8 Best Running Shoes for Bunions in 2024

Are you suffering from bunions? Are you looking for running shoes that will both alleviate your bunion pain and give you the comfort and support that a runner needs? Bunion sufferers out there, good news! We have compiled and reviewed the list of 8 best running shoes for bunions to buy in 2024.

Our list has shoes with features like wide toe boxes, arch supports, cushioning, and flexibility which are perfect criteria for running shoes needed by runners with bunions. Are Hokas good for bunions? Which Nike model can relieve pain? With this article as your guide on how to find suitable footwear for your feet condition, we hope to help reduce bunion pain during or even after a run.

So let’s get started – read on to discover our top recommended running shoes for people living with bunions!

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The ASICS Gel-Kayano 29 can help unlock the full potential of your run. This shoes offering support, soft cushioning, and a stable sole, it epitomizes comfort for runners seeking high results. Level up your run today!

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8 Best Running Shoes for Bunions Reviewed

1. ASICS Men’s Gel-Kayano 29 Running Shoes – Top Pick
2. Hoka One One Clifton 9 – Best For Women
3. Brooks Men’s Cascadia 17 Trail Running Shoe – Best Traction
4. New Balance Men’s 990v6 Sneaker – Best For Road Running
5. Saucony Women’s Triumph Iso 5 Running Shoe – Budget Pick
6. ALTRA Men’s Torin 6 – Best For Long Runs
7. Nike Men’s Air Zoom Pegasus 38 – Best For Easy Runs
8. Mizuno Men’s Wave Rider 27 – Best For High Arches

The best running shoes for tailor’s bunions feature extra cushioning in the midsole and arch areas to further reduce pain due to bunions. Footwear with flexible mesh uppers provides great flexibility, offering improved balance when moving through different terrain surfaces like dirt trails or pavement.

With careful consideration of factors such as cushioning, wide toe box, and arch support, these running shoes have been carefully selected to provide optimal bunion relief.

Explore the range of running shoes with plenty of cushioning and stability to provide support specific for relieving pain from bunions. This guide will cover the best model options for relief when you’re hitting that pavement or trail.

1. Running Shoes ASICS Gel-Kayano 29

Top Pick

ASICS Men’s Gel-Kayano 29 Running Shoes

With improved cushioning and flexibility combined with superior arch support, ASICS Gel-Kayano 29 makes it easy to tackle long distances on roads or trails without pain.

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The ASICS Gel-Kayano 29 is the ultimate running shoe for athletes with bunions, offering excellent support while still being lightweight and comfortable. This stability model features a low-profile external heel counter that provides additional support and protection for overpronation as well as an improved cushioning system.

The LITETRUSS technology gives increased responsiveness while still providing long-distance comfort and minimal bulk weight. Additionally, the wide toe box allows plenty of room for your toes to move without pressing against any materials in the shoe, which is important especially when running uphill or downhill terrains.

• Material: Synthetic, rubber
• Midsole Drop: 10mm
• Cushion Level: High
• Support: Neutral, stability
• Sizes: 7-15
• Width: Regular, wide, x-wide
• Weight: 10.5oz
• Best for: Long runs, road runs
• Recommended by Athletes: Lans Woods, Tenia Fisher

2. Hoka Women's One One Clifton 9 Running Shoe

Best for Women

HOKA ONE ONE Women's Clifton 9 Trainers

If you are looking for the best women's running shoes for bunions, then look no further than the Hoka One One Clifton 9.

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Hoka One One Clifton 9 are the best running shoes for women with bunions, designed to provide reliable cushioning while accommodating a wider toe box. It features a neutral daily training design paired with moderate cushioning that makes it protective yet responsive to your foot’s every movement.

The Clifton 9 model stays true to the cult status of its predecessors with its signature level of protection, making it one of the top shoes for people suffering from bunions in 2024. Moreover, HOKA offers a waterproof version of these best Hoka for bunions called Clifton 9 GTX, which perfectly suits rainy days.

