Last updated on April 13th, 2021 at 09:17 pm
Bunions are extremely common and these bony protrusions are often caused by wearing improper footwear. As you may well know, they can be painful and often require surgery to correct. However, by wearing well-fitting, comfortable, and supportive shoes, you can alleviate much of your pain. As such, when choosing your footwear, you must look for the best workout shoes for bunions to ensure your feet feel as light as air.
What Makes a Great Workout Shoe for Those Suffering with Bunions?
As you may know, it is more important to find comfortable, supportive shoes when working out as your feet will typically be moving much more. Additionally, before committing to any particular pair of shoes we’ve considered the following points.
- Firm Midsole Cushioning: For versatile workouts, a cushioned, yet slightly firm midsole is needed for explosive movement. And for those with bunions, a good balance between sturdy cross fit trainers and a cushioned running shoe is ideal.
- Great Support: Whether your workout takes you to the gym or out on the pavement, those with bunions will need good support to keep you from over pronating. Shoes like these will include a supportive upper and heel cup, and protective overlays. However, these overlays shouldn’t impede the sides of your bunions.
- Roomy Toe Box: In this case, a good fitting shoe goes a long way toward less pain. Thus, a roomy toe box will be much appreciated for those working out with bunions. Additionally, a wide toe box allows for better balance and for toe flexing, which leads to a better workout.
- Minimal Heel Drop: Ideally for a versatile workout, a shoe with a lower profile will serve better for balance as well as better control. Additionally, a low heel drop aids you in quick pivoting and less sliding than shoes with higher drops.
Our Favorite Workout Shoes for Bunions Are...
Knowing how uncomfortable bunions can be, we started a search for some of the most comfortable workout shoes. Of course, there were some that didn’t help the problem and others that were incredible. With this in mind, a few deserved special mention.
Our favorite overall: Altra Escalante 2
The best for cross training: Reebok Nano X
Best for running: Brooks Ghost 13
Even so, for a detailed report of our other favorites, take a look at our reviews below.
Comparison Table of Workout Shoes or Bunions
First, we’ve placed our top ranked shoes into the chart below for quick reference. If you’d like to swiftly view more information, including current styles and pricing, follow the links below.
| Picture | Name / Link | Price |
|---|---|---|
 
|
Altra Escalante 2 | $ |
 
|
Reebok Nano X | $$$ |
 
|
Brooks Ghost 13 | $$$ |
 
|
Nobull Trainers | $$$ |
 
|
Reebok HIIT Trainers | $ |
 
|
New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 V10 | $$ |
As you can see, those of us with bunions have loads of options. However, view more about our extensive findings further below.
1. Altra Escalante 2
Without a doubt, our favorite for a versatile workout is the Altra Escalante 2. This newly updated version of their predecessor have a wealth of features that are extremely effective for bunions.
Notably, this zero-drop design is particularly wonderful as a great base for a stable workout experience.
Secure Fit
First, to ensure that your feet are properly supported, your shoes must not move around on the feet.
In fact, the Altra Escalante 2 has a newly improved upper which offers an incredible fit around the midfoot. This part of the shoe is essential in securing your arch and seating the foot properly.
If you’ve ever ran in shoes that weren’t tied properly, you can imagine how important this part of the shoe actually is for comfort.
Additionally, a secure midfoot adds structure and allows a wide toe box its needed freedom, which these have.
Wide Toe Box
As a rule, those with bunions will find their feet become cramped in narrow shoes. Trust me, I have bunions and Altra offers some of the wides and most unobstructed toe areas in the industry.
In fact, the Escalante will fully accommodate the forefoot for the largest of bunions without causing discomfort.
And, this isn’t just a shoe in a ‘wide’ size. The Escalante boasts an improved foot shape design that allows the toes to splay. As a result, this shoe gives you a much more natural fit and strengthens foot muscles to aid in strengthening and pain relief.
Flexible
The last thing you want is for your feet to feel constricted when you are working out. For this reason, shoes with a lots of flexibility should be chosen to discourage extra force on the sides of the foot.
For instance, the Escalante’s upper material is soft pliable while still providing that all-important support.
What’s more, the midsole and outsole have been redeveloped to add more flexibility during every movement.
