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Hallux rigidus is a medical term for the stiff big toe; Hallux refers to the “big toe,” and rigidus refers to “stiffness.” It is a common type of degenerative arthritis, mostly in women between their 30s and 60s.
It might inherit from your parents, other foot deformities, ill-fitting shoes, or overusing the toe joint. Running, basketball, and other sports that require consistent stress on the toes build pressure against the bone, which leads to pain and inflammation.
However, you might be able to minimize your symptoms by taking some precautions.
- Avoid wearing toe-jamming shoes to avoid fingers overlapping.
- Switch to the wide toe box and stiff sole shoes. It prevents your big toe from bending too much.
- Apply heat or ice for instant relaxation.
- Take a rest from running if your symptoms are flaring up.
Best Running Shoes for Hallux Rigidus (Firm Sole + Wide Toe Box)
After a week of research, we have found the eight best shoes for the stiff big toe.
The open toe box, firm sole, shock absorption, arch support, comfortable upper, and a secure lockdown are a few features that a shoe for hallux rigidus must-have.
It might take hours and hours to find shoes with all these features. So, we have done it for you. These shoes have a tick mark on all required features, fit the bill perfectly, and perform well.
We have finalized the list after a verdict from the shoe owner, who has hallux rigidus and feels pleased after utilizing them. A runner reviewed these after running 50 miles, and we are describing in our words.
A few shoes in the list may take a few runs to break in properly, so deciding to return immediately might be quick action. But, if you don’t find it helpful with your condition, you can order a half size up or return and consult with your podiatrist. Now, Let’s have a look at the best running for halux rigidus.
1. New Balance 1080v11 – Best Comfortable
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Shoe specification
| Size | True to size |
| Drop | 8mm |
| Weight | Men 269g | Women 238g |
| Best for | long-running and full day comfort |
| Price | $$ |
Key features
- Upper: An engineered mesh upper adds comfort and keeps the foot look without making restricted
- Midsole: Fresh Foam X offers a smooth ride and also help to fix mild pronation
- Outsole: The blown rubber outsole makes the landing softer and adds life to the shoe.
Our Verdict
New Balance fresh foam 1080v11 is an aesthetically pleasant running shoe, helping one manage fashion and fitness simultaneously.
The comfortable cushioning and a firmer midsole are the highlights of this model. Otherwise, it has a little bit of everything.
Best use
The model is suitable for each type of run but not ideal for fast-paced running due to the firmer midsole.
A neutral design with responsive cushioning makes it ideal for a variety of runs.
From basic runs to marathon races, one can take benefit from it.
However, The midsole foam (Fresh foam X) is a firmer sole and not mushy as in the previous versions. But, it is still responsive if you wish to pick a pace and do a variation with your speed.
If you are looking for eye-catchy running shoes that stay with you for most runs, from recovery running to tempo running up to full marathon races and even for cross-training shoes, New balance 1080v11 is the right choice.
Whole day comfort
Fresh foam 1080v11 won’t be the wrong choice if one wants to use it for full-day comfort. It offers the right features for standing all-day jobs.
The model is famous among nurses and others who stand for 8 to 12 to complete their job without aching legs.
One can not say it is med-soft but offers a firmer sole that hits the right spot between comfort and responsiveness.
Why the best running shoes for hallux rigidus
The new balance fresh foam contributes to the features that are helpful when running with hallux rigidus.
Firstly, the ride experience is neither pulpy nor medium-soft but a firmer sole that doesn’t disturb the range of motion of your big toe.
Other than that, A new is a famous brand for creating wide foot shoes. The toe box is wide, so the top of the shoes will not rub against your toes.
Besides that, It is available in 4 widths, including wide and extra-wide feet. If one needs to have more space in the shoe width-wise. One has an option for that.
Lastly, The outsole rubber and a midsole foam offer shock-absorbing features. It participates in defusing the shocks of running within the shoes before it goes to the out body.
Size and fit
The upper is made of stretchable material and ready to extend until you get the right fit. It stays true to size. Most of the wearers were happy with the right fit after ordering natural to their size.
Other than that, The sizes are available from 7 to 16 with .5 sizes in between. If you wish to order a half size up, you can do so. Also, each size is available in four widths, including standard narrow wide and extra wide fit.
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2. Asics GlideRide 2 – Best for long runs
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Shoe specification
| Size | True to size |
| Drop | 5mm |
| Weight | Men 322g / Women 251g |
| Best for | distance running |
| Price | $$ |
Key features
- Upper: An engineered mesh upper that feels soft and satin also breaths well.
- Midsole: The midsole has FLYTEFOAM that is light in weight and feels firmer.
