Some people perceive bunions as foot deformities and long-term discomfort, especially for runners who depend on their feet. The reality is, as troubling and scary they can be, you can take a few measures to help improve the pain and keep running steadily.
Bunions start to form over time at the big toe base joint (known as the MTP joint). Moreover, another evident sign of a bunion is the inward position of the big toe on the other toes. Bunions are quite distinctive from blisters as they go away more quickly, while bunions are diagnosed as foot deformities and require surgery.
- Best Overall Men’s Running Shoes for Bunions – ASICS GEL-Quantum® 90 Running Shoe
- Runner-up Men’s Running Shoes for Bunions – New Balance® Fresh Foam Tempo Running Shoe
- Alternative Men’s Running Shoes for Bunions – Vibram Men’s Fivefingers V-Trail 2.0 Running Shoes
A bunion, which is a bone protruding from the joint of the big toe, can cause several issues. It can be challenging to find the perfect running shoe for bunions. They may cause consequential pain while running if the suitable shoe requirements aren’t met.
However, there are a few ways to minimize bunion pain, and that’s choosing your running shoes appropriately.
Best Men’s Running Shoes for Bunions
ASICS GEL-Quantum® 90 Running Shoe
The ASICS® GEL-Quantum 90 running shoe features a versatile, sleek look that allows you to wear them on casual occasions while getting superior support and cushioning. GEL-QUANTUM 90 combines a balance of style and function that gets you straight from the gym to the street. This casual, running shoe is added with GEL technology cushioning for optimal, long-lasting comfort and stability.
The lightweight mesh allows air to move freely and promotes less braking for reduced impact, less muscle strain, and reduced energy output, ideal for bunions and hammertoes. The synthetic upper offers a more lightweight feel and greater levels of breathability with its athletic-inspired silhouette. The defined heel detailing inside the shoe helps offset the negative effects of an Achilles tendon or tight muscle calf that causes restricted ankle joint dorsiflexion. The forefoot’s seamless construction makes it suitable for everyday casual or running shoes.
GEL-QUANTUM 90’s fabric lining absorbs moisture quickly, though, dries out slowly. Ortholite sock-liner provides a combination of performance & comfort with durable cushioning for long-lasting wear. The EVA midsole offers the best shock-absorbing qualities with its great cushioning and rebound.
Rearfoot GEL® cushioning reduces heel strike impact and provides a smooth transition. This technology promotes shock reduction during forwarding motion.
If you need a comfortable running shoe that has a perfect amount of cushion and support, ASICS GEL-Quantum® 90 Running Shoe is your best choice!
ASICS Men’s NOVABLAST SPS Running Shoes
If you like Asics, then my runner-up pick under the Asics brand is the ASICS NOVABLAST. These runners are lightweight shoes with a comfortable ride for long-distance running. The sole unit features a new FlyteFoam technology that provides a responsive feel. This breathable and well-cushioned running shoe is ideal for bunions, hammertoes, and other foot conditions that require adequate cushioning and room on the shoe.
ASICS Men’s NOVABLAST SPS Running Shoes
The responsive nature of the shoe comes up when lacing up this shoe for the first time. The cushion from heel to toe is prominent, and the sole gives off energy. The elastic feel to it is incredible as it flexes and rebounds, retaining its shape. Upon tying the laces, the foot feels secure without making your heel feel locked into place.
This running shoe fits true to size with ample room in the toe box. It is made out of a net mesh; it keeps your feet from getting hot. The mesh covers the toe of the shoe with two different layers.
The outsole is constructed to ensure all areas of the foot striking the ground are protected with tread. The outsole is gripped on all surfaces and well-supported in general. The outsoles are also made of high abrasion rubber that’s exceptionally a durable compound.
ASICS NOVABLAST is a responsive, well-cushioned, and energetic ride running shoe with a comfortable feel and stays cool all day long. It doesn’t cause excessive rubbing and blistering, ideal for severe foot conditions like bunions and hammertoes.
