Best Golf Shoes For Hallux Rigidus

Best Golf Shoes For Hallux Rigidus

Golf requires you to be on your feet for long hours at a time and if you struggle with a painful foot condition such as Hallux Rigidus, this isn’t always possible. But as any foot specialist will tell you, wearing the right gollf shoes can mean the difference between staying pain free in your round or having to leave the golf course and take the load off your feet in the club house.

 

FootJoy Men's Premiere Series-Field Golf Shoe, White, 9
  • PREMIUM CONSTRUCTION - Hand-selected, premium full grain leather from Pittards offers unparalleled beauty, fit, and resistance to stretching. Calfskin leather detailing delivers an iconic look for players with a discerning sense of style.
  • PERFORMANCE OUTSOLE - The VersaTrax+ outsole is engineered with traction elements to create an outsole that is perfect for on course performance with wear-to-the-course versatility. Translucent rubber traction elements offer a high end look and feel while maximizing traction with each step you take. The unique anti-channeling traction pattern is designed for grip from any lie or angle.
  • COMPLETE SUPPORT - An OrthoLite EcoPlush Fit-Bed to ensure all-day underfoot comfort. OrthoLite does not take a set, so the cushioning will remain the same for the life of the shoe.
  • LASER STREET FIT - Offers a full rounded toe character, standard fit across forefoot and instep, with a slightly narrow heel.

Hallux rigidus, is in the simplest form of explanation, a type of arthritis in the toe.

It specifically affects the joint at the base of the big toe and those that suffer with the condition find that movement becomes much more difficult due to stiffness and discomfort.

While you might not realise it, losing full function of the big toe can cause many issues when trying to walk.

Even though the big toe is a small appendage, in the scheme of things, it plays a huge role in balance and mobility.

If you’ve been struggling with hallux rigidus and have found that getting around the golf course has become too much of a challenge, switching up your footwear may offer some relief.

While footwear isn’t going to cure the condition, your feet will have the comfort and support that they need.

How Do I Know If I Have Hallux Rigidus?

Hallux rigidus doesn’t start off as a particularly bad condition and begins as what is known as hallux limitus.

At this point, the toe may begin to lose some of its function but it certainly isn’t debilitating.

However, the condition is progressive and so it will turn to hallux rigidus after some time.

If you have noticed a gradual decline in the movement of your toe then this could be a sign that you have the condition.

Moreover, many people with hallux rigidus experience pain and this is especially true for women when wearing high heeled shoes.

You may also notice an increase in discomfort during cold or damp weather.

The toe joint may become inflamed and you will likely notice that you have difficulty performing certain movements such as things like squatting or running.

If you are concerned that you have hallux rigidus, you should book an appointment to see your doctor.

They will be able to refer you on to a specialist who can assess the bones and joints in the foot through x-rays, other scanning equipment and physical examinations.

What Is The Treatment For Hallux Rigidus?

The sooner that hallux rigidus is diagnosed, the sooner treatment can start.

It is important to keep in mind that this isn’t a curable condition but its progression can be slowed through the right treatments.

In the most extreme cases, surgical intervention may be required, but there are many other ways that you can treat the condition and limit the amount of pain you experience.

For example, as we have already detailed, wearing the right footwear.

There are also plenty of medications that you can take to reduce the swelling and inflammation around the joint including opting for a series of steroid injections.

You may also be prescribed anti-inflammatory tablets or for less serious cases, over the counter medications work just as well, this condition is one I personally struggle with and have been searching for various treatments.

Currently, I am taking supplements like Turmeric which is also providing some benefits.

Is Walking Good For Hallux Rigidus?

While many people find it difficult to walk with hallux rigidus, this form of exercise could be a viable way to reduce the pain of the condition.

Of course, if you cannot manage this, it is important to get your pain under control in other ways to avoid creating further problems.

However, walking is a great way to prevent the limited movement that hallux rigidus can cause.

According to personal trainers, walking uphill is one of the most effective ways to do this.

Moreover, it is advised that, in some cases, a course of physical therapy is a good way to help reduce pain and improve movement.

How Do You Treat Hallux Rigidus Naturally?

For a lot of people suffering with hallux rigidus, the idea of surgery is pretty scary and we can completely understand this.

