Best Running Shoes For Hammertoes

Let’s look at the best running shoes for hammertoes.

[Last Updated on May-8-2023]

A hammertoe is a foot deformity that causes toes to bend or curl downwards instead of pointing straight. In most cases, It presents from birth and develops over time due to wrong footwear choices and other reasons.

See the full guide on running with hammertoes.

It can be in any of your five toes but is most common in the second and third toes. Similarly, both genders can affect it, but women are at least five times more affected than men, typically by high heels.

Can Right Running Shoes Help Reduce Hammertoe Pain?

Of course yes. The right footwear has a greater influence on developing hammertoes and other toe deformities. The proper footwear can make a huge difference in the health of your feet and how they feel.

Especially when you are stressing your toes while running, your footwear depth must be greater than two inches, and shoes with wide-toe boxes are better for people since they can rest their toes more comfortably.

Most high heels not only pinch the toes, but they put enormous pressure on the toes.

8 Best Running Shoes for Hammertoes in 2023

These shoes have a tick mark on every check box that a shoe for hammertoes should have.

The wide toe box, shock absorption, comfortable cushioning, medium-level stability, a high heel drop, and arch support; are a few recommended features when running with forefoot pain.

However, It isn’t easy to find running shoes with all those features as the choices are millions. So, we have done it for you.

After a week of research, we have found the eight best running shoes that have all the recommended features, perform well, and fit the bill perfectly.

We have shortlisted these after a verdict from the shoe owner, who is pleased after utilizing these with hammertoes.

A runner reviewed these after running 50 miles in them, and we describe them in our words.

Some of the shoes may take a few runs to break in period properly, so deciding to return might be a quick decision. But, if you feel uncomfortable even after a few runs, you can return them and discuss them with your podiatrist. Let’s have a look at the best running for hammertoes.

1. Brooks Ghost 15 – Best For Multi-purpose

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Overview

Brooks Ghost 15 is a traditional-shaped running shoe with moderately cushioned and a higher drop. The ride feels firmer with an updated DNA Loft v2 midsole. It is a single-density midsole that offers a natural and stable ride.

Who Should Use it

As it offers a firm ride rather than pulpy or notable bouncy, well suited for walking and standing instead of running or multipurpose shoes.

It is a jack of all trades master of none meaning good for runners looking for multiple uses for their shoes. Whether it is walking, running, or standing the whole day on your feet. As well as beginner runners, marathon races, and for cross-trading.

Who Should Not Use it

However, it might not excel for runners who are looking for minimal running shoes with less cushioning. It may not excel for fast pace running. Also, it is a more-traditional running shoe with a neutral design and no noticeable feature for stability. If your feet lean inwards or outward during your run, Brooks Ghost 15 might be the best running shoes for you.

Is it Good Shoe with Hammertoes?

The Ghost 15 has all the checkmarks on the features that require in a shoe when running with Hammertoes. Roomy and round-toe box that does not rub on your toes. Soft and breathable mesh upper with arch supported.

Furthermore, it is certified PDAC A5500 that has the APMA seal of acceptance. Also, it is available in wide and extra wide toe boxes for runners looking for extra width in shoes.

Brooks Ghost 14 vs 15

People who run in both versions noticed two main changes: the part of the shoe that supports the middle of the foot (midsole) now makes the running experience more comfortable.

The top part of the shoe (upper) fits more tightly, making it feel more secure. The rest of the shoe still feels like an older version.

What Consider

• I wish the tongue should be guested
• No heel tab for on and off
• It weighs and costs more than the previous version.
• No bouncy feel compared to other midsoles in the market.
• Nothing fashionable, just old daddy-looking running shoes.

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Men’s Shoe

Women’s Shoe

2. New Balance 1080V12 – Best For Long Runs

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Overview

The New Balance 1080v12 is a popular neutral running shoe that offers max-cushioning, a breathable upper, rocker shape outsole, and a higher drop.

It is slightly heavy than the previous running shoes but still offers top-notch comfort and is meant for longer miles.

Who Should Use it

The shoes are great for runners looking for comfortable and super support underfoot. The bevel heal shape and a higher lower leg from running stress.

It is well-suited for easy-paced running, recovery runs, marathon races, and for teachers and nurses who spent most of their days on foot.

Additionally, the outsole rubber offered good grip and stability on paths including roads, sidewalks, and trails, as well as in all types of weather conditions.

Who Should Not Use it

If you are looking for a fast pace running shoes, or need stability. it’s not for you.

Is it a Good Running shoe with Hammertoes?

