When it comes to footwear, comfort and style often top the list of priorities for many people. Athleisure wear shoes like Vans and Converse, with their timeless designs and casual appeal, have gained immense popularity over the years. However, the question arises: are they bad for your feet? Keep reading to explore whether flat shoes like Vans can have a negative impact on your foot health.
Athleisure shoes, including brands like Vans, Converse, and others, provide a minimalistic and stylish option for everyday wear, and many people love the look and light feel of these shoes. However, using these shoes for work and activities on a regular basis can be cause for concern, and can be aggravating for the following reasons:
The lack of structure and arch support
These shoes are often highly flexible and don’t include the important features and structure that securely hold your foot in a healthy posture. A key feature in good quality, supportive footwear is a firm sole that resist twisting and bending side to side, which can help control excessive pronating as well as rolling the ankle to the outside. They are also missing a strong heel counter, which supports the heel bone and keeps your feet, as well as your orthotics, upright. This support that keeps your feet in a straight or neutral position can be helpful to prevent and recover from conditions like plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis.
Minimal or no cushioning
The soft, cushioned midsole in a shoe is designed to soften the impact of your foot against the ground with every step your take. Shoes with such little or no shock absorption allow the pressure from hard surfaces like concrete and tile to transmit into your foot. While this might feel fine at first, repetitive heavy pressure on your heels and the balls of your feet can aggravate foot conditions and lead to pain down the road. Reducing excess pressure to your foot can be crucial for those suffering with arthritis and stiff joints, and protecting the skin from building up calluses is a top priority for those with diabetes.
Narrow and tight fitting
These shoes prioritize a slim fit right up to the toes for a streamlined aesthetic. While those with narrow and low volume feet might be able to fit into this shape, most people require a medium to wide width shoe. Many people require even extra width and or depth to best fit their foot shape, and most athleisure shoes do not offer sizes to accommodate this kind of fit. On top of this, the toe box is very tapered and pointy, leading to a tight fit which can apply stress to the toes and overall forefoot. This can worsen multiple conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, Morton’s neuromas, and even ingrown toenails.
It’s also important to select the correct shoes for the activity you are doing. Athleisure shoes might be ideal for casual and relaxed hangouts but are likely to feel uncomfortable and cause unnecessary pain if standing for long hours, hiking, or playing any sort of impactful sport. By switching between different types of shoes, including those with more support, softer cushion, and a better fit, you can give your feet a break and reduce the risk of developing potential issues.
If you love athleisure style shoes like Vans but are concerned about their lack of support, there are solutions available. Custom orthotics can provide additional support your feet might need and are available in various designs and can be customized to fit your unique foot shape. They can turn a pair of flat, less supportive shoe into shoes that are a more foot-friendly option! However, it is generally recommended to put your orthotics into a supportive shoe. Alternatively, there are shoe brands that combine similar style with comfort and foot health in mind. While they may not offer the same aesthetics as an athleisure style shoe like Vans, they can be a great choice for those who prioritize foot comfort and health while maintaining a stylish look.
Come Visit Us
If you have questions about how to get the best shoe and fit for your feet, we’re here to help. Contact your local BioPed Clinic and book your complementary shoe fitting today.
