As shoe fitters with a fair amount of experience in the field, we know first-hand how challenging it can be to find comfortable and stylish shoes if you have bunions – and we’ve seen the frustration first hand. Do not worry however, as we’ve searched far and wide for the best brands that can help you, and have compiled a list of the 7 best shoes for bunions that won’t make your feet even more painful. From practical, waterproof styles to lightweight shoes you can wear for any occasion, our list has a range of options to suit any need and keep your feet nice and cosy this winter.
With our expertise in shoe fitting, you can trust that these picks have been carefully selected to provide both comfort and protection for bunion sufferers. Keep reading to discover the top shoes for bunions that we recommend. However, remember that feet are incredibly individual and it’s not always a one size fits all approach (excuse the pun).
Bunions: A brief overview.
A bunion is a deformity that occurs when the big toe points towards the other toes on the foot, causing the joint at the base of the big toe to become swollen and painful. This deformity is often caused by wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, but it can also be hereditary. Bunions can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including pain and swelling, which can cause difficulty walking. A bunion can also drastically impact your ability to find shoes that fit well, due to the changes in your foot shape. Most high street shops will not have footwear that consider these changes.
If left untreated, bunions can worsen over time and may require surgical intervention to correct. It’s important to take care of your feet and choose shoes that fit properly to help prevent the development of bunions, or to manage the pain and discomfort of existing bunions.
Shoes for Bunions: things to consider.
Bunions can be a source of discomfort and pain, especially when it comes to finding the right shoes. It’s important to choose footwear that is wide-fitting and made of soft, stretchable material to give your feet room to breathe and prevent friction on the bunion. Hard materials should be avoided, as they can cause additional discomfort. Brands like Waldlaufer and Xsensible offer a range of shoes for bunions with stretchy uppers that are both comfortable and stylish. In this list, we’ve included options from both of these brands and more, so you can find the perfect pair of shoes to manage your bunions and keep your feet happy.
It’s also important that your feet can relax, and remain in a neutral position when you have bunions. This will relieve pressure points and will prevent them from getting any worse.
Top features to look for in shoes for Bunions.
When it comes to finding the right shoes for bunions, there are a few key features to look for. Firstly, comfort is essential. Shoes for bunions should have a wide toe box to give your toes room to move and prevent further irritation. They should also have support to help distribute your weight evenly, and put your feet in a more neutral position to help them relax. In addition to comfort, it’s important to look for shoes that offer good support. This means choosing shoes with a sturdy sole and heel to provide stability and help prevent falls.
Finally, don’t forget about style! While it’s important to prioritise comfort and support, it’s also nice to find shoes that you feel good wearing. There are brands out there that enable you to look good and feel comfortable, and we’ll introduce you to them in the next section of the blog.
Our personal recommendations.
Xsensible Uppsala.
The first shoe on our list is the Xsensible Uppsala. You’ll see a few Xsensible shoes on this list, as the stretch walker technology is an amazing remedy for bunions symptoms. Stretch walker styles feature a very unique stretch leather that can stretch up to 70% in width and 30% in length. This enables you to find a comfortable fit that doesn’t put pressure on the bunions, but also means you are not swimming around in a shoe that is too wide or deep for your feet.
If you’re looking for a more robust walking shoe that provides the necessary support and comfort for your bunions, then the Xsensible Uppsala is a great option. The Uppsala is also made with Xsensible DRY-X water resistant technology, which makes it a great choice if you want something more heavy duty that can withstand the rigours of outdoors.
It’s worth noting that Uppsala along with every shoe on this list features a removable insole, which is an important thing to consider if you plan on using any of these shoes with your own orthotics.
Xsensible Golden Gate.
Another one from Xsensible, with all the same benefits (and more), but with a focus on fashion. The Xsensible Golden Gate is another great option for those with bunions. Like the Uppsala, the Golden Gate features stretch leather technology which offers ample room for your feet and toes without compromising the general fit. These shoes also feature a rocker sole design, which can help to offload pressure at your forefoot, as well as put your foot in a neutral position to prevent the bunion worsening.
With its combination of comfort, support, and fit, the Xsensible Golden Gate is a great choice for anyone looking for a comfortable and functional shoe for their bunions.
Asics MetaRide.
The Asics MetaRide is a performance-oriented running shoe, but we have found it to be an excellent problem-solver for those with bunions. The standout features are the wide toe box and meta rocker technology. The rocker sole helps to alleviate painful pressure points and put your feet in a more neutral position, and the wide toe box means your toes will not be constricted and will be able to function correctly. We’ve been using MetaRide for years to help people with bunions, so we know how effective it can be. If you do not mind wearing something with a more athletic appearance, MetaRide could be the choice for you.
Xsensible Aosta.
Let’s change it up a little bit and talk about some trendy boots. Xsensible Aosta is a stylish and functional boot for that can help alleviate your symptoms and reduce discomfort. With the same stretch leather technology as the other Xsensible styles, it will provide your feet with plenty of room without compromising the overall fit. Xsensible are designed to promote healthier wellbeing through movement, which is exactly what these boots do. And they’ll look great as they do it!
The lightweight design makes the boots perfect for casual wear, whether with jeans or a dress. Plus, as an added bonus, the above-the-ankle cut of the boot provides added support and stability as you walk and stand.
Waldlaufer Hiroko.
If you’re looking for a shoe that’s specifically designed for sensitive feet and allows for fatigue-free walking throughout the day, then the Waldlaufer Hiroko in Combi Carbon is a great choice. It’s a nice lightweight shoe, made with a soft and high-quality upper that will not constrict your feet or contribute to any pain in overly tender areas. Hiroko also has extra width, so your toes will have plenty of room to relax.
Xsensible SWX.
If you’re looking for a comfortable and functional shoe with extra width and cushioning, then the Xsensible SWX range is a great choice. Like the Golden Gate, this range features the Stretchwalker technology, providing support and comfort while allowing for a flexible fit. The SWX range is wider fitting, providing extra room for your feet, and has additional cushioning at the heel and forefoot for added comfort. With its combination of technology, comfort, and versatility, the Xsensible SWX range is a great choice for anyone looking for a comfortable and functional shoe for their bunions.
HOKA Bondi.
If you’re looking for a shoe with a wide toe box and technology to ease pain and pressure in the affected area, then the HOKA Bondi is a great choice. The Bondi features a spacious toe box, allowing your feet to relax and function correctly, and the meta rocker technology helps to alleviate pressure points in your forefoot. The Bondi is designed to provide the comfort and support that your feet need, making it an excellent choice for those with bunions. If you’re looking for the perfect blend between lightweight and supportive, HOKA Bondi could be the choice for you.
Final thoughts.
Finding the correct footwear for bunions can be a challenge, but it’s worth the effort to find a pair that is both comfortable and stylish. In this blog, we’ve shared some of our top picks for shoes that cater to the needs of bunion sufferers. However, it’s important to keep in mind that every person’s feet are different, and what works for one person may not work for another.
If you need some support in choosing your next pair, 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.
