The Best Heels For Bunions, According To A Podiatrist

• Also available at Macy’s, $85, and Zappos, $50

With its overall 4.5 stars and more than 6,000 reviews, the Clarks Emslie Lulin pump is the most well-rated shoe on this list. It’s also the best pick for bunions. Why? It meets every single one of Dr. Solomon’s criteria (low, chunky heel, rounded toe, leather upper, and wide options) while also offering a few bonuses — namely its affordable price tag and super-comfortable Ortholite footbed. While it’s only available in black, the single-strap design is professional enough for work, yet dressy enough for weddings.

One reviewer wrote: “I have to say I'm very impressed. The toe box is decently wide without feeling sloppy, the velcro foot strap keeps the shoes secure without sliding, and they are amazingly comfortable despite being heeled shoes. I usually try to stretch new shoes to account for my bunions and while I still may do so, I had very little discomfort wearing these out of the box. They are easy to put on, have a great grippy sole without seeming too industrial, and are all around great for casual and dress wear.”

Upper material: leather | Heel height: 2.16 inches | Available sizes: 5 — 12 (narrow, wide, and half sizes available) | Color options: 1

Low, stable, comfortable, and dressy? It’s no wonder plenty of reviewers say these Mona flying leather wedges are “definitely worth the money.” Since the upper is made from 100% genuine leather (in your choice of over 20 colors, with or without a strap), it moves and stretches with your foot. There’s also a leather-covered latex insole that cushions your heel and supports your arch, while the sheepskin lining is soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking. Best of all, you can dress them down with jeans or up with a dress.

One reviewer wrote: “Love the shoes! Great quality. [...] As I have bunions, [these wide shoes] are comfortable without socks which is awesome.”

Upper material: leather | Heel height: 1.96 inches | Available sizes: 6 — 11 | Color options: 21

• Also available at DSW, $60

The Franco Sarto Nolan pump is an investment, but this shoe also checks every bunion-friendly box: It has a chunky heel, a roomy toe, and a leather upper, plus it comes in wide sizes. Due to its loafer-inspired style, it’s a favorite among reviewers who need heels for work, but don’t want to comprimise on comfort when they’re on their feet all day. Other noteworthy features include tonal stitching, a smooth lining, a non-slip sole, and a cushioned footbed.

One reviewer wrote: “I love this shoe! I’m a Flight Attendant and I spend a lot of time on my feet. I have had both bunions removed and finding a [dressy] shoe that doesn’t squeeze my foot till the pain from the ball of my foot is killing me has been non-existent until NOW! The height, size, support, and width is everything I’ve been looking for!! I am in love with [this] shoe and will forever buy this brand! It’s worth every penny to be pain-free and not to carry another pair of shoes around the world!”

Upper material: leather | Heel height: 2.75 inches | Available sizes: 5 — 12 (narrow, wide, and half sizes available) | Color options: 4

• Also available at LifeStride, $70

LifeStride is known for its well-designed, ultra-comfortable shoes, and the Charlotte high heel is no exception. In fact, all of the reviewers who mentioned bunions gave these shoes a perfect five stars, noting the “stretchy comfort” and saying they “danced all night” in them. The criss-cross upper is made from elastic fabric (which has even more give than real leather), while the cushioned footbed absorbs shock from your sole. The 3-inch heel also adds height without discomfort. The biggest downside? They only come in black right now.

One reviewer wrote: “Danced all night even with bunions! I needed a pair of formal shoes for a wedding. My bunions have made it impossible to fit into most shoes. These shoes have so much stretch with enough hold to keep my feet in place — fantastic purchase!”

Upper material: elastic fabric | Heel height: 3.35 inches | Available sizes: 5 — 11 (half and wide sizes available) | Color options: 1

For those who’d rather not wear animal leather, these LAICIGO D’Orsay sandals are a worthy alternative — even though they’re made from synthetic materials. For one, the heel is chunky and low, as per Dr. Solomon’s recommendations. For another, while the toe is slightly pointed and they’re not offered in wide sizes, they run large and wide anyway. The moisture-absorbing, padded sole makes them comfortable for any wearer, but those with bunions are especially vocal about their approval. Finally, the ankle strap is adjustable for security and adds some style. Get these ones in plenty of colors and finishes, including glitter, faux-suede, and animal print.

One reviewer wrote: “I bought these in navy blue to wear to a rehearsal dinner last weekend and they did not disappoint. I have a bunion on my left foot and I was concerned it would irritate me, but I managed to get through the evening very comfortably. I bought the red ones too because I didn't know which color would look best. They are both great!”

Upper material: faux leather/faux suede/synthetic | Heel height: 2 inches | Available sizes: 5 — 12 (half sizes available) | Color options: 22

• Also available at DSW, $115

Typically, wider, lower shoes will be more comfortable for those with bunions. However, if you must go with a skinnier heel, Naturalizer’s Michelle pumps are the way to do it. Since the upper is made from 100% leather and has a rounded almond toe, it’s plenty flexible and roomy for those with bunions. This pair also comes in half, wide, and extra-wide sizes, not to mention plenty of stylish color options. That about explains the average 4.3-star rating from almost 5,000 reviewers.

One reviewer wrote: “One foot had plantar fasciitis a couple years ago and the other has developed a bunion. Oh, and I have Morton’s toes. In spite of all that, the toe box on these heels are very comfortable and have plenty of room. I like that they come up high enough to not cut into the bunion. The platform is just right as is the heel height and the rubber sole helps to cushion the ball of the foot. I have them in black and taupe. My only regret is that I didn’t order more colors before they sold out.”

Upper material: leather | Heel height: 3 inches | Available sizes: 4 — 12 (narrow, wide, X-wide, and half sizes available) | Color options: 11