Best Shoes For Bunions In 2024, According To Experts

Just because you’re living with bunions doesn’t mean you have to give up stylish sandals. The Seaside Flip-Flop from Revitalign “is a supportive, open-toed sandal with padded straps that should not put pressure on your bunion,” says John Tolli, D.P.M., a podiatrist based in Pennsylvania and a Forbes Health Advisory Board Member. Made with EVA plastic, a soft, malleable material, this sandal is great for the beach or a summer stroll, and its genuine leather lining is laminated with extra foam for “all-day comfort.”

If you’re looking to make a splash with bright colors, Birkenstock has you covered. The EVA sandal by Birkenstock is “supportive but soft” explains Mehgan Susek, D.P.M., a podiatrist and wound care specialist at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center and a Forbes Health Advisory Board Member. This sandal is also ultra lightweight and highly flexible, thanks to being made from EVA, she continues. Shock absorbing and waterproof, Dr. Susek recommends these sandals for beach or lake trips.

If you’re after a shoe with a lot of comfort but not a huge toe box, the GO WALK Arch Fit sneaker is a stylish choice. Plus, “the mesh is flexible and doesn’t cause pressure or pain to the foot with the bunion,” notes Dr. Susek. Two other bonuses: All Arch Fit sneakers provide podiatrist-certified arch support, according to the company, and they are some of the more affordable casual slip-on sneakers on the market.

Typically, flats can cause a lot of irritation for individuals with bunions, explains Dr. Tolli, but the Aria 5° Pointed-Toe Ballet Flats from Vivaia “are a stylish option with a wider toe box composed of a more elastic material,” making them a great option for both work or a night out. Coming in a variety of vibrant colors, these Aria flats also provide arch support and cushioning.

In addition to being quite cozy, the naturally thermoregulating ZQ Merino wool in these Wool Runners from Allbirds “is soft and stretchy,” explains Dr. Susek. “The sneakers themselves are also lightweight, giving support without pressing on a bunion and causing pain,” she continues. Additionally, both the men’s and women’s styles come in a variety of colors, making them easy to pair with almost any outfit.

The Gel-Cumulus is a longer-distance running sneaker recommended by Dr. Tolli. This supportive sneaker from Asics “has a forgiving mesh upper material and offers a wide and extra wide option,” says Dr. Tolli. Coming in a variety of colors in both men’s and women’s sizing, the Gel-Cumulus mesh upper also helps keep your feet cool as you run or walk long distances.

“These sneakers have a mesh toe box, and come in wide and extra wide widths,” explains Dr. Tolli. The Adrenaline brand from Brooks also comes with its patented GuideRails technology, which works to keep excess movements in check when you run, and was built with the knees in mind. The Adrenaline brand is Brook’s most popular support shoe, according to the company.