10 Best Shoes for Claw Toes

“Claw toes are toes that are bent down at both toe joints,” says podiatrist Dr. Steve Gershman. “This gives the appearance of a claw, with the toes curving down toward the floor.”

Dr. Gershman goes on to explain that “causes of claw toes include over pronation (the foot collapsing inwards), over supination (the foot tipping outwards), lack of normal ankle joint motion, over flexible hypermobile feet and diseases that affect the nervous system, such as diabetes or Parkinsons.”

He adds that claw toes often lead to the common problem of painful corns or calluses at the tips of the toes or at the tops of the toes near the joints. In addition, painful arthritis can develop from the abnormal forces going through the deformed toes. 

“With claw toes, the toes are gripping the ground to stabilize the feet. This causes the corns or calluses. As the toes deform, they often rub in the shoe on top of the toes, causing irritations, wounds, or ulcers, and painful corns or calluses,” he says.

What types of shoes are best for someone with claw toes?

“The most important factor in the shoes is the toe box, where the toes reside,” explains Dr. Gershman. “It MUST be wide enough and deep enough to avoid rubbing on the deformed toes.”

This sentiment is supported by a study from the Faculty of Health Sciences at Staffordshire University, authored by Helen Branthwaite and published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research. The study underscores that the shape of the toe box plays a crucial role in determining forefoot pressure. Additionally, the contours of the shoe influence contact time, pressure time and peak plantar pressure in the toe region. These observed changes could contribute to foot problems with specific shoe designs. The study suggests that improving toe box design may enhance overall fit and reduce pressure.

Dr. Gershman adds that “the shoe should also have a well made removable insole to support the foot and cushion the ends of the toes. The shoe should allow for a true orthotic if required. 

“In addition, the shoe should be stable so as to reduce the need for the toes to grip the ground. A shoe with a stretchable toe box is also a good choice for severe claw toe deformity,” he says.

Understanding the challenges of claw toes, choosing appropriate footwear is crucial. Dr. Gershman highlighted the key considerations for selecting shoes that provide comfort and support, and paved the way for our curated list of the best shoes for claw toes.

Best shoes for claw toes

Best Walking shoes for claw toes

Women’s Coral 

Why you’ll love it

• Stretchable toe box eliminates pressure on toes
• Solid construction yet comfortably lightweight

 

Specs

• Sizes: 5-12
• Widths: Standard (B) - Extra Wide (2E)
• Upper materials: stretch knit
• Available colors: white, black, no-tie black, gray, sandy, blue, lavender, turquoise, wool gray 

 

Upper

Designed with a stretch material, these shoes conform to the contours of the foot, providing a comfortable fit for different foot shapes and sizes.

The upper materials also promote air circulation, ensuring your feet are cool and dry during various activities to prevent the accumulation of bacteria and odors, and ward off potential irritations.

Toe box

The Coral sneakers feature a wide and deep toe box, providing extra room to alleviate pressure on the toes and forefoot, and prevent claw toe rubbing that can lead to irritations, wounds and calluses. This design enhances overall foot comfort and reduces the risk of exacerbating toe claws caused by cramped and tight shoes.

Insole

These shoes are equipped with features to provide high-level support and pain relief. The innovative arch booster included in these shoes enhances support, aligns the foot and helps correct the stride.

You can easily remove the built-in insole in case you need to insert your own custom orthotics. 

Sole

The shoes are designed with a cloud-like cushioning sole that combines air and foam technology. This feature softens every step, effectively reducing the impact on your feet and providing a comfortable walking experience.

Feedback from users

“My new walking shoes are the most comfortable I have worn since problems with hammer toe and claw toe. Thank you!”

Connie Lape

Men’s Edgewater

Why you’ll love it

• Expertly supportive yet extremely stylish
• Removable insoles provide heel-to-toe cushioning

 

Specs

• Sizes: 7-15
• Widths: Standard (D) - Extra Wide (4E)
• Upper materials: stretch knit
• Available colors: blue, black, gray

 

Upper

Crafted with highly flexible materials, the Edgewater shoes provide a customized fit that accommodates claw toes by shaping to their contours, creating a pressure-free environment and preventing further deformation. 

The uppers’ knit material also ensures breathability, maintaining cool, dry and healthy feet during walks.

Toe box

Constructed on a distinctive last, the shoe's mold boasts overall width from the rearfoot to the forefoot. The toe area is round, broad and high, offering generous space for toe deformities and protecting the claw toes from rubbing against the shoes.

Sole

With multiple layers of cushioning and a mild rocker design, the sole is designed to provide comprehensive support from heel to toe, fostering ease of movement and preventing fatigue in the feet and legs.

The wide, stable base and the rigid heel counter add an extra layer of stability, reducing reliance on toe gripping that would be making the claw toes progress in their deformity.

