Expert Foot & Ankle Treatment from Michigan’s #1 Podiatrist - Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist
The Right Shoes Can Change Your Life.
Best Shoes For Ball of Foot Pain (Running, Walking & Workout Shoes)
What shoes are best for ball of foot pain? We go over the best podiatrist recommended running shoes, walking shoes & workout shoes!
- Sometimes ball of the foot pain needs the BEST shoes to get better.
- We go over the best shoes for ball of the foot pain.
- We go over the best sandals for ball of the foot pain.
- We also go over the best orthotics for ball of the foot pain.
Book your consultation today and take the first powerful step toward fungus-free nails!
Deep Vein Thrombosis: What You Need to Know Now
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a potentially life-threatening condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the leg. It can develop silently but lead to major complications like a pulmonary embolism if not caught early. Common risk factors include long travel, surgery, pregnancy, and certain health conditions. Knowing what to look out for and how to act fast can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what DVT is, why it matters, and how you can protect yourself and your loved ones.
What Is Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Why You Should Take It Seriously
DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in one of your deep veins—often in the legs. These clots can partially or fully block blood flow, causing swelling, pain, or discoloration. More dangerously, part of the clot can break loose and travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism, which can be fatal. Risk factors include sitting for long periods, recent surgery, smoking, obesity, certain medications, and genetic clotting disorders. DVT is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention—but it’s also highly treatable and often preventable.
Best Shoes & Best Insoles
Ready to Walk Without Pain? Find Your Perfect Fit Now
Don’t let foot pain control your day. Our expert-curated list of the best shoes for ball of foot pain will help you move freely and confidently. Whether you’re an active walker, professional, or just looking for pain-free steps, we’ve got you covered. Click below to explore the top picks of 2025 and finally give your feet the relief they deserve.
Call us now or schedule online for your first at-home session!
Top-Rated Best Shoes Recommended by Podiatrists
Trusted Solutions To Soothe, Protect, and Support Your Feet
Finding the best products for managing peripheral neuropathy and diabetic foot pain can make a world of difference in your daily comfort and mobility.
When it comes to managing foot pain from conditions like plantar fasciitis, flat feet, or diabetic neuropathy, the best orthotics can offer crucial support and relief.
Choosing the best shoes for foot conditions like neuropathy, plantar fasciitis, or flat feet is essential for pain relief and long-term foot health.
Ball of the Foot Pain Causes
One of the best things you can do before getting the best shoes for ball of the foot pain is understand why ball of the foot pain happens.
The most common causes of ball of the foot pain include:
- Intense activity that bruises the ball of your foot.
- A higher arch or a long second toe.
- A sore ball of the foot due to bruising.
- A callus on the ball of the foot.
- A bone spur on the ball of the foot.
- A very wide ball of the foot due to a bunion or hammer toes.
- Stress fractures through the metatarsals or the toes can cause this as well.
- Bunions and hammer toes can contribute to this.
- Metatarsal joint pain or metatarsal joint arthritis.
- A Morton’s Neuroma.
Ball of the Foot Pain Pictures & Photo Gallery:
Look:
- Metatarsalgia: which means generalized foot pain without a specific cause.
- Second toe capsulitis: this is the inflammation of the second toe joint capsule.
- Capsulitis is related to hammertoe formation, and can lead to a plantar plate tear. There is some overlap between these three disorders. As they get worse tearing and ligament damage can occur.
- Morton’s neuroma: this is the damage and inflammation to the nerves between and underneath the metatarsal joints.
- Fat pad atrophy of the ball of the foot: this is the loss of cushioning in the ball the foot.
- Plantar Plate Tear: A plantar plate tear is ripping of the ligaments holding the toe together.
So, click on the photo gallery to see the specific causes of your ball of the foot pain!
Ball of The Foot Treatment:
- The above video goes into great detail going over ball of the foot treatment and offloading.
- We highly recommend watching that video above!
Gait Analysis by a Podiatrist:
- When patient’s come to see us in clinic, we can perform a full biomechanical exam to take pressure off of a patient’s foot.
- This allows us to realize why the patient is having the foot pain in the first place.
Rest Your Foot:
- If you are someone who is on your feet all day long, consider a way to keep pressure off of it.
- At a certain point reducing the activity is really the key.
Ice Your Foot:
- Icing your foot for 20 minutes at a time can be really effective for metatarsalgia pain and ball of the foot pain.
Get Orthotics For Ball of the Foot Pain:
- We go over the best orthotics for ball of the foot pain and the best insoles for ball of the foot pain.
Shoes for Ball of the Foot Pain:
- Getting good shoes can be one of the best treatment options for fixing ball of the foot pain.
Take Medication:
- Although we don’t recommend this method, anti-inflammatory medication can sometimes help if your doctor approves of this.
- A steroid injection can also be helpful for ball of the foot pain.
What Shoes are Best for Ball of the Foot Pain?
What are the best shoes for ball of the foot pain? The best shoes for ball of the foot pain can compensate for the underlying causes of ball of the foot pain.
Features that take pressure off of the ball of the foot include:
- A wide and cushioned toe box for the ball of the foot.
- A slight heel lift in the 8-12mm range to redistribute the pressure to the arch and the heel.
- A nice foam midsole can reduce the pressure.
