Bunions are a common foot deformity, causing a painful bump at the base of the big toe. They affect about 23% of adults ages 18–65 (and 35.7% of those over 65) and are nearly twice as common in women as men. Because tight, narrow shoes often worsen bunions, choosing the right footwear is crucial. In fact, podiatrists emphasize that “bunion pain is relieved by wearing wider shoes with adequate toe room”. The shoes below have been tested and reviewed for women with bunions: each features wide toe boxes, soft uppers, and cushioning to ease pressure. We’ve included athletic sneakers, walking shoes, sandals, and dress shoes—all designed to keep bunion sufferers comfortable.

Finding the best shoes for bunions women means looking for roomy, flexible styles. A wide or extra-wide toe box lets toes spread naturally, preventing painful rubbing or pinching. Soft, stretchy materials (like knit or supple leather) adapt to the foot’s shape without digging into the bunion. And ample cushioning with proper arch support helps distribute weight evenly, reducing strain on the forefoot. Below are our top 10 picks that meet these criteria, each rigorously tested by experts and customers alike.

1. Hoka Bondi 8 – Best Everyday Shoe for Bunions

The Hoka Bondi 8 is a plush, cushioned sneaker known for its soft EVA midsole. It’s often recommended for bunions because of its extra padding and forgiving fit. The Bondi 8 comes in both standard and wide sizes, ensuring plenty of room across the forefoot. Its engineered foam is lightweight yet highly shock-absorbent, creating a “cushy and smooth” ride from heel to toe. In our tests, this shoe’s billowy heel and plush sole kept our feet comfortable even on long walks. One reviewer with bunions raves: “These are the only shoes I can wear that don’t hurt my bunions…they are extremely comfortable and have cushion.”

• Wide toe box: Available in multiple widths, preventing pressure on bunions.
• Soft cushioning: Thick lightweight foam cradles the foot for all-day comfort.
• Stable base: Firm heel counter and rocker sole promote natural stride without slipping.

Overall, Hoka Bondi 8’s forgiving upper and maximum cushioning make it ideal for everyday wear. It’s one of the best women’s walking shoes for bunions, delivering support and comfort whether running errands or standing all day.

2. New Balance FuelCore Nergize V1 – Best Value Shoe for Bunions

The New Balance FuelCore Nergize V1 is an affordable slip-on sneaker that performed remarkably well. Its stretchy mesh upper easily stretches over bunions, and the easy “slip-on, slip-off” design eliminates tight laces that might squeeze sensitive toes. According to Good Housekeeping Institute testers, this model (an older NB style) was a top bunion-friendly athletic shoe, especially considering its low price. The lightweight insole and breathable mesh kept our feet cool, and many testers noted it cost “half the price of most competitors” while still providing decent cushioning.

• Easy on/off: No-fuss slip-on construction with stretchy panels for extra bunion room.
• Breathable mesh: Front mesh upper feels forgiving and cool against the bunion area.
• Budget-friendly: Excellent value with lightweight comfort comparable to higher-end models.

Although it’s a simpler shoe (and an older model), the FuelCore Nergize V1’s comfortable fit and softness make it a great option for casual use. If you need a roomy everyday sneaker without a high price tag, this is one of the best bunion shoes for women to try.

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3. Orthofeet Coral Stretch Knit – Best shoes for bunions women

Orthofeet specializes in therapeutic footwear, and the Coral Stretch Knit sneaker is a standout for bunions. It comes in multiple widths (standard, wide, and extra-wide) so you can accommodate any level of toe-joint protrusion. Orthofeet designed this knit upper shoe with stretchy fabric to avoid pressure points. It includes a removable orthotic insole, giving you the option to swap in a custom arch support if needed. In tests, we found the fit extremely comfortable: the roomy knit upper never rubbed against the bunion, and many wearers report that these are “the only shoes [they] can wear without pain”.

• Multiple width options: Standard, wide, and X-wide to suit any foot shape.
• Removable insoles: Built-in orthotic footbeds can be replaced with custom inserts for extra support.
• Soft knit upper: Stretchy fabric molds around the foot, minimizing irritation on the bunion.

