If You Have Bunions, You *Need* These Cute And Comfy Shoes

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If you have bunions, you know it can be difficult to find comfortable walking shoes, not to mention stylish heels and office-appropriate footwear. But don't underestimate the importance of providing your little piggies with a proper home.

“Choosing the right footwear can prevent pain and disability with a bunion deformity,” says podiatrist Dr. Nelya Lobkova, DPM, owner of Step Up Footcare. “Wearing footwear that allows for normal toe flexion without crowding the toes will help maintain a healthy joint.” Basically, you want a roomy pair that won’t rub against the bunion and worsen the pain, because although shoes don't cause bunions, explains Dr. Lobkova, they can exacerbate the issue.

Peep a few of the best podiatrist-approved shoes for bunions, below:

Finding the right shoes that meet specific feet needs can require a lot of research, but Women's Health has done the hard work for you. Below, find the 19 best comfy shoes for bunions of 2023, according to a podiatrist and customer reviews.

OOmg Slip-On Recovery Shoe

Dr. Lobkova recommends these loafers from Oofos because of the extra cushioning under the ball of the foot and “soft upper material that will not restrict a bunion deformity.” Oofos’s cushioning is designed to absorb more impact to keep your feet feeling good.

Rave Review: “I love my Oofos. I started off with a pair of slip-ons, then sandals, then sneakers. They are all very comfortable, lightweight, and super supportive. They are like walking on clouds. For someone who has problems with their feet these are a blessing.”

Basel Ankle Bootie

These leather ankle boots offer pliability and stability. The zipper makes it easy to situate your foot in the boot without having your bunion rub up against the side. They also come in wide sizes, so your toes have more room to move around.

Rave Review: “They are the most comfortable footwear I own. Being stylish is a plus and everyone compliments them.”

Fresh Foam Roav V2 Running Shoe

Whether you’re running errands or cross-training, these New Balance shoes come recommended for people with bunions. The mesh material has enough give to make room for the bunion.

Just be sure to go with the wide sizes specifically because some buyers with bunions reported the regular-sized ones being a little narrow. But at less than $70, these won’t break the bank.

Rave Review: “These are amazing. They fit well and feel great, according to my mother. She is in her 80’s and she asked me to get her these for her Jazzercise class that she has attended for about 30 years now. She is so happy with the performance of these shoes too.”

Hiking Boot

Leather is another good material for people with bunions because it's a softer material that allows more give. And if you’re a hiker, these boots from Columbia are an affordable, eco-friendly route. You’ll want to go with the wide option to allow for more toe room.

Rave Review: “These boots were a really fair price for the quality, arrived quickly, and feel absolutely amazing,” one reviewer says. “I ordered a size up to allow room for expansion and I am glad I did this. Highly recommend these for avid wide-feet hikers!”

Lincoln Flat Sandals

When choosing sandals, you’ll want to avoid a strap over the toe joint, but regular flip-flops often don’t offer much support. These sandals from Naturalizer take the flip-flop style and add an arch and ankle strap for extra support. They’ll be your new favorite sandals for the warmer months. They're also comfy as soon as you put them on.

Rave Review: “Very comfortable shoe. I bought 8W since I have wide feet and these are perfect. So much better than squishing into a regular width shoe. No break in time, great from the start.”

Women's Adrenaline GTS 22 Supportive Running Shoe

For runners with bunions, you can’t go wrong with the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22. Its cushioned midsole and wider toe area provides support and pliability needed for people with bunions. This running shoe has even earned the American Podiatric Medical Association's Seal of Acceptance.

Rave Review: “The perfect fit for walking and any exercise! Great arch support, true to size, and maximum cushioning compared to previous pair of Brooks. Very comfortable, even with foot issues such as bunions and plantar fasciitis.”

The Day Glove Leather Flat

Dr. Lobkova points out that this dress shoe from Everlane has a wide forefront making it easier to accommodate a bunion. The Italian leather will also conform to the bunion to minimize irritation and inflammation. Just know you won’t get as much support from this given that it’s a flatter shoe, but the slight heel will help with foot placement.

Rave Review: “I loveee these shoes and it's my third pair—super comfy and stretchy. My whole office at work is now wearing them.”

Tree Runners

Comfort is key when choosing your go-to shoes. These mesh sneakers from Allbirds offer lightweight support that will help those on their feet all day.

The mesh paneling on them allows the feet more room to move without feeling constricted or uncomfortably locked in place, exacerbating a bunion issue.

Rave Review: “I have lots of feet problems and I can only say that my feet felt great in these sneakers.”

