Last Updated on June 3, 2025 by Andy Walker
Metatarsalgia, or pain in the ball of the foot, can significantly impact daily activities, especially for those who spend extended periods walking or standing. The right footwear is crucial in alleviating this discomfort. In 2025, several shoe models have been recognized for their effectiveness in providing relief from metatarsalgia. This guide highlights top-rated shoes designed to reduce forefoot pressure, offering features like enhanced cushioning, wide toe boxes, and supportive designs.
See also: What is Metatarsalgia?
Summary of Best Shoes for Metatarsalgia
Model (Click to scroll to review) | Best For | How It Helps | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Maximum Cushioning | High forefoot cushioning and forefoot rocker reduce metatarsal stress | ||
Zero-Drop Support | Even pressure distribution with wide toe box and forefoot rocker | ||
All-Day Comfort | Plush cushioning with Meta-Rocker technology for smooth transitions | ||
Versatile Daily Use | Gel cushioning and FF BLAST+ midsole for shock absorption | ||
Long-Distance Walking & Running | Thick midsole cushioning with wide base for stability |
Reviews of Our Picks for Shoes for Metatarsalgia
Here are our picks for the best shoes available in 2025 that will help with metatarsalgia.
Brooks Glycerin Max
Best for: Maximum Cushioning
The Brooks Glycerin Max is built for comfort seekers, especially those dealing with the persistent discomfort of metatarsalgia. This shoe features the brand’s most cushioned ride yet, utilizing nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 foam, which is designed to be both plush and responsive. What makes this shoe ideal for forefoot pain is the generous stack height combined with a slight rocker geometry, which reduces pressure on the metatarsals during push-off. The underfoot sensation is smooth and stable, promoting a more comfortable stride across longer distances.
The engineered mesh upper is breathable and flexible, conforming to different foot shapes while maintaining structure. The outsole provides great traction, and the wide base of the shoe improves balance and reduces fatigue over time—ideal for people who spend long hours on their feet.
One key benefit for metatarsalgia sufferers is the forefoot softness; there’s no harsh impact sensation when walking or jogging. Although the 10mm heel-to-toe drop won’t work for those needing a low or zero-drop shoe, the Glycerin Max excels in plushness and durability. While it may be on the heavier side, that tradeoff results in exceptional shock absorption that protects the ball of the foot during movement.
Specs
- Midsole: DNA Loft v3 (nitrogen-infused)
- Drop: 10mm
- Weight: 10.1 oz (Men’s size 9)
- Upper: Engineered mesh
Pros
- Outstanding forefoot cushioning
- Smooth rocker-style transitions
- Ideal for long walks or standing all day
Cons
- Slightly heavy for speed work
- Higher price point
Men’s version | Women’s version
Altra Via Olympus 2
Best for: Zero-Drop Support
The Altra Via Olympus 2 is a standout choice for individuals seeking a zero-drop shoe that promotes natural foot alignment and even pressure distribution—key factors in alleviating metatarsalgia discomfort. This model features Altra’s signature FootShape™ toe box, allowing toes to spread naturally, reducing forefoot pressure. The EGO™ MAX midsole provides a plush, cushioned ride without compromising responsiveness, making it suitable for long-distance runs or extended periods on your feet.
The shoe’s design includes a slightly rockered geometry, facilitating smooth transitions and reducing strain on the metatarsal area. Its engineered mesh upper ensures breathability and a secure fit, while the durable outsole offers reliable traction. However, some users may find the shoe’s weight slightly heavier compared to other models, and the tongue could benefit from additional padding for enhanced comfort.
Specs
- Midsole: EGO™ MAX
- Drop: 0mm
- Weight: 10.5 oz (Men’s size 9)
- Upper: Engineered mesh
Pros
- Zero-drop platform promotes natural alignment
- Spacious FootShape™ toe box
- Plush cushioning suitable for long distances
Cons
- Slightly heavier than some alternatives
- Tongue padding could be improved
Men’s version | Women’s version
Hoka Bondi 9
Best for: All-Day Comfort
The Hoka Bondi 9 is renowned for its maximal cushioning and comfort, making it an excellent option for those suffering from metatarsalgia. This latest iteration features a supercritical EVA midsole, providing a softer and more responsive ride compared to its predecessors. The shoe’s Meta-Rocker technology facilitates a smooth heel-to-toe transition, reducing forefoot pressure and enhancing overall gait efficiency.