New Balance® Fresh Foam Tempo Running Shoe
The New Balance® Fresh Foam Tempo low-profile silhouette provides a sleek look for more supportive and quicker running. Fresh Foam is designed to encourage you to perform at your best despite having bunions, thanks to the lightweight fit that helps you feel snappy on your feet. An embroidered hypoknit engineered mesh upper offers an optimal snug, custom-like fit while strategically supporting heel to forefoot.
Fresh Foam’s modernized technology utilizes the latest advancements to deliver accurate plushness underfoot. The traditional lace-up closure provides secure and comfortable wear. The thin tongue and padded collar give more long-lasting comfort and lessen the chances of blisters and calluses.
The shoe’s lightweight cushioning compresses under the foot when running for better shock absorption and helps minimize the risk of injury. The blown rubber of the shoe is lighter and more cushiony, though less durable than carbon rubber. Many shoes use blown rubber for added cushioning in the forefoot and carbon rubber for enhanced durability in the higher areas of the heel. The exterior flex grooves are designed for optimal forefoot flexion all over the ball of the foot.
New Balance® Fresh Foam Tempo is a great running shoe for bunions for its grippy tread, well-cushioned fresh Foam, and fancy embroidery. This running shoe is meant for tempo runs and works well with a 5K. The regular, easy pull tab on the heel is a great addition for triathlons and getting off the bike for the run.
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 1080 V11 Running Shoe
Another great option from New Balance is the New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v11. These running shoes offer plenty of cushions that can withstand long runs while robust during the pickup pace. 1080 is the trademark of every New Balance trainers line, going against similar shoes from other brands.
The shoe is claimed to be immediately comfortable when standing and walking around. The forefoot is surprisingly firm, and the grip makes it an ideal everyday shoe. Fresh Foam 1080v11 cushioning is slightly firmer than the original Fresh Foam; it noticeably bounces when picking up the pace.
New Balances uses laser engravings for the midsole to curate a honeycomb design that promotes compression and softer landing. The outsole is mostly durable, blown rubber that offers an excellent grip for everyday training footwear. This material and the strategically-installed flex grooves help with the sole unit’s flexibility and promote optimal toe flex, beneficial for bunions and Achilles tendonitis.
New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v11 highlights the Ultra Heel heel cup and bootie design in this shoe for a secured heel. The upper material is streamlined and secured, designed to achieve a locked-in feel while wearing the shoe. A structured plastic component is added to the upper to secure your toe in place.
Fresh Foam 1080 v 11 is a staple for runners looking for a cushioned sneaker. If you enjoy a great, supportive, and responsive running shoe for bunions, this shoe might fit your style! Although you have to run more to break it in. The grip is exceptional for day-to-day wear and feels very secure while running.
Mizuno Men’s Wave Rider 24 Running Shoe
This high-quality, versatile running shoe from Mizuno is made for a neutral runner. This running shoe is by far Mizuno’s most well-known shoe. Wave Rider 24 uses an ENERZY foam that contributes to improving softness and allows a dynamic and smoother ride, ideal if you’re having foot problems such as bunions or hammertoes. ENERZY is designed to feel lighter and softer to the feet while also being responsive.
Wave Rider 24 is smooth and provides good cushioning, firm, and responsive enough to feel good at faster paces, along with a great, subtle pop at toe-off. The wave plate is reduced for more stability, also paired with the new foam. The outsole uses two types of rubber. Carbon rubber is added to the heel for durability and a softer blown runner to the forefoot to improve cushioning.
Wave Rider 24 is engineered with Mizuno’s Air Mesh technology that’s fairly dense with multiple slits in the outer layer for maximum comfort. The upper features minimal overlays for a supportive and comfortable fit, even for mild running. The heel collar is durable while also providing a secure fit. The toe box is widened and less pointed than theWave Rider 23.
If you have bunions, Wave Rider is the best men’s running shoe for bunions due to its ample toe box being spacious enough for the toes to splay but snug enough for quicker paces. The shoe is extremely softer and more responsive due to the ENERZY system embedded in the shoe, ideal for runners looking for a versatile running shoe for bunions on a day to day training.
