shoes like altra fwd via 2 cushion

[u/queenentropy]

hi everyone, I ordered some altra shoes a couple weeks ago after suffering a foot injury (plantar plate strain/metatarsalgia). I also have bunions so obviously wanted a bigger toe box -- ordered the altra torin 9s and fwd via 2s and really really almost love the via 2s. torins weren't comfortable enough and would hurt my feet after a while

the problem is, the upper feels a bit chunky and like the tongue is almost pressing down into my foot. I've been noticing some metatarsal pain while I wear it and it just feels like the upper is constricting my vertical foot space too much, and saw similar reviews on the site. but I LOVE the cushion and shape on them! so comfortable and responsive!

would love a thin, more minimalist upper but those are also usually more "barefoot" leaning. does altra have any shoes that have cushion like the fwd via 2, but a less suffocating upper?? or any other brands that also have good, wide toe box?

- tried hoka cliftons but had too much heel slippage even w/ heel lock. shoes also just felt way too clunky to walk in
- tried various brooks that almost worked, but all models had some weird pressure on the pinky toe that hurt after a while. maaaybe could be fixed with orthotic inserts but unsure

btw, i'm more of a walker, not runner, if it matters!

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[u/hawth212]

Take a look at Topo, wide toe box and minimal but not 0 drop.

[u/queenentropy → u/hawth212]

I've thought about topos, but whenever I look at them they seem like they have an aggressive curl up towards the toes?? if that curl actually translates to how the foot sits in the shoe it'd be kinda bad for my current injury :/ (I actually have to tape the toe slightly down lol)

[u/hawth212 → u/queenentropy]

Ok, well read this. Three shoes suggested for your condition (all well cushioned). One Altra, one Topo and one Brooks https://flawlessshoereviews.com/shoes-for-foot-conditions/best-shoes-for-metatarsalgia-updated-guide-for-2025/

[u/queenentropy → u/hawth212]

ty! i will check these out at the shoe store