For those that suffer from bunions, this is a real treat to wear.
Regardless of your workout activity, you’ll find yourself pivoting or toeing off with grace you didn’t know you had.
Altra Escalante 2 Pros and Cons
Altra Escalante 2 PROS
- Very wide toe box
- Flexible and comfortable upper
- Very breathable
- Non-compression insole
- A great neutral shoe
Altra Escalante 2 CONS
- Come slightly narrower so you may need a size up
- The soft material is not incredibly durable
Who is This Running Shoe Perfect For?
This shoe has lot to offer and will certainly keep your feet feeling comfortable as you workout. However, since the material is a little softer, they are less suited for vigorous outdoor wear in harsh conditions. For this reason, they are best suited to those doing light exercise on forgiving surfaces. If the Escalante sounds like a perfect fit, check out more information, including current styles and pricing, here: Altra Men’s Escalante 2 and the Altra Women’s Escalante 2
2. Reebok Nano X
If you are looking for something durable then the Reebok Nano X offers that in leaps and bounds. We found this shoe to be constructed from a lightweight yet robust material that stands up to even the most challenging workouts.
Supportive
With a soft EVA midsole that cushions the foot and prevents shock, the wearer will experience excellent support. Additionally, this is further backed up by a tough yet flexible upper that cradles the foot from every angle.
Underfoot, the outsole provides a good base for support and a degree of stability that is largely unrivaled.
As a result, the Nano X is an outstanding performer for cross training and other extreme gym activities.
Excellent Comfort
One of the most important considerations for bunions is the level of comfort one can expect time and time again.
For instance, these shoes have a good amount of midsole padding that keeps the foot feeling as though you’re walking on air.
But even more than this, athletes find the wide toe box provides you with plenty of wriggle room for the toes.
As a result, your bunions will not be compressed or pressurized with lots of space to keep the feet comfortable.
Durable
Finally, the materials used to construct these shoes are some of the most resilient and durable available. The upper is crafted with Reebok’s Flexweave textile that withstands whatever you put it through.
Additionally, the midsole, while soft and cushioned, is made from durable EVA foam. Thus, this shoe stands the test of time while delivering on support and stability.
As a result, we’ve found these shoes retain their immediate comfort for bunion-owners during lots of vigorous workout sessions.
Pros and Cons of the Reebok Nano X
Reebok Nano X PROS
- High-top design offers better ankle support
- Wide toe box
- Flexible uppers without obstructions
- Suitable for a variety of sports
- Elevated heel for stability
- A great neutral shoe
Reebok Nano X CONS
- Runs slightly narrow
- Reduced grip
- Can feel bulky on the feet
Why Will Runners Love These Running Shoes?
The Reebok Nano X shoes are indeed a very durable and resilient pair of workout shoes. These are Ideal for professional athlete and hobby trainer alike. Check out more information, including current pricing and styles, here: Reebok Nano X Men’s and the Reebok Nano X Women’s
3. Brooks Ghost 13
For incredible comfort and support, the Brook Ghost 13 shoes are fitted with great cushioning for maximum softness without compromising on support.
And, this is an important consideration for those of us with bunions. However, that is not all that athletes find alluring about this shoe.
DNA Loft Cushion
Bunions cause pain to rip through the forefoot, and a soft cushion underfoot will drastically reduce this pain. Here, these shoes make use of Brooks’ latest technology, DNA Loft cushioning.
This is the softest type of midsole material available and while it is flexible, it is still incredibly responsive and supportive. Essentially, this gives you the best of everything.
In fact, this cushioning absorbs impact like a thicker foam, but remains extremely flexible and lightweight. As a result, athletes and runners feel light as air. Additionally, this makes the Brooks Ghost 13 a great shoe for versatile workouts including intervals and running.
Excellent Shock Absorption
With each step you take, energy is transferred from impact and into your foot. This is the last thing you want when your feet are already painful.
However, the Ghost’s built-in crash pad means all this shock is absorbed before it even has a chance to reach your foot. This also makes the shoes incredibly stable, with support from the ground up.
Additionally, this part of the shoe is segmented in such a way that provides an optimal amount of foot flex, giving your toes the ability to move as they need.