Insole

To prevent additional damage and alleviate discomfort, the replaceable premium orthotic insole facilitates proper foot alignment, reducing pressure on claw toes. Collaborating elements, including anatomical arch support and padded heel seat, help align the body from the ground up.

Interior

The seamless interior provides a sensation akin to a smooth sock against your skin and eliminates potential irritations from seams.

Feedback from users

“Best shoe ever for feet issues. These are the first shoes my husband has said do NOT irritate his toes. He has a medical condition that caused severe foot/toe arthritis and fused a few toes into claw deformities. He wears custom-made orthotics and needs 4E width with lots of toe room. This Edgewater Stretch Knit black walking shoe is stylish and does not look like an orthopedic shoe. It fits perfectly and has eased his discomfort immensely + he's received compliments on its stylish looks! I highly recommend them.”

Nancy Hantl

Best slippers for claw toes

Women’s Capri

Why you’ll love it

• Stylish moccasin design you can wear both in- and out-door
• Rocker bottom soles facilitate natural gait

 

Specs

• Sizes: 5-12
• Widths: Standard (B) - Wide (D)
• Upper materials: leather
• Available colors: camel

 

Sole

Crafted with a moccasin style and an enveloping design, the women's Capri slippers prioritize stability, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor wear. Engineered with a durable rubber outsole akin to traditional footwear, these slippers allow you to walk without having to grip the insoles with your toes.

Insole

The orthotic insole, designed to embrace your arches, effectively combats arch drop and alleviates pressure on the forefoot, providing relief from foot pain while promoting essential support. 

The slippers offer flexibility for those requiring custom insoles. The included orthotic can be easily replaced with your own, guaranteeing a personalized fit and optimal support.

Featuring a mild rocker bottom soles, it facilitates a more natural gait, enhancing overall walking comfort.

Toe box

For those with specific foot conditions like claw toes and neuropathy, the Capri slippers are engineered with extra depth and a wide forefoot, creating a pressure-free space for the foot and toes. This design accommodates various foot shapes, protrusions and external devices like AFOs.

Interior

With a luxurious faux fur lining, these slippers not only prioritize comfort and stability but also provide a cozy, pampering sensation.

Feedback from users

“Best shoes ever! Purchased the Capri in black and the moccasin. They are the most comfortable shoes I have ever owned….and I am a shoe fanatic. I have tendinitis in both feet (claw toes also) and these shoes saved my feet. I am 72 and will never wear another brand.”

Jean Johnson

Men’s Asheville

Why you’ll love it

• Two adjustable straps for a more secure, stable fit
• Removable insoles with anatomical arch support

 

Specs

• Sizes: 7-14
• Widths: Standard (D) - Extra Wide (4E)
• Upper materials: leather 
• Available colors: brown, black

 

Fit 

The Asheville slippers feature dual adjustable straps, ensuring a secure fit and easy customization to unique foot contours. The extra wide entry, facilitated by opening both straps, accommodates easy foot insertion.

The slippers also incorporate a back lip at the heel, enhancing ease of use and offering added heel protection.

Insole 

The premium orthotic insoles, equipped with anatomical arch support, cradle the arches, relieving pressure on the plantar fascia, heels and forefoot. This aligns the foot, prevents over pronation or over supination, and also significantly reduces the effort required for each step, ensuring a smoother and less painful walking experience.

Sole

The sole with a mild rocker bottom design minimizes heel impact and alleviates discomfort or leg fatigue. The lightweight ergonomic soles, combined with air cushioning at the heel, create a soft and supportive walking experience, promoting a gentle stride.

Toe box

The wide and roomy toe box prevents any pressure or rubbing of toes, helping to avoid exacerbation of claw toes.

Interior

The soft and padded faux fur interior further contributes to the perfect package, guaranteeing feet stay incredibly cozy and warm.

Feedback from users

״I bought a pair of these slippers two months ago because I have the most screwed up feet anyone could hope to never have. I inherited the highest arches… In addition to brutal plantar fasciitis, I also had claw toe surgery last year. I have spent hundreds of dollars over the years for heel pads, arch supports and any other gimmick… All provided temporary relief followed by a return to misery. I then stumbled on this ad for the Asheville slippers and bought a pair. From the first time I put them on, I knew my search for a magic fix was over. My heel pain dissolved. I slip into these magic slippers every morning…and avoid ANY of the morning pain that I have lived with for years… I can't recommend these slippers enough!”

