Metatarsalgia is a painful and even debilitating condition that leads to inflammation and pain in the balls of the feet.
Therefore, finding ways and means to address it is important.
In this article, we will look at what Metatarsalgia is all about. We will see the reasons that cause it and how using the right shoe inserts and orthopedic support can overcome this condition.
What Is Metatarsalgia And Its Causes
Before choosing the right shoe for Metatarsalgia, we must have some basic idea about the situation and its reasons.
Put in plain and straightforward words: It is a condition that leads to inflammation and pain in the balls of the feet.
Many reasons could cause it, but the most common cause of this condition is repetitive stress. Those who walk on concrete all day long and those who are on their feet for extended periods are the ones who could suffer from this condition.
It is caused when the balls of the heels repeatedly impact the ground. Getting a proper diagnosis done by a podiatrist will help find out the reason for this condition.
How to Alleviate Ball of Feet Pain (Metatarsalgia)
Among the many options for alleviating the pain arising from Metatarsalgia, using the right shoes and a correct insert could play a vital role. The key to reducing pain is to decrease the stress on the ball of the foot, and you can do this with the help of specially designed shoes and inserts.
- Inserts – Many types of inserts and arch supports can help achieve this.
- Shoes – Going in for a shoe with good arch support will help distribute the pressure evenly across the foot. You can also use metatarsal pads. They also go a long way in relieving pressure off the ball of the foot area. However, choosing correctly and specially designed shoes for a ball of foot pain is important.
Features of a Good Shoe for Metatarsalgia
- Cushioning – Look for a good cushioning system in the insole or footbed consisting of foam, memory foam, or Gel and EVA or foam cushioning in the midsole for shock absorbency.
- Stability – Stability features such as a heel counter, rocker sole, shank, or a contoured design footbed help prevent excessive pronation, which can aggravate metatarsalgia — cushioning in the midsole or insole to provide shock absorbency and comfort.
- Fit and Uppers – A comfortable fit with ample toe room is ideal with soft and comfortable uppers against the skin, such as mesh, leather, or synthetic materials.
- Outsole – The outsole should provide good grip and traction. Rubber is a durable and preferable material in the outsole.
Over the next few lines, we will look at the best shoes for Metatarsalgia for 2024 based on various features and specifications. However, we are confident that it will help a lot to make the right choice to overcome this painful and depressing condition of the foot.
Here are our reviews on the best shoes for Metatarsalgia, which have been specially designed to reduce the pain caused by this condition, in particular on the ball of the feet and the heels;
Best Running Shoes for Metatarsalgia
1Running Shoes for Metatarsalgia
The Altra Paradigm is an excellent choice of athletic shoes that are ideal for Metatarsalgia.
- There is an EVA cushioned midsole for shock absorbency.
- The shoe offers a wider and more comfortable fit.
- I just wanted to let you know that you can look forward to an accommodating Roomy Toe Box.
- The Rubber Outsole is extremely durable and offers good traction.
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Running Shoes for Metatarsalgia Pain
The Saucony Zealot has a flexible design and comfortable forefoot, ideal as a running shoe for metatarsalgia.
- An updated Tri-Flex outsole that offers exceptional flexibility and cushioned protection against impact.
- Textile and synthetic uppers that are lightweight and breathable.
- A 3mm Everun top sole for a more energetic ride.
- Features a flexible and breathable mesh adaptable fit.
- Available in a few color variations.
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Running Shoe for Metatarsalgia
The Hoka Bondi has a Rocker Sole that is thick and shock-absorbing and ensures a comfortable and supportive fit.
- features a thick rubber Meta-Rocker Outsole for stability and motion control.
- Inside is a plush and comfortable Orthalite Footbed.
- Flexible, breathable mesh, synthetic, and lycra upper construction for a more adaptive fit.
- Smooth interior linings and a padded tongue and collar.
Best Walking Shoes for Metatarsalgia
4Walking Shoes for Metatarsalgia
The Gel-Cumulus models from Asics make excellent choices in running or walking shoes to protect your feet when you have Metarasalgia.
- Breathable and lightweight synthetic and mesh upper construction with a comfortable fluid-like fit.
- Rearfoot and forefoot Gel cushioning for shock absorbency.
- An AHAR high abrasion resistance outsole and toe and heel reinforcements.
