Footwear plays a very big part in supporting and protecting your feet. Believe it or not but shoes are one of the biggest influences on your feet that you have! Often, many foot problems are an outcome of ill-fitting footwear. A study by the American Foot and Ankle Society in 2001 revealed that 88% of women were wearing shoes that were too small. Of this same population, 55% had bunions. Not sure what to look for when purchasing your next pair of shoes or having trouble finding suitable footwear? Check out the following points for guideline.
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How To Choose The Right Shoe?
There is no such thing as the one perfect shoes. Feet come in all shapes and sizes. Men, women, children, athletes and older people all have different shoe requirements, and these vary considerably from activity to activity. As a thumb of rule, when you buy new shoes, it’s crucial to ensure
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They fit properly, both length and width
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They are supportive for the kind of activity you engage
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They do not cause damage to your feet or hurt in any way
Besides the normal process we use to select a comfortable shoe by walking or running a few steps, there are few tips to bear in mind:
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Choose a shoes where you have at least 1-1.5cm at the end of the shoe. Your toes should not touch the end of your shoes or you may damage your nails and toes.
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Choose a shoes that have a wide and deep toe-box area. If you can see the outline of your feet pressing against your shoes, they are probably the wrong fit. Pointy/narrow-toed shoes should be avoided.
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Shoes should be comfortable immediately. Don't’ buy shoes that need breaking in. In terms of materials, leather is preferred for shoe uppers. Synthetic or rubber soles are best for the sole as they are generally more durable, shock absorbent and provide better grip than leather. For highest comfortability, choose a shoes that will give or stretch a little and cushioning soles.
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Shoes should have some sorts of fastening mechanism (eg. laces, Velcro straps, buckle) to secure your feet in the shoes. If your feet have to work to hold your shoes in place, your foot muscles may be strained.
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Choose shoes for specific task only. Hiking shoes, running shoes and sport shoes are designed differently to support your foot in the right way for the movement you make.
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Choose shoes that are made from a material that breathes - fungal infections such as tinea love a warm moist environment. Absorptive socks can help with drawing moisture away.
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Choose shoes with a firm heel counter to support the heel. If you can flatten the heel counter down with your thumb, then the shoe is not going to give you the support that you need.
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Choose shoes with a broad low heel height for better stability. It is recommended that the heel of your shoe to be less than 2.5cm as high heels increase pressure on the ball of the foot.
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Shop for shoes later in the day as most feet tend to swell during the day and it is best to fit shoes when your feet are largest.
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When To Replace Your Shoe?
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According to expert, an average pair of running shoes should be replaced after about 500kms of use.
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Easiest method is go by how your shoes look and feel.
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Back of the sole is worn out.
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Your feet feel uncomfortable or less supportive.
Reminder:
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You pay what you get. If you decided to buy a $15 shoes, make sure to use them only on light activities. Cheap shoes are generally unable to protect and support your foot for any intense activity. Your foot will end up in more risk and increase the chance of fall injuries. Instead of buying too many pairs of shoes, get good wear from two pairs.
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Wear podiatrist recommended footwear if you have foot condition. The use of highest quality footwear in shop can never provide the maximum support and protection to your feet than a custom-made footwear. As foot care expert, we do not wish your chosen shoe worsen your foot condition which in turn increase your treatment cost.
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Our podiatrists at Passion Podiatry would love to ensure that you are wearing the correct footwear for your foot type and activities to reduce your risk of injury and foot pain. From proper shoes fitting (both width and length), arch support, extra cushioning and difficulties in fitting orthotics into your footwear, our podiatrists will be able to assess and recommend the best possible fit for you. No more headache on choosing the right footwear, leave your shoe selection to us today and start wearing comfortable footwear today without breaking a sweat.
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Passion Podiatry Is A Proud Provider For Following Brand:
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Medical grade footwear, Dr Comfort
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Prewalker footwear, Attipas