Respected podiatrist and foot/ankle specialist Dr. Tom Biernacki explains the condition well over at his wonderful YouTube channel. He states, “A shoe can make all the difference in the world.” When it comes to the best shoes for hallux rigidus he recommends footwear with a stiff heel, stiff midsole and a non-flexible forefoot.

Keeping Dr. Biernacki’s wisdom in mind, I’ve tried my best to round up the most comfortable (and stylish as possible) women’s shoes for hallux rigidus. Yours truly had a cheilectomy on my right big toe last summer due to hallux rigidus caused by rheumatoid arthritis, so I have first-foot experience with a few of these. Even if you have turf toe (a sprain or injury to the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint of the big toe), you’ll find these women’s shoe recommendations helpful!

Athletic Shoes

My personal favorite fitness shoe is the Topo Athletic Atmos (or any of their styles with a thicker sole). I love this brand so much. The toe box is wide, the arch support is perfect (so is the cushioning), and the fit at the heel is snug–plus a rocker sole! I wore them pre-cheilectomy and post-cheilectomy. You can watch my video review to find out more about the Atmos style. I also wear the Magnifly model for every day walks and fitness classes (Zumba and Les Mills Body Pump at the Y).

• Sizes: 6-12 • Width: M • Price: $106-129 from Topo Athletic, Amazon & Zappos

Hoka fitness shoes: Hoka shoes (specifically the Bondi style) are one of the best running shoes for hallux rigidus on the market. The combination of rocker sole, thick outsole, enhanced cushioning and wide toe box means the big toe is protected from cramping and over-flexing. Find the most current Hoka Bondi 9 in a variety of neutrals and brights.

•Sizes: 4-12 • Widths: M, W, XW • Price: $175 from Hoka, Zappos & Amazon

If your hallux rigidus is severe, consider the Hoka Skyward with a carbon fiber plate that stiffens the forefoot area of the shoe preventing it from bending and protecting the big toe joint.

“A friend with hallux rigidus turned me onto these and they are fantastic… the lower drop puts less pressure on my big toe.” – Zappos customer

A generous toe box, gentle forefoot rocker sole, and plush but stable platform make the New Balance Fresh Foam x 1080 a great option for hallux rigidus sufferers.

• Sizes: 5-13 • Widths: XN, N, M, W • Price: $129-164 from New Balance, Zappos & Amazon

“I looked for and purchased several shoes to accommodate my Hallux Rigidus (rigid toe) and a bone spur. None worked. They usually were too tight across the ball of my foot where I have the bone spur on the top of my foot. These shoes are perfect. I got the wide because that is what my podiatrist recommended. Most wides were to loose fitting, but these were great. Also, they have just enough “rocker” to keep my rigid toe from hurting.”

If you’re on a budget and don’t want to fork over $170 for Hokas, consider the Skechers Go Run “Consistent” line of running shoes. Read this review from a happy Zappos customer!

• Sizes: 5-11 • Width: M • Price: $63-70 from Skechers & Amazon

Casual Shoes

Fitflop has diversified their footwear collection to the point it’s hard to know which footbed you’re getting. Good news! The F-Mode footbed features their original podiatrist recommended Microwobbleboard technology (three levels of targeted cushioning plus anatomical arch support). A generous toe box and sturdy yet lightweight flatform keep sensitive toes happy.

• Sizes: 5-11 • Width: M • Price: $80-130 from Fitflop & Amazon

If you have difficult-to-fit feet (narrow or even extra wide width), the Ros Hommerson Dannon is definitely worth a try! This comfortable loafer is another excellent recommendation from a member of the Hallux Rigidus Support Group.

• Sizes: 6-13 • Widths: N, M, W, XW • Price: $129-154 from Amazon & DSW

We love the new Chelsea boot style of popular Ariat Fatbaby boot! A generous toe box, moderate arch support and thick outsole make this cute boot a excellent choice for hallux rigidus. Available in a variety of colors and patterns, sizes 5.5-12, medium and wide width (for some color choices) for $109.95 from Ariat, Amazon and Zappos.