• Material: Synthetic, rubber
• Midsole Drop: 5mm
• Cushion Level: High
• Support: High
• Sizes: 5-12
• Width: Regular, wide
• Weight: 7.2oz
• Best for: Long runs, daily runs
• Recommended by Athletes: Kate Glavan, Billy Cvecko, Futsum Zienasellassie

3. Trail Men’s Running Shoe Brooks Cascadia 17

Best Traction

Brooks Men’s Cascadia 17 Trail Running Shoe

Brooks Men’s Cascadia 17 premium materials ensure long-lasting durability to take you anywhere without worry.

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The Brooks Men’s Cascadia 17 is a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts. It's designed to provide style, comfort, and traction over various terrains while protecting your feet from heavy impacts.

Featuring an adjustable lacing system that provides extra stability as you tackle unpredictable terrain, Brooks shoes for bunions also offer exceptional levels of cushioning. It has shock absorbing technology which makes it comfortable during even the longest journeys.

Additionally, wide width options make it a suitable option for those who need additional space around their bunions.

• Material: Synthetic, rubber
• Midsole Drop: 8mm
• Cushion Level: Balanced
• Support: High
• Sizes: 7-15
• Width: Regular, wide
• Weight: 11.0oz
• Best for: Cross-country, trail running
• Recommended by Athletes: Josh Kerr, Brannon Kidder, Laurie Barton

4. Men's Sneakerr New Balance 990v6

Best for Road Running

New Balance Men's FuelCell 990 V6 Sneakers

New Balance 990v6 are designed specifically in order to fit wider feet and provide maximum comfort for those with bunion issues.

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The New Balance 990v6 Sneaker is specially designed to alleviate foot pain common in runners with bunions. This comfortable and stylish sneaker has a wide toe box and extra cushioning that brings relief from the stress placed on the affected area while running or walking.

The higher cut design of these New Balance for bunions provides additional support to the feet, making them particularly ideal for those suffering from foot pain. Furthermore, its Air Mesh Upper construction allows air circulation within the shoe, ensuring breathability and keeping your feet dry during workouts.

• Material: Synthetic, suede, rubber
• Midsole Drop: 10mm
• Cushion Level: High
• Support: High
• Sizes: 7-14
• Width: Regular, wide, x-wide, xx-wide
• Weight: 13.2oz
• Best for: Road running
• Recommended by Athletes: Gabby Thomas, Trayvon Bromell, Sydney MacLaughlin-Levrone

5. Women's Saucony Triumph Iso 5 Running Shoe

Budget Pick

Saucony Women's Triumph ISO 5 Running Shoe

Saucony Triumph ISO 5 cushioning and support guarantee you a safe training, no matter where your run takes you.

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The Saucony Triumph ISO 5 is an excellent running shoe for bunions and those looking for a comfortable yet high-mileage ride. This pair of shoes is designed with neutral runners in mind, featuring a maximalist midsole that delivers superior cushioning to provide comfort on long runs.

The supportive mesh provides additional support needed to help relieve pain from the bunion. Weighing 10 ounces, the Triumph ISO 5 has an 8 millimeter drop which doesn’t put too much pressure on the MTP joint. These best running shoes for bunions and flat feet aid in reducing friction related foot injuries and ensuring maximum stability during high-intensity workouts.

• Material: Synthetic, rubber
• Midsole Drop: 8mm
• Cushion Level: High
• Support: High
• Sizes: 5-11.5
• Width: Regular, wide
• Weight: 10.3oz
• Best for: Long runs, trail runs
• Recommended by Athletes: Jared Ward, Grayson Murphy, Jay Ell Alexander

6. Men's Running Shoe ALTRA Torin 6

Best for Long Runs

ALTRA Men's Torin 6 Road Running Shoe

For added comfort and adjustability, you can find Altra Torin 6 in both normal and wide options, so those with wider feet can get the best fit possible without feeling bunion pain.

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The Altra Torin 6 is designed with runners who suffer from bunions in mind. This model features a wide toe box that provides ample room for the foot to spread out naturally instead of being confined in narrow shoes.

Additionally, its stack height of 28mm provides exceptional cushioning and support for long-distance runs. The shoes also have Altra EGO™ MAX midsole foam, which gives lightweight softness and responsiveness to every step taken while running.