The Fresh Foam X is intended for runners that have wider feet than average ones. It gives extra room in the toe box benefiting hammertoes runners, and prevents collapsing of the fingers.

Fresh foam x midsole with a toe spring (the toe is curved upward) benefits in reducing the stress from the forefoot and overall foot and ankles.

Also, The forefoot rocker shape emphasizes your foot rolling forward helps to reduce the strain on the foot and ankle joints.

What to Consider

• Lacked the bounce of the previous version
• No heel tab for easy on and off
• Takes a time to break in.
• Snug fit.

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Men’s Shoe

Womens Shoe

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3. New Balance Roav V1 – Cute Running Shoes

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New Balance Roav V1 Review

Introduction

New Balance fresh foam Roav1 is a famous running shoe mostly for women runners due to its cute shape. They just look like casual sneakers, the colors are sharp and bright ready to grab attention; stay comfortable on a budget; under 100 running shoes for hammertoes.

Who should use it

This stylish, modern-looking shoe is good for everything but great for nothing. It is a jack of all trades, master of none, which is not bad if they look at them price-wise. However, The model is intended for daily basic to intermediate running and gym needs.

If you want a single shoe for daily runs, cross-training, HIIT, and other basic similar uses, The model is one you can trust.

The fresh foam midsole is a great technology in this model, making it comfortable and giving a plush feel under the foot.

The first thing you’ll notice after opening the box is its attention-grabbing heel cup. It gives a fresh look to the shoe and separates it from typical running shoes.

Who should not use it

Not for longer runs: The model is a basic running shoe that does not mean severe runners. If you want to run more than 8 to 10 km per day, they are not for you.

Not stable: It is a neutral running shoe and offers no features to balance you if you pronate. The heel cup is a good lock that offers stability just for neutral runners.

Why best for hammertoes?

I must say that most runners agree that it has ample space in the toe box and gives space for your toe to wiggle (No pressure from the side).

The heel cup locks the foot in the same place, has Medium arch support, and allows you to utilize custom orthotics. These are a few more signs that you can use it with hammertoes or most other foot pain.

Also, the model is separately available in wide feet. So, If the standard size feels stiff, you can go for a wide size to have more space in the shoes.

What’s New

The model is a new series from a new balance that does not have its previous models. By the time I am reviewing the second version has also launched but runners are complaining that it gets narrower from the toe box. We recommend the first version as it is benefiting features for hammertoes.

What to Consider

Wear Higher socks: One thing to keep in mind while wearing them is to wear socks above the ankle. The design of the heel rubs against the Achilles which feels irritated.

Not Waterproof: The webbing across the front lets the water in which can be problematic while cleaning and running in the rain. One reviewer has mentioned that after applying a water-resistant spray; the problem got solved.

Size and fit

The model is available in sizes 5 to 12. Each size is available in 2 widths, including standard and wide feet.

It stays true to size but requires a short break-in period. It may feel stiff or limited initially, but it’ll stretch as you keep on running.

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4. ASICS Gel Contend 7 – Comfortable + Stylish

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Introduction

ASICS Gel contend 7 offers a fresh design, ready to catch attention, offers a comfortable ride without shaking pockets; Under 100 running shoes for forefoot pain.

For runners who want to experience premium running shoes without paying much, The gel contend 7 is a smart choice.

Who should use it

The model is ideal for runners and gym lovers who wanted to utilize single shoes for most needs. It offers a medium soft ride with balanced cushioning and mild stability that stays perfect for most basic needs.

Wearers have mentioned that they find it comfortable on road, on treadmills,s and on concrete, and on similar surfaces.

Also, Mild stability from the heel cup is a plus feature for supinating runners. If your heel leaning outwards when running, Check out this model.

Why its best for hammer toes and bunions?

These under-100 running shoes contribute to great shock absorption and offer a comfortable ride with a fresh design.

The “GEL technology in the heel for shock absorption and contributes to soft landings,” “durable AMPLIFOAM midsole offers comfort and flexibility,” and “OrthoLite sock liner for moisture management.”

The toe box of the gel contend 7 is generously wide and makes no issue there. The model is separately available in wide sizes. If you have more than a normal wide foot, go for that one.

Also, The toe box is slightly lifted upwards from the ground taking pressure away from the forefoot, allowing you to run with the most forefoot pain.

Additionally, Forefoot cushioning is work as a cherry on top and keeps the forefoot part comfortable. Also, absorbing shocks contribute to pain-free runs.

What’s get good

Support more weight: An overweight runner who ran in the contend 6 said that they do not provide much support for my 145kg body. but, this version handles my large body effectively.