Flexible Fit
Finally, thanks to the DNA Loft technology as mentioned above, these shoes are outstanding when it comes to flexibility. The DNA Loft midsole runs from toe to heel, moving with the feet as you take each step.
Not only is this efficient for movement, its ideal to strengthen the foot and stabilizes all of the joints throughout the leg.
The soft upper is made from a breathable mesh which allows your bunions lots of space to rest.
Pros and Cons of the Brooks Ghost 13
Brooks Ghost 13 PROS
- Breathable
- Soft cushioning
- Excellent flexibility
- Wide toe box
- A great neutral shoe
Brooks Ghost 13 CONS
- A short break-in period
- Could be too flexible for some wearers looking for extra stability
Who Would This Shoe be Perfect For?
Thanks to the amazing degree of flexibility, this is ideal for those who want a lightweight and versatile shoe. Additionally, this is a fantastic running shoe, so for those that prefer this style of shoe, whether for form or function, will love its performance. If this sounds like a perfect fit, view more information, including current colors and pricing, here: Brooks Ghost 13 Men’s and the Brooks Ghost 13 Women’s
4. Nobull Trainers
A new contender, from a relatively unknown brand, is the NoBull Trainers. One of the most notable things about this shoe is its versatility. Designed with an active lifestyle in mind, these trainers are suited for almost every sport.
Great Traction
First, and most notably, you cannot wear these trainers without noticing the extreme grip that they offer. With an outsole lug pattern specifically designed for multiple environments, you will be well supported on all types of terrain.
We found the outsole to extend past the base of the shoe and around the sides for ultimate traction. This can be especially useful for gym workouts and weight training.
Durable Construction
Additionally, as opposed to using several pieces of material for the upper, these shoes have a unique design. For instance, the entire upper is constructed of one piece of material. As a result, this design is fantastically durable and easy to wear.
However, the material of this trainer is extremely resistant to abrasion and lacks seams that may fail. Thus, you have a longer-lasting pair of workout shoes that will stand up to the challenge.
Supportive Sole
Finally, it is important that the sole provides a good level of rigidity and that is perfectly achieved with this trainer. Right from the ground through to your feet, the outsole and the midsole offer stability thanks to their flat, tough nature.
As you move, the soles do not compress and as such, deliver on support, stability, and shock absorption.
So, for those that have bunions, but can compromise on the structure of their shoes, this trainer is perfect.
Nobull Trainers Pros and Cons
Nobull Trainers PROS
- Breathable
- Lightweight
- Wide toe box
- Durable
- Comfortable and supportive
Nobull Trainers CONS
- Sizes run 1/2 -1 size small
- Laces are known to fray
- Not the most flexible option
- Not ideal for running long distances
Who Would Love This Shoe?
These trainers are great for more intense workouts and are ideal for cross fit, HIIT sessions and weight training. If these sound like a great fit for your next workout, check out more information, including current styles and pricing, here: Men’s Nobull Trainers and the Women’s Nobull Trainers
5. Reebok HIIT Trainers
Another fantastic option for bunion-sufferers are the Reebok HIIT Trainers. It is hard to ignore how lightweight these shoes are. Clearly, these are made from high-quality materials and we’ve found they don’t weigh the foot down.
Breathable Upper
Moreover, demanding high-intensity workout get hot. Hence, the need for shoes that are breathable and will keep the feet fresh.
While others fail, these Reeboks are made using breathable mesh material for the upper which offers excellent ventilation without compromising on comfort.
As a result, we found these trainers to be one of the best for high intensity workouts where you don’t want to be slipping on sweat.
Incredibly Comfortable
Not only do the Reebok HIIT trainers have an incredibly cushioned midsole, they are also extremely comfortable around the ankle.
This is thanks to the padded collar which prevents friction and keeps the ankle and heel area comfortable. However, this doesn’t affect the security of the shoes and the fit is still excellent.
Furthermore, we found the toe area to be very room. And, with mesh construction and the lack of big overlays, there isn’t anything to abrade our poor toe joints.
