Overview
Hammer toe (s) is a deformity where the middle joint of the toe develops a curl or a bend. Thus, the toe condition literally resembles a – ‘hammer’ or a claw. When this is left untreated, it can aggravate the muscle-tendon imbalance and worsen your poor foot mechanics. No sooner, the deformity radiates into pain, inflammation, toe stiffness, and difficulty in movement.
However, the good news is – this painful condition can be prevented and quite efficiently managed with orthotics for hammer toes. Such orthotics keep your toes in the proper position, help realign the deformed joints, and prevent the risk of further injury.
Selection Criteria
We took recommendations from top podiatrists in the USA for shortlisting the best orthotics for hammer toes. According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, hammer toes can either be ‘Flexible’ (early stage) or ‘Rigid’ (permanent misalignment/mobility). Quite naturally, ready-made orthotics work best for flexible hammer toes or as a support for recovery after surgery.
So, if you experience pain at the abnormal bend of the toe, inflammation at the joint contracture, or restricted/painful motion of the toe joint, we have shortlisted the seven best orthotics for hammer toes after three months of testing.
Our candidates for wear-testing included participants who either genetically, or due to the reason of unnatural pressure/position developed mild to less severe hammertoe pain/ deformity.
For each selection, the following questions were asked:
- Does the orthotic exert pressure on the toes?
- Do your feet feel constricted? Did it fit properly?
- After a full day of wear, do your feet or toes feel more/less painful or tired?
- Do you feel a more balanced walk with the orthotics?
- Did the selected orthotics solve the problem of hammer toes?
- Have you consulted a podiatrist about other options for treating hammer toes? etc.
Based on the answers and parameters like comfort, support, pain relief, and value, we have rated each of our top selections.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall:
Superfeet All Purpose Support at Amazon for $53.95
Best Runner-Up
PowerStep Pinnacle Pain Relief Insoles at Amazon for $44.96
Best for Hammer-Toe Prevention and Pain Relief:
Cushwork Heavy Duty Forefoot Orthotics at Amazon for $39.99
Best for High Impact Activities:
TenSeconds Ultra-Arch Insoles at Amazon for $64.99
Best Adjustable:
FootChair Orthotics with Pads at Amazon for $46.97
Best for Low Arches:
Superfeet Run Support Shoe Inserts at Amazon for $59.07
Best Budget-friendly:
Trustfeet Metatarsal Pain Relief Insoles at Amazon for $36.99.
1. Superfeet All Purpose Support Insoles
Rating:
Comfort 5/5 Support 5/5 Pain Relief 4.5/5 Value 5/5
Why do we like it?
The Superfeet All Purpose Support Insoles are made for roomy shoes and boots. Thus, corresponding to the much-needed requirements, we find these to be a great relief for people with hammer toes. With good thickness and a deep structured heel cup, the insoles offer maximum support and a great fit. The unique support system gradually puts away the pressure off the tendons that are causing the problem. This, in turn, is a great relief for correcting the position of hammer toes.
A few of our overweight testers also found some incredible support using these orthotics. Within 4 weeks of use, there was lesser inflammation and improvement in toe flexibility.
It’s Worth Noting
This product is available in three variants for High, Medium, and Low Arches. With proper size and arch-height compatibility, the Superfeet All Purpose Orthotics fits most shoe types.
Product Details:
- Ideal Shoe Type: Running or casual shoes, work, or hiking boots.
- Available sizes: Men – 2.5 to 15.5. Women – 4.5 to 17. Kids – 13.5 to 2.
- Unique features: Firm underfoot cushioning, closed cell high-density foam construction, deep heel cup.
- Materials: Foam.
- Durability: Up to 12 months or 500 miles, whichever comes earlier.
- Price: $54.99.
2. Powerstep Pinnacle Pain Relief Insoles
Rating:
Comfort 4/5 Support 4.5/5 Pain Relief 4/5 Value 4.5/5
Why do we like it?
The Powerstep Pinnacle Pain Relief Insoles are clinically proven and #1 podiatrist-recommended to limit strain on your joints. We used these without any padding or taping support of the affected toes. Yet, it provided improved foot function and motion stability. 80% of our testers experienced lesser foot pain and more toe flexibility within 4 weeks of use. In fact, it also gave good support on uneven and rocky surfaces.
If you are an athlete or exercise regularly, its firm but flexible support will prevent aggravation of the condition any further. It best performs for neutral arch support and mild to moderate pronation. For overpronation/ flat feet or supination, the brand also offers Low Arch and High arch support variants, respectively.
It’s Worth Noting
While we tested and found the Pinnacle insoles to be effective for hammer toes, these also perform exceptionally well for issues like plantar fasciitis, pronation, foot, arch or heel pain, and sore or aching feet. No wonder why these are a popular choice of orthotics for flat feet!
Product Details:
- Ideal Shoe Type: Dress and casual shoes.
