Bunions refer to painful, abnormal, bony bumps that form around the joint at the base of the big toe (bunionettes can also crop up on the little toe). According to Catherine Moloznik, buying manager at Fleet Feet Sports Chicago, runners develop bunions due to poor foot mechanics, improper and ill-fitting running shoes and hereditary factors such as foot shape. As a result, Moloznik suggests that runners have their gait cycle and foot type and shape analyzed. Finding a shoe that fits your biomechanical needs can prevent bunions and calm down angry bunions.
Running shoes generally fall into three categories: neutral, stability and motion control. Some brands are bunion-friendly. However, before investing in a particular shoe brand and model, make sure that the shoe you choose complements your specific bunion needs, biomechanics and foot shape.
Adidas
Adidas offers three specific shoe models with "bunion windows," wide toe-boxes, snug heels and an additional stretch mesh material over the baby toe for bunionettes. When testing out these models, make sure that the bunion window syncs up with the bunion on your foot. For neutral runners who need a high-cushioned ride, Adidas presents the Supernova Glide 2 and the Adistar Ride 2. For runners who pronate and need a moderate stability shoe, try out the Adistar Salvation 2.
Nike
Like Adidas, Nike manufactures two specific shoe models for runners with bunions. Both models include "bunion windows" and a stretch mesh material over the little toe. For neutral runners, the Nike Zoom Vomero +5 comes equipped with a breathable mesh upper, a snug heel and a wide toe-box. For runners looking for a stability shoe with a lightweight design and flexible forefoot, try on the Nike Equalon +4. Both the Vomero and the Equalon are available in wide widths.
Saucony
Saucony made a name for itself among runners as the shoe company that offers wide toe-boxes and snug heels. While Saucony makes several great models for runners with bunions because of its large toe-boxes and snug heel-counters, one of its best models for runners who overpronate is the ProGrid Stabil. The ProGrid Stabil hugs the midfoot at the same time that it allows ample wiggle room in the toe-box, and flexibility and durability in the forefoot.
New Balance
Similar to Saucony, New Balance markets several models with roomier toe boxes. Two of its models, the 587 and the 1123, jive best with bunion-ridden runners who require motion control. The 587 and the 1123 come in several width sizes and feature "rollbar" technology that stabilizes the foot and controls the rate of pronation. When giving these models a test ride, make sure that the suede overlays on the toe-box do not irritate your bunion.
Mizuno
Best known for its wave plate technology, Mizuno engineers its shoes for runners seeking a lightweight shoe design with solid shock absorption and flexibility. Mizuno sells several models that hug the forefoot and specifically relieve bunion pain and pain in the ball of the foot. In 2006, Mizuno repositioned the overlays on one of its most popular neutral shoes, the Wave Rider, to reduce irritation over the forefoot and thwart bunion pain. For runners looking for a stability shoe sans irritating overlays, the Wave Inspire provides a great option.
Brooks
Brooks running shoes come highly recommended by podiatrists for patients with foot pain. Brooks generally skips the fancy forefoot overlays and focuses on easing foot pain by providing generous toe-boxes, flexibility and durability. For runners who need moderate stability, try the Adrenaline. For runners who require motion control, slip into the Brooks Beast (men), Ariel (women) or Addiction; all three models offer optimal control and a comfortable ride.
References
- Catherine Moloznik; Fleet Feet Sports Chicago; Chicago, Illinois
- Mayo Clinic: Bunions
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