Brooks Dyad 11 Running Shoe
The Brooks Dyad 11 is perfect for runners with neutral pronation and wants a secure fit. The lightweight, sleek design provides optimal comfort and cushioning without pulling you down.
Runners with bunions and have slightly wider feet will love this shoe due to the ample room in the forefoot. Brooks Dyad 11 is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has acquired the APMA Seal of Acceptance.
Dyad 11’s high energizing cushioning provides overall comfort and a neutral support type ideal for under-pronation. The shoe’s moisture-managing mesh allows air, heat, and moisture to pass through the shoes, thus keeping your foot cooler and dryer. The removable foam insoles offer light underfoot cushioning to prevent blisters and provide mild arch support for bunions.
BioMoGo DNA combines environment-friendly BioMoGo and responsive Brooks® DNA with a gender-friendly cushioning design for an optimal and dynamic ride. Brooks heel segmented crash pad is shaped like a caterpillar that fully absorbs shock and accommodates any foot landing for maximized efficacy, proper cushioning, and smooth heel-to-toe transitions.
Dyad’s dual stability arch pods are passive support systems that enhance inherent stability without using a post. The blown rubber outsole is added to the shoe to produce a relatively light, more cushioned outsole for a light cushioning and grip.
If you’re looking for a great running shoe with a wide toe box that provides great support and stability, Brooks Dyad 11 Running Shoe is perfect for you!
Brooks Ghost 14 Men’s Neutral Running Shoe
Brooks Ghost 14 is a dependable running shoe for bunions that combines the perfect balance of great ride stability and long-distance cushioning. This shoe has been a popular recommendation for beginner runners. The upper material is less puffy and extremely comfortable for all foot types. Ghost 14 feels fancy and slipper-like and more streamlined than the Ghost 13, which runners find amazing.
Ghost 14 features a huge amount of midsole foam for optimal foot protection. Users find this one the best shoes for long runs due to its excellent stability, great level of cushioning, and breathable upper. The medium plushy midsole transfers weight efficiently and picks up effortlessly to the Ghost 14’s pace. Ghost 14’s plain EVA doesn’t provide enough energy rebound with each foot strike yet offers an excellent, well-padded ride and optimal foot protection for bunions.
Ghost 14’s outsole uses soft rubber for the forefoot and a durable carbon rubber on the heel area. The medial side of the midsole is also upgraded with more outsole rubber for maximum medial support since it has been altered to a softer DNA Loft. The other forefoot grooves are slightly filled with rubber to keep the forefoot less flexible and more snappy during transitions.
Ultimately, Version 14 offers a more versatile and performance-oriented system than the shoe’s older versions considering its aerodynamic upper, more appealing forefoot, and latest full DNA Loft midsole.
Hoka One One Bondi 7 Running Shoes
Hoka One One® Bondi 7 has the most cushioned ride among the road running lineup from HOKA. Bondi 7 is designed to provide a max-cushioned, long-distance shoe but rides better like a daily trainer, an ideal running shoe for bunions. The stiff Meta-Rocker midsole helps with the transitions and efficient ride for a medium-firm density experience. Like most Hoka shoes, Bondi 7 is plain, old-fashioned with an EVA-foam molded compression.
Bondi 7‘s midsole isn’t overly soft, and the base is wide enough for a more planted foot strike, regardless of the position of your foot to the ground. The thick Ortholite Foam adds a layer of sink to the shoe for maximum comfort. The open engineered mesh uppers deliver maximum breathability and structural support along with synthetic overlays.
Bondi 7’s outsole utilizes a blown rubber and large amounts of rubber coverage on all the high wear areas. It performs well and offers excellent traction on tar roads, gravel, and pavement in wet and dry conditions.
The thin overlay strips that circulate on the toe box’s perimeter and midfoot allow extra structure and protection. The memory foam collar that feels like dense sponge springs back gradually to its original shape if compressed.
The tongue and heel counter adds protection to the ankle areas from any excessive pressure. Bondi 7’s double last row eyelets function as heel lock lacing to prevent your heel from slipping and promote a great foot lockdown.