What get bad

A bit firmer than the previous: The Amplifoam midsole is a bit firmer than the 5 & 6 models. Not softer as past models used. The outsole changed a little bit not too much. Overall, I prefer the 5 & 6 versions but this one is recommended here as it has more room in the toe box which is great for running with forefoot complications.

Narrow from the toe box. ASICS has changed the design a bit it makes it narrow from the toe box. You might have thought about what a narrow-toe box shoe is doing in a list of  “best-running shoes for hammertoes.” Let me be clear, it is narrower than the previous version but not much narrow than the fingers collapsing over.

If you have a normal or a narrow foot, it’s not a problem for you but if you have a wide foot, order a wide size. The model is available in regular and X-wide sizes of each number.

5. Brooks Glycerin 19 – Multipurpose Shoe

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Brooks Glycerin 19 Review

Introduction

The Glycerin 19 is a max-cushioned that offers a stable ride and keeps everything in balance. It is not overly soft but has a sweet spot between firm and peppy. If you are looking for a consistently slow pace long ride, Brooks is there for you.

Who should use it

The glycerin 19 is the most cushioned, medium-soft running shoe that is ideal for a variety of needs. It’ll be ideal to run at slow to medium pace runs for longer runs.

From recovery runs to daily walks/jogs to marathon races, It’ll be ideal for you.

Similarly, if you wish to keep your feet free from pain after standing for 8 – 12 hours.

Why its best

The glycerin 19 has an open wide toe box and doesn’t create toe jamming conditions. The toe box is intended for wide feet people and is made of stretchy material to expand more if required.

Additional cushioning underfoot pleased runners from the first run and absorbed shocks, protecting feet from getting protected from repetitive foot strikes.

Above all, The toe box is elevated from the top, reducing pressure from the forefoot area.

Whats get good

Overall, brooks has uses the same formula for both shoes but yet there are a few mentioned changes

Softer midsole: If you’ve run in the previous model so right after wearing and fit, you’ll feel it’s softer than the 18th. Brooks has an increased cushioning system so it makes you want to run right after wearing it.

Whats get bad

narrower than the previous version: Runners who ordered the same size that they did with the 18 version feel restricted. They are narrower than their iteration. It stretches after a few runs but still feels snug. A simple solution to this is to get a half-size to enjoy its benefits.

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6. Saucony Ride 13 – Best for Neutral Runner

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Introduction

Saucony Ride 13 offers an entire package to daily runners without shaking their pockets.

If you are looking for a low-budget model that sets comfort and mid-level stability as their top concerns. Kudos! You’ve found a perfect pair.

Who should use it

Ride 13 is a versatile running shoe meaning good for many things but great for nothing.

If you want a single shoe for running for most daily runs, cross-training, HIIT, and other similar usage Ride 13 is more than enough.

Who should not use it

• Not for longer runs (<10km)
• Not a pronating runners

Why its best

It offers a smooth, padded (but not rugged) platform to put your foot on that feels soothing and achy forefoot.

Besides that, decent arch support, cushioning, 8mm heel-to-toe drop, and mid-level stability indicate that they are fine shoes with foot pain.

Whats get good

• Upper feels better
• Lighter than previous versions

Whats get bad

• Not as soft as the previous ones (A bit firm in the update)

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7. ASICS Gel nimbus 22 – Shock absorbers

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Our Verdict

ASICS Gel Nimbus 18 is back. With 19, 20, and 21, The brand had to receive criticism for the stiff and boring running experience and the runners were right.

Asics positively take criticism and satisfy runners with its 22nd version. Now, It’s soft and offers a bouncer feeling that was missing for 2 to 3 years.

Who should use it

The gel nimbus offers a secure, max-cushioned, and stable ride for distance runners. It shines in the pain-free running category as internal padding and gel cushioning are ready to absorb most of the shocks.

A choice for a variety of runners (either running slow or going fast) but they are ideal to cover slower runs for long distances. It can include recovery runs, jogging, or covering half to full marathons.

As mentioned above, it offers a medium soft ride so if you wish to pick a pace, they can do so but running primarily in them is not good for legs due to heavyweight because of max-cushioning.

Why best for hammertoes

Firstly, the midsole has firm foam (not like walking on a pillow), which people with foot pain look for.  Comparing it with the 21 version, it has 2mm more gel in the forefoot and heel (2mm). Now, It absorbs shocks from throughout the shoes leading to pain-free running.

