If you have bunions, finding the right pair of running shoes is crucial for staying active without pain. Shoes that are too narrow or tight can aggravate bunions and cause discomfort.

Beneficial running shoes for bunions have a wide and deep toe box to allow room for bunions without rubbing or pressing on them. They also have good arch support and shock absorption to take pressure off the ball of the foot.

Read on for tips on what to look for in bunion-friendly running shoes, along with reviews of some of our top 3 picks.

 

Qualities to Look for in Running Shoes if You Have Bunions

When shopping for running shoes that accommodate bunions, there are certain features you’ll want to prioritize. These include the following:

• Wide toe box: They should have a roomy toe box that allows your toes to spread out comfortably without bumping against the sides.
• Deep toe box: Along with width, you need vertical space for the toes so the shoe doesn’t press down on bunions. Aim for at least 15-20 mm depth.
• Flexible upper: The shoe’s upper should be made of soft, flexible materials.
• Lightweight: Extra weight from a shoe puts more pressure on bunions.
• Arch support: Good arch support in a running shoe helps distribute weight evenly and take pressure off the ball of the foot.
• Cushioning: Proper cushioning helps absorb shock rather than letting it concentrate in the forefoot.

 

Top 3 Best Running Shoes for Bunions (in no particular order)

 

1. Asics Gel-Kayano 29

The Asics Gel-Kayano 29 earns rave reviews as a high-stability shoe that is ideal for runners who need extra support for conditions like bunions.

It has a wider toe box than previous versions with a seamless, flexible, engineered mesh upper that creates a sock-like fit without uncomfortable seams.

The extended external heel counter improves stability. At 10.5 ounces, it’s on the lighter side for a stability shoe and provides excellent shock absorption via rearfoot and forefoot Gel cushioning units. This is a top choice for running with bunions when motion control is needed.

 

2. Topo Athletic Phantom 3

For a more natural running experience, the Topo Athletic Phantom 3 has a foot-shaped toe box with plenty of room to splay the toes outward. The wide platform is very accommodating for bunions, allowing natural toe spread upon impact.

It’s also highly flexible and encourages a low-impact midfoot strike thanks to the minimal 5 mm heel-to-toe drop. With just enough cushioning for comfort and protection without being overly soft, runners report the Phantom 3 provides a very smooth ride that feels gentle on bunions.

 

3. Altra Rivera 3

Altra running shoes are renowned for their accommodating toe boxes designed to match natural foot shape, and the Rivera 3 is no exception.

Its fully cushioned Zero Drop platform eliminates heel-to-toe slope to let feet relax in a natural position, while the Balanced Cushioning provides plush yet responsive cushioning.

The FootShape toe box has ample room for bunions without squeeze while still providing a secure fit. This is a top choice for zero-drop comfort on bunions. They’re also good running trainers for bunions.

 

Best Running Shoes for Bunionettes

Bunionettes are bumps that form on the outside of the foot near the little toe. Prioritize a wide toe box, especially in the lateral area by the pinky toe. Deep and flexible uppers are also key to preventing irritation.

Many of the top running shoes and gym shoes for bunions will also suit bunionettes; like the Altra and Topo models mentioned. Also, look for models with anatomical shape and contouring to avoid excess pressure points on the outside of the foot.

 

Bunion Overview

 

Prevention

Bunions are often genetic and run in the family, but wearing improper shoes is a leading cause since tight, narrow shoes force the big toe to press against the second toe and shift inward over time. Choosing proper footwear with a wide-toe box and avoiding high heels and pointed-toe styles can help prevent bunions from forming or getting worse.

 

Symptoms

The signature sign of a bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe and points inward toward the second toe. This bump is caused by the big toe deviating from its normal straight alignment.

Bunions can also cause redness, swelling, pain, and stiffness around the big toe joint. Pain is typically worse during physical activity and when wearing narrow, tight shoes that squeeze the bump.

 

Relief

To alleviate bunion pain, it’s key to wear proper athletic shoes for bunions that do not constrict your toes. Padding, gel sleeves, or silicone bunion shields can protect bunions from irritation inside shoes. Icing and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication can temporarily relieve pain and swelling.

 

Bunions and Running Shoes

Since running involves repetitive impact that can aggravate bunions if shoes place too much pressure on the big toe joint, it’s critical to select running shoes that can accommodate a bunion without pain.

The best running sneakers for bunions and shoes for bunions have a wide, deep toe box with ample room for the bunion bump and flexibility to avoid compressing it. Ample cushioning around the forefoot also helps minimize irritation. Stability features may further aid comfort depending on your foot mechanics.

Make sure to get properly fitted at a specialty running store to find the right size, width, and fit. It may take some trial and error to find your perfect pair.

 

Everyday Life and Walking With Bunions

Along with using properly fitted athletic shoes for sports, people with bunions should wear shoes in everyday life that minimize pressure on the painful bunion bump.

Outside of proper footwear, there’s a handful of other ways to mitigate bunion pain and discomfort when you’re still looking to workout. First off, choose low-impact exercises like lifting weights, elliptical machine workouts, spin bikes, or any other exercise that will minimize the stress you’re putting on your feet. Speaking of limiting stress on your feet, be cognizant of duration and intensity to prevent overloading. Furthermore, try to limit yourself to flat, even surfaces to avoid uneven pressure. Lastly, focus on your walking technique! Walk with your toes pointed straight ahead and engage your core muscles. Work to avoid putting extra pressure on the bunion by rolling your foot from heal-to-toe with each step.

 

Don’t Buy Shoes That Are Too Small

One key mistake people make is wearing shoes that are too short or too narrow. However, jamming the big toe into a shoe that is too small will only exacerbate pain and force the toe further out of alignment.

Be sure to get properly measured when shopping for shoes and buy a shoe that fits the longest toe with room to spare rather than sizing down. The fit should be comfortable right away without a break-in period that squeezes the toes.

 

Where to Find Good Athletic Shoes for Bunions

The best places to shop for good athletic shoes for bunions are specialty running stores where you can get your feet properly measured and try on different shoe brands and styles. Good sporting goods stores may have some options as well.

Fit is key, so be sure to walk around and jog in shoes before purchasing rather than just assuming your normal size will fit.

Online shopping can work if you already know which shoe brands and models accommodate your bunion, but trying running sneakers for bunions in person is ideal. However, if returns are allowed, you could always try ordering multiple pairs to try on and just return the ones you don’t like. With the right athletic shoes, you can stay active in comfort, even with bunions.