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The 8 Best Products for Bunion Support

From toe spreaders to socks—these products will help support and comfort your bunions.

Best Products for Bunion Support

Brides / Amelia Manley

Bunions, which involve the swelling of the first joint of the big toe, can cause severe pain for anyone. Suzanne Levine, DPM, RPT, PC, Millennium Podiatry in New York City, says tight shoes and narrow toe boxes can exacerbate bunion development and irritate them further. To avoid worsening the development of your bunions, Dr. Levine recommends using products for bunion support. Products with proper bunion support will separate the toes, provide cushioning for the joint, and give arch support.

We researched dozens of bunion support products and evaluated them for material, comfort, force applied, and value. An assistant professor of orthopedics from our Medical Expert Board reviewed the contents of this article for medical accuracy regarding what to look for in bunion support products and when to use them.

Different Types of Bunion Support Products

  • Insoles: They’re inserted into the shoe to provide arch support and comfort as you go about your day. They also protect the foot from accidental injuries. Elizabeth Sanders, DPM, Boston Medical Center, recommends a trial period with insoles because they can feel uncomfortably firm when first used.
  • Toe Separators: Toe separators provide support and cushioning. They alleviate pressure on the bunion by putting a wedge between the first and second toe to make the big toe straight, says Hillary Brenner, DPM, Podiatric Medicine and Foot Surgery, New York City. She thinks you should prioritize gel or other soft, flexible materials.
  • Toe Guards: A guard slips over and separates the big toe while protecting the bunion.
  • Socks: Well-padded socks can be a good preventative against injuries while providing ample comfort. Some come with built-in toe pockets and separators to further support the bunion.
  • Sleeves: If you feel irritated when your shoe comes in contact with your bunion, finding a protective sleeve with a gel pad or insert is recommended to provide the protection you need. Sleeves are also good at protecting the bunion from external stressors and friction.

When to Consult a Podiatrist

Over-the-counter bunion products only work to relieve the pain while wearing. If you're dealing with foot pain, it may be time to consult a podiatrist and consider other treatment options.

Best Overall

Caretras Bunion Corrector

Caretras Bunion Corrector

Amazon

Pros
  • Easy to clean

  • Reusable

  • Helps with multiple issues

Cons
  • May need readjustment

Key Specs:

Type: Splint/toe spreader | Arch Support Level: None

Why We Recommend It

Relieve any pain and temporarily realign your toes with the Caretras Bunion Corrector. This product provides optimal support for the entire foot area when moving around your home or sleeping at night. How the product works is a fabric fastener splint wraps around the big toe and helps straighten it with a strap around the center of the foot. This pulls that big toe more in line, thus relieving any pain you might be experiencing. Additionally, the splint is made with flexible elastane, which should feel comfortable against the skin and be durable. 

It is important to note that while it is called a “corrector,” this product, like all over-the-counter bunion products, only works to relieve the pain while wearing.

Keep in Mind

If you try to wear shoes with this pick, you will likely have to size up because the support device is bulkier than your typical sock.

Best Gel Bunion Guard

NatraCure Gel Big Toe Bunion Guard

NatraCure Gel Big Toe Bunion Guard With Toe Spreader

Amazon

Pros
  • Reusable

  • Temporarily straightens the toe

  • Can be worn all day

Cons
  • Can cause skin irritation

Key Specs:

Type: Big toe guard/toe spreader | Arch Support Level: None

Why We Recommend It

For ultimate comfort, consider getting a bunion supporter made of a gel-based material, like the NatraCure Gel Big Toe Bunion Guard. This product works in two areas. First, it slips over that big toe and covers the bunion, which helps prevent any irritation or pain when walking around in shoes or barefoot. Second, the product separates the big toe from the second toe. This is important because when bunions form, they rotate the big toe inward toward the second toe. The added separator will help separate the two toes and temporarily straighten the big toe. This should make walking more comfortable and relieve pressure on that area.

Keep in Mind

This pick can cause some skin irritation.

Best Insoles

Spenco PolySorb Cross Trainer Insoles

Spenco PolySorb Cross Trainer Insoles

Amazon

Pros
  • Doesn't retain odor

  • Comfortable

  • Reduces blisters

Cons
  • Stiff

  • Have to shape to foot

Key Specs:

Type: Insole | Arch Support Level: High

Why We Recommend It

A lack of support at the arch will lead to more pressure on the big toe and further exacerbate a bunion. The Spenco PolySorb Cross Trainer Insoles offer cushioned support for the arch if you are working out or just walking around town running errands. All it takes is placing the insoles in your favorite pair of shoes to support the foot all day long. Also, the friction-reducing fabric reduces blisters and curbs any odors.