- A rocker bottom sole can do this as well.
- A flexible toe box as well.
The Best Shoe Inserts for Ball of Foot Pain:
What makes the best shoe inserts for ball of the foot pain?
Custom orthotics made by a podiatrist can be some of the best options for relieving ball of the foot pain, but this is not always practical for some people.
These are some of the best pre-made orthotics and pre-made shoe inserts for ball of the foot pain that we know of:
Best Medium to Heavy Duty Heel Pain Orthotics:
Best Overall Orthotic For Everything (Medium Thick Fit)
Best Heavy Duty Orthotic (Thickest Fit)
Best SOFTER Choice For Sensitive Feet (Medium Thick Fit)
Best Women’s Orthotics
Price:
$39.93
$39.99
Price not available
$59.95
Overview:
These work best in shoes with laces and running shoes. Not good for dress shoes or women’s cute shoes.
Biggest and most corrective option. Only use for running shoes or work boots. Not cute shoes.
These are full length inserts, but softer. Great if you can’t tolerate the firmer ones. Best for very sore and sensitive feet.
Great Support & Better Fit
Pros:
Pretty much guaranteed to help you if it fits in your shoes and you give it 2 weeks to get used to. 5,000+ amazon reviews, great track record.
My personal favorite, but not for everyone. Amazing reviews over 3,500. But not for everyone. Only for bigger shoes that can fit them
They are softer and the initial break in time is AMAZING. But longer term benefits are less. >500 Almost 5 star amazon rating.
Sleek, supportive and have a better fit than the orthotics above.
Cons:
Do not wear these in cute or dress shoes!
Bigger and bulkier than all the other ones. You will be dissappointed if you have a cute women’s shoe or dress shoe. This is meant for running shoes and boots.
Great to start with, but don’t correct long term as much as the other ones.
A little bit more expensive.
Crucial Tips:
Ease in to these, 1-2hrs a day. They are like braces for your teeth, they suck at the beginning! But they will make your feet pain free as 1-2 weeks go by. Don’t give up on them after 1 or 2 days. Everyone feels off at the beginning!
This has the most correction, but hardest break in time! IF SENSITIVE, USE A SOFTER PAIR FIRST! But if you get these, you must break them in. Give it 1-2 hours a day, but then you will start to have excellent results. The bad reviews are all people who couldn’t fit it into their shoes and gave up too quickly. You have been WARNED!
If you are very sore, TRY THESE FIRST! These are easiest to break in with initially. If you are very sore and rigid, don’t use the heavy duty ones to start with.
These will have a harder time fitting in flats and pointed shoes.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Medium to Heavy Duty Heel Pain Orthotics:
Best Overall Orthotic For Everything (Medium Thick Fit)
Price:
$39.93
Overview:
These work best in shoes with laces and running shoes. Not good for dress shoes or women’s cute shoes.
Pros:
Pretty much guaranteed to help you if it fits in your shoes and you give it 2 weeks to get used to. 5,000+ amazon reviews, great track record.
Cons:
Do not wear these in cute or dress shoes!
Crucial Tips:
Ease in to these, 1-2hrs a day. They are like braces for your teeth, they suck at the beginning! But they will make your feet pain free as 1-2 weeks go by. Don’t give up on them after 1 or 2 days. Everyone feels off at the beginning!
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Medium to Heavy Duty Heel Pain Orthotics:
Best Heavy Duty Orthotic (Thickest Fit)
Price:
$39.99
Overview:
Biggest and most corrective option. Only use for running shoes or work boots. Not cute shoes.
Pros:
My personal favorite, but not for everyone. Amazing reviews over 3,500. But not for everyone. Only for bigger shoes that can fit them
Cons:
Bigger and bulkier than all the other ones. You will be dissappointed if you have a cute women’s shoe or dress shoe. This is meant for running shoes and boots.
Crucial Tips:
This has the most correction, but hardest break in time! IF SENSITIVE, USE A SOFTER PAIR FIRST! But if you get these, you must break them in. Give it 1-2 hours a day, but then you will start to have excellent results. The bad reviews are all people who couldn’t fit it into their shoes and gave up too quickly. You have been WARNED!
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Medium to Heavy Duty Heel Pain Orthotics:
Best SOFTER Choice For Sensitive Feet (Medium Thick Fit)
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
These are full length inserts, but softer. Great if you can’t tolerate the firmer ones. Best for very sore and sensitive feet.
Pros:
They are softer and the initial break in time is AMAZING. But longer term benefits are less. >500 Almost 5 star amazon rating.
Cons:
Great to start with, but don’t correct long term as much as the other ones.
Crucial Tips:
If you are very sore, TRY THESE FIRST! These are easiest to break in with initially. If you are very sore and rigid, don’t use the heavy duty ones to start with.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Medium to Heavy Duty Heel Pain Orthotics:
Best Women’s Orthotics
Price:
$59.95
Overview:
Great Support & Better Fit
Pros:
Sleek, supportive and have a better fit than the orthotics above.
Cons:
A little bit more expensive.
Crucial Tips:
These will have a harder time fitting in flats and pointed shoes.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Podiatrist Recommended Running Shoes for Ball of Foot Pain:
Below is our favorite best men’s running shoes for ball of the foot pain as well as the best women’s running shoes for ball of the foot pain:
Best men’s running shoes for ball of the foot pain:
The following shoes below are our favorite men’s running shoes for ball of the foot pain are noted below.
