Best Shoes for Bunions Based on Styles & Needs
Bunions make walking painful. And the wrong pair of improper shoes can make walking with bunions, even for a short distance, even more excruciating. However, there are steps you can take to ease the pain caused by bunions, such as wearing a pair of soft, comfortable shoes designed with features meant to keep your feet pain-free all year long. Shoes that offer comfort at every step can be stylish, too. Looking for the right footwear for you doesn’t have to be difficult. Search for shoes with the following attributes when shopping for the best shoes for bunions: shoes with a wide toe box made of flexible material, shoes with lots of soft padding and allover cushioning, and shoes with textured rubber soles. You will feel better in no time when walking and running.
What Causes Bunions, Exactly?
Ill-fitting shoes aren’t the actual cause of bunions, but they can make matters worse. So, what causes bunions? Bunions are a common foot deformity. They’re a painful, bony bump that develops slowly over time on the inside of the foot at the big toe joint. Once the deformity increases, it becomes extremely painful for sufferers to wear shoes while walking, running, and exercising, even if just for a little while. Some people are just prone to bunions due to genetic predispositions. Those people have feet more likely to develop bunions. However, other factors add to the risk of a bunion growth, including foot injuries, types of arthritis, hypermobility (or a big toe that twists out of normal alignment), and overpronation (or having a low arch or uneven weight-bearing in the foot or tendon).
Persistent foot pain is one of the most common reasons to see your doctor. Also, look out for these other symptoms: a large red or swollen lump or bump on or near the joint on your big toe and decreased flexibility in your big toe. Also, if you are having a hard time finding shoes that fit your feet, give your doctor a call. Your doctor may conduct an x-ray to determine how serious the issue is, attempt to figure out what caused it, and decide on how to treat your bunion pain. Your doctor may also help you choose the right shoes for you.
What Shoes Give You Bunions?
Ill-fitting shoes that cramp your toes are not the actual cause of bunions, but they can surely make the problem way worse. Narrow shoes and high heels are common culprits. That’s why researching and shopping for comfortably fitting shoes will make walking, running, and exercising much easier. Then you will be ready to swap out your troublesome footwear.
Does Going Barefoot Help Bunions?
Bunion pain may tempt you to go barefoot or wear flip-flops to avoid shoes rubbing on your feet. However, too little arch support for your feet can also make your bunions worse, so again, it’s better to search for the best shoes for bunions that are comfortable, supportive, and stylish.
Best Shoes for Bunions That Are Actually Stylish
You may be wondering, what are some stylish shoes I can rock while dealing with bunions? Lucky for you, there are plenty of fashionable shoes you can wear for all-day comfort for your feet. You don’t have to stick to flats (though there are ample chic flats you’ll love). Here are some shoes, such as ballet flats, loafers, women’s winter boots, sneakers, and wedge sandals, that are both stylish and incredibly comfortable and supportive. All the shoes listed below are available in wide sizes. They also have some or all key features that make walking with bunions a bit more bearable, such as soft cushioning and padding, a rubber traction sole, arch support, soft materials, an adjustable fit, and flexible construction. Finally, they are all versatile enough to pair with a range of women’s pants, skirts, tops, and dresses. Happy shopping!
Lands’ End Women's Wide Width Comfort Elastic Slip-on Ballet Flat Shoes
These chic, highly versatile flats are available in so many colorways in designs. The neutral brown and black selections go with almost everything hanging in your closet, from your skinny jeans to your cotton sundresses. They’re also available in a bright red hue and a snakeskin-inspired pattern. They are just so convenient and pretty, with soft leather or kid suede construction. Just slip them on, and you’re good to go. Best of all, they lend support to your feet. Their flexible design, cushioned footbed, and elasticized edge lend comfort at every step. You definitely should snag one or two pairs.
Lands’ End Women's Wide Width Comfort Mary Jane Leather Shoes
Switch up your flats with a chic pair of Mary Jane shoes. These comfortable shoes will take you from work to the weekend, with a leather construction that can be styled up or down. A removable, super-soft, pillow-like footbed lends soft comfort to your feet. And a durable rubber outsole provides much-needed traction. You will be reaching for these every day.
Lands’ End Women's Wide Width Comfort Suede Leather Slip-On Loafer Shoes
These loafers are also available in a range of colorways and patterns, including metallic silver and pretty pink. They are ideal for your commute to work since they look stylish with women’s chino pants. And they are just so comfy, with a cushioned foam footbed. They also feature rubber soles for ideal traction and stability.
Lands’ End Women's Wide Width All Weather Insulated Cuffed Winter Snow Boots
Slip into these chic boots when the weather takes a dip. They are available in shades that go with almost all your knit dresses and leggings. A faux-fur trim lends a chic touch, and a water-resistant upper protects them against wet conditions. Their rubber outsole keeps you steady as you walk on icy sidewalks, while a soft interior offers much-needed cushioning.
Women's Wide Width Insulated All-Weather Winter Snow Boots
These boots are sturdy enough to take on any rough weather condition. They’re water-resistant, with a plush fleece lining to keep your feet nice and toasty. Walking around in them will feel like heaven for your feet, with a molded footbed for the utmost comfort and support. Plus, they’re stylish. They are available in various colorways to match with all your chic women’s sweaters and in a quilted design for an eye-catching style.