Small Square-Toe Heels

Flats are nice in theory, but for people with bunions, they don't put the feet in good positions to relieve pressure from the toe joint.

That’s why it’s necessary to have at least a slight heel, Dr. Lobkova says. These from Vivaia are made with bunions in mind. The breathable, knit material will conform to your foot shape, and there is extra support in the insoles.

Rave Review: “Wondered whether to buy, but I’m so pleased I did. I have awful bunions – these are so comfortable, no digging in, no marks on my feet. I have literally worn them ever since I got them… Definitely buying more.”

Women's 'Original 108' Wool Clog with Cork Sole

These wool clogs from Stegmann feature a molded cork footbed that’s naturally designed to provide excellent arch support. Plus, it has a deep heel cup for added security, and a roomy toe box and metatarsal pad so your toes can spread comfortably.

Rave Review: “I suffer from plantar fasciitis and these are wonderful!! They are not only comfortable, but they are so cute too! I love how they are versatile and go with just about anything! They are exactly like the pictures. The size was not too big or small. Overall I’m very satisfied with these.”

Jessie Boots

These knee-high boots have everything your feet will need: arch support, elastic goring, a non-slip outsole, a cushioned footbed, and lightweight, breathable materials. The decorative straps and buckles along the shaft can even be adjusted for a more customized fit.

Rave Review: “I usually find Naturalizer to be a bit narrow, so I ordered a wide just to be sure. It was a nice wide. Very beautifully constructed boot. The soles are not thin, they are nice and comfortable. The leather is soft and supple. I think Naturalizer hit a home run with these if you're looking for a comfortable boot.”

Women's Flat Sandals

With a cushioned footbed, easy slip-on design, and soft, stretchy upper material, these slides from Easy Spirit are a great choice for wearing around the house, running errands, or simply taking a stroll outside. Plus, this pair is available in extra wide and half sizes, as well as dozens of colors, so you can pick the exact right fit for you.

Rave Review: “I love this sandal. It is the perfect color (navy) and SO comfortable. I have plantar fasciitis, so this sandal helps with the heel pain. I have to wear shoes and sandals with good support, and these give good support. I highly recommend this brand, especially for comfort!”

Women's Mid Calf Rain Boots

Keep your feet dry on a rainy day or during muddy activities with these glossy boots from Asgard. They come with removable EVA insoles that are machine washable, and heavy-duty shoe treads for an excellent, non-slip grip. Many reviewers say they make great gardening boots as well. For a loose fit, order half a size up.

Rave Review: “Comfortable, fit well, easy to walk in. Super cute! I did add an extra insole because I have high arches, but even without the insoles, they were comfy. Definitely recommend!”

Women's Wool Runners

The itch-free wool on these Allbirds sneakers are incredibly soft and naturally thermoregulating, so they’ll keep you warm and cozy during those chilly autumn months. Plus, the cushioned midsole is made from the world’s first carbon negative EVA, and the insoles are moisture wicking and odor-reducing.

Rave Review: “This was my first time buying Allbirds and I'm hooked! Great support and the wool is soft and stretchy. I will be buying more!”

Uptown Women's Slip-on Loafer

Like most Vionic shoes, these loafers feature supportive cushioning for your arches. And to accommodate bunions, the outsoles are incredibly flexible and specifically designed for movement, so your feet won’t feel constricted. They’re also super soft, lightweight, and easy to slip on and off, making them a great shoe to throw in your work or travel bag.

Rave Review: “These are exactly what I needed in my wardrobe. I had been eyeing them for several months and when the price was dropped, I bought them immediately. They provide support with plenty of flexibility.”

Women's Sling Wedge Sandal

The wedge heel on these shoes elevates your feet and places them in a more optimal position, so your bunions won’t feel any irritation as you walk. The breathable leather conforms to your foot’s shape, while the supportive rubber-like outsole provides stability. Another bonus: They’re super stylish, making them your next favorite GNO sandal.

Rave Review: “These are beautiful and so comfortable. I wore them all day, straight out of the box, and they didn’t bother my bunions.”

Beachcomber Espadrille Water Shoe

These classic espadrilles are 100-percent water-friendly and made with quick-drying neoprene. Though they’re most ideal for the beach or pool, they’re stylish and comfy enough to wear out on a regular day, too. FYI: Some customers recommend sizing up before buying.

Rave Review: “Amazing fit. The neoprene top is lightweight and easily molds to your foot. The base is easily flexible and has great grip.”

Women's Kayden Mule

These chic mules from Naturalizer come with cushioned insoles that make them super comfortable for all-day wear. They also have a wide foot bed and are available in wide sizes, so they won’t rub up against your bunions.

