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The 11 Best Shoes for Bunions to Prevent and Relieve Pain
Including slides, slip-ons, sneakers, and more
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.
Spacious toe box
Versatile style
Convenient pull-on
Suede material may get dirty
Key Specs
Shoe Type: Boot sneaker | Sizes: Women’s 5 to 12 | Widths: Medium | Material: Suede upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They’re For
Best if you want a stylish, comfortable shoe for casual or work wear.
Why We Love Them
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.
Potential Flaws
- We love the soft, suede upper but worry that it may get stained or damaged in harsh weather. Wearers may want to use a waterproofing spray for protection.
Most Valuable Insight
“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
Verywell Fit / Carolyn Malcoun
Verywell Fit / Carolyn Malcoun
Verywell Fit / Carolyn Malcoun
Excellent arch support
Stretchy, flexible upper
Grippy outsole
Rocker shape takes some getting used to
Key Specs
Shoe Type: Sneaker | Sizes: Women’s 5 to 12 | Widths: Medium | Material: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Overall Rating: 4.7/5
Who They’re For
Best if you need a walking shoe for short and long-distance walks.
Why We Love Them
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.
Potential Flaws
- The shoe’s rocker shape takes some getting used to, but we found it helps with quick and efficient strides.
Most Valuable Insight
“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
Verywell Fit / Michele Hans
Verywell Fit / Michele Hans
Verywell Fit / Michele Hans
Verywell Fit / Michele Hans
Best for Plantar Fasciitis
Orthofeet Coral Stretch Knit Shoe
- Cushioning5/5
- Responsiveness5/5
- Stability5/5
- Fit5/5
- Value5/5
Excellent arch support
Comes in three widths
APMA Seal of Acceptance
May squeak while walking
Key Specs
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
Who They’re For
Best for all-day wear, especially if you have bunions or plantar fasciitis.
Why We Love Them
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.
Potential Flaws
- While some wearers have reported a squeaking sound when walking in these shoes, it's worth noting that we didn’t hear anything in testing.
Roomy fit
Convenient slip-on
Lightweight
May be too wide for narrow feet
Key Specs
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
Who They’re For
Best if you want a comfy recovery slide for pre- and post-workout or casual wear.
Why We Love Them
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.
Potential Flaws
- The top strap is not adjustable, so it may be difficult for wide-footed wearers to find a snug fit.
Most Valuable Insight
“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
Verywell Fit / Sidney Burds
Verywell Fit / Sidney Burds
Verywell Fit / Sidney Burds
Verywell Fit / Sidney Burds
Stretchy, flexible upper
Versatile style
Grippy outsole
May be less supportive than other options
Key Specs
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
Who They’re For
Best if you have bunions and want a sporty slip-on shoe for casual wear.
Why We Love Them
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.
Potential Flaws
- Although these shoes are comfortable, they don’t have as much arch support as some other options we tested. Still, you can always add insoles or custom orthotics if you have flat feet.
Most Valuable Insight
“I wouldn’t change a thing; they are pretty perfect.” —Jessica Fleming, Verywell Fit product tester
Verywell Fit / Jessica Fleming
Verywell Fit / Jessica Fleming
Verywell Fit / Jessica Fleming
Spacious toe box
Comes in two widths
Well-cushioned midsole
Laces aren’t adjustable
Key Specs
Shoe Type: Sneaker | Sizes: Women’s 5 to 12 | Widths: Medium, wide | Material: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Who They’re For
Best for long walks and daily wear—especially if you prefer a classic sneaker style.
Why We Love Them
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.
Potential Flaws
- While the shoe’s slip-on design is convenient, we wish that the faux laces could be adjusted to achieve a more secure fit.
Verywell Fit / Krisha Joshi
Verywell Fit / Krisha Joshi
Spacious toe box
Sturdy and supportive
Comes in two widths
Thin laces
Key Specs
Shoe Type: Sneaker | Sizes: Women’s 5 to 12 | Widths: Medium, wide | Material: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Overall Rating: 4.7/5
Who They’re For
Best if you want a sneaker for fitness walking and daily wear.