Not only might there be complications but the recovery time could see you off your feet for weeks, and that can interfere with your day to day life.

The good news is that there are other, more natural ways of treating the condition and reducing pain, giving you the freedom to get back on the golf course and enjoy your hobby time.

Primarily, something as simple as applying a cold compress to the area twice a day can help to relieve inflammation.

You should never use heat on inflammation as this can make it worse, even though it might feel good during the application.

Secondly, it is important to take the condition seriously and avoid exacerbating the symptoms.

One of the easiest ways to do this is to avoid taking part in high impact activities such as running.

Choosing The Best Golf Shoes For Hallux Rigidus

When it comes to choosing the right footwear for playing golf when you suffer from hallux rigidus, there are a few important things to consider.

Since this condition causes pain in the big toe joint, you need to make sure that this area of the foot is fully supported and no additional pressure is put onto it.

Roomy Toe Box

One of the most important things to look for in shoes for hallux rigidus is a roomy toe box.

If you shop for wide fit golf shoes then this will almost always be the case but for people who don’t typically have wide feet, you might need to look at specialist shoes.

The reason that a wide toe box is so critical for hallux rigidus golf shoes is that it will avoid too much pressure being put on the already-inflamed joint of the big toe.

You’ll find as well that the toes have more space which will prevent them from overlapping or becoming squashed.

If this was allowed, the pain you would experience would be far greater.

Arch Support

While hallux rigidus can be caused by a multitude of things, one of the most common reasons for developing it is for people whose gait is not what you would call normal.

For example, if you have fallen arches or overpronate, there is more likelihood of you developing this condition.

But with great arch support, your feet will be far better looked after.

Your hallux rigidus golf shoes with good arch support will offer more support from underfoot.

When this is coupled with excellent shock absorption (which we will look at later), you have a great base for your feet.

Not only this but your weight will be evenly distributed avoiding unnecessary pressure on one area, such as the big toe.

This is especially true of people who have high arches so be sure to place a focus on this.

Soft Upper

We have discussed the importance of not putting undue pressure on the big toe joint when choosing golf shoes for hallux rigidus and this can also be helped by choosing shoes with a soft and flexible upper.

However, this doesn’t mean that the upper should be so soft that the durability of the shoe is affected.

Opting for things like genuine leather is a great place to start and the material will wrap around the foot, keeping it in a natural position without pressure.

It is important to find the right balance between support and comfort.

Another reason that leather is a great option for your golf shoes is that it is breathable.

This natural material is ideal for all seasons so if you’re out on the golf course in the height of summer, you won’t need to worry about your feet getting too sweaty.

 

Rigid Sole

While the upper part of the shoe needs to give comfort and flexibility, the sole should be the polar opposite.

If you have too flexible a sole on your golf shoes for hallux rigidus then your toe will be allowed to move outside of its natural range and this can cause pain.

Keeping your toe in a natural position will not only help to alleviate pain but it will also prevent further erosion of the joint which can then make hallux rigidus even worse.

The problem is that a lot of people worry that having a stiffer sole will mean that the shoes appear clunky or unstylish but this isn’t the case.

As you will see with our curated collection of golf shoes for hallux rigidus, there are a lot of trendy and attractive golf shoes that have all the important features needed to reduce pain for hallux rigidus sufferers.

Shock Absorption

Every step you take sees energy transferred from the ground into your body; its first stop? Your feet.

When you are suffering with hallux rigidus, you must ensure that the golf shoes you choose have excellent shock absorption as this means they will soak up that energy and your toe joint won’t take the brunt of it.

A good pair of golf shoes with good shock absorption will also help to distribute your weight evenly so that not too much pressure is put on your big toe.

If this isn’t the case then you will find that the pain is quickly exacerbated.

What Are The Best Golf Shoes For Hallux Rigidus?

It is easy to assume that all golf shoes would have the features that we have talked about so far in this guide as standard.

But this isn’t the case. Each pair of golf shoes is made with a different wearer in mind and while there are some out there that offer all-round support, there are others that have features specific to hallux rigidus.

We have been checking out some of the best hallux rigidus golf shoes on the market and while there were many that stood out, the following three pairs took the crown.

