Shoes for Forefoot Pain

Forefoot pain — a burning or aching under the ball of the foot — is often caused by too much pressure on the metatarsal heads. The fix is cushioning exactly where it hurts, combined with a flexible sole that bends with the foot instead of forcing it to flex against rigid resistance.

What to look for

• Cushioned forefoot padding (memory foam or gel under metatarsals)
• Flexible sole that bends at the natural toe break point
• Rocker sole to reduce push-off pressure
• Low or zero heel drop to prevent forward weight shift

Recommended for forefoot pain (metatarsalgia)