Why We Love Them
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.
Potential Flaws
- In testing, we found the laces to be thin and somewhat difficult to tie. If this is an issue for you, you can always swap out the laces.
Most Valuable Insight
“These shoes feel very well made and sturdy!” —Brie Goldman, Verywell Fit product tester
Verywell Fit / Brie Goldman
Verywell Fit / Brie Goldman
Verywell Fit / Brie Goldman
Verywell Fit / Brie Goldman
Best for Running
Brooks Ghost 15
- Fit5/5
- Cushioning/Knee Protection5/5
- Comfort4.5/5
- Responsiveness5/5
- Stability5/5
APMA Seal of Acceptance
Versatile style
Comes in four widths
Not for runners with flat feet
Key Specs
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
Who They’re For
Best for neutral pronation runners with bunions who need a wide, supportive running shoe.
Why We Love Them
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.
Potential Flaws
- These sneakers are ideal for neutral runners, but may not have the right stability features for runners with flat feet who overpronate.
Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
Excellent arch support
Convenient slip-on
APMA Seal of Acceptance
May run large
Key Specs
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
Who They’re For
Best for women who need a comfy, supportive shoe for casual wear, work, or going out.
Why We Love Them
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.
Potential Flaws
- During testing our usual size felt too big, so we had to go down a half size.
Most Valuable Insight
“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
Verywell Fit / Jenny Hughes
Verywell Fit / Jenny Hughes
Verywell Fit / Jenny Hughes
Verywell Fit / Jenny Hughes
Best for Hiking
KEEN Women’s Targhee III Waterproof
- Comfort4/5
- Fit4.5/5
- Performance5/5
- Durability5/5
- Value5/5
Flexible
Good for multiple terrains
Great waterproofing
Heavier than other options
Key Specs
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
Who They’re For
Best for beginner to advanced hikers with medium to wide feet.
Why We Love Them
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.
Potential Flaws
- Since they’re designed for hiking, these shoes are too heavy-duty for casual, everyday wear.
Verywell Fit / Mariya Ginzburg
Verywell Fit / Mariya Ginzburg
Verywell Fit / Mariya Ginzburg
Best for Flat Feet
Rykä Devotion X
- Cushioning4.8/5
- Responsiveness5/5
- Stability5/5
- Fit4.9/5
- Value4.8/5
Excellent arch support
APMA Seal of Acceptance
Stretchy, flexible upper
May be too wide for narrow feet
Key Specs
Shoe Type: Sneaker | Sizes: Women’s 5 to 12 | Widths: Medium, wide | Material: Mesh upper, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Overall Rating: 4.9/5
Who They’re For
Best for those with flat feet who need a supportive walking shoe.
Why We Love Them
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.
Potential Flaws
- We found that these shoes may be too wide for narrow-footed wearers.
Most Valuable Insight
“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
Verywell Fit / Sahara Borja
Verywell Fit / Sahara Borja
Verywell Fit / Sahara Borja
Shoes for Bunions We Also Tested
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.
- Kuru’s Stride Move Shoes have a sleek, slip-on style and don’t irritate our bunions. However, we noticed that the midsole could use a bit more cushioning to enhance comfort, and the outsole could benefit from improved traction for better grip.
- While Ryka’s Vivid Pro Training Shoes have a spacious toe box and excellent heel stability, we found that the midsole is lacking in cushioning and arch support.
- We loved the sleek design and eye-catching style of Adidas’ NMD R1 Shoes, but noticed that the fit was uncomfortable and not supportive.
- Allbirds’ Tree Dasher Relay Shoes boast a sleek, slip-on style, but we found it difficult to find a comfy fit due to the lack of adjustability.
Where We Stand
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.
What to Look for When Shopping for Shoes for Bunions
- Fit: Look for shoes with a roomy and flexible fit that allow some room for your bunions without putting pressure on them. Shoes that are available in wide or extra-wide sizes and have laces or straps are also helpful, especially if you have larger feet.