• Material: Synthetic, rubber
• Midsole Drop: 0mm
• Cushion Level: High
• Support: High
• Sizes: 6.5-14
• Width: Regular, wide
• Weight: 9.9oz
• Best for: Long runs, road running
• Recommended by Athletes: Calum Neff, Sarah Karpinski

7. Men's Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 Running Shoe

Best for Easy Runs

Nike Men's Air Zoom Pegasus 38 Running Shoe

Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 are one of the best wide toe box running shoes for bunions based on value, comfort, and durability.

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The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 is the perfect choice for runners with bunions. Its improved upper and React midsole provide comfort and support for even the longest run, while its affordable price makes it an attractive and great-value option.

Many users pick this model due to its comfortable fit and cushioned midsole, so you can confidently power through your miles without worrying about sore feet later on.

It's considered best suited for easy runs, which allows plenty of time for recovery before tackling more challenging runs in other shoes. With such a wide toe box, this shoe provides excellent support and relief against bunions.

• Material: Synthetic, rubber
• Midsole Drop: 10mm
• Cushion Level: High
• Support: Moderate
• Sizes: 7-15
• Width: Regular, wide toe box
• Weight: 10.2oz
• Best for: Easy pace, road running
• Recommended by Athletes: Marion Jones, Adrian Peterson

8. Men's Shoe Mizuno Wave Rider 27

Best for High Arches

Mizuno Men's Wave Rider 27 Running Shoe

Mizuno Wave Rider 27 offers a reliable and cushioned ride ideal for any runner looking for better performance while protecting them from impacts related to bunion flares-ups.

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The Mizuno Wave Rider 27 Running Shoe is renowned for its cushioning and fit. It has been consistently praised for a great heel lock down, an exceptional fit, plus smooth transitions.

It is considered a great daily trainer that can handle most types of runs but not speed work. It features Mizuno Enerzy foam providing unbeatable cushioning and bouncy energy return with each stride.

With a wider forefoot construction and improved arch support, this shoe works well for runners with wide feet or high arches. It is highly comfortable yet truly supportive through every step, protecting your feet from pain even during the longest runs.

• Material: Synthetic, rubber
• Midsole Drop: 12mm
• Cushion Level: High
• Support: High
• Sizes: 7-16
• Width: Regular, wide
• Weight: 9.9oz
• Best for: Road runs, long runs
• Recommended by Athletes: Rhiannon Clarke, Jonathan Goerlach

What Are Bunions and Can They Be a Problem for Runners?

Bunions are deformations that occur at the base of the big toe when it is bent inward towards the other toes, leading to a bony bump protruding from the outer edge of the foot. The bunion can cause pain and discomfort due to friction caused against shoes and socks.

It becomes especially problematic for runners as tight or ill-fitting footwear may aggravate bunions even further. At the same time, narrow running shoes may put pressure on them when running, leading to blisters and injury.

For this reason, many runners with bunions experience difficulty finding good running shoes. They have to accommodate extra room for heel-spur protection as well as not squeeze or rub against their bunions.

What Causes Runners to Develop Bunions?

Bunions can be caused by numerous factors. Learning more about these causes and how to prevent further occurrence is essential for runners with bunions.

1. Repeated Stress on the Metatarsophalangeal Joint

For runners, the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint is one of the most important parts of the foot. It’s located at the junction between toe bones and their corresponding metatarsals and helps to bear significant weight during running and walking.

As a result, the foot is vulnerable to repeated stress, which can eventually lead to bunions developing over time. Professional athletes who put their feet through strenuous workouts can be particularly prone to this issue due to continually pushing themselves hard with little rest in between.

Common signs include morning stiffness in the MTP joint along with associated inflammation and soreness. It all indicates increasing levels of discomfort caused by bunions forming at that spot.

2. Improper Footwear

Wearing shoes with pointed toes or ones that are too tight is known to cause bunions. The big toe joint can become affected after being exposed to constant stress due to wearing tight ill-fitting footwear.

Improper footwear forces your big toe outwards, causing deformity over time. Poorly fitting or overly narrow shoes can also significantly contribute to bunion development. They restrict movement in your feet while running and exert pressure on specific points that aggravate existing bunions.

3. Muscle Imbalances

Muscle imbalances, such as posture irregularities, weak kinetic chain muscles, overpronation, and biomechanical issues, can all increase your risk for developing bunions. Exercises that strengthen your feet can help you avoid some potential sources of bunion pain if done consistently throughout your training plan.