While slightly heavier than some racers, the Orthofeet Coral Knit excels at gentle comfort. If you have very wide feet or severe bunions, this shoe’s accommodating design makes it one of the best athletic and walking shoes for women with bunions on the market.

4. Rothy’s The Flat – Best Women’s Dress Shoe for Bunions

For a dressier option, Rothy’s The Flat pairs style with bunion-friendly comfort. This slip-on flat is made from a soft, stretchy recycled-knit fabric (derived from plastic bottles) that easily adapts to your foot’s shape. It features a generous round toe box, giving toes plenty of breathing room. In wear-testing, the fabric never felt tight over the bunion. Reviewers note the material is flexible yet supportive, and the shoe is even machine washable for easy care. One tip from users: bunion sufferers often recommend sizing up to ensure a truly comfortable fit (to account for the widened forefoot).

• Stretch knit upper: Soft, pliable material that won’t dig into the bunion.
• Wide, round toe: Extra space at the front keeps toes from overlapping or squeezing.
• Versatile style: Can dress up or down, with neutral colors to match many outfits.

Though not as spacious as athletic shoes, Rothy’s Flat is surprisingly forgiving. It doesn’t pinch at the toes, and the entire shoe molds to your foot over time. For work or casual wear when you still need style, The Flat is one of the best women’s dress shoes for bunions, according to comfort reviews.

5. Aetrex Sydney – Best Sandals for Bunions Women

When it’s warm out, the Aetrex Sydney sandal offers both support and fashion. Aetrex (a brand favored by podiatrists) uses adjustable straps so you can fine-tune the fit and avoid pressure on the bunion. The Sydney has two straps over the foot and one around the heel, all with velcro closures. This means you can loosen the strap nearest your big toe for extra wiggle room. Underfoot, the sandal provides built-in arch support and cushioning for a supportive, comfortable stance. Testers found it surprisingly roomy and stable – one noted excellent arch support without any hard spots on the foot.

• Adjustable straps: Velcro bands allow the sandal to open wider over the bunion.
• Arch support: Molded footbed keeps the arch aligned, reducing stress on the forefoot.
• Casual style: Sleek design doesn’t sacrifice comfort – it looks good with summer attire.

According to expert foot doctors, Aetrex designs sandals specifically for foot conditions like bunions. If you want a sandal that doesn’t force you to “suffer through” summer, the Sydney’s soft straps and ergonomic footbed make it one of the best women’s sandals for bunions.

6. New Balance Fresh Foam X1080 v12 – Best Running Shoes for Bunions

For runners, the New Balance Fresh Foam X1080 v12 is highly recommended for bunion relief. This shoe features a flexible knit upper and a naturally wide forefoot, so your toes have room to splay during runs. The Fresh Foam midsole delivers plush cushioning underfoot while remaining responsive. Good Housekeeping Institute testers praised this model: they noted the upper “accommodating [over bunions]” and that cushioning was just right for long runs. We found it provides stable support with the benefit of up to four width options (narrow through X-wide), ensuring a snug but unrestrictive fit.

• Wide forefoot: Generous space in the toe box minimizes friction on bunions.
• Four width sizes: Available in narrow, standard, wide, and X-wide to fit diverse foot shapes.
• Breathable knit upper: Soft, engineered mesh flexes as your foot moves without binding.

This shoe’s combination of support and flexibility makes it ideal for athletes with bunions. If you jog or work out, Fresh Foam 1080v12 is one of the best women’s running shoes for bunions on hard surfaces. One tester even noted it was as comfortable running as it was wearing for errands, which is rare praise for a performance sneaker.

