The Best Shoes for Hallux Valgus – Prevent Your Child from Developing Bunions!

February 11, 2025 Bunions Juan Valenzuela 10 - Comments

Have you noticed a bony bump at the base of your child’s big toe? Hallux Valgus or what is commonly known as bunions is a foot deformity that affects the big toe. While bunions are more common in adults, kids can develop them too, thanks to factors like genetics and how their feet are shaped. Good-fitting shoes play a key role in preventing and treating your child’s bunion from getting worse.

Furthermore, children who have foot conditions such as flat feet or an irregular foot structure are also more likely to get bunions. Improper footwear is another culprit, especially shoes that are too tight. Early detection can make a huge difference in managing this condition and minimizing discomfort.

A child developed a bunion on his left foot from wearing narrow shoes.
An image of a child with a bunion standing barefoot.

My Experience Fitting Shoes for Children with Bunions

I work for a children’s shoe store that helps children with “complicated” foot shapes and foot conditions find the perfect pair of shoes for their feet. Shoes with roomy toe boxes are essential. They’re going to give your child’s toes plenty of breathing room, preventing any unnecessary squeezing. No more cramped big toes!

Then we’ve got cushioning and support, which are key to providing extra comfort and reducing pressure on the bunion. Shoes with good support can help distribute weight evenly, which can ease strain and reduce discomfort.

Are Girls More Prone to Developing Bunions Than Boys?

I have seen many cases of Hallux Valgus in kids due to ill-fitted shoes, especially in girls. It is common for parents to buy their girls high-heeled shoes that are pointed at the top and tight-fitted at the edges. This will tend to push the toes inward as the joint in the toe deviates to form bunions.

Identifying the Right Shoe Features for Kids with Hallux Valgus

Proper shoes can prevent bunions from worsening and provide significant relief from discomfort. The right footwear not only helps in managing existing bunions but also plays a preventative role, reducing the likelihood of bunion formation in susceptible children. 

1. Extra Deep: Shoes with extra depth are crucial for accommodating a bunion, as they extra depth provides ample room for the foot, reducing pressure on the bunion.

Let’s visualize the difference between a shoe that provides extra depth versus one that doesn’t.

2. Rounder Toe-Boxes: A rounded toe-box is essential as it gives the toes more space to move freely. This design helps prevent further irritation or pressure on the bunion area. It’s a crucial feature to look for when selecting shoes for children with bunions.

Let’s visualize the difference between a shoe that provides a round toe-box versus one that doesn’t.

As far as shoe materials are concerned, leather or mesh will help keep things cool while accommodating toe movement. Plus, adjustability in the shoes—think double Velcro straps or stretchy laces—can ensure a snug yet comfortable fit without causing any additional pressure.

Don’t Leave Your Child’s Bunions Untreated

Leaving bunions untreated in children can lead to worsening symptoms and even more severe foot deformities over time. Ignoring bunions can result in increased pain, difficulty walking, and potential joint problems in the future.

If you don’t treat your kids’ bunions from an early stage, the condition will worsen and will actually start affecting other toes. Let’s take a look at a picture of a woman who developed a bunion from wearing ill-fitting shoes as a child and has been dealing with blisters and corns on her other toes:

An image of an adult who developed a bunion from wearing ill-fitting shoes.
A closer image of the adult who developed a bunion.

The shoes below provide good support to help distribute weight evenly and reduce pressure on the bunion. Disclosure: Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases.

Extra Deep Shoes with Round Toe-Boxes for Kids with Bunions

These sneakers are designed with extra depth and a wide, rounded toe-box. They offer a cushioned sole and are made from breathable materials, ensuring your child’s feet stay cool and comfortable throughout the day. The sneakers are also lightweight, which helps reduce the strain on the feet and joints, making them ideal for daily wear.

1. 990v6 by New Balance

    This is the deepest and widest shoe for children with Hallux Valgus, and it’s available in wide and extra wide widths. The downside that many parents complain about is the high price tag.

    990v6 New Balance shoe with laces in black for kids.
    New Balance 990 for kids with laces in purple color.
    New Balance 990v6 toddler shoe in black and grey and with velcro closure.

    Key Features

    • Available for toddlers, little, and big kids.
    • You can order the 990v6 with laces on the New Balance website, Amazon, or Zappos.
    • Available in wide and extra wide widths.
    • Also available in pink and navy blue.
    • There is also a Velcro version of these shoes available in navy blue and pink.
    • ENCAP midsole technology provides excellent support and durability.
    • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size.

    2. Shoe style 574 by New Balance

    This is one of my go-to extra wide shoes for kids with Hallux Valgus as it provides extra depth and it’s available in extra wide widths. Parents like that the shoe opens up widely and it’s easy to get on and off, making it one of the top sneakers for toddlers with extra wide feet.

    New Balance kids shoe style 574 in purple color for girls.
    New Balance shoe style 574 in grey for boys.

    Key Features

    • Order the shoe style 574 New-b V1 by New Balance on Amazon or the New Balance website.
    • Available in wide and extra wide widths.
    • Received the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). 
    • Durable rubber outsole pods.
    • Synthetic/mesh upper.
    • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

    3. IKIKI

    Ikiki shoes are affordable and ideal for children who require extra wide shoes. The shoes provide oversized openings for easy on and off and have become a favorite among parents for their fun designs and practicality.

    Ikiki shoes for toddlers with wide feet.
    Ikiki shoes for kids who wear AFOs.