Zappos customer Jennifer says all we need to know about the Taos Ultimate mary jane:

“I have the World’s Worst Feet. Hallux rigidus and no arches. Shoes that don’t make matters worse are really hard to find. These are wonderful. The arch support is fantastic and they have a nice wide toebox. The adjustable velcro gives a snug fit and they are super cute. Yay.”

The Taos Ultimate is available in sizes 6-11.5 for $185 from Taos Footwear, Zappos and Amazon.

I love these shoes. I own a pair and recommend them to everyone that suffers from plantar fasciitis to bunions to hallux rigidus. (see my Youtube review). The footbed is contoured to support arches, heel and metatarsals. The sole is thick and doesn’t overly bend (the name of the shoe is a misnomer), protecting the forefoot. The toe box is generous and foot-shaped. A+. Available in euro sizes 36-41 (6-10.5–I take a 41 for my size 10 feet) for $140-150 from Birkenstock, Nordstrom, Zappos and Amazon.

“No pain with Hallux Rigidus and large bone spur. I’ve tried so many nursing shoes and other rocker shoes, but these with the cork sole are the ones. I will be getting another pair in another color.” – Zappos customer

The Alegria Orygin features a removable (and replaceable) cork, latex and memory foam footbed with excellent arch support. A slip-resistant rocker sole gently propels the foot through the stride taking pressure off painful toes and heels.

Sizes: 5-12 • Widths: M & W • Price: $54-130 from Zappos, Nordstrom & Amazon

Fitflop’s take on the chunky loafer includes their trademark Microwobbleboard midsole (triple-density cushioning follows three footstep stages–firm heel, soft middle, medium at toes). The substantial one inch platform sole means limited forefoot/toe bend during the stride–a win-win for hallux rigidus toes!

•Sizes 5-11 • Width: M • Price: $105-169 from Fitflop & Amazon

The Dansko Frankie Chelsea boot comes recommended by a few members of Kristi Ferguson’s wonderful resource, The Hallux Rigidus Support Group. Featuring a rocker sole, generous toe box and cushioned footbed, the Frankie propels the foot gently through the stride taking pressure off the forefoot.

Sizes: euro 36-42 (5.5-11.5) • Width: M • Price: $180 from Dansko, Zappos & Amazon

Sandals

“Saved me. I have Hallux Rigidus aka Turf Toe aka Big Stiff Toe from arthritis and a bone spur on top. Flat feet and low volume feet. These are pretty stiff; soft but supportive with no high arch support that feels like a rock. They are adjustable. They are perfection”

I ordered a pair after reading the good reviews and while they look a little clunky on my size 10 feet, I love the fit and feel–so I wear them with confidence! See my video review here.

• Sizes: 5-12 • Width: M • Price: $84-120 from Ugg, Zappos & Nordstrom

I wore these all over the place last summer from a Canadian camping trip, to long walks down the river path near our home, to North Carolina beaches. Next stop–Akumal, Mexico. I love the Taos Super Side for its enhanced arch support, thick outsole and mild rocker, soft wateproof neoprene straps that adjust over the toes (and bone spurs). See my complete review here. (By the way, I wore these pre-cheilectomy and post!)

• Sizes 6-11 • Width: M • Price: $89-160 from Taos Footwear, Amazon and Zappos.

The Wolky Jewel sandal has been around as long as I can remember and shows no sign of retiring–I used to have a pair and sadly donated them! The firm yet shock-absorbing rocker outsole gently propels the foot forward through the stride taking pressure off the forefoot. The three adjustable straps offer a good fit for narrow to wide feet and a removable anatomic footbed provides good arch support.

• Sizes 36-44 (5.5-12.5) • Width: M • Price: $189 from Amazon and Nordstrom.

Dress Shoes for Hallux Rigidus

Recommended by members of the Hallux Rigidus Support Group, the Aerosoles Cosmos (and similar platform heel iterations) could be the golden ticket for getting through a special occasion without wincing in pain all night. The 3″ stable block heel and 1.25″ platform work together elevate the foot without the drastic toe to heel angle. An Ortholite footbed provides good cushioning to sensitive feet. Available in a variety of colors/textures in sizes 5-12, medium and wide width for $99-135 from Aerosoles, Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos.

