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We updated this article in July 2023 to add more information about each featured product, based on extensive research done by our team.
If you have bunions, wearing walking shoes that are even the slightest bit too tight or made from a stiff material can be enough to cause total agony. Fortunately, walking can be comfortable (and pain-free!) with the best shoes for bunions.
But first: what’s causing that pain in your feet, anyway? “Feet, by design, are not padded with a lot of extra fat,” explains Howard Friedman, D.P.M., a podiatrist at Suffern Podiatry in New York. “So, if someone wears a shoe that is creating a pressure point over a bony area, the skin will become red and inflamed, and in some cases cause a blister or wound that can become infected.”
Bunions can be brought on by a variety of factors, including genetics, inflammatory joint diseases, foot injuries, and arthritis. According to the Cleveland Clinic, bunions form when the bone or tissue at the bottom of the big toe moves out of place. Abnormal movements and heavy pressure on the joint forces the big toe to bend toward the other toes, causing a lump to develop on the joint. Wearing shoes that irritate bunions won’t just make them hurt more, but they can also cause other problems, including blisters and bursitis.
Meet the Experts: Howard Friedman, D.P.M., a podiatrist at Suffern Podiatry in New York; Karen Langone, D.P.M., a podiatrist based in New York; Matt Gooch, M.S., C.Ped, director of product and innovation with Superfeet Worldwide, Inc.; Paul Langer, D.P.M., a sports medicine podiatrist; and Bryan Roth, D.P.M., a podiatrist at Valleywise Health and a District Medical Group physician.
So, while you may be tempted to keep wearing your favorite kicks, you should take anything that irritates your feet out of rotation and replace them with something that’s more supportive and comfortable. Thankfully, there are plenty of options when it comes to shoes for bunions, which are designed to provide toes plenty of room while still ensuring they receive enough support. To help you find the right ones, we rounded up top-rated picks recommended by podiatrists below.
Our top picks
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Best Shoes for Wide Feet With Bunions
Itazero Wide Width Slip on Orthopedic Shoes
Read more
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From everyday boots to stylish heels, here are our favorite podiatrist-approved, bunion-friendly shoes.
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Best Overall Shoes for Bunions
Rothy’s The Flat
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Best Overall Shoes for Bunions
Rothy’s The Flat
Pros
- Soft, flexible upper
- Versatile
- Machine washable
Cons
- Doesn’t stretch much
If you’re looking for shoes with a little sophistication, these supportive and stylish flats fit the bill with a round toe box and soft, flexible fabric knit from plastic water bottles. They’re versatile for any occasion and are even machine washable. Reviewers with bunions advise ordering a size up to ensure a comfortable fit. “All the other shoes in my closest have been lonely since my Rothy’s arrived, and I’m not sure I’ll be going back anytime soon,” one says.
| Colorways | 26 |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 5-13 |
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Best Slip-on Shoes for Bunions
Dr. Scholl’s Madison Slip-Ons
Pros
- Variety of color options
- Cushioned footbed
Cons
- May be stiff upon initial wear
Crafted with recycled suede and a round toe design, these stylish slip-ons (which also come in wide sizing) accommodate sensitive bunions while pairing with practically any outfit. Their molded, cushioned footbed conforms to the shape of your foot and provides support to your toes, balls of your feet, and heels, too.
“The most comfortable casual shoe I have ever owned!” one reviewer writes. “I have bunions, yet this shoe is able to stretch to accommodate foot irregularities without compromising support or style. Oh, and they are washing machine friendly!”
| Colorways | 26 |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 5-13 |
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Best Running Shoes for Bunions
Hoka Bondi 7 Women’s Shoes
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Best Running Shoes for Bunions
Hoka Bondi 7 Women’s Shoes
Pros
- Cushioned memory foam
- Durable EVA midsole
- Comes in wide widths
Cons
- Pricey
Stylish and supportive, these shoes are the most cushioned model in Hoka’s road-running lineup. They feature a comfortable padded sole, a breathable mesh upper, and a durable EVA midsole. On top of offering a cloud-like experience, the Bondi 7 comes in regular, wide, and extra-wide widths, meaning at least one of them should be able to keep your feet feeling happy.
“These shoes have changed my mind about getting bunion surgery,” one Zappos reviewer raves.
| Colorways | 10 |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 6-11 |
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Best Flip-Flops for Bunions
Clarks Breeze Sea Flip-Flop
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Best Flip-Flops for Bunions
Clarks Breeze Sea Flip-Flop
Now 43% Off
Pros
- Adjustable straps for maximum comfort
- Arch support
Cons
- Not a good option for narrow feet
When it comes to selecting flip-flop shoes for individuals with bunions it’s important to prioritize comfort and proper support, according to Bryan Roth, D.P.M. at Valleywise Health and a District Medical Group physician. “Opt for flip-flops with adjustable straps or closures,” he says, adding that they will allow you to customize the fit according to your foot width and the level of comfort you desire.