Tim Skinner

Best boots for claw toes 

Women’s Heidi

Why you’ll love it

• Super stylish, very healthy for your feet
• Slip resistant soles offer stability on various surfaces

 

Specs

• Sizes: 5-12
• Widths: Standard (B) - Extra Wide (2E)
• Upper materials: leather 
• Available colors: taupe, black

 

Upper

The ultra-soft ruched leather upper of the Heidi bootie offers versatile style and ensures a non-binding fit, eliminating pressure on claw toes, bunions, hammertoes and other foot conditions.

Closure mechanism

Navigating your day becomes effortlessly convenient with the inner side zipper, allowing remarkably easy on and off, while the adjustable buckle and over stretch gore on the outer side provide comfort that moves with you. 

Toe box

The toe box is wide and deep, addressing the unique needs of claw toes by alleviating pressure and minimizing friction on the toes. 

Sole

A cushioning sole with a mild rocker not only improves the ease of walking but also adds a spring to your step, enhancing comfort and mobility. 

Moreover, the sole is slip-resistant, ensuring traction and grip on any surface and offering stability and security.

Insole 

The removable premium orthotic insoles with anatomical arch support work in tandem to realign the foot and entire body posture, preventing pressure on the forefoot area and promoting comfort.

Interior

The soft, padded fabric interior, devoid of overlays, eliminates irritation and offers superior protection for sensitive feet, ensuring a cozy and irritation-free experience.

Feedback from users

“...So glad I found Orthofeet. I already purchased the Heidi boot and it is amazing too. Have a feeling there will be more additions to my shoe wardrobe.”

Susan Honeycutt

Men’s Highline

Why you’ll love it

• Stylish dress boot that effortlessly transitions occasion to occasion 
• Generous forefoot shape prevents toe rubbing

 

Specs

• Sizes: 7-14
• Widths: Standard (D) - Extra Wide (4E)
• Upper materials: leather 
• Available colors: brown, black

 

Structural support

The Highline is a stylish dress boot that effortlessly transitions from a classy pairing with chinos to a laid-back vibe with jeans. 

Beyond its versatile style, the higher shaft construction of this boot isn't just a fashion statement – it provides ankle support and stability, accentuated by substantial padding around the heel area.

Interior

The inside of the Highline features thick foam embraced by a soft, seamless lining. This, too, isn't just about style; it's about catering to those with specific foot conditions like diabetes or neuropathy, ensuring a friction-free and irritation-free experience.

Forefoot

The boots are constructed with extra depth, wide last design and generous forefoot shape. Regardless of claw toes, thick socks, protruding bunions, misaligned hammertoes, or foot swelling, the Highline creates a haven of comfort, minimizing pressure and ensuring there is no toe rubbing.

Insole and sole

The premier orthotic, coupled with an ergonomic sole, takes the comfort game to the next level, providing support for your arch and straightening your feet, thus promoting alignment throughout your body. 

Each step becomes a cushioned journey, thanks to the five hi-tech layers and a unique air pocket design that disperses impacts.

Feedback from users

“These are far and away the best shoes and boots I’ve ever had!!!! I won’t wear anything else…. They have made a HUGE difference in my life!”

Trent King

Best casual shoes for claw toes 

Women’s Chelsea

Why you’ll like it

• A spacious toe box allows toes to spread naturally, reducing pressure
• Outstanding arch support, cushioning and anatomical alignment

 

Specs

• Sizes: 5-12
• Widths: Narrow (A) - Extra Wide (2E)
• Upper materials: soft leather
• Available colors: dark cherry, black

 

Style 

Maintaining a stylish appeal, the Chelsea shoes seamlessly transition from casual to formal occasions, complementing various outfits while ensuring comfort for all-day wear.

Insoles 

Crafted with a quality orthotic support system, the Chelsea loafer style shoes offer exceptional arch support, cushioning and anatomical alignment, catering to a wide range of foot conditions. 

Toe box

Made from premium materials, including soft leather, they feature a spacious toe box, preventing pressure, toe damage and addressing issues like claw toes, bunions and hammertoes.

Wear 

Convenience is key with the slip-on design, providing effortless on and off functionality - an excellent solution for those with difficulty tying laces or bending down. Two adjustable straps offer a customized fit, adding an extra layer of personalization.

Feedback from users

“Love them. I am so glad I found your company. Your shoes have made a world of difference in my everyday life. I can finally find shoes in my size with such good support. I crushed my right foot in an accident years ago and ever since shoes have been a problem but not since I started purchasing all my shoes from you. Thank you!”

Karen Van Luven

Men’s Siron

Why you’ll like it

• Put them on and take them off with no hands or bending over
• Stretchable, water repellent uppers contour to your toe and foot shape

 

Specs

• Sizes: 7-14
• Widths: Standard (D) - Extra Wide (4E)
• Upper materials: stretch knit and leather
• Available colors: brown, black

 

Wear

The patented slip-on system of the Siron shoes simplifies your daily routine with laces that only need tying once. When you insert your foot without using your hands or even bending over, a discreet spring mechanism at the back ensures easy slipping in, securely accommodating your feet.

