Having a broken toe is not only painful, it can be annoying as it affects how you perform your daily activities. Depending on the cause of the injury, it can take at least six weeks to heal. During this time, doctors might recommend that you stay off your foot completely.
But if this is not possible, it is important to invest in the best shoes for broken toes so you can allow it to heal while being able to walk and perform your chores as you normally would.
Choosing the right shoes for a broken toe is very essential. If not, then the healing could take significantly longer. The worst thing that could happen is that you aggravate the injury by putting too much pressure on the affected toe. Unless you experience this injury, you will never know just how much you rely on your toes to walk, or even balance.
Why do you look for when buying Shoes for a Broken Toe?
If you have a broken toe, you’ll need to choose shoes that will help protect your toe while allowing it to heal as quickly as possible. Here are some of the features to pay attention to:
1. Stiff sole for support
If your toe is broken, you should bend it as little as possible since if you move it, it will take longer to heal.
For this reason, shoes with stiff soles are recommended, especially ones that curve up slightly, because this will help keep your toes as immobile as possible.
2. Space for swelling
Broken toes often swell, so you need to choose shoes with enough space for the swelling so they don’t squeeze your foot.
Open-toed sandals are ideal since they leave your swollen toe as much space as it needs.
However, if you choose sandals, make sure you pick a model with straps at the back. Otherwise, you will need to scrunch your toes when you walk, which will slow the healing process and may also be quite painful.
3. Protection
At the same time, you need shoes that protect your toe because accidentally bumping it will be extremely painful and may also extend the healing process.
Tips for choosing shoes for broken toes
When choosing the best option for your needs, you need to balance these three factors.
If you must walk around but think the risk of bumping your toe is low, sandals are the best pick.
However, if you are worried about banging your toe, you might prefer closed shoes, in which case you should choose ones with plenty of space for your swollen toe.
Finally, you may have to think about the dress code at your workplace. Most bosses will be understanding and allow you to wear sandals even if you are normally expected to wear professional shoes.
However, if your boss insists on you sticking to the standard dress code, you will need to find comfortable shoes that don’t squeeze your toes too much.
Top 10 Best Shoes for a Broken Toe in 2021 in 2021
1. Orthowedge Forefoot Off-Loading Healing Shoe
The Orthowedge Forefoot has been scientifically proven to reduce the healing time needed after surgery in 57% and in 75% in the case of a broken toe, and it does so by significantly lowering the pressure on your foot.
How does it do that? What makes it different from other shoes in the category, is its 15° corsi-angle bottom.
The 15-degree corsi-angle bottom relieves pressure on your toes, by concentrating the weight of your steps on your heels and not on your toes. By reducing the pain and pressure on your toes, it can contribute to faster healing.
The square-toe design is another feature integrated by design. It serves as a protective bumper, so your toes are not harmed by accidental bumps. The fastener straps on this shoe are of medical grade so they are secure while maintaining all-day comfort.
The inside of this shoe is designed for comfort, breathability and it absorbs shock when walking using lightweight, EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) foam insole.
And finally, it has Adjustable fasteners which is great if you are suffering from any type of swelling, or foot injury, or you just had a surgery.
These features and especially the dorsi-angle bottom make it one of the best (if not the best) option in a broken toe situation, and therefore it appears as number #1 on our list.
- It is made with soft and durable material.
- It offers all-day comfort.
- It has a square-toe design and protective bumper for additional protection.
- It is lightweight and provides adequate heel support.
- It has shock absorption qualities and proper cushioning.
- It feels heavy when you use it for the first time and will require a bit of getting used to.
2. United Ortho Short Air Cam Walker Fracture Boot, Medium, Black
Number two on our list the United Ortho USA14013 Short Cam is a great choice for broken toe, as it is lightweight yet provides great support for your feet. It is durable, and fits great and that’s why its highly recommended by customers in any major ecommerce site like amazon, etc.
This boot is great for post-operative use for a few weeks as it provide maximum stability and support. It contains a Shock absorbing insole reduces the chances of getting a heel strike when walking.
It is universal in size so it can fit into your left or right foot. The sizing is also versatile: it is designed to fit women with shoe sizes 8.5 to 10.5 or men with shoe sizes 7 to 9.
Aside from the versatility and practicality of the United Ortho Short Air Cam Walker Fracture Boot, it is designed to promote natural walking gait. Thus, you won’t be adding unnecessary pressure on your toes when you step.
As said before, the insole absorbs shock effectively so you feel comfortable and well-supported.
Overall, one of the best boots you can find, and for a very reasonable price!
- It has a universal fit.
- It is suited for men and women.
- It offers comfort and support.
- It promotes natural walking gait.
- It comes with a sturdy construction.
- Its sizing can be a bit off.
3. Birkenstock Milano – Leather Soft Footbed
This classic Birkenstock sandal is deemed as one of the best shoes for broken toes. It is made with leather materials and a cork sole. The contoured foot bed ensures maximum comfort and fit. At the same time, it helps to relieve pressure on your toes when you step.
