Best Running Shoes for Hallux Rigidus

Let’s Look at the best running shoes for Hallux Rigidus

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.

[Last Updated On May – 11 – 2023]

See our detailed guide on running with Hallux Rigidus.

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.

1. Avoid wearing toe-jamming shoes to avoid fingers overlapping.
2. Switch to the wide-toe box and stiff-sole shoes. It prevents your big toe from bending too much.
3. Apply heat or ice for instant relaxation.
4. Take a rest from running if your symptoms are flaring up.

8 Best Running Shoes for Hallux Rigidus in 2023 (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 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 them 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 it and consult with your podiatrist. Now, Let’s have a look at the best running for Hallux rigidus.

1. Hoka One Bondi LTR- Max Cushoned

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Overview

Hoka Bondi leather received mixed reviews over its design. Some don’t like it for being too bulky while others appreciate its comfort, open-toe box, and support.

We’ve reviewed that it offers all the identical features that runners require when running with Hallux rigidus, limits, valgus, and turf toe.

Who Should use it?

Hoka Bondi Leather is a maximalist running shoe for runners who are looking for support and comfort at its peak.

• If you are looking for road running shoes.
• if you have moderate to high arch

Who Should Not Use it?

Heavyweight running shoes and flimsy sockliner do not provide responsiveness with fast pace running. Also, if you are looking for minimal running shoes with less cushioning, you’ll not like this shoe then.

Is it Good with Hallux Rigidus?

Hoka Bondi LTR has a rocker oversized sole unit design that promotes a smooth roll from heel to toe. It gently leads you to move forward without putting much stress on the big toe. The toe is slightly elevated from the top benefiting hallux rigidus

Furthermore, A high level of cushioning throughout the shoe with a thick midsole. This can help reduce the impact of running on the feet and joints.

What to Consider

• The soles are slippery in the rain and perform so badly on wet pavement.
• The heel loop for on and off broke too early.
• Ugly and boring colors.

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2. Asics GlideRide 2 – Best for Long Runs

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Overview

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

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.

It 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.

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

Is it best when running with 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/limits. 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 easily.

What to Consider

• Less grippy on wet surfaces
• Rocket Bottom takes time to get used to.
• Narrower from the toe box compared to previous ones.

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.

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3. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 – Best For Wide Feet

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Overview

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 is one of the most comfortable yet stable shoes that is built for miles. The update from the previous version makes it a bit softer but requires a small break-in period.

It offers a combination of stability, maximum cushioning, comfort, and padding, and high drop with a wide toe box.

Who Should Use it

The ride of these shoes feels slightly dull. It offers great cushioning that is responsive but is less spring than previous models. It is great for runners looking for a high drop, max-cushioned, that is stable.

Based on the feature it offers, the ride will be best suited for daily runs, someone who wants to spend hours long on feet, recovery running to half marathon races.

Is it Good Running Shoe for Hallux rigidus?

The best part about them is that they do not marshmallowy soft. so, the big toe doesn’t blend more than its limited range of motion.

Also, The toe box is wide-enough to wiggle all the toes. Keeping the fact in mind that it has a smaller toe box when compared to the previous version but still enough space so that your figures will never collapse on each other. It is also available in wide widths so make sure to order the wide size if you have a wide size.

What to Consider

Brooks Adrenaline GTS is a great shoe overall but here are a few points you have to keep in mind.

• Compared to the GTS21, the GTS22 has shorter traditional flat laces instead of longer, tubular laces.
• If the sole gets one time they make squeaky sounds that feels annoying. and this was not the case with the previous versions.

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4. ASICS GEL-Nimbus 22 – Best Shock Absorbers

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Overview

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 that is 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 it up at any point.

Why the best running shoes for toe arthritis

Shock absorption, medium-stability, firmer sole, open-toe box, arch support, and secure lockdown are 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.

What to Consider

• Rubber in the outsole has a deep flex groove that flexes and grips better but stuck pebbles in it. and later it’s hard to get small pieces out of that.
• Compared to its previous update the model has lost the quality of the upper. It is made up of fragile material that tends to break soon. One said it lasted “-40%” than previous ones.
• Compared to the 21st model. These are a bit softer not the previous one was firm.

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5. Mizuno Wave Rider 25 – Best for slow runs

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Overview

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.

The wavy plates in the back of the shoes make them 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 its best for hallux rigidus?

As mentioned above, It’s a neutral running shoe but offers slight features of stable running shoes. Also, The guested tongue and collar are exceptionally padded. This benefits hallux rigidus runners by locking the feet in 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.

What to Consider

This version of the shoe runs smaller than previous versions.

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6. Brooks Ghost 13 – Best Overall

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Overview

Brooks Ghost 13 is a comfortable and luxurious daily running shoe. They are well-padded throughout the shoes, ready to give you a couch feels comfortable.

The model has everything plus 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. It’ll be the right choice for slow-paced runners looking for pain-free distance running. If you are an overweight runner, prone to injuries, and 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.

Not Ideal for

Utilizing it purposely for intense pace running is not a good choice due to its heavy weight. Excessive cushioning reflects on shoe weight; one has to push extra for fast pace running.

Why best running shoes for hallux rigidus

The shoe offers a secure fit and 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.

Also, 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.

What to Consider

• Brooks was more breathable in the previous versions. Now, it lacks holes from the upper which makes it less ventilated. at least less than the 11th version.
• Most runners think that a 12-mm heel is a bit too high.
• No heel tab for on and off

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7. Asics GT 2000 9 – Best for overpronation

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Overview

Asics GT 2000 is the second oldest series, whereas the 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.

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.

Not ideal for

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.

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 throughout the shoes.

The ride feels firmer which 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.

Asics GT 2000 9 vs Asics GT 2000 9

There are no wild changes when comparing it to its previous iteration. Some changes at the upper made it’s aesthetic better but doesn’t reflect on the performance.

• Laces: One thing that most runners don’t like in the update is the laces. The previous had softer and this one has more rigid.
• Narrow Shoes: Also, Asics has shaken the design making it narrow shoes. If you like a snug fit it’ll still be fine for you but if you wish to wear heavy or two socks or like more space in the shoe, go for a half-size up.

Just this, otherwise no changes from the technology hand. You’ll still find Dynamic DuoMax, Trusstic, GEL, and Flytefoam technologies in this version as well.

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8. Altra Paradigm 4.5 – Multipurpose shoe

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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 fulfill 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 utilizing 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 the “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 to 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.

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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.