7. Altra Lone Peak 7 – Best Hiking Shoe for Bunions

The Altra Lone Peak 7 trail running/hiking shoe features Altra’s signature zero-drop platform and an exceptionally wide toe box. Its low heel-to-toe drop keeps your foot in a natural, flat position, while the wide toe design lets all your toes spread comfortably. We loved the stitch-less, quick-dry mesh upper – no seams to irritate the bunion. The grippy Vibram outsole excelled on various terrains (rocks, mud, trail), and the shoe felt light despite durable construction. Many reviewers highlight how the Lone Peak’s high stack height (thick cushioning) plus wide profile provide stability without squeezing the forefoot. If you enjoy hiking or off-road walking, Lone Peak 7 is one of the best women’s hiking shoes for bunions, as it adapts to rough trails while being kind to tender toes.

• Wide zero-drop fit: Conforms to natural foot shape, giving toes full room.
• Trail-ready outsole: Lugs and tread for excellent traction on uneven surfaces.
• Mesh upper: Lightweight, breathable, and seamless to prevent friction.

In summary, Altra’s Lone Peak handles all the things bunion sufferers need: space, support, and cushioning. Its only downside is a very modest arch support – you may want insoles if you have high arches. Otherwise, it’s a top choice for outdoor activity.

8. Clarks Breeze Sea Flip-Flop – Best Flip-Flop for Bunions Women

Even simple flip-flops can be designed to help bunions. The Clarks Breeze Sea is a casual sandal with padded sole and two adjustable straps over the foot. The secret is in those straps: you can loosen the one across your forefoot so it doesn’t pinch the bunion. Podiatrist advice confirms that adjustable straps are key for bunions, allowing you to customize fit as feet swell throughout the day. In testing, we found the Clarks’ thick footbed pleasantly cushiony, and the outsole had decent grip for light walking. It’s not made for long hikes, but as a flip-flop option, it prevents the worst pain of regular flats.

• Dual straps: Hook-and-loop closures for a personalized fit around the bunion.
• Soft footbed: Lightly cushioned insole provides gentle support for arches.
• Affordable and versatile: Comes in many colors; can be worn at the beach or at home.

Dr. Bryan Roth, DPM, notes that flip-flops with adjustable straps are “better for comfort”. The Clarks Breeze Sea matches that advice: it’s roomy in the toe area and keeps your foot secure, making it one of the best casual sandals for women with bunions.

9. Hoka Gaviota 5 – Best Arch-Support Shoe for Bunions

For overpronators or those needing extra support, the Hoka Gaviota 5 is an excellent stabilizing shoe. It’s similar to the Bondi 8 but built on Hoka’s DynaHike platform with a firmer midsole. Importantly, Gaviota 5 has an engineered mesh upper that stretches more than the Bondi’s, giving bunions extra clearance. The signature H-Frame support in the midsole provides strong arch and heel stability. We noticed its plush padding on the tongue and collar also made the fit gentle around sensitive spots. Testers with bunions found the extra room in the toe box avoided chafing, though some did mention the shoe can feel a bit bulky. Overall, it delivers Hoka’s cushioned ride plus the firm support Hoka fans love, earning its place as a top bunion shoe.

• H-Frame stability: Rigid support structure for arch and ankle control.
• Roomy mesh upper: More stretch for bunions than previous Hoka models.
• Removable insole: Allows use of custom orthotics if needed.

The Gaviota 5 is especially good if you need maximum arch support in addition to wide fit. As one wearer said, it “gives a snug heel fit… security” while still having a “roomy toe box”. For daily wear where support is paramount, this Hoka is a solid pick for women with bunions.

10. Keen Women’s WK400 Leather Walking Shoe – Best Walking Shoe for Bunions

Rounding out our list is the Keen WK400, a rugged walking shoe praised by testers as a “bunion-bearer’s dream”. Keen’s design includes a roomy toe box (a hallmark of the brand) and a gentle rocker sole. In trials, the soft-footbed cushioning never rubbed the bunion, even on long urban walks. This shoe’s standout feature is the rocker shape under the midfoot, which helps propel your stride forward. Though it took us a couple of walks to adjust, the shape eventually felt natural and eased strain on the forefoot. The grippy, lugged outsole inspired confidence on all terrains, yet the shoe remained flexible and breathable. If your bunions are worsened by standard walking shoes, the Keen WK400’s wider cut and secure straps make it one of the best walking shoes for women with bunions.

