You can't simply "get rid" of a bunion, but the right footwear can stop it getting worse and keep you a lot more comfortable. That's the message from Caitlin at Custom Podiatry, who joined us in store after our own Jen discovered she has the beginning of one.
Whether you've just started noticing a bump at the base of your big toe or you've been living with a bunion for years, these are the things Caitlin looks for when choosing shoes. Save this one for your next shoe shop.
Why bunions happen
According to Caitlin, there are three main causes:
- Genetics: "There's always a genetic element in many cases." Jen agreed straight away: "Look at my dad's feet, and I've got dead ringer replicas of his feet."
- Function: the way your foot moves and loads as you walk can also play a part.
- Footwear: shoes that squeeze or rub the joint add pressure and irritation over time.
What footwear can (and can't) do
Caitlin is honest about it: "We can't send it backwards." Your toes aren't going to suddenly straighten up on their own. "But we can definitely prevent it getting worse."
That's where good shoes come in. A shoe with a little bit of an arch helps support the foot and takes strain off the big toe joint, which helps stop the bunion progressing.
What to look for when shoe shopping
1. A little bit of arch support
Look for a contoured footbed rather than a completely flat sole. If you already wear orthotics, choose an orthotic-friendly style with a removable inner sole so yours will fit.
2. Enough width across the forefoot
The biggest thing is "making sure the shoe is wide enough". A shoe that's narrow across the toes pushes straight against the bunion.
3. No internal stitching over the bunion
Check inside the shoe where your bunion sits. "You wanna make sure that the stitching isn't internally" running across that spot, "cause it's gonna actually rub and irritate that area." Smooth, soft linings are your friend.
4. Do the inner sole test
Caitlin's favourite trick: take the inner sole out of the shoe and stand on it. "If you step on this inner sole and your foot's hanging over" the edges, "it's probably not wide enough." It takes seconds and tells you more than a size label.
5. Try a few and choose by feel
Caitlin's advice to anyone with a bunion: "Try on three shoes that you like" and "pick the one that feels the best." Comfort on the day is a good guide to comfort long term.
The shoe Caitlin used to demonstrate
In the video, Caitlin used the Josef Seibel Arleen 02 Leopard Multi Sneakers to show what to check for. They're orthotic friendly, with a cushioned, flexible sole and a lace-up design you can adjust to your foot.
 |
 |
Find your fit
Not sure where to start? Browse our orthotic-friendly sneakers or the full orthotic-friendly range, or pop in store and our team will help you try a few options side by side.
Watch the full conversation between Jen and Caitlin on our Instagram, and visit Custom Podiatry for personalised advice.
Every foot is different. If your bunion is painful or changing, see a podiatrist for a proper assessment.
