For those dealing with bunions, we know how frustrating it can be to find the perfect footwear. It can be hard enough to find something that fits, let alone something that both fits and matches your style preferences. Traditional shoe styles are not typically designed with extra width in mind, so you can often be left with very limited options if you have bunions.
In this blog post, we will explore the intersection of bunions and fashion, and provide tips and advice on how to find the perfect shoes for your foot type, including fit, support, and style. Whether you are currently dealing with bunions or looking to prevent them in the future, this post will provide valuable information and guidance.
Bunions 101: How they affect your foot health and fashion choices.
Bunions are a common foot deformity that can impact the health and appearance of your feet in a number of ways. A bunion is a bony protrusion that forms at the base of the big toe, often causing discomfort, pain, and difficulty walking. It can also drastically impact your ability to find shoes that fit, as a bunion will make your forefoot wider, but not the rest of your foot. This creates an awkward dilemma, as you cannot just size up or get a wide fitting shoe, especially if you have narrow heels and ankles. Not only can bunions make it difficult to find comfortable and fashionable shoes, but they can also lead to more serious foot problems if left untreated.
Common causes of bunions.
Many people are predisposed to developing bunions due to their foot type and soft tissue structure. However, certain factors can increase the likelihood of developing bunions, such as degenerative joint conditions and certain gait patterns. In severe cases, bunions can lead to additional foot problems, such as hammer toes or calluses.
In the past, pointy shoes were often a contributing factor to the development of bunions. In fact, it’s reported that during the reign of King Henry IV, pointy shoes became so long that a sumptuary law was passed, prohibiting shoe tips that extended over two inches beyond the toe.
Bunions and shoes: Finding your sole-mate.
The importance of finding the perfect shoes for your foot type cannot be overstated, especially if you have bunions. Wearing ill-fitting or inadequate shoes can increase bunion pain and discomfort, and can even lead to the development of additional foot problems. Properly fitting shoes can provide support and cushioning to help alleviate bunion pain and prevent further damage to the foot.
In addition, finding the correct shoes can also help improve your overall posture and gait, reducing the strain on your feet and legs. Overall, taking the time to find the perfect shoes for your foot type, particularly if you have bunions, can have significant benefits for your foot health and well-being.
Shoe shopping tips for the perfect fit, support, and style (no matter your foot type).
When it comes to finding the perfect footwear for your foot type, there are a few key factors to consider, including fit, support, and style. Here are some tips for finding the perfect shoes for your foot type, with a focus on bunions:
Start by measuring your feet and knowing your shoe size.
There are tools available if you cannot get your feet measured in a shop. Our fitting assistant can help you make the process simple, and it only takes a few minutes.
Look for shoes with a wide toe box and a deep-heel cup.
Shoes that are too tight or constricting can put pressure on the bunion and cause pain. A wide toe box and deep heel cup will provide plenty of space for your toes and heel, allowing for natural movement and reducing pressure on the bunion.
Choose shoes with good arch support and a solid, supportive sole.
Shoes with poor arch support can cause your feet to roll inward, putting extra pressure on the bunion. A solid, supportive sole will provide cushioning and shock absorption, reducing the impact on the bunion and improving overall foot health.
Consider custom orthotics to provide additional support and alignment for your feet.
Custom orthotics are made to fit your individual foot shape and provide targeted support to help alleviate bunion pain and discomfort. They can be worn in any type of shoe, making them a versatile and effective option for those with bunions.
Bunion-friendly brands: The top picks for comfortable and stylish shoes.
In addition to our tips highlighted earlier, consider your personal style and preferences when choosing shoes. There are many fashionable and comfortable options available, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find the right shoes for your foot type and bunion condition. In this section, we’ll take a look at some of the brands that we recommend.
Waldlaufer.
Waldlaufer is a German brand that is known for its high-quality shoes made from premium materials, and designed for comfort and support. One of the standout features of Waldlaufer shoes is their soft stretch upper, which allows for a snug, yet non-constricting fit that won’t squeeze your feet. This makes them a great option for those with bunions or other foot conditions that require a little extra room and flexibility in their shoes.
In addition to their stretch upper, Waldlaufer shoes also have a deep heel cup and a cushioned footbed, providing cushioning and stability for the foot. Overall, Waldlaufer is a trusted brand for those seeking comfortable and stylish shoes that won’t compromise on fit and support.
Xsensible.
Xsensible is a Dutch brand that offers comfortable and stylish shoes with a unique feature: a stretch upper that provides plenty of room for your feet. The stretch upper on Xsensible shoes can expand up to 70% in width, allowing for a comfortable, non-constricting fit that won’t squeeze or pinch your feet. This makes them a great option for those with bunions or other foot conditions that require a little extra room and flexibility in their shoes.
In addition to their stretch upper, Xsensible shoes also have a deep heel cup and good arch support, providing cushioning and stability for the foot. Whether you are looking for a casual pair of shoes or something more formal, Xsensible has a variety of options to suit your needs and preferences.
HOKA.
HOKA is a popular brand known for its comfortable and stylish trainers, suitable for both everyday wear and athletic activities. One of the standout features of HOKA trainers is their rocker sole style, which can help relieve pressure on the forefoot and provide a more comfortable and natural walking experience. The rocker sole design allows for smooth transitions from heel to toe, reducing strain on the forefoot and improving overall foot health. This can be especially beneficial for those with bunions or other foot conditions that cause pain and discomfort in the forefoot.
In addition to their rocker sole, HOKA shoes also have a wide toe box and extra cushioning, providing plenty of room for your feet and support for the entire foot. Plus, there’s a huge range of colours and styles to choose from!Â
The role of custom orthotics in ensuring proper foot support and comfort.
Custom orthotics play a crucial role in ensuring proper foot support and comfort, particularly for those with bunions or other foot conditions. They are inserts that are made to fit your individual foot shape and provide targeted support to help alleviate pain and discomfort. They can be worn in most types of shoes, making them a versatile and effective option for those with bunions.
Custom orthotics are typically prescribed by a podiatrist or foot specialist, who will take measurements and impressions of your feet to create a unique orthotic that is tailored to your needs. In addition to providing support and alignment for the feet, custom orthotics can also help improve posture and gait, reducing strain on the feet and legs. Overall, the use of custom orthotics can be an important component of a comprehensive foot care plan for those with bunions or other foot conditions.
Final thoughts.
Choosing the correct footwear for your foot type and bunion condition is crucial for maintaining foot health and comfort. Wearing ill-fitting or inadequate shoes can worsen bunion pain and lead to additional foot problems, so it is important to find the perfect pair of shoes for your unique feet. With so many options available, there is no need to settle for uncomfortable or unflattering shoes.
And remember, if all else fails, you can always follow in the footsteps (pun intended) of King Henry IV and rock a pair of ridiculous, over-the-top pointy shoes – just make sure they have plenty of room for your bunions!
If you’re looking for your next pair of footwear to help with bunions, we recommend booking a free personal shopping appointment with one of our shoe-fitters.
It can be scheduled at your own convenience, and you will benefit from the valuable advice that will change the way that you shop for footwear.
