Choosing the Right Footwear for Flat Feet, Bunions, and Hammertoes

When it comes to managing chronic foot discomfort, footwear plays a critical role. At Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery (VSON), we often see patients dealing with pain from flat feet, bunions, or hammertoes — and in many cases, their shoes are making things worse.

Supportive, properly fitted footwear can go a long way in alleviating pain and slowing the progression of these common foot conditions. Understanding which shoe features work best for your specific needs is key. And if symptoms persist, it may be time to consult a foot specialist near me. At VSON, that expert is Dr. John Paul Elton, our board-certified foot and ankle surgeon who helps patients regain comfort and mobility every day.

Why Footwear Matters More Than You Think

Poorly designed shoes can put excessive pressure on vulnerable joints, disrupt natural alignment, and create friction that leads to irritation or deformity. Over time, this can worsen conditions like bunions and hammertoes, or contribute to long-term strain in those with flat feet.

The good news? The right footwear can make a real difference. With thoughtful design and supportive features, shoes can relieve pain, reduce strain, and help prevent the need for more aggressive interventions.

Best Footwear by Condition

Flat Feet

Flat feet occur when the arch of the foot collapses, causing overpronation — a rolling inward of the foot that can strain the ankles, knees, and hips.

Footwear Features to Look For:

• Firm arch support to restore alignment

• Structured midsoles for stability

• Rigid heel counters for better control

These features help reduce fatigue and promote more natural foot mechanics. Patients searching for a foot specialist near me for flat foot pain often benefit from custom orthotics as well.

Bunions

Bunions develop when the big toe shifts toward the second toe, creating a bony bump on the joint. Tight shoes or pointed toe boxes can aggravate the condition, leading to inflammation and joint stiffness.

Footwear Features to Look For:

• Wide toe boxes to eliminate pressure

• Flexible materials that adapt to foot shape

• Low, supportive heels to minimize stress

Proper footwear is a fundamental part of bunion treatment. Dr. Elton evaluates each case individually and may recommend additional conservative therapies or surgical options if needed.

Hammertoes

A hammertoe occurs when one of the smaller toes bends at the middle joint, often due to muscle imbalance or prolonged shoe pressure. This can cause rubbing, corns, and pain while walking.

Footwear Features to Look For:

• Deep, rounded toe boxes for toe freedom

• Soft uppers to reduce friction

• Adjustable straps or laces for a custom fit

Wearing the right shoes can slow deformity progression and relieve pain — an important step in hammertoe treatment. For more advanced cases, Dr. Elton may explore minimally invasive correction options.

When Supportive Shoes Aren’t Enough

Footwear is often the first line of defense, but not every case can be managed with shoes alone. Persistent discomfort, deformity progression, or difficulty walking are all signs it’s time to see a foot specialist near me.

Dr. Elton provides advanced evaluation and customized treatment plans — whether that means custom orthotics, offering non-invasive bunion treatment strategies, or performing surgical hammertoe treatment when needed.

Get the Right Fit — and the Right Care

Your feet support every step you take. If you’re dealing with chronic foot pain from flat feet, bunions, or hammertoes, making smart footwear choices is a great place to start. And if you're still struggling despite your best efforts, our team is here to help.

Make an appointment with Dr. John Paul Elton at Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery and take the first step toward personalized, expert care. From bunion treatment to hammertoe treatment, we’re here to help you walk comfortably again.