Adjustable straps can provide a more secure and supportive fit, according to Roth, which can help to alleviate discomfort. The Clarks give you plenty of wiggle room when it comes to adjusting and allow you to find the most comfortable fit.
| Colorways | 50 |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 5-12 |
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Best Booties for Bunions
Waterproof Ankle Boots
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Best Booties for Bunions
Waterproof Ankle Boots
Pros
- Waterproof
- Rounded toe box
Cons
- Small heel
These waterproof leather ankle boots will make you look chic even when it rains. They’re designed with textured rubber soles for extra traction, a low block heel to help you stabilize, and a cushioned footbed for all-day wear. The wide, rounded toe box also makes them a great pair for people with bunions. “Love how the toe box doesn’t crowd my toes. Have had these for 3 years now. They are great,” writes one reviewer.
| Colorways | 4 |
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| Sizes | 6-10 |
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Best Dress Flats for Bunions
Birdies The Swan
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Best Dress Flats for Bunions
Birdies The Swan
Pros
- Seven layers of padding
- Soft suede upper
- Memory foam insole
Cons
- May be too wide for some
Birdies sandals and slides are all designed with impeccable style and an impressive amount of cushioning to give you the best of both worlds. Its soft, suede upper naturally provides some much-needed give, making it a solid choice for those with bunions or wide feet. And seven layers of padding complete with memory foam and shock absorbing properties put it a step above most other pancake-thin slides.
| Colorways | 14 |
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| Sizes | 5-12 |
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Best Boots for Bunions
Original 500 Boots
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Best Boots for Bunions
Original 500 Boots
Pros
- Thick, weather-proof leather
- Removable Cambrelle footbed
Cons
- May discolor over time
These leather Chelsea boots are just as popular on city streets as they are on ranches—they’re stylish, well-made, super-comfy, and perfect for sensitive feet. Reviewers recommend sizing a half-size up for extra room. “These boots are perfect,” explains one, who just had bunion surgery. “The first weekend I had them we found an impromptu mile hike and they were as comfortable as any shoes I have.”
| Colorways | 6 |
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| Sizes | 6-15 |
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Best Shoes for Wide Feet With Bunions
Itazero Wide Width Slip on Orthopedic Shoes
8
Best Shoes for Wide Feet With Bunions
Itazero Wide Width Slip on Orthopedic Shoes
Pros
- Comes in wide widths
- Made from a stretchy material that expands to comfortably fit your toes
Cons
- Shoes may feel too big for some wearers
Proper arch support helps distribute your body weight evenly and reduces stress on your feet, according to Roth, which can benefit both bunions and overall foot comfort. “Remember, everyone’s feet and bunions are unique, so it’s essential to try on different styles and brands to find the one that fits you best,” he says. The itazero slip-ons offer plenty of space thanks to the boxy toe shape and stretchy material, which means even the widest feet won’t feel squished inside of them.
| Colorways | 7 |
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| Sizes | 5.5-14 (Wide) |
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Best Walking Shoes for Bunions
Tokyo Sneakers
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Best Walking Shoes for Bunions
Tokyo Sneakers
Now 62% Off
Pros
- Available in wide sizes
- Orthotic insole support
Cons
- Can’t insert additional padding
We can’t stop writing about these shoes—and for good reason. Available in wide sizes and in plenty of eye-catching colorways, these super-supportive shoes from Vionic will keep your feet comfy as you hit the sidewalks, trails, and aisles. It features a podiatrist-designed footbed, a deep heel cup, and a midsole with great arch support.
“I was very comfortable wearing them for many hours and lots of walking daily,” says one reviewer. “I have minor bunions and these had enough toe box room to not bother them.”
| Colorways | 10 |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 5-12 |
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Best Sneakers for Bunions
D’Lites Me Time Women’s Sneakers
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Best Sneakers for Bunions
D’Lites Me Time Women’s Sneakers
D’Lites are a time-honored favorite with a chunky-cute look that happens to be all the rage right now. With a slight platform for optimum comfort, roomy construction, and a durable outsole, they’re great for just about any activity you take on. Plus, they come in wide widths. “Three years later, I still fall back to these,” says one customer with bunions. “These have to be the most comfortable Skechers I’ve ever owned.”
| Colorways | 10 |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 5-12 |
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Best Clogs for Bunions
Professional Clogs
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Best Clogs for Bunions
Professional Clogs
Pros
- Designed to absorb shock
- Slip-on style
Cons
- Stiff
Beloved by nurses and other professionals who are on their feet all day, these Dansko clogs have been popular for years because of their comfy construction, roomy toe box, and next-level arch support. Did we mention they come in a huge selection of colors and patterns?
“As soon as I started wearing these shoes and walking, the pain from my bunion subsided,” one Amazon reviewer explains. “I’m elated beyond words. I’m not purchasing any other type of shoe for work now.”
| Colorways | 90+ |
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| Sizes | 5.5-14 |
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Best Casual Shoes for Bunions
Nohea Moku Sneakers
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Best Casual Shoes for Bunions
Nohea Moku Sneakers
Pros
- Wide width
- Arch support
Cons
- No tie design
With a laidback look and comfy, stretchy uppers, these OluKai sneakers are ideal for those who don’t want to think twice about their everyday shoes. Better yet, they’ve got a unique no-tie design, a naturally wide width, and sturdy arch support.
