If you're searching for sandals that will help with bunions, it's crucial to understand why many shoes can make them worse. Podiatrists explain that bunions are bony bumps on the side of the big toe joint. They form when pressure pushes the big toe outwards towards the smaller toes. This pressure can come from genetics, an unusual foot shape, or wearing ill-fitting shoes.
While no sandal can completely fix bunions, choosing the right ones can help keep them from getting worse. Here's what we looked at to recommend the best sandals for bunions.
Key Factors to Look for in Sandals for Bunions
Materials
When picking sandals for bunions, the materials matter a lot. We focused on soft, stretchy materials like leather and cork for the insole and footbed since they adapt to your feet over time. For the outsole, durable materials like rubber and certain EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) are ideal because they offer shock absorption and grip.
Toe Box
A roomy toe box is especially beneficial for people with bunions. It allows your toes to spread out, reducing pressure on the big toe joint. We selected sandals with wide toe boxes, avoiding those with a narrow or pointed front.
Arch Support
Good arch support is essential as it helps stabilize your foot and evenly distribute pressure while walking or standing. This is particularly important for bunion relief, as it reduces strain on the big toe joint and can help prevent bunions from getting worse. All the sandals we recommend have some form of arch support.
Straps
The straps on sandals can make a big difference in comfort. They should be sturdy enough for all-day wear but soft enough to avoid causing blisters. Adjustable straps are especially useful for people with bunions because they allow for a custom fit.
Heel Height
High heels are not ideal for bunions because they increase pressure on the forefoot. However, if you need a bit of heel for a special occasion, we included options that feature low heels, like kitten heels, wedges, and platforms. These styles provide some height without putting too much strain on the big toe.
Types of Sandals for Bunions
Indoor Sandals
Even at home, it's important to avoid going barefoot if you have bunion pain. Indoor sandals that provide support can help prevent your symptoms from worsening. Look for slippers or slides that offer arch support, cushioning, and ample space around the toes.
Formal Sandals
Formal sandals often aren't ideal for bunions because they usually have narrow or pointed toe boxes. However, some elegant options are designed to be more bunion-friendly. These include sandals with kitten heels or chunky heels with minimal height difference between the forefoot and heel.
Walking Sandals
Walking sandals should be all about comfort and support. They need good arch support, a wide toe box, a cushioned feel, a durable outsole, and a secure strap around the heel. The right walking sandals will help you stay comfortable on your feet for long periods without worsening your bunions.
The Top 6 Sandals We Love
- Best Sandals for Hiking
Looking for a sandal that can handle long treks on various surfaces like pavement, dirt, gravel, or sand? This sandal is a top pick. It features a contoured footbed that supports and aligns your foot as you walk. Its outsole provides excellent grip, and the straps are made from quick-drying materials, perfect for diverse terrains.
- Best Wedge Sandal
If you love the look of heels but need to avoid too much pressure on your feet, a wedge sandal is a smart choice. Wedges give the appearance of a high heel but have a much lower elevation, similar to a kitten heel. This design reduces the pressure on the front of your foot compared to traditional heels. Ideal for both office settings and casual outings, this sandal adds a touch of style to your wardrobe without compromising comfort.
- Best Everyday Thong Sandal
For a versatile thong sandal that can handle daily wear, consider this option. The straps are designed to be soft on the inside to help prevent blisters, while the contoured, cushioned footbed provides ample support. It also helps ease bunion pain by reducing the pressure on your big toe joint.
- Best Sandal for Outdoor Activities
If you're on the hunt for a sandal that can keep up with outdoor adventures like trail hikes or river tubing, this one is an excellent choice. It features a moisture-wicking footbed to keep your feet dry and slip-resistant outsoles that grip well on wet surfaces. With strong arch support, it keeps your feet properly aligned, reducing extra pressure around bunions.
- Best for Toe Alignment
Bunions often cause toes to bend inward, making standard sandals uncomfortable. This sandal features a wide toe band that gently repositions the big toe toward the center, enhancing overall foot alignment. It also has a thick sole for added comfort and durability, and it looks stylish too. Note that while it won't reverse bunions or change their appearance, it can help prevent them from worsening by improving foot alignment.
- Best Summer Sandal
Looking for a casual sandal to wear to summer events like baby showers or barbecues? Give this one a try! Made from high-quality materials, it's comfortable and molds to your feet over time. The footbed supports proper toe alignment, while the outsole provides excellent traction. Plus, it offers ample room in the toe area, which helps alleviate bunion pain.
