Claw toes
Reading time: 4 min | Last updated: 11 December 2025
Dealing with claw toes? You’re definitely not alone! Claw toes are a common foot issue and can be quite bothersome. Wearing regular shoes often becomes uncomfortable – and sometimes even painful. Luckily, there are ways to ease the discomfort. Here’s everything you need to know.
What are claw toes?
The name says it all: claw toes are toes that curl like a claw. The first joint of your toe bends upwards, while the others curl downwards – causing the tip of the toe to press into the insole of your shoe. Not great! Pain and calluses often follow, especially on the second, third, and fourth toes. Claw toes can be either flexible (still slightly bendable) or stiff.
What helps with claw toes?
Fortunately, there are several options to help relieve the discomfort:
1 | Toe orthotics
Soft silicone sleeves that reduce friction and protect your toes from pressure.
2 | Insoles
Supportive insoles help correct foot alignment and reduce strain on the toes. They distribute pressure more evenly across your foot, which can ease symptoms.
3 | Roomy shoes
Opt for shoes with a wide toe box and soft, supportive insoles. Give your toes space to move freely. You’ll find our roomier styles here. At Wolky, our anatomically shaped footbeds with memory foam are designed to offer maximum support and comfort.
4 | Toe exercises
Simple stretches and strengthening exercises can improve toe position – and you can do them from home. No gym required!
Stretch shoes
New from Wolky: shoes with stretch material across the forefoot – perfect for claw toes.
Original price was: £229.95.£185.00Current price is: £185.00.
What causes claw toes?
Here are some common causes:
1 | Shoes that are too small or narrow
Tight shoes don’t give your toes the space they need, and over time this can affect their shape.
2 | Muscle imbalance or weakness
If some muscles in your feet are stronger than others, it can cause an imbalance – leading to claw toes.
3 | Neurological conditions
Nerves and muscles in your feet can be affected by conditions like diabetes or a herniated disc. Learn more about foot neuropathy here.
4 | Rheumatoid arthritis or arthritis
Joint issues may cause the toes to gradually curl.
5 | Other foot conditions
Flat feet or high arches can increase pressure on your toes, contributing to claw toes. Insoles can help by redistributing that pressure.
Claw toe surgery
If the above treatments aren’t enough, surgery may be considered. The type of procedure depends on how severe the claw toes are:
- Mild cases: Tendon lengthening can help straighten the toe.
- Stiff claw toes: The joint may be surgically fixed in a straight position.
- In some cases: A small piece of bone is removed or reshaped to restore the toe’s natural alignment.
Surgery is usually only advised if other treatments haven’t worked and the discomfort is significant.
Stretch2Fit shoes
Our Stretch2Fit (S2F) shoes are comfortable for everyone – but a total relief if you have claw toes.
Original price was: £229.95.£185.00Current price is: £185.00.
Original price was: £229.95.£185.00Current price is: £185.00.
Claw toes vs Hammertoes: what's the difference?
They’re often confused but they’re not quite the same.
- Claw toe: The first joint bends upwards, and the other joints curl down.
- Hammertoe: Only the middle joint is bent, while the toe tip remains straight.
Both can cause pain and calluses – especially if your shoes don’t fit well. You can read more about hammertoes in our blog.
Comfortable shoes for claw toes
As mentioned, claw toes need shoes with enough room in the toe area. Free movement, no pinching – that’s the key to comfort.
At Wolky, we’ve developed something new: Stretch2Fit shoes. These feature a flexible upper over the toe area made from stretch material that adapts to your foot. Normally, your claw toes might press against the top of your shoe – but not with our S2F shoes. These shoes give way and stretch where you need it most. Perfect for women with claw toes!
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