Thank you, Abeo, for giving us a comfortable dress sandal with a modest 2″ block heel that looks modern (dare I say svelte?). The forefoot strap adjusts to accommodate big toe bone spurs or a wider forefoot. The footbed offers arch support and is available in a metatarsal option with a met pad to alleviate forefoot pain. Find the Abeo Avenue in six colors, sizes 5-11 for $149.95 from The Walking Company.

If you must dress up for a special occasion and can manage a heel for a few hours, the Pammy heel by Ros Hommerson is one of the kinder ones. This comfortable heel features a round toe box, cushioned insole and 1/2″ platform and 3″ heel. Both buckles adjust for a great fit over the instep. Find the Ros Hommerson Pammy in sizes 5-13, medium and wide widths for $159.95 from Walking Company and Amazon.

Another closed toe dress option for hallux rigidus toes, the Aerosoles Soir features a 1″ platform and 2.5″ block heel. An Ortholite footbed keeps sensitive feet cushioned well.

• Sizes: 5-12 • Width: M • Price $51-175 from Aerosoles, Nordstrom, Amazon & DSW

Which hallux rigidus shoes (or hallux limitus shoes) have we missed?  Please leave a comment and let us know if you’ve found shoes that work for you!

The post Best Women’s Shoes for Hallux Rigidus & Hallux Limitus: 19 Stylish Picks appeared first on Barking Dog Shoes.

Hi! I’m Liz – a florist at the Sweetbay shop, entrepreneur and mom of two young kids. My daily routine involves countless hours on my feet from lugging heavy buckets full of water, to standing in place designing for hours at a time.

I’ve had Hallux Rigidus for a good 15 years now and have been through all the ups and downs of shoe styles for this painful condition. I have very little mobility in both my big toes with large red bones spurs on top of my feet. They are quite pronounced and painful to look at. Style is hugely important to me and I was on the lookout for a metallic sneaker that felt chic and of course comfortable. Luckily, I stumbled upon Steve Madden’s Momentum sneaker.

It was love at first sight. The working Velcro straps are perfect for adjusting width to accommodate a bone spur in the front, but also make the shoe snug enough for those that have a narrow foot. I actually like that I can tighten the straps to really hug my foot. I ordered my larger shoe size ( 11 ) in hopes that it will allow for some more extra width. I will share that these are a more flexible sole – I actually can tolerate that well as long as the upper is not pressing down on the toe box. If you require a stiff, rocker sole I wouldn’t recommend this sneaker. These are cushy, support my feet, knees and back for a long 8-10 hours standing on my feet. I can wear my Momentums to an event installation carting back and up and down ladders and feel comfortable and stylish (I think they would even look cute with a dress or skirt). This shoe is available in medium width only, but with the Velcro closures I find the width flexible.

As an aside, I cannot wear the same shoe two days in a row. My feet and toes overcompensate for the hallux rigidus issues and I find that I need to rotate shoes constantly to change it up or else I develop a muscle strain in my feet. It’s a constant struggle!

Find a pair of Steve Madden Momentum sneakers:

• Sizes: 5-12 • Width: M • Price: $45-75 from Steve Madden, Amazon & Zappos

The post Steve Madden Sneakers Review: Momentum Style appeared first on Barking Dog Shoes.

I may have received the Taos Super Side sandals from Taos Footwear, but I can honestly say after months of wear, these are the real deal.

If you have forefoot pain due to metatarsalgia or hallux rigidus or midfoot pain due to arthritic changes, the Taos Super Side sandal is a must try.

The hook and loop (velcro) straps allow for a customized fit and are lined with soft, waterproof neoprene. No blisters for me! The forefoot straps conceal the bunions nicely and don’t come undone.

The chunky outsole provides stability and support. The arch support is perfectly placed and feels great. It also keeps the foot from bending too much through the stride, protecting those forefoot and midfoot joints, tendons and ligaments. And yes, they’re great for hallux rigidus big toes.

The footbed provides cushioning but not that marshmallow-y memory foam feeling, rather a firm cushion that revives tired feet and puts a little spring in the step!

My sandals are all dry and ready to go again today after a wet hike near the river last night!

The fit is true. I normally wear a size 10 medium and the size 10 in the Taos Super Side sandal fits perfectly (I’d size up if between sizes). Available in whole sizes 6-11 for $140 from Taos Footwear, Amazon and Zappos.