Pro Tip:

Strengthening core muscles, lower limb musculature and creating better balance should form part of your program. It helps to prevent injuries common to runners including those causing bunion formations.

Pro Tip:

Strengthening core muscles, lower limb musculature and creating better balance should form part of your program. It helps to prevent injuries common to runners including those causing bunion formations.

How We Chose These Shoes for Bunions?

The selection process for the best running sneakers for bunions included evaluating criteria such as wide toe boxes, adequate arch support, moderate heel-to-toe drop, cushioning, and flexibility.

Each of the 8 models and brands were selected based on their ability to meet these needs specifically. For example, the ASICS Gel-Kayano 29 was chosen because its spacious toe box offers extra room whilst preventing foot problems common in runners with bunions.

The Hoka One One Clifton 9 was also chosen due to its superior cushioning which is beneficial for individuals with sensitive feet or bunions. On top of that, the Woman's Brooks Men’s Cascadia 17 are recommended by our podiatrists for its well balanced fit and maximum responsiveness.

Additionally, all those models are a great choice providing comfort and support, having enough room without compromising overall quality structure wise.

Basic Criteria for Good Running Shoes for Bunions

Every running shoe should provide adequate cushioning, support, and a wide toe box to prevent developing bunions. Read on to learn more about how these requirements can help protect your feet while running!

1. Wide Toe Box

A wide toe box is one of the basic criteria for good running shoes for bunions, as it helps to relieve pressure and discomfort on the bunion area. It allows your toes to spread out naturally, reducing friction and helping to improve gait efficiency.

A wider base also provides more stability when landing during runs which can help protect against injury. Bunion-friendly running shoes with a wide toe box are designed by taking into account how runners’ feet move while walking or jogging.

2. Adequate Arch Support

When it comes to running shoes for people with bunions, it is essential to consider the basic criteria for a good fit and support. To begin with, adequate arch support helps maintain proper alignment of your feet and ankles while reducing pain from bunions.

Proper arch support also improves balance, making foot strikes more efficient and distributing body weight evenly across the entire foot. It should be cushioned just enough so that you’re able to move comfortably in them without pushing or compressing too much. This will help reduce stress on bunions and surrounding areas like ligaments and tendons.

3. Moderate Heel-to-Toe Drop

When selecting running shoes for bunions, it’s important to look for models that offer a moderate heel-to-toe drop, which is the difference in height between the heel and forefoot of the shoe.

A lower drop can help reduce excessive pressure on the joints and provide a bit more stability so you don’t roll your toes inward when walking or running. When bunion pain is an issue, this helps balance out uneven weight distribution throughout your foot. It also keeps you from stressing any particular areas too much during impact activities like running or jogging.

4. Cushioning and Flexibility

When it comes to running shoes for bunions, cushioning and flexibility are two features that should not be neglected. Cushioning is important for comfort, while the flexibility provides a natural fit that helps runners move more freely.

The shoe should also provide plenty of arch support and heel cushioning to accommodate the bump caused by bunions.

How to Relieve Bunion Pain during and after Running

There are four simple steps that can be taken to help reduce the pain associated with bunions when running:

1. Covering Bunions When Running

When running, covering bunions can be difficult, but it doesn't have to be. To ease the discomfort caused by bunions when exercising, there are various products and techniques available that can make a difference.

Moleskin is primarily used as an effective preventative measure for blisters and rubs caused during exercise. Applied directly onto the area, moleskin covers up any bony protrusions without adding bulkiness to your shoes.

Gel pads provide superior shock absorbing properties which reduce impact on vulnerable areas of the foot, such as bunions, and protect from further irritation or rubbing against your shoe materials.

Additionally, using protective silicone padding between the skin and fabric of your shoes creates extra cushioning. It provides comfort during runs while helping to protect fragile areas, such as developing or existing bunions from injury or infection due to friction.

2. Switching to Comfortable Shoes

If you suffer from bunions, excessive rubbing and pressure on the feet can cause a great amount of pain and discomfort when running. Switching to comfortable shoes designed specifically for runners with bunions is an effective way of relieving bunion pain during and after runs.