We focus on great brands that match all of the above treatment components!
Best Men’s Racing Running Shoes
Best Overall Racing Shoe
Solid & Cost Effective Racing Shoe
Best Shoe for Older or Bigger Men
Best Nike Trail Running Shoe
Lower Cost Version of the Premier Nike Running Shoes
Price:
Price not available
Price not available
Price not available
Price not available
Price not available
Title:
Nike Zoomx Vaporfly Next% Men Running Shoess Ao4568-600 Size 12
adidas Men’s Adizero Boston 8 Running Shoe, Black/White/Grey, 6.5 M US
HOKA ONE ONE Rincon
Nike Men’s Air Zoom Pegasus 35 Running Shoes (9.5 D US, Black/White/Gunsmoke/Oil Grey)
Nike Men’s Running Shoes, Black Black White Thunder Grey 002, 8.5 UK
Overview:
Price Range: $250+! These are the best reviewed and hottest shoes on the market. Marathoners are setting records with these. The downside is they are VERY expensive and can only last on shoes. DO not wear these outside of good road conditions or they will break down FAST!
Price Range: $69+ This was a shoe that previous records were set in. This is a more durable and minimal overall running shoe. It is more of a lightweight minimal shoe. It is build for speed and not durability.
Price Range: $130+ This is about the maximum amount of cushion you can get in a running shoe. This is better reserved for bigger or more arthritic runners. Like the other shoes it is not durability focused!
Price Range: $130+ High level racing trail shoe. This is not specifically built for durability. It is more of a racing shoe for offroad conditions. Like all of these racing shoes they are not the most durable!
Price Range: $120+ These are meant only for race day! These can help tremendously with speed, but durability wise they will break down over time quicker than other types of shoes.
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Zappos, Walmart & Other Possibly Cheaper Options (Affiliate Link):
Best Men’s Racing Running Shoes
Best Overall Racing Shoe
Price:
Price not available
Title:
Nike Zoomx Vaporfly Next% Men Running Shoess Ao4568-600 Size 12
Overview:
Price Range: $250+! These are the best reviewed and hottest shoes on the market. Marathoners are setting records with these. The downside is they are VERY expensive and can only last on shoes. DO not wear these outside of good road conditions or they will break down FAST!
Affiliate Link (This means we may earn a commission):
Zappos, Walmart & Other Possibly Cheaper Options (Affiliate Link):
Best Men’s Racing Running Shoes
Solid & Cost Effective Racing Shoe
Price:
Price not available
Title:
adidas Men’s Adizero Boston 8 Running Shoe, Black/White/Grey, 6.5 M US
Overview:
Price Range: $69+ This was a shoe that previous records were set in. This is a more durable and minimal overall running shoe. It is more of a lightweight minimal shoe. It is build for speed and not durability.
Affiliate Link (This means we may earn a commission):
Zappos, Walmart & Other Possibly Cheaper Options (Affiliate Link):
Best Men’s Racing Running Shoes
Best Shoe for Older or Bigger Men
Price:
Price not available
Title:
HOKA ONE ONE Rincon
Overview:
Price Range: $130+ This is about the maximum amount of cushion you can get in a running shoe. This is better reserved for bigger or more arthritic runners. Like the other shoes it is not durability focused!
Affiliate Link (This means we may earn a commission):
Zappos, Walmart & Other Possibly Cheaper Options (Affiliate Link):
Best Men’s Racing Running Shoes
Best Nike Trail Running Shoe
Price:
Price not available
Title:
Nike Men’s Air Zoom Pegasus 35 Running Shoes (9.5 D US, Black/White/Gunsmoke/Oil Grey)
Overview:
Price Range: $130+ High level racing trail shoe. This is not specifically built for durability. It is more of a racing shoe for offroad conditions. Like all of these racing shoes they are not the most durable!
Affiliate Link (This means we may earn a commission):
Zappos, Walmart & Other Possibly Cheaper Options (Affiliate Link):
Best Men’s Racing Running Shoes
Lower Cost Version of the Premier Nike Running Shoes
Price:
Price not available
Title:
Nike Men’s Running Shoes, Black Black White Thunder Grey 002, 8.5 UK
Overview:
Price Range: $120+ These are meant only for race day! These can help tremendously with speed, but durability wise they will break down over time quicker than other types of shoes.
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Zappos, Walmart & Other Possibly Cheaper Options (Affiliate Link):
Best women’s running shoes for ball of the foot pain:
The following shoes below are our favorite men’s running shoes for ball of the foot pain are noted below.
We focus on great brands that match all of the above treatment components!
Best Women’s Racing Running Shoes
Solid & Cost Effective Women’s Racing Shoe
High End Women’s Racing Shoe
Great Shoe For Arthritis & Increased Height/Weight.
Best Women’s Nike Trail Running Shoe
Best Lightweight (non-$250+) Mesh Running Shoe.
