Bunions are the worst, but you probably already know that. Recovery from bunion surgery takes months and you might be wondering whether you can speed that process up with the right footwear. Rather than rubbing your bunions the wrong way, the best shoes after bunion surgery ensure they’re protected and supported.
Right after a bunionectomy, you might want to wear some sort of orthopedic recovery footwear. After a week or two (or when your doctor deems it appropriate), you can consider switching to something a little more sturdy, stiff, and supportive.
Whether you’re running errands, going for a walk, or popping into the office, opt for a breathable upper to keep your feet dry, a flexible frame to accommodate swelling, and soft fabrics to keep you comfortable throughout the day.
Slippers, sandals, and clogs are a great choice for warmer days, while athletic footwear might be a better fit for colder ones. High heels aren’t recommended, but that’s not to say you shouldn’t experiment with lower, bulkier heels after a month or two. However, you might need more deets on the matter.
Read more down below!
What exactly are bunions?
Bunions, for those who might not know, are those bony bumps that appear on the side of your feet or toes. Uncomfortable footwear, narrow footwear, high heels, foot trauma, and flat feet are the most common causes of bunions. And yes, bunions are much more common than you might think.
Surgery is the only way to get rid of bunions, although your doctor might suggest a myriad of other remedies before you opt to get them surgically removed.
Wearing orthotics, opting for comfortable footwear, wearing bunion pads, icing your bunions, and even dropping a few pounds can make a world of difference.
But when bunions start affecting the quality of your life, you might bite the bullet and get them surgically removed. Bunionectomy recovery takes months – you may need to rest for 6 months before you can play sports, run, or do anything physically demanding. Because of that, proper footwear is a must.
What to consider when shopping for the best shoes after bunion surgery?
Oh, you need to consider so many things.
Firstly, you’re not even supposed to walk for the first two weeks after the operation. Then once you do decide to take a stroll, you need to wear orthopedic recovery footwear (a foot brace, pretty much).
During and after recovery, proper footwear can also prevent bunions from coming back. That’s right. You might get them once again, on the off chance that you don’t follow your doctor’s advice to take care of your feet.
That being said, we do need to warn you that the appearance and functionality of your feet might change post-surgery. From your feet staying swollen months afterward to your toes becoming stiffer and weaker than before, there’s an array of things that might go wrong.
But that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t be happy about your surgery. A bunionectomy can improve the quality of your life significantly and that’s why you need to get your hands on comfy, post-surgery footwear ASAP.
A roomy toe box, flexible upper, and supportive design are imperative to your recovery. And, you can’t go wrong with open footwear that allows airflow and ensures nothing rubs against your bunion scars.
What are the best shoes after bunion surgery?
1. Hoka One One Bondi 6 sneakers
Two thumbs up for Hoka One One Bondi 6. These sneakers are what dreams are made of. Where do we even start?
First off, they’re padded for support and comfort while walking, running, or going about your business. Furthermore, they’re equipped with a rocker-type sole that alleviates toe pressure and distributes your weight across the entire foot.
Not to mention that these sneakers prevent the reoccurrence of bunions because they protect your feet and prevent overpronation.
We do, however, need to mention that these sneakers are on the expensive side and that there are affordable alternatives that offer the same or similar features for a fraction of the price.
2. Asics Gel-Kayano 25 sneakers
And, as you might have guessed, one of the affordable alternatives is Gel-Kayano 25 by Asics – the sneakers that promise to provide you with stability, support, and balance while running.
Asics is known for creating comfortable athletic footwear, and that’s exactly what these sneakers are.
Now, you might not be running right after the surgery. But, the ultra-lightweight foam cushioning, overpronation control, and flexible upper are going to make daily walking much more comfortable.
Before you spend two or three hundred on Hoka sneakers, you might want to give these a go.
3. Birkenstock Boston shearling clogs
We’re talking fashion, okay?
Birkenstock Boston shearling clogs are a great way to make a fashion statement when you’re grabbing brunch with the girls or stopping by the office to say hello to your coworkers – all without hurting your feet.
Clogs have been taking the world by storm for quite a while now, and your bunionectomy might be the sign you’ve been waiting for to get your hands on a Birkenstock pair.
Need more convincing? These clogs are soft, wide, and made with a shearling lining that promises to keep your feet happy and healthy throughout the day.
4. Birkenstock Arizona Eva sandals
Not everyone’s on board with clogs, and that’s fine. Birkenstock Arizona Eva sandals are a decent option to consider, regardless of the weather. You can wear them with knit socks during the winter or barefoot during the summer.
Because they’re open, they’re an amazing way to ensure you don’t damage or aggravate the surgery scar area.
And they’re adjustable, which means you’re free to move the straps whichever way you want to provide more foot room and support. Oh and, you can get the EVA version that’s even lighter than the standard one.
5. Skechers Go Walk Arch Fit sneakers
Oh, you’ve been waiting for these, haven’t you? Sketchers are the epitome of comfort, so it’s no wonder they’re right up there with the best shoes after bunion surgery.
You can’t go wrong with any of the styles that Sketchers offer, but Go Walk Arch Fit is a favorite among people who suffer from bunions.
You can see why, too. They’re easy to slip on and off, equipped with podiatrist-certified arch support, and flexible enough to expand as much as you need them to (when your feet are swollen after surgery).
You know you’re getting a high-quality, hard-wearing sneaker when you opt for Sketchers, and that’s saying something.
6. Oofos OOmg eeZee Low Recovery Sneakers
Once you get past the odd name of these sneakers, you’ll understand why they’re a crowd-pleaser.
When you get your hands on these beauties, you’ll notice the anatomical design right away. They’re made with excellent arch support and the deepest toe box that guarantees to take the pressure away.
On top of that, these sneakers are soft, comfortable, and wearable. Of course, they’re easy to slip on and off, too. Oh, as an added bonus, the name makes for a great conversation starter!
7. Vivobarefoot Magna FG sneakers
What are you supposed to wear after bunion surgery when you can’t even wear socks!? Well, the Vivobarefoot Magna FG sneakers emulate the same barefoot sensation because they’re designed to be foot-shaped rather than shoe-shaped.
While you can go for barefoot shoes, you might not like the feeling of fabric embracing your toes – and that’s where Magna FG comes to play.
These sneakers are soft, wide, and flexible, and they’re perfect for when you’re trying to exercise your feet more and ensure they’re active throughout the day.
8. Vionic Nalia slip-on sneakers
Vionic Nalia slip-on sneakers are supported by doctors. They’re endorsed by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) because they’re made to complement your foot’s natural shape, provide you with arch support, and protect you from slipping and falling.
They’re equipped with removable footbeds, which means you can wear your custom orthotics with them or opt for other pads that provide you with comfort and support.
These slip-ons are designed with Advanced Motion System (AMS) technology that absorbs shock, so you can wear them on your morning runs, too (once you get the green light from your doctor).
9. Fitflop Shuv Two-Bar shearling slides
When you’re done with recovery, you’re going to need something to wear to work, right? We know you’re itching to go back to your stilettos and pointy-toe pumps, but you might need to experiment with something cute, simple, and sleek.
Fitflop Shuv Two-Bar shearling slides will ensure you stay on top of the trends without sacrificing comfort. Fitflop footwear can be worn on different occasions, but these shearling slides are perfect for when you’re trying to make a fashion statement.
Oh, and you’ll feel like you’re walking on clouds all day long. Now, that’s something even your bunions can appreciate.