3. Icing the Affected Area

Icing the affected area is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to help relieve bunion pain. This technique can reduce inflammation in the joint, helping to decrease pressure on the bunion and managing discomfort effectively.

Icing minimizes swelling and provides relief from some of the aches and pains associated with bunions. It's also best practice not to repeatedly freeze the same spot: alternate between two different areas of your feet for maximum benefit.

4. Implementing Orthotics

Custom orthotics crafted by a licensed podiatrist are a proven way to alleviate foot pain, including bunion symptoms. Besides, they can be beneficial for bunion management.

By alleviating stress on the metatarsophalangeal joint, custom orthotics can help manage bunions in runners in both prevention and treatment.

While custom orthotics provide considerable relief, it's also important to wear good running shoes with features designed specifically for helping reduce bunion pain while running.

Frequently Asked Questions about Good Running Shoes for Bunions

Is There a Lacing Technique That Helps Relieve Bunion Pain?

If you have a bunion and experience daily pain when running, try experimenting with different techniques, like spacing out your eyelets evenly while looping. You may also leave one extra hole without threading lace through on both sides, which will create a gap in between where you’ll feel the least amount of pressure from your shoes, thus easing your discomfort.

Do Bunion Insoles Help in Running Shoes?

Bunion insoles are great for people running with bunions as they help to provide relief from pain and discomfort caused by the condition. The insoles work by providing additional cushioning and arch support, which helps absorb shock, reduce pressure on the feet, and take weight off of the bunion area as you run.

Can You Still Run With a Bunion?

Yes, you can still run with a bunion. It may not be the most comfortable experience, but wearing proper footwear and implementing foot care routines to relieve pain and reduce strain can help make it manageable. Just make sure not to overdo it and always consult your healthcare professional.

How Does Bunion Surgery Affect My Running?

Bunion surgery can have a significant impact on the way that a runner is able to perform on the track. It alters foot alignment which leads to changes in weight distribution and body biomechanics during exercise, especially running.

Final Thoughts on the Best Running Shoes for Bunions

Finding the right running shoes for bunions is essential to relieve pain and discomfort while allowing you to enjoy their favorite form of exercise. The best way to find a suitable shoe is by consulting with a podiatrist who can give specific advice relevant to your condition.

When shopping for running shoes for those suffering from bunions, it is highly important to consider features such as wide toe box, adequate arch support, moderate heel-to-toe drop, cushioning and flexibility.

It is also crucial to select quality brands that are well known for providing good cushioning and support against potential pronation. Our top pick is ASICS Gel-Kayano 29 amongst many other models available on the market today. It features soft cushioning and has wide toe box and wide options available, making your run pain-free even for long distances.

Ultimately, we believe that comfort should be top priority so ensure whatever pair you choose offers the needed support along with sufficient cushioning. Stay safe and enjoy your run without pain!

Have you experienced bunion pain while running? What running shoes do you prefer for bunion pain? Please, share your tips in the comments below.

Also read:

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• Running for Boxing
• Best Running Socks That Prevent Blisters
• When Does Track And Field Season Start

References:

1. Guoli Li, Jinsong Shen, Edward Smith, Chetna Patel. “The Evaluation of Orthotics in Reducing Hallux Valgus Angle in Patients with Hallux Valgus over a Twelve-Month Treatment.” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 19, no. 19 (2022): 12531.
2. “Hoka Shoe Technology,” Hoka, https://www.hoka.com/en/ca/hoka-technology.html (accessed December 09, 2023).
3. Jianhua Ying, Yining Xu, Biro Istvan, Feng Ren, “Adjusted Indirect and Mixed Comparisons of Conservative Treatments for Hallux Valgus: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis,” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 18, no. 7 (2021): 3841.
4. Liangliang Xiang, Qichang Mei, Justin Fernandez, Yaodong Gu, “Minimalist Shoes Running Intervention Can Alter the Plantar Loading Distribution and Deformation of Hallux Valgus: A Pilot Study,” Gait & Posture 65 (2018): 65-71.
5. “What Shoes Are Good for Bunions? Advice from a Podiatrist,” The Bunion Institute, https://www.bunioninstitute.com/blog/good-for-bunions/ (accessed December 09, 2023)