- Outsole: AHAR+ rubber on the outsole grips terrain well and adds life to the shoe.
Our Verdict
The glide ride 2 is a new series from the brand, and the fans are expecting more versions in the future.
It offers an elegant design that differs from boring shoe design, helping one look cool during runs.
Best for
The glide ride 2 is a neutral running shoe that makes long-distance running easy.
The shoe offers each feature right for running longer comfortably. The firmer cushioning, durability and easy landing are what we demand from a distance running shoe. And it is what it is doing.
The shoe has utilized a rocker technology in the midsole that may look like a rocking chair. But, it is s scientifically proven way to save energy during long runs.
If you are a neutral runner looking for a durable, slow-paced long-distance running shoe with a firmer sole and adequate padding, You are looking at the right pair.
However, the model offers the right features, one running with bad ankles and Achilles tendonitis. so, if you have similar issues you still can benefit from it
Best running shoes for Arthritis on the big toe.
Most importantly, it offers a stiff sole that protects the toes from flexing and allows you to run with hallux rigidus/limitus. The firmer sole doesn’t allow the toes to bend past their limited range of motion.
The toe box is wide, so it doesn’t create any toe jamming or fingers overlapping conditions.
The heel counter and adequate padding offer a secure lockdown that holds the feet and doesn’t allow them to make movements. It keeps the toes in one place and makes no contact with the top of the shoes.
Lastly, The upper has received updates from the previous version that makes it plush and breathable. It doesn’t put additional stress on the toes and makes the shoe on and off easy.
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Size and fit
Most of the wearers were happy with the right fit after ordering true to size. If you ever wish to wear thick socks, order the same size as it has space in the shoes.
However, it offers sizes that are available from 7 to 15 with half size in between. Each size is available in 2 widths, including standard and a wide fit.
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3. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 – Best Stable
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Shoe specifications
| Size | True to size |
| Drop | 12mm |
| Weight | Men 296g | Women 257g |
| Best for | Overpronating runners |
| Price | $$ |
Key features
- Upper: An engineered mesh wider upper, which hugs the feet well
- Midsole: The midsole offers BioMoGo DNA loft cushioning, which stabilizes the shoes and provides a firm ride.
- Outsole: The blown rubber outsole protects the midsole and gives the shoe the tank build durability.
Our Verdict
Brooks GTS is a “Go to shoe” series, meaning they are simple, reliable, and effective running shoes.
The adrenaline is one of the few successful series that reaches its 21 version. Not many brands reach till 2nd decade.
Best for
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 is a real stability trainer that offers a firm yet responsive ride.
The model is ideal for stability runners for easy-paced daily running to half/full marathon races.
However, the model is not ideal for fast-paced running but still responds if you wish to pick a pace. Using it primarily for intense running is a wrong choice.
Other than that, the shoe’s bottom is ready to grip flat surfaces like road, pavement, sidewalks, treadmills, and similar other similar surfaces. Also, it can be utilized for light trail running.
Best running shoes for hallux rigidus
Additional padding on the heel collar and tongue offers a secure lockdown without irritating the Achilles. It locks the feet inside the shoes and doesn’t allow the toes to move inside.
The toe box has more space than other shoes and doesn’t create toe-jamming conditions. Also, the model is available in additional two widths, including wide and extra-wide, if your feet are wider than normal wide.
The Adrenaline GTS 21 offers a combination of two foams BioMoGo DNA coupled with DNA Loft foam. It provides a responsive yet firm ride while absorbing the shocks that we get from running.
The sole is firmer rather than mushy that is perfect for arthritis in the big toe.
With the 21st version, Brooks offers “Brooks’ guide rail system.” It is placed on the sides and balances our feet as we run. It feels like the two side wheels that the kids have in their bikes for support. The guide rail works the same to keep the ride straight when needed the most.
Size and fit
Brooks made no mistakes in offering reliable stability trainers. With the fit, it stays true to size with an open space in the toe box.
The criticism that most stability trainers have to face is that it feels restricted due to technologies they utilize to make it stable.
However, you might need to order a half size up to get the right fit.
Also, it requires a short break-in period. The wearers have mentioned that it needs 30 to 40 miles to open properly. It’s a small wait but deserves the worth.
The model is available in sizes 7 to 14 with a half size in between. Each size is available in 4 widths, including standard, narrow, wide, and extra-wide.
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4. ASICS GEL-Nimbus 22 – Best Shock Absorbers
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Shoe specification
| Size | True to size |
| Drop | Men: 10mm | Women: 13mm |
| Weight | Men: 308g | Women: 254g |
| Best for | Easy paced running |
| Price | $$ |
Key features
- Uppers: The double-layer upper is very soft and lightweight, also breath well.
