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The 3 Best Women’s Dress Shoes For Bunions
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Finding a pair of dress shoes when you have bunions might be challenging, but it's definitely not impossible. The best women's dress shoes for bunions will go perfectly with your outfits without further aggravating any pain points.
To help us all find stylish-yet-functional options, I turned to NYC-based podiatrist Dr. Emily Splichal for some advice. She tells me, "Bunions create a widening of the forefoot, which can make it difficult to wear narrow shoes."
So, what exactly should you consider when choosing the best shoes for bunions?
- Shape: Find shoes with a wider and rounder toe box. Dr. Splichal says this is a "more natural" shape that better accommodates the bunion area.
- Material: Dr. Splichal advises choosing a pair made from more flexible fabrics "that have some stretch to them."
- Style: Ideally, opt for a low heel (or no heel at all), as heels "place increased stress on the bunion and can make them worse with time," explains Dr. Splichal.
With these professional tips in mind, I've compiled a list of the best women's dress shoes for women available on Amazon. Whether you're looking for the best ballet flats for bunions or a pair of comfortable booties, you'll find something that works for you here. They span a variety of price points and sizes, but here's the most important thing: All the picks below are either specifically podiatrist-recommended or come in wide sizes that cater to a bunion’s shape for comfortable wear.
1The Best Women's Dress Shoes For Bunions, All Things Considered
If you're after a heelless option, go for these ballet flats by Aetrex. The brand actually "specializes in designing shoes that look good but don't put excess pressure or strain on the feet," says Dr. Splichal.
These flexible leather flats feature a rounded toe box and a soft, removable insole with memory foam cushioning for extra support. There’s even a padded heel for zero rubbing.
- Available sizes: 5-5.5 —10.5-11
2The Best Ankle Booties For Bunions
Having bunions doesn't mean you have to swear off heels for good — it just means you have to choose wider, sturdier options with lower heel heights (like these ankle boots from Hush Puppy with just a 0.5 inch heel). With an outer layer of 100% genuine leather combined with the softest leather lining, these low-profile booties are equal parts stylish and comfortable — and they come in a nice range of colors (and even one leopard print) so they’ll fit right in with your wardrobe staples. While not specifically recommended by Dr Splichal, the brand offers a nice range of wide sizes, meaning they're extra roomy in the toe box, and they include an ultra-cushy EVA footbed for added support.
- Available sizes: 5.5 — 12 (also in wide sizes)
3The Best Loafers That Won't Irritate Bunions
Another versatile option available in wide sizes, these Walking Cradles loafers really live up to their name, cradling your foot in all-day comfort. They are a great choice if you're looking for an easy, slip-on dress shoe that's super comfortable and available in lots of colors and sizes — including wide and extra-wide offerings. (They also happen to be the most affordable option listed here.) Like their pricier counterparts, these leather slip-ons are ideal for bunions, thanks to their rounded toe boxes and cushioned, supportive footbeds.
- Available sizes: 4 — 13 (in regular, wide, and extra wide)
Experts:
Emily Splichal, Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM)
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