Mainly, A wide-toe box allows you to stretch your toes without rubbing the top of your shoes. The material is made of material ready to expand more if you have a normal than a wide foot.

What gets good

• Softer and more breathable Upper
• More forefoot and heel gel
• Better stability

What gets bad

• The Upper is soft but made from very thin material and may be ripped early
• It has a deeper outsole groove that stuck pebbles in them. A minor con but yes it is.

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8. ASICS GT 2000 9 – Most stable

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Our Verdict

The journey started in 1993 and even in 2022, we are hearing its name. It’s popular among pronating runners. The series that has completed 25 years must be considered as it has something worthy so runners like it and brands keep launching it.

Who should use it

GT 20009 is a do-it-all running shoe that offers a firm ride with great stability built to last long. It is a big brother of “Asics GEL-Kayano 27” that keeps the foot in the same place and offers a protective ride satisfying overpronating runners.

Experts recommend using it as a daily running shoe, max for covering 5-15 km runs. But true fans of it use it even for half marathons. It may respond if you want to go fast, but you have to work hard for that, and you may not enjoy fast-paced running.

Is it best for hammertoes?

The model has an open-toe box allowing your foot to stretch the toes inside. Other than that, It has a separate version available in the wide and extra-wide foot if you require to have more space in the shoes.

Forefoot cushioning allows the runners to keep the running going with forefoot pain. The gel cushioning in the forefoot contributes to better shock absorption and comfort, leading to pain-free runs.

What gets good

• It is a little bit softer than the previous version.
• An in-depth internal heel counter holds the foot nicely

What gets bad

• The laces in previous versions were softer and fluffier. These laces are much more rigid.

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How to buy the best running shoes for hammertoes (Buying guide)

To continue running sessions with hammertoes, one must make sure you have proper footwear. A little hesitant is okay but if you keep these points in mind. The chances are that you’ll get the right footwear. Let’s look at what to look at before buying the best running shoes for hammertoes.

1. Open space in the toe box

The toe box is the front part of running shoes where the toes are. The toe box protects the toes from hitting the front of the shoes while running. In other words, it gives the toes a little bit of extra space to avoid injury.

Look for wide-size toe box running shoes to have more space in the shoes. This will not create any irritation and toe rubbing against the forefoot and makes running with hammertoes comfy.

2. Cushioning

Cushioning is an element found in running shoes that absorbs shock. It can be achieved by using materials, like gel, foam, air pockets, springs, water, and more.

There are several benefits to adding cushioning to running shoes. The most obvious is that you will feel less impact while running, which takes the pressure off your joints and muscles and can prevent injury.

This can be especially helpful for runners who experience joint pain like many people do if they don’t add proper cushioning to their shoes.

3. Look for wide size

When you are looking to buy running shoes, you will notice that there are different widths to choose from.

are often available in wide, normal, and narrow. Most people have a neutral foot shape, something in between wide and narrow.

If you have a neutral foot shape, you may be able to wear normal or narrow running shoes. However, if you have a wide foot, you must wear running shoes that are specifically designed to accommodate a wider foot.

4. Responsiveness

Responsiveness is the property by which the material in a running shoe converts energy into propulsive force. How responsive a running shoe is has a direct effect on how much the runner will be able to extend and/or accelerate when running.

5. Stability

Stability shoes are meant for runners who have a low to neutral arch and need more support from the shoe. These shoes are often firm, with a relatively flat sole and a substantial cushioning system to provide shock absorption.

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FAQ’s

Q:1 Can you run with hammertoes

You can run with a hammertoe as it does not affect your running motion much. You may not be able to run fast and hence, running may not be as efficient as you would like it to be. But if you take the time to go for a run and pay attention to your foot, you should be fine.

Q:2 Do tight shoes cause hammer toes?

Hammertoes are toe deformities in which the toe joints bend in toward the middle toe, causing the toe to curl. Shoes can lead to hammertoes in one or both feet. If you wear shoes that are too small or too tight, the toes are forced downward toward the front of the toe box. If you wear shoes that don’t allow your toes to spread out, the toes are forced down.

Q:3 Do hammertoes go away with the right shoes?

Hammertoes are caused by an imbalance or weakness in the muscles of the feet. When the muscle contracts, the toes curl toward the middle. It is said that Hammertoes can be corrected by wearing shoes with roomy toe boxes, loose-fitting socks, and cuboid supports, and avoiding wearing shoes that are too tight. Wearing the best running shoes for hammertoes might help.

Hammertoes are quite common in the elderly population. However, many people experience Hammertoes in their younger years, which is much more common in women than in men.