- Midsole: The flyte foam midsole with gel cushioning contribute to shock absorption.
- Outsole: The outsole has utilized AHAR rubber with grooves grip surface well.
Our Verdict
Asics Gel-nimbus 22 is a premium road running shoe that has done masters in absorbing shocks.
It offers the right features for one who is prone to injuries and kind with previous injuries.
Best for
Look for this model if you are looking for neutral, medium-stability running shoes that offer a pain-free ride for most runs.
It provides a firm yet comfortable and supportive ride ideal for most runs. From casual runners to marathon races, one can benefit from it.
The ideal utilization would be road running on the road and other hard surfaces like concrete. It focuses on covering more miles instead of speed. But it’ll handle speed if you wish to pick at any point.
Above all, It won’t be a wrong choice if you utilize them as fitness shoe cross-training, strength training, and similar conditions.
Why the best running shoes for toe arthritis
Shock-absorption, medium-stability, firmer sole, open toe box, arch support, secure lockdown are a few recommended features when running with a painful big toe joint.
The model has done masters in absorbing shocks; otherwise, it has a little bit of everything recommended above.
It offers Flytefoam in a midsole with more foam than the previous version that absorbs the shocks within the shoes before reaching the joints.
Also, The sole unit offers gel cushioning that enhances shock absorption, leading to pain-free runs.
Lastly, 10mm drop focuses heal to strike where gel in the heel ready to defuse the impact of running making the best running shoes for pain-free runs.
Size and fit
The model stays true to size with an open space in the toe box. At first, it might feel limited (not too tight) from the sides as it requires a short break-in period.
If you feel comfortable after it opens properly, then order a half size up.
However, the size ranges from 6 to 16, with a half size in between to allow you to have a half size up. Also, it is available in two widths, including standard and an X-wide fit.
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5. Mizuno Wave Rider 25 – Best for slow runs
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Shoe specification
| Size | Order a half size up |
| Drop | 12mm |
| Weight | Men 278g / Women 223g |
| Best for | slow-paced running |
| Price | $ |
Key features
- Upper: The engineered air mesh upper feels soft, luxury and breath well.
- Midsole: A full-length Enerzy midsole feels soft but doesn’t return energy, making it convenient for slow-paced running.
- Outsole: The outsole has utilized a rubber that gives durability to the shoes and grips the dry and wet surfaces well.
Our verdict
The Mizuno wave rider 25 is one of the oldest running shoes managing a loyal fanbase for more than two decades.
The firmer midsole, enough cushioning, and tank build durability are the mainstream of this model.
Best for
The wave rider hits a sweet spot between firmness and responsiveness, making it shine in slow-paced running and an option to consider if you wish to pick a pace.
It is not dead as it makes the running experience boring but a good balance between firmness and energy return.
The wavy plates in the back of the shoes make it stable. However, it is a neutral running shoe but offers some features of stability running shoes, benefiting overpronating runners. And one who needs more ankle and heel support..
Added cushioning, tank-build body, and premium material reflect on the price making it not convenient for budget-conscious runners.
An excelling build quality benefits heavyweight runners and will lead to 500m without showing breaking signs.
Why the best shoes for hallux rigidus?
As mentioned above, It’s a neutral running shoe but offers slight features of stability running shoes. Also, The guested tongue, collar are exceptionally padded. This benefits hallux rigidus runners by locking the feet at one place and doesn’t allow to toe to rub against the top.
The toe box has room inside to stretch the toes and doesn’t put additional stress on the big toe. also, prevents the toes from overlapping.
Other than that, The upper is the highlight of this model. It offers an updated engineered air mesh upper. It is soft, more breathable than the previous version, and feels luxurious. This makes it easy to and off without irritating the big toe and doesn’t put additional stress on the already rigid toe.
You might have read above that it offers a firm sole so the big toe cannot bend its limited range.
Size and fit
We heard some voices that it doesn’t stay true to size but most of the voices are from the wearers that were happy with the right fit after ordering true to size.
It’s our analysis that the wearers who don’t find it true to size are from runners who tried the Mizuno brands for the first time. Each brand might differ in sizing. But, this technique is working the right way that if you are already a fan of Mizuno order the same size that you did with previous Mizuno shoes.
But if you are a fan of, let’s say New Balance, Nike, and brooks. order a half size up and you’ll get the right size.
However, The model offers sizes from 6 to 16 and a half sizes in between. Each size is available in two widths, including a regular and a wide fit.