Stable Ride
Finally, one of the things that really grabbed our attention about these shoes is how stable they feel. This is largely thanks to the grippy outsole that offers stability and protection from the base. However, with improved heel and ankle support, these trainers give stability all around the foot.
For this reason, and for which they are aptly named, this shoe is exceptional for High Intensity Interval Training.
Reebok HIIT Trainers Pros and Cons
Reebok HIIT Trainers PROS
- Breathable
- Great cushioning
- Stable and secure
- Roomy toe box
- Good choice of designs
Reebok HIIT Trainers CONS
- Not very flexible
- Outsole wears quickly
Who are These Shoes Perfect For?
The Reebok HIIT trainers offer a simple solution without any frills, making them perfect for many workout styles. Additionally, these are a great option for anyone who needs added comfort and grip in a lightweight and stylish shoe. If these trainers sound like the perfect fit, view more information, including current styles and pricing, here: Reebok Women’s HIIT Trainers and the Reebok Men’s HIIT Trainers
6. New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 V10
Finally, with a durable outsole that grips effortlessly, the New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v10 are ideal for everything from HIIT workouts to running. And, with comfort to boot, these will easily meet the demand of the most ruthless bunions.
Comfortable Midsole
First and foremost, these shoes are fitted with a New Balance’s Fresh Foam technology in midsole. Which, if you have ever tried on, you know this offers superior comfort. But much more than this, the midsole is incredibly responsive.
From toe-off, the sole moves with the foot and as you land the feet, there is an excellent level of shock absorption. Each step will feel soft and light, which is paramount for foot health and bunion pain.
Secure Fit
Additionally, the entire design of these shoes has been created with a secure fit in mind. From the stretchy upper that molds to the feet to the impressive heel support, the shoes won’t slip around.
While the upper is flexible, this doesn’t affect its ability to be supportive and will lock down the feet effectively.
Additionally, we found the heel lock, or heel cup, prevents slippage and adds support to aching feet.
Grippy Tread
Finally, with a rubber outsole designed for use on a variety of surfaces, the traction on these shoes is excellent.
We find them to be suitable for running as well as indoor workouts, and regardless of the terrain they’ll grip the ground very well.
We absolutely love these Fresh Foams for their comfort during a variety of activities.
New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 V10 Pros and Cons
New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 V10 PROS
- Fresh Foam midsole
- Smooth ride
- Flexible upper
- Fantastic grip
- Very supportive
New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 V10 CONS
- Outsole tends to wear quickly.
- Toe box may not be wide enough for very wide bunions
Who are These Shoes Perfect For?
For those that prefer a very secure fit and are planning for light workouts or interval training, these will be a great option. If the Fresh Foam 1080 sounds like a great workout buddy, check out more information, including current styles and pricing, here: Men’s New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 V10 and the Women’s New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 V10
Before Picking Your Workout Shoes
If you’ve landed here for advice, you might be anxious to get your perfect shoe. However, as you know, there are so many shoes out there that make working out with bunions excruciating. So before making your decision, keep the following features in mind for your new kicks.
- Firm midsole cushioning. Working out can include lots of varied movements. So, shoes with a firm cushion will be ideal for pivoting and offering explosive movement.
- Great support. Regardless of the workout, those with bunions should look for shoes with great support to eliminate the rolling of your arches inward (overpronating).
- Roomy toe box. Unquestionably, this is the most obvious, but lots of shoes have a narrow fit that some runners like. However, for those of us with bunions, an unrestricted forefoot offers loads of comfort.
- Minimal heel drop. A low heel drop is better for balance as well as control. Also, this will help with pivoting and eliminate foot sliding.
Finally, don’t choose a shoe just because it’s geared toward your sport or workout. If you have bunions, it’s best to go with a shoe that gives your toes room to splay and offers you comfort.
Exercise in Comfort
Bunions can be very painful but this doesn’t mean that you should miss out on your regular workout. With this in mind, the key is to find a pair of shoes that will offer support and comfort as well as being spacious and responsive. Overall, this selection of the best workout shoes for bunions delivers on all the important aspects of this type of footwear. So, get ready to move and pivot pain-free. And, you’ll be working out and supported in no time!
Image Credit: ThoroughlyReviewed | (source) | Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0) –reduced file size