The post Taos Super Side Sandals Review: Water and Foot-Friendly appeared first on Barking Dog Shoes.

I may have received the Taos Super Side sandals from Taos Footwear, but I can honestly say after months of wear, these are the real deal.

If you have forefoot pain due to metatarsalgia or hallux rigidus or midfoot pain due to arthritic changes, the Taos Super Side sandal is a must try.

The hook and loop (velcro) straps allow for a customized fit and are lined with soft, waterproof neoprene. No blisters for me! The forefoot straps conceal the bunions nicely and don’t come undone.

The chunky outsole provides stability and support. The arch support is perfectly placed and feels great. It also keeps the foot from bending too much through the stride, protecting those forefoot and midfoot joints, tendons and ligaments. And yes, they’re great for hallux rigidus big toes.

The footbed provides cushioning but not that marshmallow-y memory foam feeling, rather a firm cushion that revives tired feet and puts a little spring in the step!

My sandals are all dry and ready to go again today after a wet hike near the river last night!

The fit is true. I normally wear a size 10 medium and the size 10 in the Taos Super Side sandal fits perfectly (I’d size up if between sizes). Available in whole sizes 6-11 for $140 from Taos Footwear, Amazon and Zappos.

The post Taos Super Side Sandals Review: Water and Foot-Friendly appeared first on Barking Dog Shoes.

At last, a recurring trend we achy-footed gals can get behind: the Chelsea boot.  Credited to Queen Victoria’s shoemaker, the style is sturdy, close-fitting around the ankle, with elastic goring on the sides and a heel tab in the back. Worn as riding or “paddock” boots in the 1800s, the style gained popularity among the equestrian community, worn by men and women alike. In the 1950s, a group of young artists, film directors and socialites from the Chelsea area of west London, incorporated the boot into their “look.” The Chelsea boot soon became an icon of the Mod subculture of London making its way onto the feet of The Beatles and The Rolling Stones.

We’ve rounded up 9 comfortable chelsea boots for a variety of foot problems. Take a look!

Best for hallux rigidus (arthritic big toe): Born Cove

If you suffer from a painful big toe due to hallux limitus or rigidus, a thick, sturdy outsole without too much flex can help relieve the discomfort. The waterproof Born Cove features a thick rubber outsole and an embedded steel shank for stability and support. A round toe box adds to the overall comfort and a removable footbed may allow for an orthotic. Find the Born Cove in sizes 6-11 for $149.95 from Zappos, Nordstrom, and Amazon.

Best orthotic-friendly Chelsea boot: Samuel Hubbard Van Ness

This is a beautiful, Portuguese-made boot with a removable triple-density footbed and lightweight yet thick, durable outsole. Note the side zipper for ease of entry. The reviews are excellent and the price is right (currently on sale). Available in sizes 5.5-11 for $75-120 from Samuel Hubbard.

Best for bunions/wider forefoot: Ariat Fatbaby Twin Gore Chelsea

Zappos customer praises the Ariat Fatbaby Twin Gore:

“I have trouble finding boots with a toe box wide enough to be comfortable, but these are perfect.”

Along with a generous toe box, this cute Ariat boot has good arch support, lightweight outsole and cushioned insole. Available in sizes 5.5-11 for $109.95 from Ariat, Zappos, and Amazon.

Best wedge Chelsea boot: Sorel Evie II

Do your feet just feel better in a wedge? The Sorel Evie II features a 2″ wedge heel with 1/2″ platform so it adds just a little height without compromising comfort and walkability. Waterproof leather or suede keeps the feet high and dry! Available in sizes 5-12 for $140 from Sorel.com, Zappos, and Nordstrom.

Best cork/latex footbed Chelsea: Stegmann Lieben

More of a chelsea shoe, the Stegmann Lieben is for feet that crave Birkenstock-type footbeds (cork and latex that conforms to the foot shape over time). The footbed is also removable and may accommodate an orthotic. Find a pair in sizes 6-12 (order up a half size if you’re a 9.5 or larger) for $159 from Stegmann USA.

