Shoes for Morton's Neuroma

Published on April 30th, 2021 | by Kirsten Borrink

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Comfortable, Stylish Shoes for Morton’s Neuroma [9 shoes]

I recall experiencing a bout of Morton’s Neuroma when my rheumatoid arthritis was active and my shoes were too tight in the forefoot. It felt like a was stepping on a stone every time I went for a walk; with a burning discomfort located between my third and fourth toe. It was never that serious and resolved itself by switching to footwear with a wide toe box and good arch support to take pressure off the forefoot. But I know folks who have suffered with this condition to no avail and have actually turned to surgery to remove the neuroma. And of course, custom orthotics may be in order by your podiatrist or orthopedic, but what about footwear? Are there shoe brands that make room for the toes to spread while providing adequate cushioning and support from heel to arch to toes (and don’t look overly orthopedic)? Yes and yes! Here is a collection of brands, styles and insoles that were recommended by Facebook followers of BarkingDogShoes.com (you can refer to the discussion here).

Best fitness shoes for Morton’s Neuroma:

Hoka One One Bondi 6

Hoka One One shoes (particularly the Bondi style):

The Hoka Bondi collection is considered a maximum-cushioning running shoe (pretty obvious from the photo) and receives the APMA (American Podiatric Medical Association) seal of acceptance. Hoka describes their meta-rocker sole as “wheels for the feet,” as it propels the foot forward through the stride taking pressure off the forefoot, which is welcome relief for neuroma and hallux rigidus sufferers. While the arch support is moderate, you can always add your favorite insole with metatarsal support. The thick EVA midsole absorbs shock to feet and knees, doubling as a running and walking shoe.

An anonymous Zappos customer recommends the Hoka Bondi:

I have a neuroma and achilles issues with my left foot. So, I am Ms Fussy Feet. These shoes have been great so far. They have an ample toe box, which I need for the neuroma, and good support/padding for my achilles area. The sole cushioning is fantastic.

Find the Hoka One Bondi in sizes 5-12, medium and wide widths for $149.95 from Zappos, and HokaOneOne.com.

Altra Torin 4

Altra is known for its foot-shape toe box that allows toes to move freely about. Take it from me, this is the roomiest toe box you’ll find in a fitness shoe, yet the heel fits snugly. Altra footwear also features a zero-drop platform that places the heel and forefoot at the same distance from the ground, which may provide relief from forefoot discomfort. The Torin 4 is lightweight and breathable with moderate arch support.

Altra customer Kristen says this about her Torins:

The Torin 4 shoes are very comfortable on my wide flat feet. Due to wearing narrow shoes I have Morton’s neuroma on one foot. These shoes have eased my nerve pain. Can’t wait to get back to running without shooting nerve pain!!! Been wearing these during my 12 hour shift and i feel great at the end.

Find the Altra Torin in sizes 5-12 for $107-120 from AltraRunning.com, and Zappos.

Other recommended fitness shoe brands for neuroma: Ryka (made for women’s feet with wider forefoot and narrow heel), Abeo fitness shoes with metatarsal insole.

Best Casual Shoes:

Naot Terehu

Naot is an Israeli brand that incorporates supportive cork and latex footbeds into even their most stylish shoes, sandals and boots! Even better, many styles feature removable footbeds to accommodate your own orthotic.

The Terehu style works well for this Zappos customer with Morton’s neuroma:

Finally a shoe I can wear! With plantar fasciitis and Morton’s neuroma, it’s difficult to find shoes that have enough support or have room for my own orthotic. This one does the trick. The toe box is nice and wide, making Mr. Morton very happy. 

Find the Naot Terehu in euro sizes 35-43 (4-12) for $189.95 from Zappos.

Naot Kata

The Naot Kata is a super smart style. The open sides allow feet to breathe in warmer weather while the closed toe and heel keep a full-length orthotic in place. Brilliant.

Zappos customer Mandy says this:

I am so happy with these shoes! I have Morton’s Neuroma, so I need shoes with a wide toe box and I wear custom orthotics. Mine fit in perfectly and the shoes are so comfortable. They’re very stylish and go with a variety of outfits. There was no breaking in period.

Dansko Franny

The Naot Kata is available in euro sizes 35-43 (4-12) for $160-185 from Zappos, Amazon, and The Walking Company.

If you’re looking for a classic closed-toe shoe for work, consider the Dansko Franny. It’s a no-frills slip-on with a great fit and feel. While Dansko clogs provide excellent arch support and a rocker sole, there can be a tendency to roll an ankle since the fit is loose at the heel. The Franny won’t do that!

Dansko Franny in navy

The toe box is generous, yet doesn’t look clown-like. The footbed, while supportive on its own, Is removable to accommodate your own orthotic.

We noted quite a few reviews mentioning the good fit at the heel–cushioned with no slippage. A hook and loop strap ensures a good fit at the instep.

Find the Dansko Franny in euro sizes 36-42 (5.5-12), medium and wide widths for $134.95 from Zappos, and Dansko.com.

See Donna’s review of four more stylish shoes for Morton’s neuroma!

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