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6. Brooks Ghost 13 – Best Overall
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Shoe specification
| Size | True to size |
| Drop | 12mm |
| Weight | Men 288g | Women 248g |
| Best for | Slow runs and full day comfort |
| Price | $ |
Key features
- Upper: A breathable upper that can stretch if you have a wide foot.
- Midsole: The EVA blend foam adds comfort and makes the shoe responsive.
- Outsole: The carbon rubber outsole makes the shoe durable and grips all the surfaces.
Our verdict
Brooks Ghost 13 is a comfortable and luxury daily running shoe. They are well-padded throughout the shoes, ready to give you a couch feel comfortable.
The model has everything in plus with a few cons that one can expect from heavyweight shoes.
Best for
The model is a good choice for a variety of runs due to the medium-soft midsole. But, utilizing it full purposely for intense pace running is not a good choice due to its heavyweight.
Excessive cushioning reflects on shoe weight; one has to push extra for fast pace running.
The model is the right choice for slow-paced runners looking for pain-free distance running. If you are overweight runners, prone to injuries, looking for excessive cushioning, It offers the right features for you.
Besides that, if you stand 8 to 12 hours as your daily job, wearing the ghost 13 can help in long-standing jobs without achy legs.
Why best running shoes for hallux rigidus
The shoe offers a secure fit, keeps the feet locked in one place. Additional cushioning in the tongue, heel, and collar gives a secure fit and doesn’t allow the toes to rub against the toe box.
The toe box is already spacious for wide feet, so don’t worry about the toe will rub against the edge. The model is also available in wide feet, allowing for more space if required.
However, the ride it offers is a medium-soft that hits a sweet spot between softness and responsiveness. It provides comfort and also doesn’t allow the big toe to bend its limited range of motion.
The model is ready to absorb the shocks; a Drop of 12 mm forced us to land on the heel where extra foam in the heel was ready to absorb the shocks of landing.
Size and fit
The model stays true to size. Most of the wearers are happy with the fit after ordering the actual size.
However, the model is available from sizes 7 to 16 and decimal in between to order a half size up. And available in 3 widths, including standard wide and extra wide.
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7. Asics GT 2000 9 – Best for overpronation
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Shoe specification
| Size | Order a half size up |
| Drop | 10mm |
| Weight | Men 280g / Women 221g |
| Best for | do it all shoes |
| Price | $ |
Key features
- Upper: The breathable mesh uppers offer great ventilation and a secure fit.
- Midsole: The Flytefoam foam adds comfort and contribute in shock absorption
- Outsole: A highly durable rubber (AHAR) with flex grooves has been utilized for durability and flexibility.
Our Verdict
Asics GT 2000 is the second oldest series, whereas Nike pegasus is the oldest one. It’s been with us for almost 30 years.
The best part is that the brand is improving with each iteration and working on the next model.
Best for
Asics GT 2000 9 is a stable running shoe that offers a firm yet responsive ride. From casual warriors to marathon finishers. One can benefit from it.
However, since the ride feels firmer, it is not ideal for fast-paced running. It’ll respond if you wish to pick a pace, but you might not enjoy the ride as you do it with max-cushioned shoes.
If you’re looking for a lightweight and cushioned running shoe to help support your foot, the GT-2000 9 model is an excellent choice.
Best shoes for arthritis in toes
It offers GEL technology in the midsole to promote comfort and reduce the shocks of repetitive foot strikes. The gel in the forefoot and heel absorbs shocks from throughout the shoes.
The ride feels firmer that is a plus point when running with arthritis in big toes. The stiff soles help prevent your big toe from bending too much.
A wide toe box makes space for your toes, so there will be no additional stress on the hallux. Also, It is available in a wide and extra-wide fit if your feet are wider than normal wide.
Size and fit
The model stays true to size but offers limited fit from the sides. You might have to order a half size up for a custom fit experience.
However, the model is available in sizes 7 to 16 with three widths, including regular wide and extra wide fit.
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8. Altra Paradigm 4.5 – Multipurpose shoe
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Key features
| Size | True to size |
| Weight | Men 318g | Women 261g |
| Drop | 0mm |
| Best for | From casual runners to marathon finishers |
| Price | $$ |
Key features
- Upper: The updated engineered mesh upper feels better, perform and better and looks elegant.
- Midsole: The AltraEgo midsole is not pulpy but offers a firm ride and responsive ride.
- Outsole:The outsole offers durable rubber that grips most flat surfaces and adds life to the shoe.
Our Verdict
The Altra Paradigm 4.5 is a sneaker-looking running shoe that screams comfort.
If you struggle to search for fully cushioned and stable running shoes, look at the suitable model.
Best use
The best part about this model is that it is great for every occasion. It’ll be a single shoe that can fulfil most of your needs.