With a stack height of 43mm in the heel and 38mm in the forefoot, the Bondi 9 offers substantial cushioning, ideal for long walks or standing for extended periods. Its engineered mesh upper ensures breathability, while the restructured heel counter adds stability. However, the shoe’s bulkier design may not appeal to those seeking a more streamlined appearance, and its weight might be noticeable during high-intensity activities.
Specs
- Midsole: Supercritical EVA
- Drop: 5mm
- Weight: 10.5 oz (Men’s size 9)
- Upper: Engineered mesh
Pros
- Exceptional cushioning for prolonged comfort
- Meta-Rocker technology enhances gait efficiency
- Breathable and supportive upper
Cons
- Bulkier design may not suit all preferences
- Heavier weight could affect performance during intense activities
Men’s version | Women’s version
Asics Gel-Cumulus 27
Best for: Versatile Daily Use
The Asics Gel-Cumulus 27 offers a balanced blend of cushioning and support, making it suitable for daily activities and those dealing with metatarsalgia. The shoe features FF BLAST+ midsole foam, delivering a soft yet responsive ride, while the PureGEL™ technology in the heel enhances shock absorption. Its engineered mesh upper provides a comfortable and breathable fit, accommodating various foot shapes.
With a moderate stack height and an 8mm drop, the Gel-Cumulus 27 promotes a natural gait cycle, reducing strain on the forefoot. The shoe’s AHAR™ outsole offers durability and traction, suitable for different surfaces. However, individuals seeking maximal cushioning might find this model less plush compared to others, and the standard width may not accommodate wider feet comfortably.
Specs
- Midsole: FF BLAST+
- Drop: 8mm
- Weight: 9.3 oz (Men’s size 9)
- Upper: Engineered mesh
Pros
- Balanced cushioning and support
- Breathable and adaptable upper
- Durable outsole for various surfaces
Cons
- May lack the plushness of maximalist shoes
- Standard width might not suit wider feet
Men’s version | Women’s version
New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5
Best for: Long-Distance Walking & Running
The New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5 stands out as a premier choice for individuals seeking maximum cushioning, particularly beneficial for those suffering from metatarsalgia. Released in August 2024, this fifth iteration introduces significant enhancements over its predecessor, the v4, focusing on delivering unparalleled comfort and support for long-distance activities.
One of the most notable upgrades is the increased stack height, now measuring 44mm at the heel and 40mm at the forefoot, providing a plush underfoot experience. The Fresh Foam X midsole has been refined to offer a softer, more responsive ride, ensuring that each step is cushioned, reducing the impact on the forefoot area—a critical consideration for metatarsalgia sufferers.
The shoe’s design incorporates a wider base, enhancing stability and accommodating various foot shapes, which is essential for individuals with forefoot pain. The engineered mesh upper ensures breathability and a secure fit, while the rocker geometry facilitates smooth transitions during gait cycles, minimizing strain on the metatarsal region.
However, it’s worth noting that the shoe’s substantial cushioning and structure contribute to a heavier weight, approximately 11.3 oz for men and 8.6 oz for women. While this may not be ideal for speed-focused activities, it underscores the shoe’s commitment to comfort and support over extended periods.
In summary, the Fresh Foam X More v5 is tailored for those prioritizing comfort and support, making it an excellent option for long-distance walking, running, or individuals dealing with metatarsalgia.
Specs
- Midsole: Fresh Foam X
- Drop: 4mm
- Weight: 11.3 oz (Men’s size 9), 8.6 oz (Women’s size 8)
- Upper: Engineered mesh
Pros
- Exceptional cushioning ideal for metatarsalgia relief
- Wide base enhances stability
- Breathable and supportive upper
- Rocker geometry promotes smooth transitions
Cons
- Heavier than some alternatives
- Less responsive for speed-focused activities