For a firmer, more stable ride and durable outsole, you should get the Hoka One One Bondi 7 Running Shoes.
Vibram Men’s Fivefingers V-Trail 2.0 Running Shoes
The Vibram FiveFingers V-Trail 2.0 is designed for the uncertain nature of the off-road. V-Trail 2.0 outsole unit is praised for its durability and capability of dealing with dependable traction upon surfaces. The construction of close-to-the-ground stimulates a barefoot running experience and features unique, individual toe-chambers for maximum movement and positional balance.
V-Trail 2.0 is aesthetically-pleasing while keeping you protected from aggressive paths you may tackle along the way. The shoe’s upper unit is composed of a 3D Cocoon mesh stitched to the outsole. This textile guarantees a consistent protective capacity. It stretches as the foot swells while running, providing a comfortable yet customized experience for bunions.
This running shoe’s 2-millimeter insole acts as the cushioning unit to lightly support the foot without compromising the perception of the surface to the footpad. Vibram Megagrip protects the thin underfoot platform using a durable rubber suitable for both dry and wet terrains. This compound is also added to the outsole unit of the shoe to cover the external pad that encompasses each of the forefoot’s toe sections. It keeps the shoe from wear and tears while providing great traction.
The upper unit of the shoe is featured with a single-pull lacing system. These are thin yet durable shoestring circulating through fabric eyelets and overlays for a pull-and-lock tab that adapts to the stiffness or looseness of the fit. This running shoe conforms perfectly to the shape of the foot.
The standard sizing for the Vibram FiveFingers V-Trail 2.0 is constructed. Due to its toe-chambers, a secure but not-too-comfortable coverage is achievable by checking out their size chart. Some reported that they have a half-a-size-smaller-than-usual sizing method. The width option for men is D – Medium.
If you’re a trail adventurer or a fan of minimalist running shoes, Vibram Men’s Fivefingers V-Trail 2.0 offers reliable traction and a visually appealing look, also beneficial for neutral pronators.
Nike React Miler 2 Running Shoe
Nike React Miler 2 provides maximum comfort with a generous, breathable, and durable midsole and outsole. This shoe ensures a stable ride for longer miles and can easily handle everything from daily workouts to long runs to rest days.
Nike React Miler 2 Running Shoes
The full-length React midsole provides optimal comfort and excellent underfoot experience, intended to reduce the risks of an injury while on training. The shoe’s slightly wider base and plastic heel clip offer a stabilized ride for runners with bunions, definitely appreciated on long runs and rest days.
Nike React Miler 2 is a durable, daily training option for runners looking for a soft and reliable workout companion. It has a sleek, simplified black and white design. The upper’s signature swooshes add a nice touch along with the trainer’s name on top of the tongue.
The base of this running shoe is made of a full rubber outsole and is on the thinner side. This can be an issue for traction if there’s inadequate grip, especially in wet weather. React Miler is developed to offer a cozy and springy ride while providing maximum shock absorption and energy rebound levels.
React Miler’s cushioning reduces the impact of foot strides while boosting your feet forward due to the energy rebound during liftoffs. Due to the double jacquard mesh material used on its upper, the breathability of this shoe is exceptional, especially when running in humid summer. The mesh has a looser fit allowing the feet to stretch out while running.
The reduced midfoot cage works together with the lacing system that contains reinforced eyelets for a secure fit. A slightly padded tongue contributes to the optimal fit of the upper by conforming over time to your foot. The upper also has minimal overlays preventing irritation.
Overall, the Nike React Miler 2 is worthy of a bunion running shoe or a daily trainer. It provides a comfortable ride when you’re doing a long run or participating in a marathon.
How to Choose the Best Running Shoes for Bunions
Specialized Shoe for Running
Running shoes look similar to the rest of the sneakers, but they are specifically made to improve your run. Your foot directly contacts the ground with each step. Unlike regular shoes, running shoes are engineered to prevent injuries endured from repetitive motion by providing specific cushioning that promotes shock absorption and design features for greater comfort.