Keep in Mind

These insoles can be a little stiff. They also have to adjust to the shape of your foot which can take some time.

Best Toe Spreader

ZenToes Gel Toe Separators

ZenToes Gel Toe Separators

Amazon

Pros
  • Allergy-friendly

  • Easy to wear

  • Small design

Cons
  • Not great for narrow shoes

Key Specs:

Type: Toe spreader | Arch Support Level: None

Why We Recommend It

Depending on the type of bunion you are experiencing, products that merely separate the toes might offer optimal pain relief and support throughout the day. The ZenToes Gel Toe Separator is made with silicone that wraps around the second toe. The noninvasive design then helps keep the big toe straight and prevents it from turning inward toward the second toe.

This spreader is so great because it is smaller than other devices on the market, making it easy to wear with or without shoes.

Keep in Mind

The device does not offer a shield around the actual bunion. This means that wearing shoes could cause some friction over the impacted area.

Best Sleeve

Flyen Bunion Sleeves Kit

Flyen Bunion Corrector & Bunion Relief Protector Sleeves Kit

Amazon

Pros
  • Quick relief

  • All-in-one kit

  • Shock absorbing

Cons
  • Lacks durability

Key Specs:

Type: Big toe sleeve | Arch Support Level: Moderate

Why We Recommend It

The Flyen Bunion Sleeves Kit addresses both irritation and toe alignment. This all-in-one bunion support product provides a sleeve covering the entire big toe and midfoot area. The kit also comes with toe separators if alignment is a concern. All you have to do is place the toe spacer between the big and second toe before putting the sleeve over the entire foot. It's also crafted with medical-grade silicone that absorbs shock when walking.

Keep in Mind

This product isn't the most durable, so it may not be as long lasting as other picks.

Best Bunion Relief Kit

Dr. Frederick's Original Bunion Corrector Kit

Dr. Frederick's Original Bunion Corrector Kit

Amazon

Pros
  • Ideal for active people

  • Variety of choices

  • Comfortable

Cons
  • Lacks durability

Key Specs:

Type: Toe spreaders | Arch Support Level: None

Why We Recommend It

If you are unsure what support product might work best for your bunions, consider getting this all-encompassing kit that includes a variety of separators, pads, and spacers for bunion relief. Dr. Frederick's Original Bunion Corrector Kit is affordable and comes with 14 different pieces to try on your big and second toes. Each piece is made with a soft gel-like material that will provide optimal comfort throughout the day. The material is also super flexible, making it easy to take the products off and on. Plus, the products are washable, so it is easy to reuse them repeatedly. This kit might be a great option if you are trying to determine whether separators or bunion pads might work better for your foot.

Keep in Mind

This is a good starter kit, but it isn't ideal for someone who knows what support their bunions need. The items in this kit aren't as durable and long-lasting as other products, so if you know what you need, it'd be better to go for exactly what you need.

Best Socks

Sockwell Bunion Relief Socks

Sockwell Sport Ease Bunion Relief Socks

Amazon

Pros
  • Great for sleeping

  • Keeps toes separated

  • Protects against blisters

Cons
  • Lacks gel spacer

  • Thick material

Key Specs:

Type: Sock | Arch Support Level: None

Why We Recommend It

Who said that bunion relief and support required a bulky product? Sockwell's Sport Ease Bunion Relief Sock is innovative and addresses pain relief caused by bunions by separating the big toe from the second toe with a cushioned pocket built into the sock. This pocket helps minimize friction between the two toes and relieves pain from the bunions. Since there is a built-in pocket, the sock can also help with alignment issues that a bunion may cause by keeping the big toe in proper alignment when worn. We like that the material is comfortable against the skin and helps relieve pain.

Keep in Mind

While there is a cushioned pocket, there's no gel spacer between toes. The socks are also on the thicker side.