“These shoes continue to amaze me with their comfort, versatility, and durability,” one buyer writes. “I have machine washed them about ten times, and through it all, they show virtually no signs of wear.”
| Colorways | 4 |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 7-14 |
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13
Best Heels for Bunions
Naturalizer Karina Pump
Pros
- Contoured, cushioned footbed
- Rounded toe box
- Comes in wide and narrow widths
Cons
- Not comfortable for long wear
Made with a manageable heel height and shape, these pumps allow your feet to fit—and walk—comfortably without any pain. They also come in wide (as well as narrow) sizes and have a contoured, cushioned footbed for extra support on your arches and heels. “Very comfortable even with my crooked bunion toes,” one shopper raves. “A very nice-looking shoe for work or even dressy outfit.”
| Colors | 11 |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 4-13 |
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Best Sandals for Bunions
Essentials Arizona Slide
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Best Sandals for Bunions
Essentials Arizona Slide
Pros
- Good for those with wide feet
- Water-resistant
Cons
- Can tear over time
The great thing about Birkenstocks? The widest part of the sandal aligns perfectly with where bunions show up. Langer says the classics are great for both bunions and wider feet since they have a natural foot shape. These options have EVA insoles and medial support for the arches. Plus, the rubber-like texture is also designed to exercise the foot muscles so they become stronger.
“I have bunions on both of my feet and I have been hunting for comfortable sandals that won’t trigger the pain,” says one reviewer. “I wore this to work (I'm a teacher), stood up and walked all day and I forgot I had bunions. It’s such a relief!”
| Colorways | 6 |
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| Sizes | 5-10.5 |
How to choose the best shoes for bunions
✔️Look for a wide toe box. “The widest point of your foot should correspond with the widest part of the shoe,” says Karen Langone, D.P.M., a podiatrist based in Southampton, New York. Your bunions will find solace in pairs featuring a wide toe box and constructed using materials with a bit of give, like soft leather or fabric, Friedman explains. ✔️A ✔️Stick to shoes with a low height. ✔️Try multiple pairs to see what’s comfortable for you
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What is a bunion?
A bunion is a painful bump that develops on the joint of the big toe, according to Roth. “Typically, as it forms, the big toe drifts towards the other toes, causing ongoing pressure,” he continues. “As time progresses the big toe joint can develop pain and stiffness.”
To find out whether your foot pain is a bunion or something else, Roth says you’ll need to make an appointment to see your doctor. Once you’re there, he says you’ll need to undergo a visual examination of your foot where your doctor will check for evidence of a bony bump and assess your other symptoms. “Your healthcare provider will also consider your medical history and evaluate the range of motion in your toe and foot,” he continues, adding that x-rays may be taken if they need to get a clearer view of the bones and determine the severity of the bunion.
“Based on this information, a diagnosis will be made, and treatment options will be discussed, which can range anywhere from lifestyle changes to surgery,” Roth says. But fear not, even if you are experiencing bunions, it’s a relatively normal condition. “Bunions are very common and found in approximately one out of four adults.”
What are the worst shoes for bunions?
Narrow, tight shoes made of material that doesn’t stretch or give are the worst shoes someone with a bunion can wear. Likewise, shoes that have straps that rub or pinch the bunion and cause greater irritation aren’t an ideal option.
Is going barefoot better for bunions?
If a bunion is just starting to develop, going barefoot may help prevent it from getting worse. This is because barefoot walking can help strengthen the muscles, tendons, and ligaments of the toes, helping support proper foot biomechanics during daily movement. That said, it’s important to talk to your podiatrist, orthopedist, or physical therapist to make sure it’s an okay practice for you to attempt. If your bunions are large or inflamed, or if your foot biomechanics are poor or your arches have collapsed, walking barefoot may be detrimental.
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How we chose the best shoes for bunions
Every shoe has been vetted by our team of editors, respected podiatrists, and experts associated with the American Podiatric Medical Association including Howard Friedman, D.P.M., a podiatrist at Suffern Podiatry in NY; Karen Langone, D.P.M., a podiatrist based in Southampton, NY; Matt Gooch, M.S., C.Ped, director of product and innovation with Superfeet Worldwide, Inc. Paul Langer, D.P.M., a sports medicine podiatrist who trains athletes at Twin Cities Orthopedics in Minneapolis, Minnesota and is a SuperFeet wellness panel member; Bryan Roth, D.P.M. doctor of podiatric medicine at Valleywise Health and a District Medical Group physician. We also consider customer reviews and questions, and our own personal experiences with these brands to ensure that these shoes meet podiatrists’ standards for foot health and performance.
Why trust us
For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.
Lauren Wellbank
Contributing Writer
Lauren Wellbank is a freelance writer based in the Lehigh Valley region of Pennsylvania. Her work has appeared in The Washington Post, Huffington Post, Martha Stewart Living, and more. She has three small children, a husband, and an over eager dog at home. When she's not writing she likes to work in her garden with her family.