- Available sizes: Men – 2.5 to 15.5. Women – 4.5 to 17. Kids – 13.5 to 2.
- Unique features: Semi-rigid support shell, Neutral arch support, and heel cradle. Accepted by American Podiatric Medical Association – HSA and FSA approved.
- Materials: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA).
- Durability: Up to 12 months or 500 miles.
- Price: $44.96.
3. TenSeconds Ultra Arch Insoles
Rating:
Comfort 4/5 Support 4.5/5 Pain Relief 4/5 Value 3.5/5
Why do we like it?
The 3810 Ultra Arch Support from 10 seconds is a rare find in this list of orthotics for hammer toes. If you ask us why.. then we chose this because of its best ‘metatarsal padding system’ – which aims to provide total support to the band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toe base. All of this is incredibly helpful in preventing and providing support for hammer toe pain.
These insoles balance pressure across the foot to give you relief from issues such as Morton’s Neuroma and metatarsalgia. Also, the deep heel cup cradles perfectly around the heel. This improves stability, motion, and alignment of the foot. The biostatic topper is a unique feature that reduces blisters, prevents inflammation and keeps feet cool and dry.
It’s Worth Noting
We could do all sorts of heavy-duty and high-impact activities with these ultra-arch insoles, including gyming, dancing, or working at the warehouse. With medium to high cushioning and arch firmness, these perform best for high arch height.
Product Details:
- Ideal Shoe Type: Casual, dress, or work shoes.
- Available sizes: Men – 4 to 14. Women – 6 to 13.
- Unique features: Supports heavy-weight individuals. Carbon fiber plate for high-impact support. Foam strike pads. Reduces foot stress and impacts.
- Materials: Carbon fiber, Poron Foam.
- Durability: N/A.
- Price: $64.99 (usually available at a discount).
4. Cushwork Heavy Duty Forefoot X200 Orthotic Insoles
Rating:
Comfort 4/5 Support 5/5 Pain Relief 4.5/5 Value 5/5
Why do we like it?
Hammer toe can also be a secondary result of – Hallux valgus, which is a misalignment of the big toe. Hallux valgus can cause bunion (an abnormal bony outgrowth), which forces one toe to crowd against another and put pressure on your big toe. If you have painful bunions, Cushwork’s Forefoot Pain Relief Orthotics offers targeted support and pain alleviation in the forefoot area. By wearing these orthotics, the stress around the metatarsal and the ball of the foot is released and unconditional support is transferred to the toe area.
The Cushwork’s insoles are designed to improve foot mechanics and maintain the natural shape of your feet. We tried these with our athletic shoes and work boots and it greatly minimized pain for mild hammer toe issues. The insoles further help in preventing the formation of new bunions. On the doctor’s recommendation, you can use them with padding or taping for faster recovery.
It’s Worth Noting
These insoles provide extra support for heavy-duty and overweight people. We also find it ideal for correcting hammer toes as they are wider and helpful in controlling abnormal foot movement. Eases conditions such as Morton’s Neuroma and can be used for recovery.
Product Details:
- Ideal Shoe Type: Wider Walking or athletic shoes, work or hiking boots.
- Available sizes: Men – 4 to 14.5. Women – 5.5 to 14.
- Unique features: Semi-rigid arch support. Superior cushioning for full foot length.
- Materials: EVA Foam, Memory Foam.
- Durability: Up to 500 miles or 12 months. Advisable to be replaced after 6 months.
- Price: $39.99.
5. Foot Chair Orthotics with Pad
Rating:
Comfort 4/5 Support 4.5/5 Pain Relief 4/5 Value 4/5
Why do we like it?
Who could have ever imagined built-in pockets within insoles – all for an adjustable arch support? But thanks to FootChair Orthotics with Pad, you can now custom-fit, what they call as, “arch cookies” to adjust to your foot requirements.
These arch cookies add extra cushion and help protect feet… And you don’t worry about slipping! We put these to the test and can confirm that the insoles have a strong base that holds them securely in place while delivering amazing stability.
The patented innovative idea is specially designed to address foot issues like pain related to Achilles tendonitis, ball of the foot, ankle and back, toes, top of the foot, and shin splint. It also has a shock-absorbing neoprene. Being adjustable in length and height, these insoles may be tried out before opting for custom orthotics.
It’s Worth Noting
You can almost feel the difference immediately with the FootChair Orthotics. These insoles are available in so many different sizes for both men and women – all of them being trimmable. However, do note that these may be a little bulkier to wear.
Product Details:
- Ideal Shoe Type: Dress, work, sports shoes, or boots.
- Available sizes: Men – 3 to 14.5. Women – 5 to 16.5.
- Unique features: Removable built-in pockets for adjustable arch support. 30-days money-back guarantee.
- Materials: Polypropylene, Polyurethane, Gel, and Synthetic Rubber.
