Walking without pain: a practical guide if you suffer from bunions

Complete guide to choosing footwear if you have bunions: tips, types, and solutions for every season

What is a bunion and why does it appear?

A bunion (also known as hallux valgus) is a bone deformity that occurs when the big toe turns toward the other toes, creating a protrusion in the joint. This condition can cause pain, swelling, chafing, and difficulty finding comfortable shoes . Bunions can be hereditary, but they are also influenced by factors such as: Prolonged use of inappropriate footwear (especially narrow or high-heeled shoes ), Posture or gait problems, Arthritis or alterations in the structure of the foot, Repetitive overload

What type of footwear is best for feet with bunions?

Choosing the right footwear is key to relieving pain and preventing the deformity from progressing. The most recommended features are:

• Wide lasts that do not compress the forefoot
• Soft and elastic materials , such as soft leather, technical fabrics or neoprene
• Cushioned insoles that absorb impact when walking
• Zero seams in the bunion area to avoid friction
• Good heel support to maintain foot alignment
• Avoid high heels and narrow toes

Classification by type and severity of bunion

Each foot is different, but we can guide the choice of footwear according to the degree of the protuberance: Mild bunion: Soft-soled sneakers with space in the front Moccasin-type shoes or Mary Janes with side elastics Sandals with adjustable or crossed straps that avoid direct pressure Moderate bunion: Wide, closed shoes with anatomical insole "Stretch" type models (stretchable fabrics on the inner side) Urban orthopedic footwear with an aesthetic design Severe bunion: It is important to consult a podiatrist Therapeutic footwear with a special last, personalized insole and seamless fabrics

Footwear for bunions in summer

Summer presents added challenges due to the use of sandals or open shoes, where the bunion is more exposed:

• Soft leather sandals with crisscross straps that prevent direct pressure
• Models with velcro or adjustable buckle that allow adaptation to the width of the foot
• Anatomical flip-flops like Birkenstock (with room for the toes and good support)
• Avoid thin, flat, and unsupportive sandals

Footwear for bunions in winter

In winter, closed-toe styles are appreciated, but you still need to pay attention to the width and material:

• Soft leather or nubuck ankle boots , without internal seams
• Urban sneakers with memory foam insole
• Derby or monk strap shoes with Velcro or elastic adjustment
• Models lined with sheepskin but without stiffness in the front area

Which brands offer comfortable options for feet with bunions?

At Tascón, we work with brands that pay special attention to footwear comfort and ergonomics. Some of the most recommended are:

• Birkenstock : anatomical sandals, ideal for summer
• Clarks : comfortable urban footwear with cushioned soles
• Pons Quintana : sandals with crisscross straps, elegant and adaptable
• 4CCCCEES : lightweight sneakers with wide lasts
• Camper : modern models with soft fabrics and removable insoles

Exercises, massages and complementary care

Although footwear is essential, there are also techniques that can relieve discomfort:

• Stretching exercises : moving your fingers, writing with them, or using elastic bands
• Ball massages : place a small ball under your foot and roll it gently
• Warm salt water baths : help reduce inflammation
• Apply ice if there is pain and swelling
• Use of silicone separators between the toes (consult a podiatrist)

Frequently asked questions about footwear and bunions

Can bunions be corrected with shoes? No, but wearing appropriate footwear can prevent the problem from worsening and relieve pain. What heel is recommended? A low or medium heel ( 2-3 cm ) may be more comfortable than completely flat shoes. Do insoles help? Yes, especially insoles with arch support or custom-designed ones. Can you wear beautiful shoes with bunions? Yes. More and more brands are designing aesthetically pleasing, modern models adapted to feet with special needs.

We help you choose the best footwear for your foot type

If you suffer from bunions and don't know which model to choose, at Tascón we offer personalized attention to help you find the best option. Our team can recommend comfortable, attractive footwear suitable for each season. 👉 Contact us via chat, email, or in-store, and we'll answer your questions.