On Cloud Cloth Sneaker
Price:
Price not available
Price not available
Price not available
Price not available
Price not available
Price not available
Title:
adidas Women’s Adizero Adios 4 Running Shoe
Nike Zoomx Vaporfly Next% Men Running Shoess Ao4568-600 Size 12
HOKA ONE ONE Women’s Clifton 6 Running Shoes, Antigua Sand/Wan Blue, 5 US
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 Trail Women’s Running Shoe Cargo Khaki/Team Gold-Black-Ocean Cube Size 6.0
on Running Womens Cloud X Road Shoes Red/Flash SZ 5
On Women’s Cloud Terry Sneakers, Silver, 7 Medium US
Overview:
Price Range: $69+ This was a shoe that previous records were set in. This is a more durable and minimal overall running shoe. It is more of a lightweight minimal shoe. It is build for speed and not durability.
Price Range: $175+! These are great reviewed and one of the hottest shoes on the market.
Price Range: $130+ This is about the maximum amount of cushion you can get in a running shoe. This is better reserved for bigger or more arthritic runners. Like the other shoes it is not durability focused!
Price Range: $130+ High level racing trail shoe. This is not specifically built for durability. It is more of a racing shoe for offroad conditions. Like all of these racing shoes they are not the most durable!
Price Range: $130+. The people who use these swear by them! A very unique light feel. Like the other lightweight ones, these are built for speed not durability!
Very comfortable cloth sneaker. Very lightweight and comfortable!
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Best Women’s Racing Running Shoes
Solid & Cost Effective Women’s Racing Shoe
Price:
Price not available
Title:
adidas Women’s Adizero Adios 4 Running Shoe
Overview:
Price Range: $69+ This was a shoe that previous records were set in. This is a more durable and minimal overall running shoe. It is more of a lightweight minimal shoe. It is build for speed and not durability.
Affiliate Link (This means we may earn a commission):
Zappos, Walmart & Other Possibly Cheaper Options (Affiliate Link):
Best Women’s Racing Running Shoes
High End Women’s Racing Shoe
Price:
Price not available
Title:
Nike Zoomx Vaporfly Next% Men Running Shoess Ao4568-600 Size 12
Overview:
Price Range: $175+! These are great reviewed and one of the hottest shoes on the market.
Affiliate Link (This means we may earn a commission):
Zappos, Walmart & Other Possibly Cheaper Options (Affiliate Link):
Best Women’s Racing Running Shoes
Great Shoe For Arthritis & Increased Height/Weight.
Price:
Price not available
Title:
HOKA ONE ONE Women’s Clifton 6 Running Shoes, Antigua Sand/Wan Blue, 5 US
Overview:
Price Range: $130+ This is about the maximum amount of cushion you can get in a running shoe. This is better reserved for bigger or more arthritic runners. Like the other shoes it is not durability focused!
Affiliate Link (This means we may earn a commission):
Zappos, Walmart & Other Possibly Cheaper Options (Affiliate Link):
Best Women’s Racing Running Shoes
Best Women’s Nike Trail Running Shoe
Price:
Price not available
Title:
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 36 Trail Women’s Running Shoe Cargo Khaki/Team Gold-Black-Ocean Cube Size 6.0
Overview:
Price Range: $130+ High level racing trail shoe. This is not specifically built for durability. It is more of a racing shoe for offroad conditions. Like all of these racing shoes they are not the most durable!
Affiliate Link (This means we may earn a commission):
Zappos, Walmart & Other Possibly Cheaper Options (Affiliate Link):
Best Women’s Racing Running Shoes
Best Lightweight (non-$250+) Mesh Running Shoe.
Price:
Price not available
Title:
on Running Womens Cloud X Road Shoes Red/Flash SZ 5
Overview:
Price Range: $130+. The people who use these swear by them! A very unique light feel. Like the other lightweight ones, these are built for speed not durability!
Affiliate Link (This means we may earn a commission):
Zappos, Walmart & Other Possibly Cheaper Options (Affiliate Link):
Best Women’s Racing Running Shoes
On Cloud Cloth Sneaker
Price:
Price not available
Title:
On Women’s Cloud Terry Sneakers, Silver, 7 Medium US
Overview:
Very comfortable cloth sneaker. Very lightweight and comfortable!
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Zappos, Walmart & Other Possibly Cheaper Options (Affiliate Link):
Best Podiatrist Recommended Walking Shoes for Ball of Foot Pain:
These are our favorite podiatrist recommended walking shoes for ball of foot pain for both men and women!
Best men’s walking shoes for ball of foot pain:
- These are our podiatrist recommended best men’s walking shoes for ball of foot pain.
- Ball of the foot pain is also known as metatarsalgia and these shoes work really well to get pressure off of the ball of the foot!
Below are the top walking shoes for ball of the foot pain:
Best Men’s Running Shoes:
The Original Best Rated Maximalist Shoe!
Great Maximalist Shoe From Brooks, Big Cushioned Shoe!
Great maximalist shoe from Altra that is zero drop!
My favorite overall walking or running shoe!
Brooks GTS 22
Title
Hoka Women’s Sneaker Running Shoe
Brooks Men’s Revel
Altra Footwear Olympus 3.5
Brooks Men’s Ghost 13 Running Shoe – Primer Grey/Pearl/Black – 11.5 Medium
Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 22 Supportive Running Shoe – Black/Black/Ebony – 10.5 Medium
Price:
Price not available
Price not available
Price not available
Price not available
Price not available
Overview:
$150+ price range (Don’t go a ton over this please): The original maximalist shoe.