The versatile running shoes will incorporate your daily walking/running and training needs and are not the wrong choice for marathon races.
Variations of the surfaces don’t affect their performance. After utilising on multiple surfaces, the wearers had no issues, including road, gravel, grass, cement, and other flat surfaces.
Shoes for hallux rigidus
We have shortlisted this model as hallux rigidus shoes because of its upper, firm ride, and wider toe box.
The upper is the mainstream of this model. It offers a sleek knit upper that feels soft and looks elegant. The broader upper doesn’t put pressure on the big toe. Also, the soft feeling makes it easy to on and off without hurting hallux.
The stiff upper doesn’t allow the toes to bend past their limited range of motion.
The foot-shaped toe box is wider than the previous model, allowing the runner to feel comfortable with forefoot pain.
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How to Pick the Best Running shoes for Hallux rigidus/limitus
One has these points in mind before having the best running shoes for hallux rigidus.
1. Firm sole
A running shoe’s midsole provides both cushioning and stability. Cushioning is usually softer, providing shock absorption to the runner’s foot. Stiffer midsoles provide stability, giving the shoe more structure, so it performs better underfoot.
A firmer sole doesn’t allow the toes to bend its limited range of motion, making it convenient when running with arthritis in a big toe.
2. Wider toe box
The toe box is the space inside the shoe that allows you to move your toes. Also referred to as “toe-box”, it is the portion of the shoe that prevents your toes from being cramped together. Some shoes have a more generous toe box than others, while some have even shaped the toe box to make it more comfortable for the athlete.
Shoes with a wide toe box are also required when running with other foot deformities. Look for the best shoes for Morton’s neuroma and metatarsal pain.
One has to look for a wider toe box so the toes do not overlap and don’t put pressure on stiff toes.
3. Soft and comfortable upper
To get the best experience when running arthritis in the big toe, look for a breathable and comfortable upper. It’ll make the running experience soothing without putting pressure on the big toe.
Also, It’ll make it easy to on and off the shoes.
4. Arch support
Arch support in running shoes is a feature that is designed to support your heel and arch in a running shoe. When you run, your feet can pronate or roll inwards. This can cause problems such as shin splints and plantar fasciitis. Arch supports in running shoes help control your foot so you can stay injury-free.
5. Shock absorption
Shock absorption is the ability of a running shoe to reduce the amount of shock you feel on your body when running. It is very important for runners who are injured or have had injuries in the past.
When running your foot will make contact with the ground several times per second. This means that you are absorbing quite a bit of impact with every step. This impact can increase your chances of getting injured, especially if your body is not prepared for it.
If you have been injured in the past then it is especially important that you invest in a pair of shoes that can help reduce the amount of shock that your body is taking.
TIP: Run on the soft ground
Running on hard surfaces doesn’t absorb the shocks of running, returning the shock on the joints. Whereas, running on soft and smooth surfaces like grass/running tracks is better in this situation.
Look for greenery near your house and avoid running on hard surfaces.
FAQ’s
Q.1 Can you run with hallux rigidus?
Yes. Of course, you will have to be careful about what you do. Running with arthritis of the big toe is one of the possible treatments for this condition.
You can set your feet on the floor and move them back and forth without any problem. It may last only for a short time after you’ve finished running. Make sure you have the best running shoes for hallux rigidus
It will get better after resting for a while. But make sure not to run too fast, too long, or on uneven surfaces. You can try out running with hallux rigidus. However, it’s better to ask your doctor first before you start.
Q.2 Is walking good for hallux rigidus?
Yes, walking is good for hallux rigidus. It also helps get more blood flow to the feet, which can help reduce pain. This is especially true if you are walking for a significant amount of time. I would recommend that you walk on flat surfaces since this will put less stress on your feet. If you have to walk up hills, it would be best to walk on small inclines.
Q.3 Can hallux rigidus cause other problems?
Hallux rigidus is a long-term problem with the joint at the base of your big toe. It can cause pain as well as a bump or lump. In some cases, the big toe turns inwards towards the other toes, making it difficult to wear normal shoes. Hallux rigidus most often affects people over 40, although it can also affect younger people.
I’m Shafey. An avid runner since 2012. I am one of few people who like doing cardio instead of muscle building. I love spending time on treadmills, tracks, pavements, or any surface rather than exercising with dumbles.
With all those years of experience and spending the whole night reading blogs and researching different concepts of running. Learned a lot about new tips and tricks. In those years tried different running shoes (from $ to $$$). I got a great knowledge that can be shared with others. I may not be a professional running coach but YES an experienced runner who can guide right to beginners.✌️✌️