What to Look for When Shopping for Shoes for Bunion Pain

Bunions can be very painful, disruptive, and downright awful to endure. Getting in the right shoes can make a world of difference in your pain and ability to do the things you love. There are a few key features to keep in mind when shopping for shoes to ensure your feet have the space they need to move with you, and that your day is not limited by your bunion pain.

Getting the Right Fit

Having a professional fit your feet is an essential step in finding the right shoe to minimize foot pain associated with bunions. A shoe that fits properly allows your foot to move properly, no matter it’s size or shape. A poorly fitting shoe restricts movement, often resulting in pain or discomfort. One of the reasons many people find themselves in poorly fitting shoes is because they believe that shoe sizing is consistent across brands and styles of shoes. Shoes can vary significantly from brand to brand and your “typical size” should only be used as a guide for fitting.

Many factors affect the size, shape and function of your foot over time, and these changes occur gradually and often can go unnoticed. For these reasons, it’s important to have a qualified shoe fitter measure your feet every time you shop for shoes. Length, width, and depth are all important parameters to bear in mind when selecting shoes. A good shoe fitter can help you find the perfect fit.

 

  

Material

Shoes made from materials that have natural stretch, like leather, are often preferred for people with bunions. Softer materials allow the bunion to press into the material with less resistance, resulting in a more comfortable fit. Natural materials can also be point-stretched more easily than synthetic for additional comfort. Some shoes are developed specifically with bunions in mind – adding a panel or choosing a material that is particularly stretchy in the forefoot to allow for maximum comfort.

Seams

One of the top complaints from bunion sufferers is that many shoes have seams that lie right on top of their bunions, resulting in severe discomfort! While many manufacturers have heard this feedback and are actively changing designs to reduce seaming, many shoes still have problematic seams for people with bunions. Look for a seamless design, when possible, or if seams are unavoidable, look for shoes with soft-lined seams or a structure where the seam does not lie directly over your bunion. Point stretching can also be useful for making difficult seams more comfortable.

Structure

Last, but certainly not least, structural features are a key component to finding a shoe to ease your bunion pain. There are several features to look for when choosing a shoe to alleviate bunion pain:

Wide, Deep Toe Box

Look for a shoe with a round or square toe, avoiding shoes with a narrow or pointed shape. The widest part of the shoe should align well with the widest part of your foot (likely where the bunion is!), and you should be able to wiggle those toes around freely within the shoe.

Forefoot Rocker

For an added benefit, look for a shoe with a rockered toe. This feature provides your foot with a bit of a boost, allowing the shoe to do more work for your foot, placing less strain on the bunion. Most running shoes have a forefoot rocker incorporated into their design, and many casual shoes are now also incorporating this feature.

 Low Heel

The higher the heel, the more pressure you’re placing on your bunions. For this reason, choosing shoes with a lower heel is the best option for maximum comfort.

So, after all of this, what shoe is the best for bunions? Honestly, there are many options to choose from, depending on purpose and preference. At SoleScience, we have expert shoe fitters and Certified Pedorthists ready to help you find the perfect fit to keep you doing what you love in comfort and style! Come see us today to find the right shoe for you!