- Toe Box: The toe box should be wide enough to accommodate the bunion prominence, preventing any pinching or excessive pressure, says podiatrist Ami A. Sheth, DPM. Make sure there is ample space for your toes to spread out and lie flat in the shoes.
- Heel Height: If you’re prone to bunions, you may want to avoid wearing high heels that angle your foot forward, creating pressure on your toes that can contribute to the development of bunions or exacerbate existing ones, says orthopedic surgeon Scott Katzman, MD. Opt for shoes that allow for an even distribution of weight between your heel and toes. If you enjoy wearing heels, consider a lower heel or platform style, Katzman says.
- Cushioning and Support: Well-cushioned and shock-absorbing midsoles can lessen impact and pressure on bunions, improving overall comfort. Look for shoes with good support in the arch area and thick rubber soles to reduce tension and impact.
- Flexibility and Breathability: Opt for materials that are flexible and breathable, like knit or mesh, A soft, stretchy upper can alleviate pressure on existing bunions and prevent new ones, Sheth says.
- Price: The best shoes for bunions typically cost between $50 and $170. Our most budget-friendly option is Dr. Scholl’s Nova Slip-On Sneaker, and our priciest pick is Keen’s WK400 Leather Walking Shoe. Depending on the style, brand, and construction, the price of the shoe will vary.
How We Tested Shoes for Bunions
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:
- Fit: To begin testing, we try on each pair of shoes to asses the fit: Do they feel narrow or wide? Is there enough room in the toe box and stretch in the upper to accommodate bunions? We also pay attention to the fit around the arch and heel, noting the comfort level in those areas. Adjustable closures, such as laces or straps, are another consideration we account for.
- Comfort: Next, we wear the shoes for prolonged periods to gauge their comfort level and to determine whether they cause pain or discomfort in the bunion area. We observe for any pressure points, hot spots, or areas of friction that may irritate. And we also assess the shoe’s effectiveness in alleviating discomfort or pain associated with bunions.
- Support: In evaluating this category, we consider whether the shoes offer sufficient arch support to prevent pressure on our bunions. We pay attention to potential instability or changes in our gait or walking patterns while wearing the shoes. We also take note of any specific features, like midsole cushioning, that contribute to the overall support of the shoes.
- Design: For design, we carefully examine the overall aesthetics and experience of the shoe, evaluating whether specific features enhance their suitability for wearers with bunions. We also consider whether the design makes the shoes versatile enough to be worn across various purposes and settings.
- Quality: Next up, we examine the constriction and condition: Do the shoes feel high-quality and sturdy, or cheap and flimsy? We perform a bend test, folding each shoe in half, focusing on the area beneath the toe to ensure proper flexibility. Then, we perform a twist test to assess the firmness and stability. Throughout the testing period, we also record any wear and tear beyond what we might reasonably expect.
- Value: Finally, to assign each shoe a value score, we wait to look at the price until the end of the testing period. Considering each of the previous criteria, we determine if the shoes are worth the same as or less than what we’d consider paying for them. We also gauge how likely we would be to use the shoes regularly or recommend them to others.
Our Experts
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.
- Scott Katzman, MD, an orthopedic surgeon at NJ Spine and Orthopedic in New Jersey
- Clifford Jeng, MD, an orthopedic surgeon at Mercy Medical Center in Maryland
- Patrick Maloney, MD, an orthopedic surgeon at Mercy Medical Center in Maryland
- Ami Sheth, DPM, a podiatrist at Foot & Ankle Associates in California
- Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, a podiatrist at NYC Foot & Ankle Center in New York City
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes bunions?
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.
Can poor-fitting shoes make bunions worse?
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.
How can I keep my bunions from getting worse?
To keep your bunions from getting worse, always wear properly fitted shoes. Choose comfortable sneakers 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.
How can you stretch shoes for bunions?
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.
What shoes do podiatrists recommend for bunions?
- People with bunions should look for shoes with a wide toe box and stretchy upper to relieve pressure on the bony bumps, podiatrist Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, says.
Are wide shoes better for bunions?
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.
Why Trust Verywell Fit
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.
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. Bunions.