Get the Right Fit
Getting the right shoe promotes a better experience when running. An ill-fitting shoe will only make it painful to run, hence could lead to potential injury.
Useful Fit Tips
#1 – Trying Them On By The End of the Day
Feet swell while running throughout the day, so it’s best to try your shoes during the afternoon or evening to see what’s your accurate fit.
#2 – Measure Your Thumbs Width In The Front Toe
It would be best to allow a one thumb width to accommodate foot spread between the end of your foot and the shoe. It will keep your toes from striking during downhill runs.
#3 – No Pinching
The shoe should be comfortable and properly wrapped around your foot. You shouldn’t feel any pinching or squeeze, and ensure your foot is centered on the shoe’s platform.
#4 – Get The Right Width
Some shoes accommodate accordingly for a narrow or wide foot; that’s why few sizes are available in either wider or narrow options. The widths for a standard shoe are D (men) and B (women).
Choose Running Shoes that are Suitable for you!
Running shoes are made for running. Therefore, choosing the type of shoe according to the type of running you’ll be performing is essential.
Daily Running Shoe (Best for Everyday Use)
This type of shoe is best for running long miles. For beginners, an everyday running shoe is what you need to participate in running. They’re built for supreme comfort and utilize comfortable materials to surround the foot snugly. They’re manufactured with materials designed to manage stress linked with regular running, and they can last up to 300 to 600 miles.
Lightweight Running Shoe (Best For Quick-Paced Running)
Experienced runners opt for lightweight shoes. These shoes are great for faster-paced workouts like tempo runs or intervals. They’re lighter in weight and consist of less material under the foot than daily running shoes. These factors contribute to the faster wear-out and less cushioned experience when you exceed an hour toward the end of runs.
Few experienced runners may perform the bulk of their running wearing lightweight shoes, especially if they tend to be light on their feet. Less experienced runners opt for a lightweight shoe as their only training footwear, considering they’ll only run 45 minutes a day, three days a week. These shoes won’t last compared to everyday shoes and should be replaced after 200 to 500 miles.
Racing Flats (Best For Serious Fast Times)
Racing flats are great if you’re after the race times and upgrade your running experience to the next level. They consist of layers of cushioning and excess fabric for a faster pace. Racing shoes only consist of less material underfoot which improves the ground’s feel and reduces the weight as you run. Their minimal structure tends to only last for around 100 to 300 miles.
Racing shoes are ideal for an interval workout or a short run before racing.
Trail Running Shoe (Best for Dirt and Rocky Trails Encounters)
Trail running shoes provide more traction and stability needed when running on rugged terrain and trails. Though trail shoes are intended for off-road runs, they’re generally safe for running on a road or pavement. Rocky and uneven surfaces often require a trail shoe. The shoe’s sturdy design helps keep your ankles stable, your feet secured from any slippery surfaces, and your body safe from unexpected falls.
Buyer’s Guide – Best Men’s Running Shoes for Bunions
Wearing the wrong type of shoe with a bunion can worsen the pain and agitation. No runner wants to endure pain while running. There are several running shoes designed for runners with bunions.
Roomy Toe Box
A tight forefoot area can lead to pain for runners with bunions. A wide toe box area is essential and should be deep enough for optimal foot cushioning. Your choice of running shoes should also have a depth of a quarter to half an inch to achieve adequate and comfortable foot space.
Arch Support
Most people with bunions have unsteady arches and flat feet. Determining the right shoes that offer arch support should be one of your priorities when buying a running shoe. However, it’s also best to purchase arch supports with metatarsal pads to reduce forefoot pressure under the ball of the foot.
Arch supports are best for correcting bunions and adding extra support when running or walking. They also promote better foot alignment and sustain the feet in a neutral position.
Gait Cycle
The Gait cycle also called a stride, is when the foot touches the ground with the same foot again. This factor is essential when selecting the right shoes for a bunion, as different shoes offer different gait cycles.
Determine your gait cycle and choose the running shoe that offers maximum support. This way, you can reduce your bunion pain and discomfort and prevent it from growing bigger.