    Key Features

    • Order the shoe style by Ikiki on Amazon.
    • Not available in wide or extra wide widths but fits naturally wide.
    • Wide opening to make it easy to put on and take off shoes.
    • Synthetic Vegan Leather.
    • Squeaks can be turned on/off with a switch.
    • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

    4. Shoe Style Rave Run v2 by New Balance

    This shoe provides extra depth and is available in wide and extra wide widths. Parents like that the shoe is offered at an affordable price point.

    New Balance Rave Run v2 in bright pink for girls.
    New Balance Rave Run v2 in black for toddler boys.
    New Balance Rave Run shoe with round toe-boxes for kids with wide feet in pink and grey.
    New-Balance-Rave-Run-shoe-with-round-toe-boxes-for-kids-with-wide-feet

    Key Features

    • Order the shoe style Rave Run by New Balance on Zappos, Amazon, or the New Balance website.
    • Available in wide and extra wide widths.
    • Breathable mesh upper.
    • Padded collar and tongue.
    • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

    5. Shoe Style M2P Journey 3.0 Adapt by Stride Rite

    This shoe by Stride Rite provides extra depth and extra long Velcro straps to make sure they accommodate your child’s bunions. This adaptable shoe is one of the best Stride Rite extra wide shoes.

    Stride Rite M2P Journey 3.0 Adapt in pink for toddler girls.
    Stride Rite M2P Journey 3.0 Adapt in grey for toddler boys.

    Key Features

    • Order the shoe style M2P Journey Adapt by Stride Rite on Zappos or Amazon.
    • Available in extra wide widths.
    • APMA approved.
    • Leather upper.
    • I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size.

    6. Dean Adapt II by See Kai Run

    This is one of the best shoes for kids with Hallux Valgus as it provides extra long straps and extra depth to allow the child’s feet to sit deeply inside of the shoes.

    See Kai Run kids adapt for kids who wear AFOs.
    See Kai Run kids adapt for girls who wear AFOs.

    Key Features

    • Available for toddlers and little kids.
    • Order the shoe style Dean Adapt II by See Kai Run on Zappos or Amazon.
    • Not available in wide or extra wide widths but fits naturally wide.
    • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.

    7. Shoe style Holly Mary Jane by Stride Rite

    Known for its adjustable straps and roomy design, this adaptable Mary Jane is perfect for accommodating bunions. The shoe’s design allows children to wear this shoe for casual wear or dressier occasions.

    Stride Rite Holly Mary Jane in gold for girls.

    Key Features

    • Available for toddlers and little kids.
    • Order the shoe style SR Holly by Stride Rite on Zappos or Amazon.
    • Available in extra wide widths.
    • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.

    Personalized Shoe Recommendations

    Every child’s feet are unique, which is why personalized shoe recommendations can be incredibly beneficial. If you need assistance in selecting the right pair of shoes to help treat or prevent your child’s Hallux Valgus, don’t hesitate to contact me for personalized shoe recommendations. My goal is to help you find the perfect fit that supports your child’s foot health and provides relief from bunions.

    By offering personalized recommendations, I can take into account specific factors such as your child’s foot shape, activity level, and any existing foot conditions: fittingchildrensshoes@gmail.com

    Ordering the Correct Shoe Size Online

    With the increasing trend of online shopping, ensuring you order the correct shoe size can be challenging. To assist with this, I’ve developed a virtual shoe fitting service. This resource helps families determine the right size based on their child’s foot measurements, ensuring a perfect fit every time. By using this tool, you can confidently select the best shoes for your child without the guesswork.

    If you provide your child with shoes that are too short or too narrow you might end up squeezing your kids’ toes and they will start rubbing against each other or the side of the shoe. This in time will force the bone to cave in at the joint and create the condition we know as Hallux Valgus.

    How to treat a child's foot that developed a bunion.
    An image of a child’s foot with a Hallux Valgus.

    Comfortable Seamless Socks for Children with Bunions

    While selecting the right shoes is vital, don’t overlook the importance of getting seamless socks. Seamless socks reduce the risk of friction and irritation, which can exacerbate bunion pain.

    Crowdsourcing Shoe Advice: The Reliability of Reddit and Quora

    Social media platforms like Reddit and Quora can be treasure troves of advice when you’re hunting for the right shoes for kids with Hallux Valgus. Personal stories from parents who faced similar challenges can give you some practical pointers on what to look out for. Maybe they’ve found that one brand that works wonders, or have tips on making any shoe more comfortable.

    But here’s the thing: not all advice you read online is gospel. Weighing these personal experiences against expert recommendations is crucial. Distinguish between what’s a one-off opinion and what aligns with sound podiatric advice.

    Bonus Resource: Deep and Wide Sandals for Kids with Bunions

    There are a few sandals designed with deep and wide footbeds, providing the necessary support and space for Hallux Valgus relief. These sandals offer breathability and comfort without compromising on style. They often include adjustable straps to secure the foot properly, preventing unnecessary movement that could irritate the bunion.

    Kids with Bunions – Is Surgery the Best Solution?

    Please be aware that the foot isn’t fully mature until about 15 to 16 years of age, so please don’t make the mistake of performing surgery too early. Something so simple such as providing your child with shoes that provide extra depth, a wide toe box, and seamless socks can help your child manage their bunions effectively.

    There has also been disagreement that bunions are caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes, while others believe it’s genetic. In all this debate, one common ground they all agreed on is that the type of footwear you choose to provide for your child will surely improve or worsen the condition.