Footjoy Premiere Series

The Footjoy Premiere Series is not the most affordable golf shoe on the market but owing to their durability and support, they are a worthwhile investment.

You certainly won’t be needing another pair of shoes any time soon.

In a classic design, the shoes will suit any style and with features that are perfectly designed to support those with hallux rigidus, they are one of the best options for this condition.

The sturdy rubber sole offers unparalleled firm support from the ground while the soft leather upper gives your feet the comfort they need.

FootJoy Men's Premiere Series-Field Golf Shoe, White, 9
  • PREMIUM CONSTRUCTION - Hand-selected, premium full grain leather from Pittards offers unparalleled beauty, fit, and resistance to stretching. Calfskin leather detailing delivers an iconic look for players with a discerning sense of style.
  • PERFORMANCE OUTSOLE - The VersaTrax+ outsole is engineered with traction elements to create an outsole that is perfect for on course performance with wear-to-the-course versatility. Translucent rubber traction elements offer a high end look and feel while maximizing traction with each step you take. The unique anti-channeling traction pattern is designed for grip from any lie or angle.
  • COMPLETE SUPPORT - An OrthoLite EcoPlush Fit-Bed to ensure all-day underfoot comfort. OrthoLite does not take a set, so the cushioning will remain the same for the life of the shoe.
  • LASER STREET FIT - Offers a full rounded toe character, standard fit across forefoot and instep, with a slightly narrow heel.

Adidas Code Chaos

If you are looking for a modern golf shoe that won’t break the bank but will still give your feet the support they need then the Code Chaos from Adidas is a great choice.

The shoes come in a wide range of colours and styles and look more like a modern sports shoe than a traditional leather golf shoe.

But image aside, the Code Chaos is an incredibly stable shoe that will support your feet and keep your joints happy.

Moreover, the soft leather upper gives you comfort not to mention makes the shoes incredibly breathable and suitable for year-round play.

These shoes have a medium width which is great for most average sized feet and won’t crush the toes together.

However, if you typically buy wider shoes, these might not be the right choice for you.

Footjoy Traditions

The Footjoy Traditions golf shoe is one of the most superior shoes on the market for many reasons.

It offers extreme comfort thanks to the superb cushioning.

If your feet are in pain, this is an essential feature.

What’s more, the upper is made from genuine leather which will provide you with the comfortable yet flexible support you need.

The sole, on the other hand offers great stability and excellent traction, providing you with that essential firm support from the ground up.

These shoes offer the best of everything and even boast a more refined toe shape to ensure natural positioning of the toes while wearing.

The shoes come in a great choice of colours and the classic design is perfect for golfers who want a more traditional appearance on the course.

Summary

Hallux rigidus is a type of arthritis that affects the base joint of the big toe.

Not only can this condition limit the movement of the toe, but it can also cause a lot of pain.

If you’re trying to enjoy time on the golf course, the last thing you want is to be held back by inflammation and discomfort.

By looking at the unique features of any potential golf shoes, you will be able to determine whether they will meet the needs of your condition.

Once you are familiar with what you look for in golf shoes for hallux rigidus, there are several pairs on the market that will give you everything you need to stay active and stay in the game!

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FootJoy Men's Traditions Golf Shoe, White/White, 10
  • FASHIONABLE LEATHER - This fashionable full grain leather offers outstanding waterproof comfort, breathability, and durability.
  • CUSHIONED - The lightweight Molded Fit-Bed insole provides extreme underfoot comfort and heel support. The Fit-Bed insole ensures underfoot cushioning and support.
  • WATERPROOF - FootJoy warrants that this golf shoe will be waterproof in normal use for one year (U.S. Warranty).
  • LASER STREET FIT - Offers a full rounded toe character with a standard fit across the forefoot and instep. A slightly narrow heel with a refined toe shape completes the classic profile.
  • TURF GRIPPING ADVANTAGE - Pulsar cleats by Softspikes are the #1 selling cleat in golf and the overwhelming choice of touring professionals worldwide. The Pulsar cleats feature all the same turf grip and walking comfort advantages of Black Widow plus the additions of radiused legs for extra durability and cleat webbing for easier cleaning.