Most people are aware when buying shoes that the length of the shoe is important for fit and function, but what about the width? Shoe shopping can become frustrating when your shoes do not fit properly. So, let’s lace up and dive into why shoe width is just as important as shoe length.
You might be asking “So why is shoe width important?” Every foot is unique, just like every person. Some of us have narrow feet, while others have wider feet. Just like wearing pants that are two sizes too small, or two sizes too big; shoes that are too narrow or too wide can spell trouble for your feet. Neither scenario is ideal for the comfort or health of your feet.
Your feet need the right support to carry you through life’s adventures. Not only can shoe width make you feel uncomfortable, but it can also affect the health of your feet. If the shoe is too narrow, you will feel like your toes are getting squeezed together. Consistently wearing too narrow of shoes can cause ingrown toenails, painful blisters, calluses or corns, and can even lead to bunion formation or hammertoes. On the flip side, wearing shoes that are too wide can cause your feet to slide around in the shoe, leading to blisters, instability and potential injuries like sprains.
Picking the Right Shoe
When looking for a shoe, opt for one that has a slightly larger toe box, one that allows you to wiggle your toes freely, but not so much so that your foot is sliding around. Delicately squeeze your foot when in the shoe to see if there is any gapping in the shoe material. If there is, the shoe is too loose, opt for a narrower width. If your foot is bulging over the sides of the shoe, the shoe is too narrow and opt for a wider width. Some brands of shoes only come in one width, so if you tend to have a narrower foot or wider foot, try to avoid those specific brands.
The solution lies in finding the Goldilocks of shoes- not too narrow, but not too wide either. So, if you are having trouble figuring out what kind of shoe best suits your unique foot, who better to help on this quest than our dedicated team at BioPed Footcare? Our clinicians can conduct a full foot assessment and help you determine what is the best shoe for you.
Fitted Footwear
Never underestimate the importance of shoe width when it comes to the health of your feet. By choosing the footwear that is best suited to your feet, and incorporating some simple footcare maintenance, you can keep your feet happy and healthy.
Come See Us!
With the right knowledge, you will be on your way to doing more- whether it’s exploring new trails, dancing the night away, or simply living life to the fullest. So, here is to happy feet and endless adventures ahead, and remember, at BioPed, we are always here to support you every step of the way.
