When did you last give your feet the attention they deserve? Even though our feet are the foundation of our bodies, we often overlook the importance of properly fitted shoes. If you strive to do more in life, it’s crucial to understand how a shoe should fit!
Shoe shopping can be challenging and sometimes frustrating as each year, make and model can fit differently. Ill-fitting shoes can lead to a variety of foot issues, including blisters, calluses, bunions, and ingrown toenails. Over time, these issues can worsen, causing significant pain and discomfort. Properly fitted shoes will provide the necessary support for your feet and will reduce the risk of these common foot complaints. Well-fitting footwear can also alleviate pain and discomfort in your ankles, knees, hips and lower back. Arch support and cushioning can make a world of difference, especially if you spend a lot of time on your feet at play or at work!
What to look for when picking your next shoe?
When shopping for a shoe look for the following features:
- Length: Shoe length is essential for a proper fit. Make sure to measure both your feet with a foot measuring device, known as a Brannock. It is common to have one foot slightly longer than the other. Measure from the heel to the longest toe. This measurement will give you a good idea of what size of shoe you should be wearing, however always remember, each brand has a slightly different fit, so you may need to go up or down a size. When trying shoes on there should be approximately half an inch of space from the longest toe to end of the shoe. This will ensure that your toes can move when you walk. If you can feel the end of the shoe, try going up a half to a full size. Also, too large a shoe can cause slippage at the heel or rubbing under the bottom of the foot.
- Width: When measuring length with the Brannock device, you must measure the width of the foot as well. The shoe should fit snug, but not too tight, and you always should be able to wiggle your toes. If the shoe is too wide, it will be creasing across the toe as you walk. You may also be able to grip extra fabric across the toe box and it will likely cause slippage when walking causing blisters. If your toes need to constantly grip to stabilize the foot, heel pain or plantar fasciitis could result. Alternatively, if the shoe is too narrow, you may see spillage over the sides of the shoe and bulging of the material around the foot. It will feel uncomfortable because the foot is being squeezed and may lead to bunions, hammer toes, corns or blisters.
- Correct Depth: The depth of a shoe is usually not noticed until it is not there! It’s important to make sure your foot is fully accommodated. If you have difficulty putting the shoe on or feel pressure on the top of your foot when wearing it, it could be a sign that the depth of the shoe just isn’t enough! A shoe that is too shallow often leads to irritation causing redness, blisters, callus and corns. Laces and Velcro straps allow you to tighten or loosen as desired. The depth of a shoe is especially important for those that have toe deformities, such as hammer toes.
- Firm heel counter: The heel counter wraps around the back of the heel of your foot. If it’s flimsy and easily bends, it does not offer the support your foot needs, as it does not stabilize your heel while walking. When it’s firm and fits snug around the heel, it will hold the heel and provide needed support and comfort.
- Midfoot Support: Flexibility in the toe area is fine and allows for proper toe off while walking however, you shouldn’t be able to bend or twist a shoe in its middle section. If a shoe is too flexible, you will not get the support you need through your midfoot when you walk. This may lead to injuries such as sprains, strains, plantar fasciitis, or tendonitis. When there is firm support in the midfoot, the structures in the foot will be protected and comfortable when walking.
Important to remember
Shoe size can change over time, especially if you have gained or lost weight, and can even fluctuate from morning to night. It’s best to measure your feet every time you shop for shoes. Always try on shoes and walk around as much as possible. Choose a shoe that matches your activity. A running shoe feels different than a dress shoe. Look for a thicker sole that grips when walking, providing more traction on slippery surfaces, and breathable materials to enhance comfort and durability.
Properly fitted shoes are imperative to maintain foot health and overall well-being. If you are experiencing foot pain or discomfort, our BioPed lower limb clinicians are here to provide a personalized solution. Take the first step towards happier, healthier feet today!
