Bunion and Bunionette Shoes

Bunions

A bunion is a prominent bump at the base joint of the big toe. The big toe joint becomes enlarged and swollen because the small sac within becomes inflamed. A misalignment of the bones pushes the big toe itself inward toward the other toes. This in turn pushes the joint outward. Symptoms include throbbing pain and tender redness in this area, especially when wearing shoes that are too snug.

Heredity, foot injury, and arthritis can contribute to this condition, but the most common cause of bunions is improper shoe fit, especially tight fitting shoes with pointy toes.

Bunionettes

Bunionettes are smaller bunions that develop on the opposite side of the foot. They form at the base of the little toe. Bunionette treatment and bunionette shoes are consistent with what we recommend for bunions.

1. Proper shoes for bunions and bunionettes, along with a proper fit, offer relief. Shoe uppers constructed of soft, flexible materials such as supple leathers, mesh, and high quality man-made materials are recommended. Our in-store Fitting Specialists can use a tool to stretch the bunion/bunionette areas of your shoes to create comfortable roominess.

2. Shoe shape and design are important in selecting the best bunion shoes. Select a shoe shape that matches your foot shape. A shoe with a wider forefoot provides necessary roominess, not cramping or squeezing the bunion/bunionette area. Avoid shoes, boots, and other footwear that elevate the heel. This unnatural redistribution of weight offloads more stress onto inflamed joints. Some shoe designs make conditions worse, too. For example, overlapping leathers and stitching that cut across the bunion/bunionette will create extra friction and pressure and would not be good shoes for bunions.

3. Over-the-counter insoles with metatarsal padding offer cushioned relief by gently lifting the area behind the toes to promote natural alignment. New Balance insole upgrades like the Motion Control Insole provide feet with a healthy foundation that includes a contoured shape, a deep heel cup design, and metatarsal padding.
   

Top 4 New Balance Shoes for Bunions and Bunionettes: