Shoes for Hammer Toes
Deep, roomy toe boxes that stop the rubbing
A hammer toe needs room above it, not only at the sides. Our shoes have deep, soft toe boxes and true extra widths, so the top of the shoe does not press on the bent toe.
- Widths 2E to 8E
- Deep toe boxes
- Soft uppers
- Removable insoles
What is a hammer toe?
A hammer toe is a bend at the middle joint of the second, third or fourth toe. The bend makes the toe look like a hammer.
At first, the toe can still move. If it is not treated, the toe can become stiff. A hammer toe can hurt, especially when you move it or wear shoes. It can also be red or swollen.
A hammer toe often rubs on the top of the shoe. This pressure can cause a corn on top of the bend.
Doctors recommend that you avoid tight, narrow, high-heeled shoes. A shoe with a deep toe box makes room for the hammer toe. If your toe hurts or becomes stiff, see a podiatrist or doctor.
Wide fit best sellers for hammer toes
Our best-selling deep, roomy styles from the last six months.
Women's
Shop all women's
What to look for in shoes for hammer toes
A deep toe box
A deep toe box gives the bent toe room, so the top of the shoe does not rub it.
Shop deep-fitting shoesA soft upper
Soft leather, mesh or knit gives a little over the toe. Avoid stiff toe caps.
Shop soft sneakersA square or round toe
A square toe box is the best shape. A round toe is a better choice than a pointed one.
Shop women's stylesTrue extra widths
Choose your width, from 2E up to 8E. Do not go up a size to get more room.
Learn about widthsA removable insole
Take out the insole to get more depth, or to add a pad or orthotic from your podiatrist.
Shop removable insolesShop wide fit styles
Getting the fit right
Do
- Measure the length and width of both feet.
- Fit your shoes to the larger foot.
- Leave about a half inch of space past your longest toe.
- Check that the top of the shoe does not press on your toes.
- Try shoes on late in the day.
Avoid
- Tight, narrow or pointed toes.
- High heels.
- Stiff toe caps.
- Going up a size to get more room.
- Shoes that feel tight. There is no break-in period.
Roomy sneakers up to 6E
New Balance makes many of our best sellers in true wide widths, up to 6E. Most have a removable insole for extra depth.
Not sure of your width?
Measure your feet at home. Then use our tools to find your width.
Hammer toe shoe questions
What is a hammer toe?
A hammer toe is a bend at the middle joint of the second, third or fourth toe. The bend makes the toe look like a hammer. At first the toe can still move, but over time it can become stiff.
What shoes are best for hammer toes?
Choose shoes with a deep, soft, roomy toe box. A deep toe box gives the bent toe room so the top of the shoe does not rub it. Avoid tight, narrow and high-heeled shoes. Shop deep-fitting shoes.
How much room should I leave at the toe?
Your shoe should be about a half inch longer than your longest toe. For many people, the longest toe is the second toe.
Why does my hammer toe have a corn on top?
A hammer toe often rubs on the top of the shoe. This pressure can cause a corn on top of the bend. A deeper toe box helps stop the rubbing.
Should I buy a bigger size?
No. A longer shoe does not give you more depth or width, and your foot can slide forward. Keep your normal length and choose a wider, deeper fit. Our Width Fit Finder can help.
