testing. The width in the toe area offered us bunion support, and they broke in well. They ran true to size, and we experienced no pain in our toes, heels, or arches.
Is there a bunion corrector that actually works? ›Unfortunately, there is no medical research or data to support the claim that bunion correctors straighten the big toe.
Are slides bad for bunions? ›Rather than walking barefoot, it's often better to walk around in a supportive, comfortable sandal because an improper gait can cause your symptoms to worsen. A great indoor sandal for bunions might therefore be a slipper or slide that has arch support, cushioning, heel cupping and plenty of room around the toes.
What shoes to avoid with bunions? ›Platform wedges and high-heeled boots cause the same problems. As a rule, get used to your natural height. Other shoes to avoid with bunions are ones that are too narrow and don't give your toes enough room to spread out and relax.
What brand of sneakers are good for bunions? ›- Best Shoes Overall For Bunions: Glycerin GTS 21 Running Shoes.
- Best Running Shoes for Bunions: New Balance Fresh Foam X 860v13.
- Best Walking Shoes For Bunions: Hoka Bondi 8.
- Best Ballet Flats For Bunions: Vionic Klara Knit Ballet Flats.
You can try massaging and exercising your feet, taking paracetamol, soaking your feet in a foot bath, icing your feet, and using castor oil, bunion pads, and bunion splints. These methods can help alleviate bunions naturally.
What is the best thing to fix bunions? ›Padded shoe inserts can help distribute pressure evenly when you move your feet, reducing your symptoms and preventing your bunion from getting worse. Over-the-counter supports can provide relief for some people; others require prescription orthotic devices. Applying ice.
Is walking barefoot good for bunions? ›Going barefoot is ideal in the beginning stages of bunions. When barefoot, the joints of the toes will get stronger, an important part of good foot health.
Are Skechers bad for bunions? ›Skechers GO WALK FLEX Alani shoes are 100% vegan, and they're our pick for the best budget shoe for bunions because they don't compromise value for comfort (or fun). The foam insole adds a breathable, lightweight layer of long-term, responsive cushioning for all-day comfort.
What is the best thing to wear for bunions? ›To manage and prevent bunion pain, it's advisable to wear shoes that have sufficient width for bunions, a rounded toe box, and appropriate arch support. Brands like Rothy's, Dr. Scholl's, Hoka, New Balance, Clarks, Sole Bliss, Birkenstock, and FitVille offer shoes specifically designed for individuals with bunions.
What foods should be avoided with bunions? ›
For some people, inflammatory arthritis is the direct cause. Everything is good in moderation therefore by eliminating food that encourages inflammation to the body like: sugary soft drinks and food, junk food, and white or refined flour can best help prevent bunion pain.
What worsens bunions? ›Wearing shoes that don't fit
High heels aren't the only poor shoe choice you can make. Any shoes that are too big, too small, too narrow, or too pointed cause rubbing and pressure on your bunion.
Our pick for the best shoes for bunions, the New Balance 990v4 Unisex, rose to the top thanks to a combination of comfort, support, and roomy toe box. With a wider fit and ample cushioning, they provide relief from pressure and reduce discomfort associated with bunions.
Are Hoka sneakers good for bunions? ›This makes the HOKA Clifton 9 an excellent choice for runners seeking relief from bunion-related discomfort, as it combines unrivaled cushioning, a smooth stride with the Meta Rocker, and a bunion-conscious design that delivers both support and comfort throughout your running endeavors.
What are the new options for bunions? ›Lapiplasty not only is revolutionizing bunion surgery for the surgeon, but also for the patient. The new procedure allows most patients to start bearing weight and walking on the affected foot in two to three days. That's much quicker than after traditional bunion surgery.
What do podiatrists recommend bunions? ›- Apply a commercial, non-medicated bunion pad around the bony prominence.
- Apply a spacer between the big toe and second digit.
- Wear shoes with a wide and deep toe box.
- If your bunion becomes inflamed and painful, apply ice packs several times a day to reduce swelling.
Lapiplasty® is a new procedure using patented technology to correct not only the bunion, but its root cause. It straightens three dimensions of alignment of the metatarsal bone.
How can I flatten my bunions? ›Try Bunion Splints
Bunion Splints and other bunion-correcting products aim to realign the shape of your foot by stretching or straightening the big toe to its intended position and away from the other toes. We would recommend opting for bunion splints which are intended to be worn at home or while you sleep.
Unfortunately, when it comes to bunions, over-the-counter products rarely deliver results. The reality is that items like bunion pads, cushions, splints, and correctors don't treat the root cause of bunions, and they don't offer a long-term solution to bunion pain. To put it another way: no, bunion pads don't work.
What actually helps bunions? ›Management and Treatment
Footwear changes: Switching to shoes with wide, deep toe boxes can take pressure off your toes. You may be able to use a stretching device to widen shoes you already own. Bunion pads and taping: Over-the-counter (OTC) bunion pads cushion the area around a bunion to relieve pressure.