Ok, so it’s not made of real leather, but it has plaid inserts! Plus it’s affordable, gets great reviews for comfort and has a side zipper. Find in euro sizes 36-43 (5.5-12.5) for $78 from Zappos, Spring Step Shoes and Amazon.

Best for Big Feet: Frankie4 Crawford

Podiatrist-designed, the Frankie4 chelsea boot comes with a Sole Saver Pack® of inserts to get a good fit whether you have more narrow or wide foot. The Crawford upper is made of water resistant suede and a shock-absorbing slip-resistant sneaker outsole which makes it a fantastic chelsea boot for walking. Available in sizes 6-13 for $166-238 from Frankie4 and Nordstrom.

Best for bunions or feet that need extra-roomy toe box: Lems Chelsea boot

Native to Boulder, Colorado, Lems specializes in zero-drop, foot-shaped shoes and boots. Read through the positive reviews from customers with diabetes, Morton’s neuroma, bunions, wide feet…they love their new Lems wide toe box chelsea boots. Find in sizes 6.5-11 for $150 from LemsShoes.com.

Best Chelsea for Plantar Fasciitis: Fitflop F-Mode Chelsea boot

If you’ve found plantar fasciitis relief in a pair of Fitflop sandals, you’ll love their Chelsea boots as they feature the same triple-density Microwobbleboard midsole. Think firm cushioning with support versus squishy cushioning which does no favors for the heels. Find Fitflop Chelsea boots in sizes 5-11 for $85-180 from Fitflop.com, Amazon, and Zappos.

Do you have a favorite pair of comfortable Chelsea boots? Leave us a comment and let us know!

The post Comfortable Chelsea Boots: 9 Stylish Picks for Problem Feet appeared first on Barking Dog Shoes.

The Oofos Oolala Sandal provides exceptional arch support, which has been instrumental in taking the pressure off my sensitive forefoot (I recently had a cheilectomy and fifth metatarsal osteotomy). There’s a mild rocker sole also, which guides the foot through the stride while alleviating pressure on heel and toes.

I typically don’t like the feel of a toe post, but after a few days, it didn’t bother me at all. I understand podiatrists say to steer clear of flip flops, but Oofos sandals are anything but flimsy.

I find the fit is true. The Oofos Oolala sandal is available in whole sizes 5-11 for $69.95 from Oofos.com, Zappos, and Amazon. (FYI, the color in the video is called “Stardust”).

The post Oofos OOlala Sandal Review: Video Review appeared first on Barking Dog Shoes.

Let’s take a look at 5 of the best rocker sole shoes on the market today from athletic to casual-dress shoes:

Best rocker sole sandal: Alegria Bailee

We appreciate that Alegria is making more neutral-hued footwear these days in addition to their bright and cheery colors and patterns. The Bailee sandal is a newer addition to Alegria’s rocker sole collection. A non-flexing, slip-resistant outsole helps relieve pressure and a cork, polyurethane, memory foam footbed provides arch support and cushioning. Three adjustable straps allow for a custom fit. Find the Alegria Bailee in euro sizes 35-42 (5-12) for $45-120 from Zappos, Nordstrom and Amazon.

Best rocker sole shoes for fitness: 

You don’t even need to be a runner to enjoy the benefits of Hoka footwear. The Clifton  features a meta-rocker outsole (as most Hoka shoes do) which the company describes as “wheels for your feet,” meaning the thick rounded outsole propels the foot forward through the stride. Read more about the meta-rocker sole here. Zappos customer Sandy says this about her Cliftons, “True fit. Extremely comfortable. I need this style of shoe because my great toe joint is damaged, the slight rocker action takes the pressure off. Excellent quality.” Find the Hoka Clifton  in sizes 5-12, medium and wide widths for $115-145 from Hoka and Zappos.

A great option for casual-dress is Alegria shoes. Alegria means “happiness” in Spanish and that’s what they’ll bring to your soles. Most styles feature some form of rocker sole, cork-latex removable footbeds and a generous toe box. The Keli is a versatile slip-on featuring a rocker style outsole with tapered shaping at the heel and toe, which promotes a natural rocking movement with each step. See Kirsten’s full review of the Alegria Keli here.

Alegria recently expanded their sizing to include  euro sizes 43-44 (13-14) and wide widths. Find the Keli for $129.95 from Zappos, Amazon, and Nordstrom.