$120+ Price range is better than the Hoka Shoes, Brooks is an excellent brand.
Price range of $150+, great alternative for runners and walkers that want to stretch their Achilles tendon.
The Brooks Ghost is a great overall reliable shoe.
This means Brooks “Go To Support”, this is the supportive version of the ghost shoe
Pros:
4.6/5 rating of over 450+ ratings. Maximal foot cushioning.
4.6/5 rating with >1,000+ ratings! Excellent overall track record and great supportive shoe.
Great overall shoe 4.4/5 with 100+ reviews.
This is a shoe that works great for just about anyone, minimal risk.
This is a much more supportive version of the ghost shoe. This is a great overall shoe for flat feet and overpronation.
Cons:
These cushion the foot but the legs still need to compensate.
Big shoe and not for everyone. Bigger people with more foot problems like these the most.
Some less flexible people will not get used to this shoe as quickly, but if you can handle it- then it will stretch your Achilles tendon.
Generally over 125$, which can scare some people off.
This can take a little bit of adjustment to get used to.
Crucial Tips:
They are big, effective and bulky!
If you are a big guy, these shoe might be for you! Great shoes for people with foot pain that can handle activity in the knees, hips and lower back.
This is a zero drop shoe meaning stretching your Achilles tendon. May help to have good orthotics.
My personal favorite shoe and the one I wear on most days!
Take a few days to break in this shoe for best results!
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Zappos, Walmart & Other Possibly Cheaper Options (Affiliate Link):
Best Men’s Running Shoes:
The Original Best Rated Maximalist Shoe!
Title
Hoka Women’s Sneaker Running Shoe
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
$150+ price range (Don’t go a ton over this please): The original maximalist shoe.
Pros:
4.6/5 rating of over 450+ ratings. Maximal foot cushioning.
Cons:
These cushion the foot but the legs still need to compensate.
Crucial Tips:
They are big, effective and bulky!
Affiliate Link (This means we may earn a commission):
Zappos, Walmart & Other Possibly Cheaper Options (Affiliate Link):
Best Men’s Running Shoes:
Great Maximalist Shoe From Brooks, Big Cushioned Shoe!
Title
Brooks Men’s Revel
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
$120+ Price range is better than the Hoka Shoes, Brooks is an excellent brand.
Pros:
4.6/5 rating with >1,000+ ratings! Excellent overall track record and great supportive shoe.
Cons:
Big shoe and not for everyone. Bigger people with more foot problems like these the most.
Crucial Tips:
If you are a big guy, these shoe might be for you! Great shoes for people with foot pain that can handle activity in the knees, hips and lower back.
Affiliate Link (This means we may earn a commission):
Zappos, Walmart & Other Possibly Cheaper Options (Affiliate Link):
Best Men’s Running Shoes:
Great maximalist shoe from Altra that is zero drop!
Title
Altra Footwear Olympus 3.5
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Price range of $150+, great alternative for runners and walkers that want to stretch their Achilles tendon.
Pros:
Great overall shoe 4.4/5 with 100+ reviews.
Cons:
Some less flexible people will not get used to this shoe as quickly, but if you can handle it- then it will stretch your Achilles tendon.
Crucial Tips:
This is a zero drop shoe meaning stretching your Achilles tendon. May help to have good orthotics.
Affiliate Link (This means we may earn a commission):
Zappos, Walmart & Other Possibly Cheaper Options (Affiliate Link):
Best Men’s Running Shoes:
My favorite overall walking or running shoe!
Title
Brooks Men’s Ghost 13 Running Shoe – Primer Grey/Pearl/Black – 11.5 Medium
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
The Brooks Ghost is a great overall reliable shoe.
Pros:
This is a shoe that works great for just about anyone, minimal risk.
Cons:
Generally over 125$, which can scare some people off.
Crucial Tips:
My personal favorite shoe and the one I wear on most days!
Affiliate Link (This means we may earn a commission):
Zappos, Walmart & Other Possibly Cheaper Options (Affiliate Link):
Best Men’s Running Shoes:
Brooks GTS 22
Title
Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 22 Supportive Running Shoe – Black/Black/Ebony – 10.5 Medium
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
This means Brooks “Go To Support”, this is the supportive version of the ghost shoe
Pros:
This is a much more supportive version of the ghost shoe. This is a great overall shoe for flat feet and overpronation.
Cons:
This can take a little bit of adjustment to get used to.
Crucial Tips:
Take a few days to break in this shoe for best results!
Affiliate Link (This means we may earn a commission):
Zappos, Walmart & Other Possibly Cheaper Options (Affiliate Link):
Best Women’s Walking Shoes For Ball of Foot Pain
- These are our podiatrist recommended best women’s walking shoes for ball of foot pain.
- Ball of the foot pain is also known as metatarsalgia and these shoes work really well to get pressure off of the ball of the foot!
Below are the top walking shoes for ball of the foot pain:
Best Women’s Running Shoes:
Great Maximalist Shoe From Brooks
Great Zero Drop Maximalist Shoe
Brooks Ghost: Best overall women’s neutral shoe.