- Durability: N/A.
- Price: $46.97.
6. Superfeet Run Support Shoe Inserts
Rating:
Comfort 3.5/5 Support 4.5/5 Pain Relief 4/5 Value 3.5/5
Why do we like it?
If you have low arches and are also dealing with painful hammer toes, fatigue, and discomfort, – the Superfeet Run Support Shoe inserts may be your best bet. These orthotic insoles have a shock-absorbing heel cup that cradles perfectly for adjusting to the ideal position of your toes and feet. Additionally, the carbon fiber stabilizer cap at the base gives support to both rearfoot and forefoot.
The insoles are uniquely crafted to fit into a range of footwear. Our testers could easily glide these insoles in their footwear with wide-toe boxes, the latter being highly recommended for hammer toe issues. It is also efficient for relieving foot pain in athletes.
It’s Worth Noting
The Run Support insoles are probably not the plushiest options in the list. It is moderately rigid (which is, surprisingly, good for hammer toes). However, if you still require more cushioning along with similar features, the PowerStep Pinnacle insoles and the Superfeet Everyday insoles in low arch versions are equally good.
Product Details:
- Ideal Shoe Type: Casual wear, sports shoes, running shoes.
- Available sizes: Men – 5.5 to 15. Women – 4.5 to 14.
- Unique features: Beveled foam edge. Adjustable to both slim fitting and footwear with wide-toe box. Made with durable and high-strength EVOLyte polymer blend and High-density foam.
- Materials: Carbon fiber, Ultralight foam.
- Durability: Up to 12 months or 500 miles, whichever comes earlier.
- Price: $59.07.
7. Trustfeet Pain Relief Metatarsal Insoles
Rating:
Comfort 4/5 Support 3.5/5 Pain Relief 4/5 Value 4.5/5
Why do we like it?
The Trustfeet Metatarsal Pain Relief Insoles are engineered to provide ample cushioning and padding in the forefoot area. Despite being the most inexpensive in our list of orthotics, these distribute pressure evenly, while providing optimum comfort at each step. Within a month, we saw noticeable improvements in our testers who were having mild to moderate levels of hammer or claw-toe issues.
Nonetheless, these insoles are also great for someone who is dealing with overpronation. As you know, overpronation causes excess pressure on the metatarsals, this can weaken the forefoot structure over time. Consequently, this increases the chances of hammer toes and pain in the ball of your foot. The Trustfeet Foot Pain Relief insoles work at the foot level, right up to your entire body. Works to alleviate the foot pressure and provide you with optimum comfort.
It’s Worth Noting
These insoles are versatile and can be used for a wide range of activities such as all-day standing and running. Also useful for rheumatoid arthritis and gout pain, foot callus, high-impact shoes, and obesity. Note: these are not suitable for high heels or tight shoes.
Product Details:
- Ideal Shoe Type: Boots, Work Shoes, Casual Shoes, Athletic Shoes.
- Available sizes: Men – 4 to 14.5. Women – 4.5 to 12.5.
- Unique features: High density, dual-layer, shock-absorbing cushioning. Semi-rigid support plat that supports weight up to 300 lbs.
- Materials: Foam, EVA, Fabric.
- Durability: Needs to be replaced in 6 months, depending on usability.
- Price: $36.99.
Orthotics for Hammer Toes – What To Know
Before you shop for ready-made orthotics for hammer toes, do note that these insoles will provide only a passive straightening force to prevent the condition from getting worse. It’s just a preventive practice and isn’t a permanent solution to fix your curled bones. Neither does it make bunions completely go away! Other factors to consider are:
- Type of Shoes: Hammer toes usually happen to 2nd, 3rd, and 4th toes. You may be prone to getting this condition due to usage of ill-fitting shoes. You can feel this if your toes are under constant pressure or you see any deformity. If it is so, then it is of vital importance to wear shoes of the right size (preferably, with wide-toe boxes) with these orthotics.
- Arch Type: Mild to moderate pronation, supination, or overpronation are also a reason for bunions, hammer, or claw toes. So for the best support and alignment, you must always choose the right arch type for your foot: neutral (standard), low arches/ flat feet, or high arch support.
- Mixed Conditions: If you have excessive pronation or any mixed condition(s) such as bunions or hammer toes + Achilles tendinosis, always consult your foot doctor before trying any orthotics. In such cases, custom orthotics may work best for you.
- Precautions to take: While you are on orthotics for hammer toes, do not wear shoes that pack your toes. Also, avoid wearing high heels of over 2 inches.
If you experience any pain or discomfort, remove the orthotics for hammer toes immediately and consult your podiatrist.
Custom-fit orthotics are likely to provide better support and pain relief in patients with hammer toes and its accompanying bunion. As always, consult your orthopedic doctor if you have rigid hammer toes, or when the condition requires surgery.