We’d be remiss not to mention Dansko Professional rocker sole clogs! No doubt you’ve heard about them, but have you seen these iconic clogs in leopard yet? How about neon pink?  It’s refreshing to see these tried and true rocker sole shoes in new patterns and colors every season. Find the Dansko Professional in euro sizes 35-43 (5-12.5) for $130-140 from Dansko.com, Zappos and Amazon.

Made in Portugal, Dromedaris is a lesser known comfort brand specializing in beautiful leather footwear with attention to detail. The Dromedaris Hornbill is a classic brogue style with roomy toe box, removable footbed with arch support, and a PU rocker outsole to offload pressure through the gait cycle. Find in euro sizes 36-43 for $160 from Amazon.

Best rocker sole sandals: Alegria Bailee, Dansko Season, Finn Comfort Sausalito

The Bailee is a new addition to Alegria’s rocker sole sandal collection and it’s getting glowing reviews from customers. Zappos shopper Allison says, “Many foot surgeries and issues and this sandal causes no pain, out of the box!” A non-slip, thick rocker sole will propel you forward through the stride in total comfort. Three adjustable straps allow for a customized fit while the cork and memory foam footbed cushions and supports. Find the Alegria Bailee in euro sizes 35-42 (5-12) for $89-109.95 from Zappos, and Amazon.

Zappos customer Holly says it best about the APMA-approved Dansko Season: “I’ve been on a mission to find the perfect summer sandal. So far I’ve tried at least 5 different comfort brands and multiple models. When these shoes arrived I knew I had found “The One”. I have bunions on both feet, arches that need support and narrow ankles. These shoes fit like a glove and the rocker action of the sole combined with the platform provide perfect cushioning for walking through the streets of Chicago from morning till dusk.” The Season features a buckle strap at the ankle and a hook and loop fastener at the forefoot for adjustability. This particular style features a lightweight PU outsole with a woodgrain look, and a cushioned memory foam footbed for extra comfort. Find the Dansko Season in euro sizes 36-42 (5-11.5) for $$85-125 from Zappos, Dansko and Amazon.

Honorable Mention: Finn Comfort Sausalito sandal, Alegria Debra in wide width, Oofos recovery sandals and shoes, SAS Walk Easy (available in multiple widths).

How about you? Do you have a favorite pair of rocker sole shoes? Leave us a comment and tell the Barking Dog community all about them…

The post Stylish Rocker Sole Shoes : Glide Through Your Stride and Look Good Doing it! appeared first on Barking Dog Shoes.

Sandals are ok, but I’m usually trying to cover up a side bunion on the other foot. Platform sandals might be OK if the heel height isn’t much higher than the toes which isn’t more than 1/2″. Do you have any ideas?

Dear reader,

Hallux Rigidus (big toe stiffness and pain) only worsens with flexible forefoot shoes, as you know. I’d like to tell you to stay in closed-toe footwear with a special insole to limit the motion of the big toe joint, but you’re asking me for sandal recommendations. I completely understand–just because you have a bum big toe, doesn’t mean you’ve given up on stylish, season-appropriate footwear. Let me recommend sandals with a sturdy forefoot, good support and straps that will cover your bunion (see the last pick for an orthotic-friendly choice).

The Alegria Verona tops the list of our favorite hallux rigidus sandals. Take it from Zappos customer Judith:

“The first time I wore these I stood for 7 hours straight tending bar. I have arthritis in my big toe (hallux rigidus) and these sandals were so comfortable, I felt no pain. They are cute and can be dressed up or worn with casual outfits.”

The Alegria Verona features a supportive cork/latex/memory foam footbed, three adjustable straps and a mild rocker outsole to take pressure off the forefoot through the gait cycle. Find the Verona in euro sizes 35-42 (5-11.5) for $120 from Zappos and Nordstrom. Find a deal on the Alegria Verona at Amazon.

This is a fantastic sandal in every way: moderate arch support, thick platform sole with slight forefoot rocker, excellent cushioning and shock absorption–plus, it’s just plain cute. The Amadour sandal by L’Amour des Pieds (the love of feet), will keep that pesky big toe joint stable while taking care of other foot issues like plantar fasciitis and bunions (soft forefoot strap covers them without irritation). Find the L’Amour des Pieds Amadour in sizes 5.5-11, medium and wide widths for $199 from Nordstrom and Amazon.