Best Orthotic

Powerstep Original Arch Support Insoles

Powerstep Original Arch Support Insoles

Amazon

Pros
  • Arch support

  • Provides pain relief

  • Molds to foot

Cons
  • Hard material

Key Specs:

Type: Insole | Arch Support Level: High

Why We Recommend It

Give your gait some extra enforcement by placing the Powerstep Original Arch Support Insoles in your shoes when walking around. Arch support is key in bunion support products to relieve any pressure the big toe might be experiencing that further exacerbates bunions. That is why finding an insole that provides firm support, especially if your foot is flatter, is necessary to address pain. The insole has dual-layer cushioning that balances support and comfort when walking around. When wearing, it will help cradle both the arch and heel of the foot as you propel forward. This should limit excess stress at the front of the foot and with the other ligaments.

Keep in Mind

These insoles are a little harder, which may not be comfortable for some.

How We Selected the Products for Bunion Support

When selecting products for bunion support, we spoke with podiatrists and then spent hours combing the web for the best and most effective products. After considering all of our options, we determined which to feature based on key criteria recommended by podiatrists:

  • Type: When looking at bunion support products, we looked for different types to address the other forms of irritation that bunions can cause.
  • Support: We prioritized options that offered support for the heel, arch, bunion itself, or other associated areas that can become irritated and cause discomfort due to bunions.
  • Material: We looked carefully at the materials, ensuring they were soft, breathable, safe for the skin and wouldn't exacerbate bunion pain.
  • Value: Once we narrowed our options, we compared each treatment's benefits to its price tag. While some choices on our list may be more expensive, we wanted to give a wide range of options that would fit all needs and budgets.

What to Look for in Bunion Support Products

  • Materials: When determining what material to look out for to help with your bunion, Dr. Sanders says it depends on the bunion's location and type. Most importantly, you want a soft and breathable fabric that will not irritate the outside of the bunion when it comes in contact with the product. Velcro splints support the toe's alignment, and silicone can offer comfortable padding for the bunion. Similarly, Dr. Brenner recommends gel-based pads because they help remove the bunion's pressure.
  • Bunion Protection: Trauma to the foot can worsen bunions and further their formation. Products with padding around the toe can help cushion the foot from accidental injuries that could exacerbate bunion pain. Dr. Brennan says that gel cushions take pressure and friction off the bunion so it doesn't become irritated by rubbing against the shoe.
  • Arch Support: Products that provide arch support can help reduce the reoccurrence of bunions. Dr. Sanders says that proper arch support will take pressure off the big toe in your gait cycle and that hard arch support is better for flat feet (even if it's not the most comfortable). If you find that specific insoles are not working for your feet, then consider visiting your local podiatrist for other ways to relieve your bunion pain and support your arches.

Our Experts

We use expert input at every step of reporting, testing, and writing this story. Here are some of the experts we consulted along the way:

  • Suzanne Levine, DPM, RPT, PC, Millennium Podiatry in New York City
  • Elizabeth Sanders, DPM, Boston Medical Center
  • Hillary Brenner, DPM, Podiatric Medicine and Foot Surgery, New York City

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can you wear bunion supports after surgery?

    Podiatrists recommend bunion support following surgery. Dr. Levine advises patients to wear custom orthotic shoes once when they switch to regular shoes and sneakers, especially if they overpronate. Splints, available over the counter, are another option recommended for patients following surgery to assist them after removing the bandages. Consulting with your podiatrist can help guide you on the type of bunion support that will work best for your feet. 

  • How often should you wear bunion supports?

    Dr. Levine says you can wear these products whenever needed to help forestall the development of worse symptoms or relieve pain. Depending on the user, bunion support can exacerbate the symptoms instead of helping the joint. If the product is causing abrasions, increased pain, or ulcers, then cease using the bunion support and consult with your podiatrist about other options available. Dr. Levine says you should only wear bunion supports after surgery for a few weeks before stopping.

Why Trust Verywell Health

Certified running coach and marathon runner Christine Luff has spent years researching and recommending over-the-counter foot health products for runners. She sticks to brands that are recommended by organizations such as the APMA and tells her trainees to seek advice from their podiatrist or other healthcare professional.

Additional reporting to this story by Danielle Zoellner

As a seasoned health writer, Danielle Zoellner knows the importance of finding just the right product to fit your medical needs. Throughout her career, Danielle has interviewed a variety of experts in the medical and health fields while reviewing dozens of products. Her experience and knowledge in the field work together to help readers like yourself find the best products for your daily life.