Features To Consider For The Best Men’s Running Shoes for Bunions
Comfortable, supportive shoes are important when working out, considering it involves a lot of foot movement. Here are a few important features to look for when purchasing your new pair of running shoes for bunions:
Cushioning
For intense workouts, a well-cushioned but slightly firm midsole is a must. If you have bunions, you’ll need a great balance between durable CrossFit trainers and a softened running shoe.
Great Support
Whether you’re working out to the gym or running on pavements, you’ll need good support for your bunions to prevent overpronation. It should include protective overlays that don’t block the side of your bunions and a supportive upper and heel cup.
Flexibility
If the material is flexible, it enables optimal movement in multiple directions. It also increases the break in the period of shoes. However, flexibility in outsoles should be comparatively low. The bendable soles enable you good traction on many types of grounds.
Wide Toe Box
A good fitting shoe lessens the chances of bunion pain. Therefore, a wide toe box is recommended if you’re working out a lot. Moreover, a big toe box promotes better balance and toe flexing for better workout performance.
Adequate Heel Drop
Ideally, for an intense workout, shoes with a lower profile provide better balance and control. A low heel drop assists in quick pivoting and reduced sliding compared to shoes with higher drops.
Stability
Stability is mainly allotted at the feet’s top ankle support and outsole that also prevent arthritis. A stable outsole helps in resisting the opposing forces from the ground. Ideally, a stabilized outsole realigns the form of heels derived from overpronation. This feature helps prevent you from further injury.
Traction
Although it varies from shoe to shoe and severity of the bunion, some people only require lesser traction than others. High traction means strong friction, which interferes with your walk; therefore, have your bunion checked by a podiatrist and ask for the best recommendation.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. I’m wearing suitable running shoes, but why does my bunion still hurt?
Despite wearing a properly fitted shoe, it’s likely because you need further support other than that. An orthotic could help your foot to be more structurally sound and secured. The arch support aligns your arches and distributes the pressure evenly. Wearing arch support along with your chosen running shoes offers double support for your foot and body and promotes better alignment.
Additionally, a metatarsal pad for the footbed of the arch support may also be beneficial. It decreases the tension off your forefoot and bunion.
2. Am I still allowed to wear high heels if I have a bunion?
You might have to stay away from high-heeled shoes if you have bunions since they cause excess pressure on the forefoot. Consistently placing added pressure on the bunion induces it to become larger over time and generates excess pain to the bunion.
3. Does running make my bunion worse over time?
If you fail to wear the right shoes for running, bunions will keep worsening day by day. Running continuously can also worsen the bunion if not treated immediately.
Best Men’s Running Shoes for Bunions, Final Thoughts…
Running is an excellent way to strengthen your muscles and improve your fitness and well-being. But suffering from bunions can take a toll on your capability and running efficiency.
With all the impressive running shoes available in the market, choosing the best men’s running shoes for bunions is a tough call. Therefore, with great consideration that provides utmost relief and comfort for bunion pain, ASICS GEL-Quantum® 90 Running Shoe made it to our overall men’s running shoes for bunions. In terms of comfort, cushioning, durability, and secure fit, GEL-Quantum 90 stands out among the rest!
Bunions can be irritating and painful, but this is not a hindrance to running successfully. The right shoe for running is what you need to achieve better running performance.
Men’s Shoes for various Activities if you have Bunions
- 5 Best Tennis Shoes For Men With Bunions
- 8 Best Men’s Sandals For Bunions
- 5 Best Men’s Skechers for Bunions
- 5 Best Men’s Golf Shoes for Bunions (Buyers Guide)
- 5 Best Men’s Weightlifting Shoes For Bunions (Buyers Guide)
- 5 Best Men’s Hiking Boots For Bunions (Buyers Guide)
- 5 Best Men’s Running Shoes for Bunions (Buyers Guide)
- 5 Best Men’s Walking Shoes for Bunions (Buyers Guide)
- 5 Best Men’s Slip-Resistant Shoes for Bunions
- 6 Best Men’s Cowboy Boots for Bunions