Morton’s neuroma is a condition that affects the nerves between the toes, often causing pain and discomfort. People with Morton’s neuroma may experience a burning or tingling sensation in their toes, as well as numbness or a feeling of a pebble in their shoe. The condition can be caused by a variety of factors, including wearing shoes that are too tight or have high heels, as well as overuse or injury.
Proper footwear is essential for people with Morton’s neuroma, as it can help alleviate pain and prevent the condition from worsening. In this blog post, we will be discussing the 5 best shoes for Morton’s neuroma from a shoe-fitter’s perspective. We will take a detailed look at them, examining their features, design, and how they can help with Morton’s neuroma. We will also provide pros and cons of each shoe and where you can purchase them.
Choosing the correct shoe for Morton’s neuroma can be a daunting task, as there are many different options available. However, with the right information, you can make an informed decision and find a shoe that will provide the support and comfort you need. In this blog post, we aim to provide that information and help you find the best shoe for your needs.
Firstly, consult a medical professional!
While proper footwear can help manage the symptoms of Morton’s neuroma, it is not a substitute for medical treatment. Morton’s neuroma is a condition that can cause significant pain and discomfort, and it’s important to seek treatment from a qualified medical professional. If you have been diagnosed with Morton’s neuroma or suspect that you may have the condition, it is essential to see a podiatrist.
A podiatrist can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend treatment options, including custom orthotics, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. Even if you don’t have a neuroma but are experiencing similar symptoms, it’s recommended to see a podiatrist as it could be something else that needs attention. Regular visits to a podiatrist can help catch and treat any potential issues before they become worse. It’s crucial to remember that self-diagnosis and self-treatment of Morton’s neuroma is not recommended and can lead to delayed or inadequate treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your feet, it’s always best to consult with a medical professional.
Our recommendations.
As shoe-fitters, we have had the experience of working with many individuals who have been affected by Morton’s neuroma. Through this experience, we have found that selecting the correct footwear can make a significant difference in managing the pain and discomfort associated with this condition. That’s why we have put together a list of our top 5 recommendations of shoes for Morton’s neuroma.
Before you buy however, just remember that feet are incredibly individual. What works for one may not work for another! Though we do know that the components that go into these shoes can make a drastic difference when it comes to managing your pain and symptoms.
1. HOKA Gaviota 4.
The HOKA Gaviota 4 is a popular choice among individuals with Morton’s neuroma and it is also one of my personal favourites. As a shoe-fitter, I can attest to the comfort and support that this shoe provides. Even though I do not have a neuroma, I own a pair of these shoes and can confidently say that they are amazing!
One of the standout features of the HOKA Gaviota 4 is its oversized midsole, which provides exceptional cushioning and shock absorption. The shoe also has a wider forefoot design, which allows for more room for the toes and helps to reduce pressure on the nerve. The heel is also contoured and provides added stability. The upper is made of engineered mesh, which is breathable and flexible.
In terms of design, the HOKA Gaviota 4 has a sleek and modern look. It is available in a variety of colours, so you can find one that suits your personal style. The shoe is also lightweight and responsive, which makes it great for a variety of activities, including walking, running, and even hiking.
When it comes to relieving symptoms of Morton’s neuroma, having a shoe that offloads pressure at the forefoot is a must. Gaviota 4 is made with a metarocker sole, so the shoes will help offload a lot of the pressure from the affected part of your foot.
In terms of cons, some users may find that the shoe runs a bit big, so we generally recommend sizing down a half size to get the best fit.
Overall, the HOKA Gaviota 4 is a fantastic shoe for individuals with Morton’s neuroma, as it provides the support, cushioning, and room that the condition requires.
2. Xsensible Golden Gate.
The Xsensible Golden Gate is another great option for individuals with Morton’s neuroma. This shoe is designed to promote a natural and balanced walking experience by reducing peak pressure points, which can help to reduce pressure on the damaged nerve at the front of your foot. Golden Gate has a lovely wide toe box with a unique stretch leather upper, so your feet are sure to have enough room to function and breathe. The shoes also feature a removable insole, so they’re a great option if you want to support your treatment plan that a podiatrist has prescribed.
The Xsensible Golden Gate is available in both men’s and women’s sizes, and comes in a variety of colours, so you can find one that suits your personal style. Now I do not want to sound bias, but I have to admit, I own a pair of these shoes as well and I can confirm that the level of comfort and support that the shoe provides is outstanding.