• High-traction sole: Rugged outsole for stability on pavement or trails.
• Rocker design: Curved midsole encourages a smooth roll-through stride.
• Roomy front: Keen’s hallmark wide toe area prevents pinching during walks.

Keen shoes are well-known for fitting bunion-prone feet, and the WK400 proves why. As Shape magazine notes, it’s “a bunion-bearer’s dream” for travel or long days on your feet, combining comfort and function in one package.

How to Choose the Best Shoes for Bunions

When shopping for bunion-friendly footwear, focus on comfort and fit:

• Wide toe box: Ensure the shoe’s widest part aligns with your bunion’s widest point. A true wide or extra-wide model is ideal.
• Soft, flexible materials: Look for uppers made of stretchable knit, supple leather, or mesh. These adapt to your foot and “give” around the bunion.
• Adjustable closures: Shoes with laces, buckles, or Velcro let you customize fit. Looser lacing means less pressure on the bunion.
• Cushioning and support: Good insoles with arch support reduce stress on the toes. Many shoes allow aftermarket orthotics for extra arch help.
• Light heel or zero-drop: Avoid high heels. A low-profile heel keeps weight evenly distributed, and many recommend a zero-drop (flat) design for natural foot positioning.
• Breathable build: Ventilated materials can reduce swelling, a bonus when bunions are flared up.

Above all, do not wear tight or pointed shoes. As one podiatrist notes, wearing narrow shoes “is a leading factor in the development of bunions”. Choosing shoes with ample width and soft uppers is your best defense. If possible, always try on shoes later in the day (when feet are slightly swollen) and walk around to feel for any pressure points.

FAQs about Shoes for Bunions

• Q: What makes a shoe good for bunions?
  A: The best shoes for bunions have a wide, roomy toe box and soft, stretchy upper material. This setup prevents pinching the bunion. Good cushioning and arch support are also important to distribute weight evenly. Adjustable closures (laces or straps) help you loosen the shoe as needed. In short, look for “bunion-friendly” features: wide fit, soft lining, and comfort-focused insoles.
• Q: Can wearing wide shoes cure my bunions?
  A: Shoes alone cannot fix the underlying deformity; only surgery fully corrects a bunion. However, wearing wide, supportive shoes does relieve pain and prevent the condition from worsening. In most cases, pain is “relieved by wearing wider shoes with adequate toe room”. Supplements like bunion pads or custom orthotics can further reduce pressure, but they are only temporary pain relief measures.
• Q: Are there shoes specifically made for bunions?
  A: Yes. Some brands (like Orthofeet, Aetrex, Hoka, etc.) design models specifically for foot conditions. These often feature extra depth, removable insoles, and stretchy materials. Many comfort or “orthopedic” shoe lines fall into this category. But you can also find mainstream shoes (sneakers and sandals) that naturally fit bunion needs. The key is the shoe’s shape and flexibility – whether it’s labeled “bunion shoe” or just a naturally wide shoe.
• Q: Do I need custom orthotics for bunions?
  A: Not necessarily. Over-the-counter arch supports and toe spacers can help redistribute pressure. Shoes with built-in removable insoles (like many on our list) let you add orthotics if you want extra support. Orthotics don’t cure bunions, but they can improve foot alignment and comfort. If your bunions cause persistent pain, a podiatrist might recommend custom inserts for your shoes.
• Q: How should shoes fit if I have bunions?
  A: Measure your feet and choose shoes that are slightly larger or wider than your normal size. You should have about a finger’s width of space in front of your longest toe. Your toes should never feel scrunched. Always walk around in a new pair: you should not feel any pinching along the big toe joint or foot side. Remember that feet swell through the day, so fit in the afternoon for the best long-term comfort.

Choosing the right footwear can dramatically reduce bunion pain. From our tests, each of the above shoes meets crucial bunion-friendly criteria: wide toe box, soft materials, and good support. By following the guidelines above and trying a few of our top picks, you’ll be well on your way to walking comfortably again. If you found this guide helpful, share it with fellow bunion sufferers and let us know in the comments which shoe worked best for you.