Rave Review: “I have wide feet and bunions and these were an incredible fit. I read the reviews and didn’t get the wide size because folks said it runs big. Glad I listened. Bought the 8 regular and so happy! I will be wearing these all season. Finally something cute and extremely comfortable.”

Women's Essence Mayra Suede Fashion Sneaker

Vionic’s VIO motion technology promotes stability and flexibility, and helps correct overpronation. Designed to alleviate heel pain from common foot issues, this suede pair has built-in arch support and a removable orthotic insert. Plus, the side zipper makes it easy to take them on and off.

Rave Review: “I have bad feet from diabetes. These shoes work well for me, good arch supports, etc. I have 4 pairs now.”

What are bunions and what causes them?

A bunion is a joint deformity caused by the internal shift of the big toe joint. That then causes a painful bump on the side of the foot that limits the joint's mobility, says Dr. Lobkova.

Bunions are common, occurring in approximately 25 percent of people aged 18-65 and 35 percent of people over age 65, she adds. They are believed to be genetic, so if one of your parents has bunions, you likely inherited them.

Women are also twice as likely to have bunions than men and are even more likely if they've given birth. “When women have children, relaxin is released throughout the body, which relaxes the ligaments in the body,” Dr. Lobkova says. “This hormone contributes to the worsening of joint deformities, such as bunions.”

How are bunions treated?

The only way to get rid of a bunion permanently is to have surgery, Dr. Lobkova says. But there are ways to minimize the pain without undergoing surgery.

Custom orthotics can relieve foot pain by “providing the correct tilt in the heel as well as arch support,” Dr. Lobkova says. She recommends the custom route instead of buying them over the counter. The latter won’t help the issue if it’s not providing the support your foot specifically needs.

And a good stretch can pay off, too. “Stretching the big toe towards the inside of the body helps stretch the muscles and tendons and help with alignment,” Dr. Lobkova explains.

Because of the bunion’s position, you might experience pain across the tops and balls of your foot. Kinesiology tape or toe spacers can also help manage the onset of these issues.

Can bunions be prevented?

Bunions are believed to be genetic, so there’s no real way to prevent them. Tight-fitting shoes don’t cause bunions, Dr. Lobkova says. “However, they contribute to the worsening of bunions. Specifically, shoes with a narrow toe box that press against the joint and irritate the capsule overlying the bones,” she explains.

Tight shoes can exaggerate the inward motion of the big toe, which is what increases the displacement leading to a "worser" bunion.

What should I look for in a shoe for bunions?

Making sure your toes aren’t crowded in the shoe isn’t the only aspect you should look out for. There are other specifications to keep in mind when purchasing shoes to minimize pain.

Arch support and width

Arch support is critical to maintaining a healthy joint, Dr. Lobkova says. “It is shown that arch support contributes to metatarsal stability and minimizes pathological wear and tear of the big toe joint."Then, there’s also the width of the forefoot or toe area. Wider shoes are generally better for people with bunions, but it can be difficult to judge just how wide the shoe should be. To determine this, Dr. Lobkova recommends tracing the outside of your foot with a pencil on a sheet of paper and comparing it with the shoe you're buying.

Soft upper material

Bunions will hurt the more the area is inflamed. One cause of irritation is a rubbing of footwear against the bunion. That’s why it’s important to purchase shoes that will conform to the contour of your foot, Dr. Lobkova says. “For instance, a soft and flexible upper material like goat leather or neoprene will conform to the contour of the foot instead of pressing up against the joint,” she adds.

One-inch heel minimum

Completely flat shoes, including flat sneakers, can make bunion pain worse. “Lifting the heel slightly causes the rest of the foot to rotate in a more optimal biomechanical position that puts less pressure on the big toe joint,” Dr. Lobkova says. Less pressure on the big toe means less stress on your bunion.

Sandal strap placement

Generally, open-toed shoes are better for people with bunions, but you need to keep in mind the placement of the straps. Across-toe straps might cause irritation. Lobkova also recommends avoiding sandals with more than three straps and ones made from PVC because the inflexible material and placement of the straps are likely to irritate the bunion.

Finally, if you can try on a shoe before you buy it, do it. "The wrong footwear may feel uncomfortable from the start,” she says.

How we chose the best shoes for bunions

The Women's Health team consulted Dr. Nelya Lobkova, DPM, a podiatrist and owner of Step Up Footcare, and then evaluated thousands of customer reviews and ratings to narrow down the 19 best shoes for a wide range of needs and preferences.

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