Similarly to Gaviota 4, Golden Gate has a rocker sole design. They work in a slightly different way to HOKA’s, but the sole will still help to relieve pressure in your forefoot by guiding the foot forwards as you walk. Again, this will offload a lot of pressure from the painful parts of your feet.
Overall, the Xsensible Golden Gate is a great option for individuals with Morton’s neuroma, as it provides the support, room and adjustability that the condition requires.
3. Asics MetaRide.
The Asics MetaRide is a high-performance shoe that is designed to provide exceptional support and cushioning for individuals with Morton’s neuroma. One of the standout features of this shoe is its unique MetaRide technology, which helps to promote a natural and efficient stride, and will help to offload painful pressure points in the forefoot. The shoe also has a wide forefoot design, which allows for more room for the toes, and helps to reduce pressure on the nerve.
The upper of the shoe is made of a lightweight and breathable material, which helps to keep your feet dry and comfortable. The outsole is made of durable rubber, which provides good traction and durability.
Overall, the Asics MetaRide is a great option for individuals with Morton’s neuroma, as it provides the support, cushioning, and room that the condition requires. With MetaRide technology, it promotes a natural gait and efficient stride, so it can be a great option for running and other high-performance activities. However, due to the discontinuation, it may be difficult to find the right size and availability may vary.
4. Joya Cancun II.
The Joya Cancun II is another fantastic option if you are looking for a comfortable and supportive shoe to help alleviate the discomfort caused by your Neuroma. This shoe features a unique rocker sole design that helps to distribute your body weight evenly across your feet, and will help offload pressure from the forefoot which is typically the problematic area. The wide toe box allows for your toes to move and spread out, further reducing pressure and allowing your feet to function freely.
Cancun is made with super soft Joya footbed technology, which will cushion your feet with every step. Not only can this help your Morton’s Neuroma symptoms, it will also help ease strain on your back, knee, and ankle joints. Plus, like the other shoes mentioned in this post, the footbed is fully removable so you can replace it with your orthotics.
If you’re on the hunt for a shoe that will support you in your daily activities, Joya Cancun II should definitely be on your list!
5. HOKA Bondi 8.
The HOKA Bondi 8 is another popular choice among individuals with Morton’s neuroma. It is a member of HOKA’s Bondi family, which features shoes that are designed for maximum cushioning and support.
Like the Gaviota 4, the Bondi 8 has an oversized midsole that provides exceptional cushioning and shock absorption. The shoe also has a wide forefoot design, which allows for more room for the toes, and helps to reduce pressure on the nerve. The heel is also contoured and provides added stability. The upper is made of engineered mesh, which is breathable and flexible.
The main difference between the Bondi 8 and the Gaviota 4 is that the Bondi 8 is designed for maximum cushioning, whereas the Gaviota 4 is designed for both, cushioning and stability. Like Gaviota though, Bondi still has metarocker technology so it will offload a lot of pressure from your forefoot as you walk, stand, and perform any other activities.
The Bondi 8 is available in a variety of colours, so you can find one that suits your personal style. The shoe is also lightweight and responsive, which makes it great for a variety of activities, including walking, running, and even hiking. It’s worth noting that the Bondi 8 is just one example of the HOKA Bondi family. We stock other types of Bondi, and the difference between them might not be as huge, but still worth mentioning.
Overall, the HOKA Bondi 8 is a great option for individuals with Morton’s neuroma, as it provides the support, cushioning, and room that the condition requires.
Final thoughts.
Morton’s neuroma is a condition that can cause significant pain and discomfort, and proper footwear is essential for managing its symptoms. Each of these recommendations have their own unique features and design, so it’s important to consider your personal needs and preferences when making a decision.
It’s also important to remember that while proper footwear can help manage the symptoms of Morton’s neuroma, it is not a substitute for medical treatment. If you have been diagnosed with Morton’s neuroma or suspect that you may have the condition, it is essential to see a podiatrist. Regular visits to a podiatrist can help catch and treat any potential issues before they become worse.
In this blog, we aimed to provide the information you need to make an informed decision about the best shoe for your needs, and to help manage the symptoms of Morton’s neuroma. Remember that these shoes might be discontinued and availability may vary, but this is only a small setback in finding the perfect shoe for your feet.
If you want personalised recommendations for footwear, book 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.