Upper

Siron's breathable and stretchable upper adapts to your foot's contours, relieving pressure on sensitive areas like claw toes, while the water-repellent feature facilitates easy cleaning. 

Toe box

The wide and deep toe box provides comfort for various foot conditions, comfortably accommodating claw toes and preventing any rubbing that could exacerbate your condition. 

Interior

The cushioned fabric interior, devoid of additional layers, prevents irritation and provides a protective environment for sensitive feet.

Insole

Featuring premium orthotic insoles with removable anatomical arch support, Siron provides a stable base and promotes better posture, enhancing overall comfort and alleviating heel and foot pain. 

Sole

The bio-engineered cushioning system maximizes mobility while minimizing walking impact. The cushioning sole, complemented by a mild rocker, enhances walking ease. 

With a rubber outsole ensuring grip and stability, Siron shoes provide practical support without compromising simplicity.

Feedback from users

“I might as well donate my husband's other shoes.

My husband 'stepped in' to all of his shoes, even though they were not made for it. I have been wearing Orthofeet hands-free shoes for awhile and love them so I got him these Siron hands-free. Even though he usually doesn't care about the fashion of a shoe, he really liked the way these looked. Then he put them on. No other shoes have left the closet since Christmas day. He doesn't wince or make noises when we take walks. Dare I say it, these shoes have made him a little happier. He wears a 12 wide and these fit perfectly. Thanks Orthofeet!”

Sue Klune

Best sandals for claw toes

Women’s Maui 

Why you’ll love it

• Easygoing aesthetic with exceptional support
• Heel strap and bungee cord offer fit customization

 

Specs

• Sizes: 5-12
• Widths: Standard (B) - Wide (D)
• Upper materials: stretch knit 
• Available colors: blue, gray

 

Upper

The stretchable, breathable fabric upper of this casual open-toe sandal gently molds to the contours of your foot, providing a tailored and pressure-free fit. 

Fit

An adjustable heel strap enhances accessibility, allowing you to slide in and effortlessly adjust for a secure and comfortable fit. 

The bungee no-tie lace across the instep not only adds practicality but also ensures a secure grip without the need for constant adjustments.

Insole 

The Maui sandals are designed with premium orthotic insoles with anatomical arch support, helping to achieve correct stride and offering relief from various foot conditions. 

Sole

The cushioning sole with a mild rocker ensures each step is a fluid and comfortable motion. The outsole, made of rubber, also offers advanced grip and provides stability on various surfaces, allowing more confident strides.

Interior

While the sandals effortlessly combine an easygoing aesthetic with exceptional support and walking comfort, on the inside you’ll find an irritation-free environment with a soft, padded fabric that cradles your foot in comfort.

Feedback from users

“I got these sandals over a month ago and am very happy with them. I have neuropathy, hammer toes, claw toes and have been seeing a podiatrist for a wound on one toe. Finding comfortable shoes is hard for me. These are the most attractive shoes I own right now. Only possible "complaint" is that I wish they came in more colors! All the shoes I can wear now are Orthofeet shoes.”

Grammie Pammie 

Men’s Gemini

Why you’ll love it

• Two-way strap and two additional adjustable straps
• Good looking and fully supportive

 

Specs

• Sizes: 7-14
• Widths: Standard (D) - Extra Wide (4E)
• Upper materials: leather

 

Closure mechanism

The two-way strap system of the men's Gemini sandals features comfort at its best, allowing you to fasten and unfasten the sandals on either side. The inner-side strap opens wide, facilitating easy slip-on and slip-off action. Adjusting the strap from the inner side is a breeze for most wearers, especially those with mobility problems, providing hassle-free customization.

But that's not all. There are two more adjustable straps to enhance the experience. A heel embracing back strap ensures a snug fit, keeping your heels securely in place. The toe area gets its dose of love and support from the strap designed to cater specifically to your toes.

Insole

The premium orthotic insoles provide all the support your feet need. As you walk, these insoles dynamically conform to your foot's contours, distributing pressure evenly and delivering customized support. 

Soles

The soles are designed with multiple foam layers, offering top-notch cushioning from heel to toe. Engineered with a heel-to-toe drop and a toe spring, they create a mild rocker effect, enhancing your walking experience with each step.

Feedback from users

“I can walk… These are my second pair. I wore my first pair Into the ground until the Velcro was worn smooth and would not grip ( about 3+ years of everyday use). I have other OrthoFeet shoes for when I must wear closed-toe shoes. The OrthoFeet soles are superior to the expensive “custom” orthotics available from a famous brand.”

Angus Campbell