These classic sandals are great for those recovering from a broken toe because it comes with an easy to use dual-strap vamp and adjustable ankle strap. The logo buckles help to secure it onto your feet to make walking with this a breeze.
- It is made with quality materials.
- It is suited for driving even with a broken toe.
- It is made with a soft bed.
- It is made with quality craftsmanship.
- It is lacking when it comes to heel support.
4. FitPro Adjustable Post-Op Open Square Toe Shoe
The FitPro Adjustable Post-Op Open Square Toe Shoe deserves a spot in the list of the best shoes for broken toes. It is designed for post-operative use to aid in the faster healing and recovery from surgery. The toe design also facilitates healing because it has a wide enough space for your toes to get adequate airflow. In fact, it is designed to fit either the left or right foot.
The forefoot closure on the FitPro Adjustable Post-Op Open Square Toe Shoe makes putting it on or off a breeze. It is also adjustable enough that you can wear it even with a dressing on your feet or toes. This brand has been producing medical-grade shoes and bracing solutions for more than 40 years.
- It has a wide toe box.
- It offers maximum toe protection.
- It can fit either foot.
- It is secure and comfortable.
- It can be worn with a dressing.
- It is difficult to get the sizing right.
5. Complete Medical Darco Med-Surg Shoe Black Square-Toe Men’s
This is one of the best shoes for broken toes because it comes with a fully customizable insole. The insole itself is built with a double padding for added support and to cushion your step. The square toe design is another beneficial feature of this shoe that serves as a bumper from potential hazards that can cause harm to your recovering toes.
The use of MetaShank Protection technology offers rigidity to the shoes so it makes your step more stable. Meanwhile, the closure system eases pressure on your forefoot, particularly the toes. The closure system is also highly adjustable so that it can accommodate your dressing.
- It is versatile and fully customizable.
- It comes with supportive padding.
- Its square toe design provides protection to the forefoot.
- It relieves pressure on the forefoot.
- It comes with a rigid construction.
- It does not allow product returns; make sure you get the size right the first time.
6. Fila Men’s Transition Athletic Sandal
The Fila Men’s Transition Athletic Sandal is one of our recommended shoes for broken toes. Fila is a brand name that has been in the industry for a long time but they are known for specializing in athletic footwear. Manufactured in the US, this combines supportive healing for broken toes and similar injuries while remaining ideal for everyday use.
It is designed to fit like a glove so that you can walk naturally while wearing the Fila Men’s Transition Athletic Sandal. It comes with a strap closure system so it stays on. This particular feature makes it easy to relieve pressure on your toes. At the same time, it is made with a rubber sole to improve traction and comfort level.
- It is extremely lightweight.
- It offers solid arch support.
- It is comfortable yet durable.
- It facilitates ease of walking with no pain.
- The grip could be improved.
7. BraceAbility Short Broken Toe Boot
The BraceAbility Short Broken Toe Boot is a superb option for anyone looking for adequate support from broken toes or trying to heal from a surgery. This supportive shoe is designed to be worn on either toe. It also weighs very lightly – at only 1 pound and 15 ounces – so it won’t add unnecessary pressure on your feet (and toes).
It is clinically studied and proven to facilitate faster healing of broken toes and any injury to this area. In fact, it is also a good choice for those with metatarsal fracture, sprain, or recovering from surgery or injury on toes, ankles, and feet.
- It is made with a reinforced shell for increased durability.
- It provides support for feet and ankles.
- It has a rocker bottom to relieve pressure on your toes.
- It is made with a wide toe design.
- It has enough room for swelling and bandaging.
- It does creak a little when you walk.
8. Clarks Women’s Arla Jacory Wedge Sandal
The Clarks Women’s Arla Jacory Wedge Sandal is a fashionable solution for those looking for the best shoes for broken toes. It is made with textile materials and rubber sole even while you wait for your toes to recover fully.
Clarks has been around manufacturing shoes since 1825. Therefore, this is a brand that you can depend on, especially since they specialize in the manufacture of supportive shoes. The Clarks Women’s Arla Jacory Wedge Sandal is no exception. It is designed with two straps, open toes, and adequate cushioning so you can get maximum comfort and support.
- It looks stylish.
- It is manufactured by a trusted brand.
- It is made with advanced cushioning technology for optimum comfort.
- It has an easy closure system for easy on/off.
- It offers a secure and adjustable fit.
- The strap is a bit tight for those with high arches on their feet.
9. BraceAbility Post-op Shoe for Broken Foot
This is another entry from the brand on the list of the best shoes for broken toes. As with most other shoes from the brand, it is designed for medical or surgical use. It offers enough support with its rocker sole and non-skid tread. Thus, you can expect reliable traction that won’t slip or slide easily. This is an essential feature when recovering from broken toes so you can prevent accidental slips or further injuries.