Lands’ End Women's Wide All-Weather Closed Toe Sandals
Bunions should not keep you from journeying out in nature, and these sandals serve as a great alternative to sneakers when hiking in the summer. This style combines the looks of both sneakers and sandals for shoes perfect for walking the dog, hitting the trails, or just running errands when paired with lightweight women’s shorts. Not only are they available in wide sizes, but they also feature an adjustable strap for a custom fit. A shock-absorbing EVA footbed helps prevent foot fatigue, while a traction rubber sole keeps you steady.
Lands’ End Women's Wide Leather Comfort Wedge Sandals
Relieve pressure while looking stylish in the summer by wearing these wedge sandals. That’s right: you can wear shoes with a bit of a heel while dealing with bunions, as long as the heel isn’t too high (try to keep the heel below 2”). These wedges, with a 1 ½” heel, take your style to new heights thanks to a sleek leather construction that complements both dressy and casual ensembles. A soft foam footbed provides all-day comfort, and they are available in chic colorways to match all your women’s skirts and summer dresses. Your toes will be breathing easier in no time.
Lands’ End Women's Wide Water Shoes
If you’re heading to a beach, boardwalk, or boat, you’ll want to slide into these shoes that help keep water at bay. Drainage holes throughout shed water, and odor control keeps your feet fresh. A stretchy mesh-spandex blend provides flexibility and comfort for your bunion pain, while bungee laces lend a secure fit.
Are There Special Shoes for Bunions?
The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) grants every year a Seal of Acceptance to footwear that pass a rigorous review of safety and quality control. The shoes must go above and beyond in providing quality support, comfort, and overall foot-heath benefits for people suffering from all types of foot pain, such as pain caused by bunions. For superior support and relief, search for shoes with a stamp of approval from the APMA.
How to Choose
Choose your pair of shoes based on your personal style, budget, and needs. Seek out a few pairs that match your work-to-weekend wardrobe, or select various types of shoes for comfort no matter the occasion or time of the year. You would be surprised at the sheer number of bunion-friendly shoes you have to choose from to add to your lineup. Check to see if the shoes are certified by the APMA. If they’re not, that’s okay, as long as they have great reviews from customers or people you know who also suffer from bunion pain. Do the shoes have thick soles? A thick rubber traction sole will keep you steady, no matter your destination, especially if you’re always on the go. Lightweight shoes and footwear with flexible construction are also ideal for foot pain. And, if your potential shoe purchases have a warranty, you can easily return them for something better.
Is it Certified?
As aforementioned, some high-quality shoes feature the APMA’s stamp of approval, meaning they offer superior comfort and support for people suffering from foot pain, such as pain caused by bunions. So, check to see if the shoes you are interested in purchasing feature a Seal of Acceptance from the APMA. This stamp of approval helps you better understand the quality you would be getting.
How Thick Are the Soles?
Wearing shoes with thick, impact-resistant soles will keep you steady. If you’re a runner or just need new kicks for walking, look for running shoes or casual sneakers with thick soles and soft cushioning for a soothing experience.
How Much Does the Shoe Weigh?
Look for lightweight shoes that you won’t notice throughout the day. Many bunion-sufferers complain about their shoes rubbing against their pain points, so searching for shoes made of soft, lightweight material will help you in the long run.
What’s It Made Of?
Find footwear made with fabric that will not irritate your feet. Soft leather, faux leather, supple suede, and breathable knit fabric all provide a flexible fit and feel good too. Plus, these materials are versatile and pair well with many tops and pants.
What Kind of Tread Does it Have?
Thick rubber soles with treading keep you nice and steady, making walking and running more bearable. Treading is especially important for runners or people who are always on the move, so search for running sneakers, walking shoes, and casual shoes for better bunion health today.
Does it Have a Warranty?
Shoes for bunions are an investment. So, like any important purchase, make sure that they have a warranty. Sometimes, walking around in them while trying them on in the store isn’t enough to determine how they’ll support your feet while you’re out and about. And if you’re purchasing online, there’s an even greater chance that you may be disappointed in your selection. Footwear with a warranty gives you the chance to swap out your shoes for something more suitable.
Finding Bunion Relief
Replace or donate all your beloved yet ill-fitting shoes today. You want to feel as good as you look, and there are comfortable, stylish shoes for bunions designed to provide ideal support. Look for shoes with a wide toe box to give your toes, especially your big toe, more room to breathe. The best shoes are made of soft materials, like soft leather, and feature good cushioning and traction rubber soles.
Don’t stop with your footwear. There is more to approving the health of your feet than just improving your shoe collection. Look for accessories that will lend additional relief to your feet. For example, big toe gel bunion guards and toe spreaders reduce friction, irritation, and pressure on bunion joints. They also re-align overlapping, crooked toes. Arch support shoe insoles provide additional cushioning and energy return. Corrector and bunion relief protector sleeves reduce friction between your toes for instant relief from bunion pain. There are even stylish bunion relief socks designed to help soothe uncomfortable pain.
Other self-care practices can help with the pain in the meantime. Use ice to help ease swelling and pain by wrapping the ice in a towel and putting the towel on your bunion. Treat yourself to a foot massage by soaking your overworked feet in a foot spa bath massager after a long day. Find a spa with water jets and raised nodes that will soothe your feet, and slip into soft slippers afterward. Take over-the-counter medication to help with the pain.
Find your new favorite pair of flats, sneakers, loafers, and sandals at Lands’ End to style with all your comfy clothes. You will feel better in no time.