Brooks GTS: Best Women’s Supportive Shoe
Title:
Brooks Womens Ariel ’18
ALTRA Women’s ALW1959F Olympus 3.5 Trail Running Shoe, Blue/Green – 5.5 M US
Brooks Women’s Ghost 13 Running Shoe – Light Blue/Blackened Pearl/White – 9.5 Medium
Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 22 Supportive Running Shoe – Grey/Rose/Black – 8 Medium
Price:
Price not available
Price not available
Price not available
Price not available
Overview:
$120+ Price range is better than the Hoka Shoes.
Great price <$100 for a maximalist shoe. This is a zero drop shoe meaning it will stretch your Achilles tendon.
This is my favorite overall women’s running shoe.
Like the Brook’s Ghost but more supportive.
Pros:
Excellent shoe with great reviews: 4.5/5 with 400+ reviews. Great maximalist shoe.
Great cost and great reviews for a maximalist shoes: 4.4/5 with 500+ reviews. Great overall shoe.
It is great for most people. It will work great for most foot types.
Great value for flat feet that require support.
Cons:
These can be heavy. They can make the leg muscles work harder.
Not as heavy duty as the other two heavy duty arch support shoes.
For some people it can be a high price point, but we think it is well worth it.
This is one of Brook’s best rated and most supportive shoes, this can be very helpful.
Crucial Tips:
Great shoes for people with foot pain that can handle activity in the knees, hips and lower back.
This is a zero drop shoe meaning it will stretch your Achilles tendon more than the other shoes.
If this is your first shoe, it may be worth trying on in person first.
Try these on at the store first, they might need a break in period
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Zappos, Walmart & Other Possibly Cheaper Options (Affiliate Link):
Best Women’s Running Shoes:
Great Maximalist Shoe From Brooks
Title:
Brooks Womens Ariel ’18
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
$120+ Price range is better than the Hoka Shoes.
Pros:
Excellent shoe with great reviews: 4.5/5 with 400+ reviews. Great maximalist shoe.
Cons:
These can be heavy. They can make the leg muscles work harder.
Crucial Tips:
Great shoes for people with foot pain that can handle activity in the knees, hips and lower back.
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Best Women’s Running Shoes:
Great Zero Drop Maximalist Shoe
Title:
ALTRA Women’s ALW1959F Olympus 3.5 Trail Running Shoe, Blue/Green – 5.5 M US
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Great price <$100 for a maximalist shoe. This is a zero drop shoe meaning it will stretch your Achilles tendon.
Pros:
Great cost and great reviews for a maximalist shoes: 4.4/5 with 500+ reviews. Great overall shoe.
Cons:
Not as heavy duty as the other two heavy duty arch support shoes.
Crucial Tips:
This is a zero drop shoe meaning it will stretch your Achilles tendon more than the other shoes.
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Best Women’s Running Shoes:
Brooks Ghost: Best overall women’s neutral shoe.
Title:
Brooks Women’s Ghost 13 Running Shoe – Light Blue/Blackened Pearl/White – 9.5 Medium
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
This is my favorite overall women’s running shoe.
Pros:
It is great for most people. It will work great for most foot types.
Cons:
For some people it can be a high price point, but we think it is well worth it.
Crucial Tips:
If this is your first shoe, it may be worth trying on in person first.
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Best Women’s Running Shoes:
Brooks GTS: Best Women’s Supportive Shoe
Title:
Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 22 Supportive Running Shoe – Grey/Rose/Black – 8 Medium
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Like the Brook’s Ghost but more supportive.
Pros:
Great value for flat feet that require support.
Cons:
This is one of Brook’s best rated and most supportive shoes, this can be very helpful.
Crucial Tips:
Try these on at the store first, they might need a break in period
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Best Workout Shoes for Ball of Foot Pain
These are the best workout shoes for ball of the foot pain and podiatrist recommended shoes for ball of the foot pain:
Best Women’s Workout Shoes for Ball of the Foot Pain
- These are our favorite women’s workout shoes for ball of the foot pain!
- Don’t let ball of the foot pain and ball of the foot bruising slow you down and stop your workouts.
Best Men’s Workout Shoes for Ball of the Foot Pain
- These are our favorite women’s workout shoes for ball of the foot pain!
- If you are working out, then a good podiatrist recommended metatarsalgia shoe could really make a difference for your ball of the foot pain:
Best Sandals for Ball of the Foot Pain
These are our podiatrist recommended best sandals for ball of the foot pain!
Best Women’s Sandals for Ball of the Foot Pain
These are our podiatrist recommended women’s sandals for ball of the foot pain:
Best Women’s Arch Support Orthotics:
Vionic Women’s Tide II Toe Post Sandal – Supportive Ladies Flip Flops That Include Three-Zone Comfort with Orthotic Insole Arch Support
Clarks Women’s Breeze Sea Flip-Flop
Birkenstock Women’s Arizona
Clarks Women’s Leisa Cacti Slide Sandal
OOFOS OOlala Luxe Recovery Sandal, Calypso – Women’s Size 7
Birkenstock Women’s Arizona Soft Footbed, Black Birko-Flor¿, 38 Regular EU
Price:
Price not available
Price not available
Price not available
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$99.20
Overview:
Range $50-60+. Vionics are a great arch support orthotic sandal..
Much Cheaper at $25-50 range. Good but not great support.
Expensive at $99+. Great reputation and have been loved for many decades.
Great overall dress sandal. Great price at around $40-50+.
Oofos may not be the most pretty, but they are soft & supportive!