- Impact Guidance and Trusstic system for better gait efficiency and stability.
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Best Walking Shoes for Metatarsalgia
Here are a few interesting features suitable for those suffering from various orthotic problems, including Metatarsalgia.
- The primary material on this shoe is a combination of synthetic, leather, and mesh materials.
- It is an entirely imported shoe. Among other features, rubber soles offer stability and support for those suffering from orthotic problems.
- It offers unprecedented forefoot freedom and features for the rearfoot’s stability.
- It comes with a strengthened midsole stability plate that helps better pressure dispersion.
- It also has a unique footbridge that allows better control while in motion.
- The seam linings are smooth and flat and are designed for safety and protection.
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Rocker Bottom Metatarsalgia Shoes
This shoe has been designed especially for those who suffer from conditions similar to Metatarsalgia. Therefore, it has certain requirements that go a long way in helping people get some relief. In addition, it has a few interesting features, which are mentioned hereunder.
- It is made from a combination of high-quality synthetic and leather materials.
- It is fully imported but has been created to be suitable for people suffering from Metatarsalgia.
- The rubber soles, amongst other things, help in better gift and durability.
- It has a unique memory foam insole, which helps to reduce pressure on the balls of the feet.
- It also comes with a cushioned midsole, which gives more stability to the feet and helps disperse weight evenly.
Best Dress Shoes for Metatarsalgia
7Everyday Fashion Sneaker
These Shoes have a Zero Drop Platform and foot-shaped roomy toe box; this way, your feet can spread out and ease the ball of the foot pain.
- The Altra Cayd for men has a Bloom cushioning insole and a moderately cushioned midsole for shock absorbency.
- Likewise, the Cayd has a leather upper and a more formal design.
- The Vionic Mina Ballet Flat has an elegant and formal style with a low heel.
- The Vionic Mina Ballet Flat also features comfortable cushioning and a supportive footbed with EVA.
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Best Dress Shoes for Ball of Foot Pain
Coming from Joya (Men) and Dr. Drew Shoes (Women), these are great dress shoes for those with conditions or symptoms that could point towards Metatarsalgia. Here are a few interesting features of these shoes, which are worth mentioning.
- They come with a soft elastic smart sole, which has been specially designed for daily comfort.
- Ideally suitable for long-term wear and takes care of the feet from day one.
- Soft heel feature, which makes walking easy with a rolling motion. This, apart from helping in removing stress to the feet’ balls, also helps improve posture while walking.
- These are complete dress shoes for comfort, especially when worn for an extended period.
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Dress Clogs for Metatarsalgia
A comfortable and well-cushioned shoe that also provides an excellent grip on slippery floor surfaces.
- It is made from high-quality leather.
- It comes with a memory foam cushioned insole, anatomically made from quality latex and cork materials.
- It is suitable for special needs of orthotics or those suffering from Metatarsalgia.
- It also is good to look at with the leather lining, which also offers durability and strength.
- It comes with a quality suede sock liner.
- Is it slip-resistant and non-marking, and the rubber sole ensures a 100% safe grip. The sole is made from quality polyurethane and therefore is also water and moisture-resistant.
Best Sandals for Metatarsalgia
10Unisex Metatarsalgia Sandals
This flip flop Metatarsalgia sandal is made from a combination of 50% polyester and 50% polyurethane.
- It comes with all the benefits and features which are expected of an orthotic shoe.
- These include a metatarsal riser pad, which is a patented technology. It helps in better biomechanics.
- Suitable for arch pain, plantar fasciitis, shin splints, help pain, and Metatarsalgia.
- It also comes with unique EVA arch support; Which helps the shoe to get molded to meet its particular shape.
- It contributes to keeping the foot in its natural position and alignment.
- It also has a unique cup with deep heel technology.
Best Insoles for Metatarsalgia
11Metatarsalgia Pressure Relief Insoles
This is one of the best available insoles to treat the symptoms of Metatarsalgia.
- The Plastazote material on the top covers molds to the feet, creating a custom fit.
- Abzorb cushioning technology New Balance provides maximum shock absorption at the heel and forefoot.
- The Unique design of these insoles for metatarsal support helps relieve pain and discomfort caused by Metatarsalgia.
- Anatomical heel cradle and arch support distribute the foot pressure more evenly.
