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How To Choose The Right Footwear For Your Feet

by | Feb 21, 2023 | General Podiatry | 0 comments

An average person walks between 5000 to 7000 steps daily (1). Wearing a good pair of shoes can help support and keep your feet healthy, as well as prevent injuries during daily activities. So, are you in the market for a new pair of shoes? Whether you’re in search of athletic shoes or dress shoes, finding the right shoe store can make all the difference. Here are some tips to help you pick the perfect pair of shoes.

 

How To Choose The Right Shoes

Firstly, it’s crucial to ensure that you’re buying the right size of shoe. Don’t just buy a shoe because it looks good or because someone recommended it to you. Wearing the wrong size shoes can lead to foot problems such as blisters, corns, and calluses (2). Have your foot size measured and fitted properly before buying shoes. Make sure there’s about one thumb-width (1.5cm) of space between the tip of your longest toe and the front end of the shoe. This space is necessary since your feet will slide forward as you walk (3). Ensure that you can wiggle all your toes when wearing the shoes, and keep in mind that your foot should have enough room to move within the shoe as you walk or run.

 

Buy Shoes That Feel Comfortable And Provide Arch Support

Secondly, look for shoes that provide arch support and stability. Shoes that lack adequate support can lead to bone and muscle pain, especially if you’re walking or running for an extended period of time. As you walk, your feet bend naturally around the ball of the foot at the metatarsal joints (3). Wearing shoes that support this movement will make walking more comfortable and aid in your training routine. Additionally, shoes that provide motion control can prevent injuries, keeping your feet from sliding around inside the shoes as you walk.

 

The Right Shoe For The Right Job

Lastly, if you’re participating in specific activities, make sure to choose shoes that are designed for those activities. For instance, steel-cap boots can prevent injuries for factory workers, while anti-slippery shoes are suitable for chefs. Basketball shoes offer more stability and support, while tennis shoes provide more side-to-side movement than running or walking shoes. Running shoes, on the other hand, offer more cushioning and traction. It’s also essential to look for shoes with a good heel cup to avoid ankle problems.

 

Shoe Store Tips And Advice

It’s important to note that shoe sizes differ among brands, so you should always try on different sizes and pick the one that feels the most comfortable. You may also need to try half sizes or shoes that are slightly bigger than your normal size, especially if you have a larger foot or a toe box that bends differently. Don’t forget to wear socks when trying on shoes, and ensure that you tie the laces properly to avoid slipping.

Wearing the right shoes is vital for maintaining healthy feet and avoiding injuries. Always ensure that you choose shoes that fit well and are appropriate for your foot shape and size as well as the specific activity you’ll be doing. Don’t be swayed by fashion when buying shoes, and avoid wearing high heels or minimalist shoes for long periods of time, as they can be harmful to your feet and body. Remember that your feet are the foundation of your body, so it’s important to take care of them. Follow these simple guidelines to avoid foot problems and enjoy your activities pain-free.

 

Improper shoes can cause pain not only in the feet but also in the calves, shins, knees, hips and lower back. If you notice this pain, upgrade to a properly fitted, comfortable new shoe first. If you’re still experiencing pain, it may be time to see a podiatrist to get assistance with your foot and lower leg pain.

 

  1. Withings. What country is the most active?.
  2. Buldt, AK, Menz, HB. Incorrectly fitted footwear, foot pain and foot disorders: a systematic search and narrative review of the literature. J Foot Ankle Res. 2018;11:43. doi:10.1186/s13047-018-0284-z
  3. Australian Podiatry Association ( 2023). Footwear Health Check [Fact sheet]. https://www.podiatry.org.au/documents/item/2325

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