The most popular brand of Birkenstock sandals.
Pros:
Great reviews at 4.5/5 with 4,500 reviews. These are a popular and well recommended brand by podiatrists.
Easier to break in than some other brands. Amazing reviews at 4.8/5 with 8,000+ reviews!
Excellent quality and very supportive, but not the most supportive sandals. 4.4/5 with 1,000+ reviews!
Great reviews at 4.7/5 with almost 3,000 reviews.
Very well proven with excellent results & reviews!
250 year track history, excellent review, high quality material and price is better!
Cons:
They can be expensive, but as far as flip flip sandals, these are some of the best reviewed orthotic sandals.
Not as supportive as the Vionics.
Expensive and not the most aggressive support in the world.
Higher quality and more dress appropriate, this means more bulky.
Some people don’t like the look!
They are still flip flops that are not the most stable, but that is nit picking!
Crucial Tips:
These are great as far as orthotic flip flops go, but never as good as an orthotic combined with a good supportive shoe.
Great intro sandal if you are worried about breaking into a more aggressive and corrective pair of sandals.
Great early to medium aggressive orthotic. Great quality and great brand.
Great overall sandal from a great brand. Never as supportive as a good shoe and a good orthotic.
They are soft and supportive, they are not meant to be dressy!
They are a little more pricey, but these are great and very well proven.
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Best Women’s Arch Support Orthotics:
Vionic Women’s Tide II Toe Post Sandal – Supportive Ladies Flip Flops That Include Three-Zone Comfort with Orthotic Insole Arch Support
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Range $50-60+. Vionics are a great arch support orthotic sandal..
Pros:
Great reviews at 4.5/5 with 4,500 reviews. These are a popular and well recommended brand by podiatrists.
Cons:
They can be expensive, but as far as flip flip sandals, these are some of the best reviewed orthotic sandals.
Crucial Tips:
These are great as far as orthotic flip flops go, but never as good as an orthotic combined with a good supportive shoe.
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Best Women’s Arch Support Orthotics:
Clarks Women’s Breeze Sea Flip-Flop
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Much Cheaper at $25-50 range. Good but not great support.
Pros:
Easier to break in than some other brands. Amazing reviews at 4.8/5 with 8,000+ reviews!
Cons:
Not as supportive as the Vionics.
Crucial Tips:
Great intro sandal if you are worried about breaking into a more aggressive and corrective pair of sandals.
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Best Women’s Arch Support Orthotics:
Birkenstock Women’s Arizona
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Expensive at $99+. Great reputation and have been loved for many decades.
Pros:
Excellent quality and very supportive, but not the most supportive sandals. 4.4/5 with 1,000+ reviews!
Cons:
Expensive and not the most aggressive support in the world.
Crucial Tips:
Great early to medium aggressive orthotic. Great quality and great brand.
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Best Women’s Arch Support Orthotics:
Clarks Women’s Leisa Cacti Slide Sandal
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Great overall dress sandal. Great price at around $40-50+.
Pros:
Great reviews at 4.7/5 with almost 3,000 reviews.
Cons:
Higher quality and more dress appropriate, this means more bulky.
Crucial Tips:
Great overall sandal from a great brand. Never as supportive as a good shoe and a good orthotic.
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Best Women’s Arch Support Orthotics:
OOFOS OOlala Luxe Recovery Sandal, Calypso – Women’s Size 7
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Oofos may not be the most pretty, but they are soft & supportive!
Pros:
Very well proven with excellent results & reviews!
Cons:
Some people don’t like the look!
Crucial Tips:
They are soft and supportive, they are not meant to be dressy!
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Best Women’s Arch Support Orthotics:
Birkenstock Women’s Arizona Soft Footbed, Black Birko-Flor¿, 38 Regular EU
Price:
$99.20
Overview:
The most popular brand of Birkenstock sandals.
Pros:
250 year track history, excellent review, high quality material and price is better!
Cons:
They are still flip flops that are not the most stable, but that is nit picking!
Crucial Tips:
They are a little more pricey, but these are great and very well proven.
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Best Men’s Sandals for Ball of the Foot Pain
These are our podiatrist recommended men’s sandals for ball of the foot pain:
Best Men’s Arch Support Orthotics:
OOFOS OOahh Recovery Slide, Black – Women’s Size 12, Men’s Size 10
Kaiback – Men’s Drifter Sport Flip Flops | Comfortable Durable Rubber and Heavy-Duty Tread
Dockers Men’s Newpage Sporty Outdoor Sandal Shoe
Crocs Men’s and Women’s Athens Flip Flop
Birkenstock Women’s Arizona Soft Footbed, Black Birko-Flor¿, 38 Regular EU
Thumbnail:
Price:
$59.95
Price not available
Price not available
Price not available
$99.20
Overview:
Price Range: $30+ and up. 8,500+! reviews at 4.7/5 amazon reviews. Excellent reviews and good cost.
Price Range: $24+ and up. Great low price with some arch support. 500+ reviews at 4.5+/5 reviews!
Price Range: $80+ and up. Great Leather Sandals
Price Range: $20+ and up. 2,500+ reviews at 4.3/5. Great cost to value ratio.
The most popular brand of Birkenstock sandals.
Pros:
One of the best sellers ever with great overall reviews. Good simple arch support orthotic.
