If You Have Bunions, These Are The Only Ballet Flats Worth Buying
byChelsey Hamilton
Updated:
Originally Published:
Amazon/Bustle
If you suffer from bunions, wearing the wrong type of shoes can add unwanted pressure or pain to the big toe area — and this means shoe shopping can be a challenge. To make your search for bunion-approved shoes a little easier, I've compiled a research-backed list of the best ballet flats for bunions. They've got podiatrist-recommended features that'll leave your feet feeling comfortable all day.
First, a little background: Wearing too-tight or too-narrow shoes can add pressure and worsen bunions. That said, a major factor to look for when choosing flats is a toe box that's wide and not pointed. Dr. Frank Sinkoe, an Atlanta-based podiatrist, agrees. What's more, he tells Bustle, limiting motion in the big toe joint can help with pain. How do you limit big toe movement? Opt for closed-toed shoes that cover the entire toe area. Dr. Sinkoe also recommends wearing supportive shoes for bunions, so it's a good idea to opt for extra support or padding in the insole.
All the shoes below are comfortable and supportive, and many offer wider toe boxes to minimize the risk of irritation. And just because they're good for your feet doesn't mean they lack style — I've included a range of cute options at various price points.