The square toe design is another feature that makes it suitable for those with broken toes. This gives a secure and safe spot for your toes to rest in so that you don’t accidentally hit it and cause more damage. Even though your feet and toes are immobilized, it stays comfortable due to its semi-open style and breathable materials.
- It offers excellent protection for your toes.
- It has a non-skid quality.
- It offers extra stability to your step.
- It has a secure strap closure system.
- It is semi-open so your feet can stay comfortable.
- It is rigid.
- It can be tricky to get the right size (especially since this is made for men and women).
10. DMI Cast Shoe, Cast Boot, Post Op Shoe
The DMI Cast Shoe, Cast Boot, Post Op Shoe rounds up this list of the best shoes for broken toes and deserves a spot on the list. This is a cast shoe that is easy to put on or take off so that you can wear it comfortably even after surgery or after suffering a broken toe. The shoe is made with a nylon mesh material and an open toe design. These were practical choices because it makes for a comfortable shoe without compromising on the protection on your toes.
The adjustable Velcro strap closure helps to keep it secure on your feet. It also comes with a non-skid sole so you can get more stability with every step. The added stability also prevents putting unnecessary pressure on your recovering toe.
- It offers enough room for the bandage or dressing.
- It comes with a comfortable design.
- It can be worn on either foot.
- It is made with adjustable straps so you get the perfect fit.
- It comes with non-skid soles to ease pressure on toes.
- It is not aesthetically pleasing but it makes up for it by providing adequate support.
Buying Guide for Best Shoes for Broken Toes
Given the list of the best shoes for broken toes above, you might be left to wonder about how you can compare them. This buying guide is designed to do just that – to educate you about the essential features you need to be looking for when you buy the right pair.
Follow Doctor’s Recommendation
Every injury is unique. And there is no better person than your attending physician to evaluate the extent of your injury. Therefore, they should be the first person you turn to for advice when it comes to the best shoes for your broken toe. Based on their recommendation, you can determine what type of shoes to shop for.
Rigid and Non-Flexible Sole
This is one of the most important factors to look for when buying shoes for broken toes. It will minimize the pressure on your toes with every step. The rigid structure also helps to keep your toes straight, which is necessary to facilitate faster healing.
Open Toes
Obviously, you need to invest in shoes with open toes so as not to aggravate the broken toe. It also helps to avoid heat buildup on your toes. You want to aerate the injury and provide it ample space to prevent accidentally bumping against it during a walk.
Toe Protection
Speaking of accidental bumps, you need to choose shoes or sandals that have some form of toe protection (since open toe design is not enough to give protection). If you can’t buy a closed shoe, make sure that your footwear comes with a stiff upper front part.
Material
You need to choose the material of the shoe wisely as it can also impact your step. For added protection on your toes, choose high quality and durable materials that do not break easily.
Wide Toe Box
Another important consideration when shopping for shoes for broken toes is the toe box. It must be wide enough to support your toes and to provide enough wiggle room so it does not come into contact with other parts of the shoe as you step.
Rearfoot Control
You want to be able to ease pressure on your toes when you step. Therefore, choose shoes that provide sufficient rearfoot control. That way, you can put the pressure on the rearfoot and not on your toes.
Arch Support
This feature is highly linked to improved rearfoot control. When there is adequate arch support from your shoes, you can distribute weight evenly and not concentrate the pressure on your toes.
Stable Soles
The overall stability of your stance is closely linked to your soles. Make sure to invest in shoes with high quality soles you are not compensating with every step and that you can ease pressure off your toes.
Closure
You need to be smart about the type of closure you choose when buying shoes for broken toes. This is a practical consideration because you don’t want to hurt your toes trying to get in and out of your shoe.
Size Matters
Last but not the least, make sure your shoes are sized correctly. You don’t need us to tell you that an ill-fitting shoe can put more pressure on your feet (and toes) with every step.
FAQs on Buying Shoes for Broken Toes
Here are additional information to help you shop for the right shoes when you have broken toes:
What shoes should I wear with a broken toe?
The ideal shoes should meet the qualifications mentioned above. To give you an idea, it must be hard-soled with a sturdy construction and rigid frame. Your doctor can give the best advice on which shoe is right for you.
Can you wear your regular shoes with a broken toe?
No. It might be too painful or you might not have adequate support. You need to get shoes that are made specifically to aid in your recovery from the injury.
Is wearing sandals better than shoes when you have a broken toe?
You can wear either sandals or shoes when you have a broken toe. Of course, it will depend on the doctor’s diagnosis and the extent of injury. As long as the shoes meet the criteria above, then it should be fine.
How long should you wear a boot for a broken toe?
It depends on the extent of your injury. The boots you choose to wear must be designed for this type of injury; otherwise, you risk aggravating it and extending the healing process.
How can I get my broken toe to heal faster?
As much as possible, you need to avoid putting pressure on your toes and tape it every night. By limiting movement, you can speed up the healing process.
Investing in the right pair of shoes is also crucial to facilitate the healing of broken toes.