Excellent low cost orthotic with potentially some more style than the OOFOS.
Great looking durable sandal for increased walking.
These are about as budget friendly as an orthotic sandal can be. They are not that hard to break in and a great cost at under $20 in some cases.
250 year track history, excellent review, high quality material and price is better!
Cons:
Not the most stylish and some complaints about the material and lack of quality. But great for the cost.
Lower cost and not as an aggressive of an orthotic.
It can be a little bit more pricey and bulky than the other choices.
Not the most supportive and not the most durable sandal in the world.
They are still flip flops that are not the most stable, but that is nit picking!
Crucial Tips:
Good simple arch support orthotic. Great for overpronation.
Less aggressive orthotic. If you are looking for an aggressive or even medium correction, look at some of the more expensive brands.
This is a larger sandal with straps, great reviews!
If you are flat footed, you may need more correction and a stronger arch.
They are a little more pricey, but these are great and very well proven.
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Best Men’s Arch Support Orthotics:
OOFOS OOahh Recovery Slide, Black – Women’s Size 12, Men’s Size 10
Thumbnail:
Price:
$59.95
Overview:
Price Range: $30+ and up. 8,500+! reviews at 4.7/5 amazon reviews. Excellent reviews and good cost.
Pros:
One of the best sellers ever with great overall reviews. Good simple arch support orthotic.
Cons:
Not the most stylish and some complaints about the material and lack of quality. But great for the cost.
Crucial Tips:
Good simple arch support orthotic. Great for overpronation.
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Best Men’s Arch Support Orthotics:
Kaiback – Men’s Drifter Sport Flip Flops | Comfortable Durable Rubber and Heavy-Duty Tread
Thumbnail:
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Price Range: $24+ and up. Great low price with some arch support. 500+ reviews at 4.5+/5 reviews!
Pros:
Excellent low cost orthotic with potentially some more style than the OOFOS.
Cons:
Lower cost and not as an aggressive of an orthotic.
Crucial Tips:
Less aggressive orthotic. If you are looking for an aggressive or even medium correction, look at some of the more expensive brands.
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Best Men’s Arch Support Orthotics:
Dockers Men’s Newpage Sporty Outdoor Sandal Shoe
Thumbnail:
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Price Range: $80+ and up. Great Leather Sandals
Pros:
Great looking durable sandal for increased walking.
Cons:
It can be a little bit more pricey and bulky than the other choices.
Crucial Tips:
This is a larger sandal with straps, great reviews!
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Men’s Arch Support Orthotics:
Crocs Men’s and Women’s Athens Flip Flop
Thumbnail:
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Price Range: $20+ and up. 2,500+ reviews at 4.3/5. Great cost to value ratio.
Pros:
These are about as budget friendly as an orthotic sandal can be. They are not that hard to break in and a great cost at under $20 in some cases.
Cons:
Not the most supportive and not the most durable sandal in the world.
Crucial Tips:
If you are flat footed, you may need more correction and a stronger arch.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Men’s Arch Support Orthotics:
Birkenstock Women’s Arizona Soft Footbed, Black Birko-Flor¿, 38 Regular EU
Thumbnail:
Price:
$99.20
Overview:
The most popular brand of Birkenstock sandals.
Pros:
250 year track history, excellent review, high quality material and price is better!
Cons:
They are still flip flops that are not the most stable, but that is nit picking!
Crucial Tips:
They are a little more pricey, but these are great and very well proven.
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The Best Podiatrist Approved Shoes:
Listed by condition:
- Complete Best List of Podiatrist Recommended Shoes.
- Best Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis.
- Best Men’s Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis.
- Best Women’s Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis.
- Best Shoes for Top of the Foot Pain.
- Best Shoes for Supination.
- Best Shoes for Ball of the Foot Pain.
- Best Shoes for a Plantar Fibroma.
- The Best Sandals for Arthritic feet.
- Podiatrist Recommended Orthotics.
- Ankle Support Running Shoes, Walking Shoes.
- Birkenstock sandals for flat feet.
- Best Dress Shoes for Flat Foot & Plantar fasciitis.
- Podiatrist Recommended Shoes for Toddlers.
- Best Shoes for Metatarsalgia.
- Best Running Shoes for Morton’s Neuroma.
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Best Shoes & Best Insoles
Top 10 FAQs About Shoes for Ball of Foot Pain
Common causes include metatarsalgia, Morton’s neuroma, wearing unsupportive shoes, or engaging in high-impact activities.
Yes! Supportive shoes with cushioning, arch support, and shock absorption can significantly reduce pain.
Look for metatarsal padding, firm arch support, cushioned insoles, wide toe boxes, and lightweight flexibility.
Not always. Many regular brands now offer orthopedic-level support without the bulky design.
Top brands include HOKA, New Balance, Brooks, Orthofeet, and ASICS—many with styles specifically for metatarsalgia.
While not required, a podiatrist can help recommend shoe types based on your condition.
Yes—brands like Vionic and Ecco offer stylish shoes with built-in orthotic support.
Absolutely. Look for shoes with removable insoles to accommodate your custom inserts.
Many people feel relief within days of wearing proper footwear, especially when combined with rest and foot care.
Yes—high heels shift your body weight forward, increasing pressure on the forefoot and worsening pain.
