What Sandals Are Good for Bunions: Comfort Guide

When the sun comes out, sandals come into their element. Open, airy and, most importantly, comfortable footwear that we can enjoy all summer.

If you’re dealing with bunions though, getting a comfortable pair can be tricky. In this guide we’ll run you through everything you need to know to get a pair of sandals that fit well and supports your bunions rather than aggravating them. Because everyone deserves a stylish, feel-great shoe with zero discomfort.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

• Understanding bunions, and why some sandals make them worse
• Which features to look for in a bunion-friendly shoe
• The best sandals for bunions
• Final tips on finding a good fit

Understanding Bunions (and Why Some Sandals Make Them Worse)

We’ll start by saying that if you have bunions, there’s no need to feel self-conscious. They’re much more common than people realise!

And if you’re wondering “what is a bunion?”, let us clarify before we continue. Bunions are bumps that occur when the joint at the base of your big toe shifts slightly, causing the toe to lean inward. The result is a bony bump on the side of your foot that can lead to swelling, tenderness, and difficulty finding shoes that feel good.

While everyone's feet are different, certain styles of sandals can make bunions feel worse. Narrow, overly structured sandals that press directly against the bunion can cause rubbing and irritation, especially if there are hard seams or tight straps across the forefoot.

Heels can be problematic, too. By tipping your weight forward, they increase pressure on the ball of the foot and the big toe joint. Similarly, sandals without support or cushioning can force your toes to overcompensate, which leads to fatigue and strain.

Thankfully, plenty of sandals are designed to give your feet the space and support they need, without compromising on style and without aggravating your bunions.

What to Look for in Bunion-Friendly Sandals

Whether you're after something smart, minimal, or holiday-ready, here are the top sandal types and features to look out for if comfort is your priority.

And while these picks are especially helpful for anyone managing bunions, they also offer a more forgiving and comfortable fit for all feet!

Wide Fit Sandals

One of the best things you can do for bunion-prone feet is to choose sandals that offer a little more room, like our range of wide fit sandals. This style is designed with a broader forefoot area, giving your toes plenty of space to spread naturally - helping to reduce pressure on sensitive joints.

They also help to avoid friction against the side of the foot when you walk, which is particularly helpful in warmer months when your feet may swell slightly.

Flat Sandals with Arch Support

Flat sandals don't have to mean flat-footed. Sandals with built-in arch support distribute your weight more evenly and reduce pressure on the forefoot, where bunions typically develop. This also encourages a more natural gait, meaning your toes don’t have to grip to keep the shoe in place while you walk.

Look for contoured footbeds and styles with slight cushioning in the heel and arch to minimise bunion discomfort.

Sandals with Soft or Padded Straps

Avoid stiff straps over the bunion area. Instead, go for sandals that feature soft leather, stretch panels, or padded linings. These provide gentle support without creating friction, letting your shoe more easily flex and move with your foot.

Not only does this feel more comfortable, but it also helps prevent redness or irritation.

Sandals with Adjustable Fastenings

Feet come in all shapes and sizes, and they don’t stay the same shape all day. As you move around your feet expand slightly, meaning the option to adjust how your shoes fit during the day can give you greater control over comfort. Sandals with adjustable features like Touch-Fastening straps buckles, or toggle fastenings let you customise the fit as needed.

This is especially helpful if your foot shape varies between days or if you're spending long hours on your feet. Loosening the fit slightly in the afternoon can provide welcome relief and ensure the sandal still feels supportive.

Sandals with Toe Loops or Minimal Forefoot Coverage

Some people prefer styles that avoid the bunion area altogether. Sandals with toe loops or strappy silhouettes that bypass the side of the forefoot can provide a stylish alternative to more traditional styles. These also allow more airflow and freedom, while keeping your foot securely in place.

Just make sure the sole offers adequate support and isn't completely flat, as this can lead to strain in the arch and heel over time - even if you don't have bunions.

Final Tips for Finding the Right Sandals

In addition to the style-specific recommendations above, here are some guiding tips that will help you to find a comfortable, well-fitting pair of sandals.

• Try sandals on at the end of the day: our feet naturally swell throughout the day, so trying them on later in the day gives you the best indication of true fit.
• Pay attention to materials: look for soft, flexible leather or textile linings that won't rub.
• Test the footbed: is it contoured and cushioned? Does it flex with your movement? If not, pick another pair.
• Don't settle: the right sandal is out there! You shouldn’t have to choose between comfort and confidence.

Feet That Feel Good

Whether you're sandal shopping for a holiday, a go-to everyday pair, or a pair that won't rub on long walks, finding the right fit makes all the difference. In this guide, we've covered what to avoid, which features to prioritise, and recommended some specific sandals from our range - all of which offer comfort that goes far beyond bunion relief.

Supportive, well-designed sandals aren't just a practical solution, they're a wardrobe staple that can help you feel confident, comfortable, and ready for the day. From extra wide fits and arch support to soft straps and adjustable details, there are plenty of styles that combine comfort with considered design.

Take a look at our range of sandals today - including wide fit sandals and flat sandals - or get in touch with our team for help finding your perfect pair.