Another great recommendation from the Barking Dog Shoes Facebook community! The Taos Trulie comes recommended by Joanna who says this about her favorite hallux rigidus sandals:

I’ve worn them for 4 summers now–they make my feet feel so good, and the arch support is great. Good for walking a lot. Adjustable front strap misses the big toe joint.

Happy Zappos customer AMD also recommends the Taos Trulie for relief from hallux rigidus:

I bought these because I have arthritis in my big toe and finding comfortable sandals is a chore. Knowing I would have to spend more money to manage this issue, I reluctantly purchased my first pair four years ago. I am happy to report that I am in love with these sandals and have been able to wear these as my main summertime shoe without issue. Recently, I purchased other styles of sandals in other brands to replace these as they are now looking well-loved but I found that I had to pull my Trulies back out of my closet to get my arthritis pain to settle down again. I will be buying these until they no longer stock them. I will note that I did have the Velcro replaced at a shoe repair store after my second season because I wasn’t ready to part with them and the rest of the shoe was in wearable condition. It was worth it!

Find the Taos Trulie in euro sizes 36-43 (5.5-12) medium and wide widths (in some sizes) for $160 from Taos Footwear, Amazon and Zappos.

Made from proprietary OOfoam®, Oofos sandals absorb 37% more impact than other foams used in similar footwear. The thick foam outsole has a slight rocker motion to it, taking pressure off the forefoot through the stride. One of our Facebook community members said this about her Oofos:

“I have Hallux Limitus and these flip flops are fantastic. They have the bouncy house feel with a high enough arch that it takes pressure off your toes.”

We’re thrilled to see so many new colors and patterns from camo to animal print to metallics. Find Oofos flip-flops, slides, and clogs in whole sizes 5-11 (or men’s sizes up to 14) for $49.95-69.95 from Oofos, and Zappos. See my personal review here.

If you absolutely must wear a doctor-prescribed orthotic, consider the Revere brand of orthotic-friendly footwear, including sandals! The Emerald style features a removable footbed and added depth to accommodate an orthotic or brace. Three adjustable straps provide a customized fit–and the wide width comes with two strap extenders. Zappos customer says this about her Revere Emerald sandals:

I love that I can use my orthotics with this sandal. I need lots of arch support and, while the arch support may be just fine for some, I needed to add orthotics. The insole is designed to be lifted so that orthotics can be inserted below. Great design! They stay in place and are not visible except for the very back edge which is no problem for me.

Find the Revere Emerald sandal in whole sizes 5-12, medium and wide widths for $159.95 from Revere Shoes (use code BARKINGDOG for 15% off purchase).

The Abeo Riviera Ankle Strap Sandal is a stylish yet supportive choice, featuring built-in orthotic support and a firm yet cushioned footbed. Customers reviews praise its arch support and metatarsal padding. The adjustable ankle strap ensures a secure fit, making it an excellent blend of comfort and function.

Find a pair in sizes 5-11 for $154.95 from The Walking Company and Nordstrom.

Honorable Mention: Birkenstock Arizona (conform to feet, don’t overly flex, adjustable straps), Birkenstock Gizeh (same support as Arizona, no strap over big toe, more feminine).

We’ve reviewed hundreds of comfortable sandals on BarkingDogShoes.com. Hopefully these new selections expand your horizon a bit more!

The post 6 Stylish Sandals for Hallux Rigidus | Reader Request appeared first on Barking Dog Shoes.

I’m sure you’ve heard health stories from retired people. This is mine. A broken ankle from horseback riding (what can you expect at the age of 42?), a broken wrist from dog walking (what can you expect at the age of 53?), an operation to ease hallux rigidus and a total hip replacement (what can you expect from decades of walking on terrazzo school floors, ballet and yoga classes?). My feet, ankles and hips cried for help. Dansko Professional clogs answered that cry.

Dansko shoes are not easy to find in Canada. Some local stores have some styles, but choice is always limited. The Dansko company no longer ships to Canadian residential addresses, unfortunately (but you can use their store locator to find out if there’s a Dansko retailer near you).