- These Insoles will fit most dress, casual, athletic shoes, and boots that have removable insoles.
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- It is cushioned for comfort and shock absorbency.
- Gel padding to prevent impact on balls of feet and heels.
- Comfortable and soft top layer
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Metatarsalgia Sneakers
The Luna and desperado from Dr. Scholls and orthopedic brands are lightweight and comfortable slip-on sneakers for everyday use.
- Soft and perforated breathable leather uppers.
- Easy slip-on and lace-up fit with elastic goring for more flexibility.
- A Thick and shock-absorbing durable rubber outsole.
- Comfortable Memory foam padded footbed.
- It offers a roomy and relaxed fit.
- Available in a few neutral colors.
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Walking Shoe For Metatarsalgia
The Propet Stability Walker is one of the most sought-after orthopedic comfort walking shoes, ideal if you have Metatarsalgia.
- Comfortable and breathable perforated leather uppers.
- A roomy toe area and availability in wider widths.
- There is a removable shock-absorbing and cushioned insole.
- A thick and durable rubber outsole with a slightly elevated heel and good underfoot protection.
- Inside are smooth and friction-free moisture-wicking linings.
- The tongue and collar are padded for a more comfortable fit.
- Available in many color selections.
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Dress Shoes for Metatarsalgia
The Cindee and men’s Classic Dress shoe styles from DR. Comfort are ideal as dress shoes when you have Metatarsalgia.
- Stylish and elegant dress-style shoes.
- The Classic Oxford style men’s shoe has smooth leather uppers and a lace-up design.
- The Cindee for the ladies is a Mary-Jane style shoe with a low Bio-Heel and a cross strap for a secure fit.
- Both shoes have a non-binding design with extra depth and availability in wider widths and extended sizes.
- Included is a Gel cushioning insole that is also removable.
In Conclusion
Metatarsalgia should no longer be a painful and debilitating condition; you should feel a drastic difference by wearing comfortable and supportive footwear.
Insoles are also a fantastic way to reduce the pain and symptoms of this condition.
Index Table: Best Shoes for Metatarsalgia
| No. | Shoe | Men ♂ | Women ♀ | Features | Brand | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Altra® - Running Shoes for Metatarsalgia |  |  |
| Altra | 98.4 |
| 2 | Saucony® - Running Shoes for Metatarsalgia Pain |  |  |
| Saucony | 98 |
| 3 | Hoka One® - Running Shoe for Metatarsalgia |  |  |
| Hoka One | 98 |
| 4 | Asics® - Walking Shoes for Metatarsalgia |  |  |
| Asics | 96 |
| 5 | Aetrex® - Best Walking Shoes for Metatarsalgia |  |  |
| Aetrex | 95 |
| 6 | Skechers® - Rocker Bottom Metatarsalgia Shoes |  |  |
| Skechers | 96 |
| 7 | Altra® - Everyday Fashion Sneaker |  |  |
| Altra | 97 |
| 8 | Joya® - Best Dress Shoes for Ball of Foot Pain |  |  |
| Joya | 94 |
| 9 | Alegria® - Dress Clogs for Metatarsalgia |  |  |
| Alegria | 95 |
| 10 | Stridetek® - Unisex Metatarsalgia Sandals |  | |
| Stridetek | 97 |
| 11 | New Balance® - Metatarsalgia Pressure Relief Insoles |  |  |
| New Balance | 96 |
| 13 | Dr. Scholl’s® - Metatarsalgia Sneakers |  |  |
| Dr. Scholl’s | 97 |
| 14 | Propet® - Walking Shoe For Metatarsalgia |  |  |
| Propet | 96 |
| 15 | Dr. Comfort® - Dress Shoes for Metatarsalgia |  |  |
| Dr. Comfort | 97 |
Table of Contents
- What Is Metatarsalgia And Its Causes
- How to Alleviate Ball of Feet Pain (Metatarsalgia)
- Features of a Good Shoe for Metatarsalgia
- Best Running Shoes for Metatarsalgia
- Best Walking Shoes for Metatarsalgia
- Best Dress Shoes for Metatarsalgia
- Best Sandals for Metatarsalgia
- Best Insoles for Metatarsalgia
- In Conclusion
- Index Table: Best Shoes for Metatarsalgia