Fortunately, I sourced a Calgary store and ordered a pair sized 38. My regular shoe size is 8, but 38 was too small. The 39 fits well. The rocker sole is exactly what the doctor ordered for the hallux rigidus and it eases my wonky ankle. A happy toe and ankle have assisted in my hip recovery. Reviewers describe Dansko Pro clogs as hard or rigid, but I’m quite comfortable in them.

Dansko Professional clogs have a very clunky appearance that may not appeal to everyone. In fact, I had to adjust to the Frankenstein look. However, there is something classically clunky about them. They’re styled best with a bit of ankle showing. The toe box space is spectacular and the firm arch support is fantastic. The vamp easily accommodates my high instep, and I’m not aware of the movement at the heel that Dansko mentions in their the description of the Professional Clog.

Cat Stevens (Yusuf Islam) claims his song Moonshadow celebrates being present and living life as it is now. Dansko shoes have helped me live my life as it is now.

The Dansko Professional clog is available in a variety of colors and patterns, euro sizes 35-43 (5-12.5) for $130-140 from Dansko.com, Zappos, and Walking Co. 

For our Canadian friends, check out the store locator on the Dansko website to find a retailer (hopefully) near to you.

The post Dansko Professional Clog Review: A Good for You Shoe appeared first on Barking Dog Shoes.

A bit about the brand…

L’Amour des Pieds entered the scene two years ago with a focus on cutting-edge style while incorporating a patent-pending adaptable memory foam arch support designed to expand and contract with the contours of your feet. Other comfort features include full sheep nappa lining added for breathability, and lightweight shock-absorbing EVA outsoles.

L’Amour des Pieds Adelais Sandal

I reached out to the L’Amour des Pieds and they graciously sent me the Adelais platform sandal for review. I don’t consider myself a fashionista but when I wear my Adelais sandals, I’m about as close as I’ll get. It’s the perfect spring sandal for my problem feet for multiple reasons:

• The arch support is just the right amount for a fashion sandal–somewhere between the aggressive arch of Vionic and the little arch cookies (foam inserts) you might find in a Born sandal. It’s soft yet supportive and hits my arch at the right place, not too far forward or too far back.
• The rest of the footbed is fully cushioned with memory foam.
• The shape of the shoe fits the shape of my foot. The vamp covers the bunion area with soft nubuck leather–no pressure points, no irritation.
• The 1.5″ heel with .75″ platform provides height without the uncomfortable feeling of having my toes squished into the toe box. Plus, the thick EVA outsole works well with my hallux limitus (big toe arthritis), protecting my toe from bending too much causing pain.
• The straps don’t dig into my foot. They are secure but not tight. I hope they continue to keep their elasticity as that’s what keeps the shoe on–no buckles or velcro straps.
• The outsole is incredibly lightweight and gives me a little spring to my step. To keep the white sole looking bright, my friend and co-worker Beth recommends using a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser sponge.
• The peep-toe is small enough to show just a little bit of big toe and second toe (even if they’re not quite spring-ready).
  
  

L’Amour des Pieds Adelais Sandal

I chose the beige nubuck because it’s versatile and pairs nicely with this season’s blush and rose tones. I would recommend the L’Amour des Pieds Adelais for slightly narrow to medium widths. The Adelais is available in 5 colors, whole and half sizes 5.5-10,11 from lamourdespieds.com, Zappos, and Nordstrom with free shipping (I ordered a size 10 for my sometimes 9.5, often 10 medium width foot). Subscribe to their newsletter and receive 10% off your first full-price order!

I have to give a shout out to TJ Maxx for the rest of the outfit!

• Sleeveless dress by Philosophy: I just picked this up a few days ago so I’m sure it’s still on the rack at your TJ Maxx. It’s blush-beige with gray diagonal pattern. A similar dress can be found online.
• My clutch was only $10! It’s blush leather with fun cut-outs and studs. Find a similar one here.
  
  

L’Amour des Pieds Adelais

The post L’Amour Des Pieds Shoes | Modern, Stylish, Oh-So Comfortable appeared first on Barking Dog Shoes.