A good shoe should flex where your toes bend naturally and be snug when you try them on in the morning. Throughout the day, feet tend to slightly swell and shoes that are too small can cause discomfort.
1. Choose shoes that are made of a breathable material
Regardless of your age or activity level, it is important to prioritize footwear that provides proper arch support and shock absorption. This helps prevent a wide range of issues, including foot pain, blisters, and musculoskeletal problems like hammertoe.
It is also a good idea to buy shoes that are made of a breathable material to help prevent excessive sweating and odor. This will keep your feet cool, dry and comfortable throughout the day. It is also important to regularly assess and replace your shoes when they become worn out or no longer provide adequate support.
When buying shoes, it is always best to get the right size. You should be able to wiggle your toes when wearing them. If you can’t, then the shoe is too small and may cause blisters or other foot problems over time. It is also a good idea to avoid shoes that are pointed or have high heels, as these can exacerbate foot problems such as bunions and hammertoes. If you are unsure about what shoes are the best for your feet, talk to podiatrist based in Maroochydoret. They will be able to recommend the perfect pair of shoes to fit your needs. A podiatrist Buderim can also offer recommendations on how to properly care for your shoes to ensure they last longer and remain in good condition.
2. Choose a shoe with a built-in arch
Shoes are more than a fashion statement, they are also critical to your foot health. Foot conditions like flat feet, high arches, bunions and plantar fasciitis can all be avoided or managed by choosing the proper footwear for your unique foot type and condition.
When choosing shoes, it’s important to find a pair that have a built-in arch to support your foot and avoid common foot problems. For instance, wearing shoes that don’t fit properly can cause your foot to overpronate, which can lead to knee and hip pain, as well as shin splints and blisters. Shoes that are too tight can squeeze your toes, which can cause hammertoes and bunions. Shoes that don’t have enough cushioning or arch support can leave your feet tired and sore after a long day of walking or running.
The best way to determine what kind of shoe you need is to have your foot measured at a professional shoe store. It’s important to get remeasured at least once a year because your foot size and shape changes over time. Once you know what kind of shoe you need, it’s easy to choose a pair that offers the right amount of support and stability for your feet.
3. Wear sneakers for walking and running
If you walk a lot (or stand for long periods of time), you need shoes that support your feet and cushion your steps. This can help decrease foot fatigue, soreness, and pain, and slow down the deterioration of the fat pad on the bottom of your feet.
Sneakers that are designed for walking have a stable arch, good shock absorption, and a wide, flexible sole. Walking shoes should also be lightweight and durable. According to both Criscione and Lobkova, New Balance is a shoe brand that tends to offer the most versatility in meeting all of these needs. The 990v6 model is a favorite, with both podiatrists noting that it offers just the right amount of support without being too rigid or creating weakness in the foot and ankle.
Running shoes are typically designed for heel-toe joggers and runners, with the majority of models grouped into “neutral,” ‘overpronation’, or ‘underpronation’ categories. However, both podiatrists agree that the most important feature is to find a shoe that fits well, feels comfortable, and supports your specific foot type and movement patterns.
If you are a beginner runner, it is recommended to start with a neutral shoe. You can gradually build up your mileage and switch to a more supportive running shoe as needed.
4. Look for shoes that can be removed for orthotics
For people who spend their days standing, it is important that they choose footwear that provides adequate cushioning and support. Proper footwear can prevent foot conditions such as bunions, corns and hammertoes from developing, as well as lower the chances of pain in other parts of the body, like the back or shoulders.
When choosing shoes for standing, look for a shoe that has adequate arch support and a wide toe box. This will ensure that your toes are able to spread naturally, which can help prevent blisters and other podiatric issues. It is also a good idea to find shoes that have shock-absorbing materials, as these can reduce the amount of stress that is placed on your feet and ankles while you are standing.
If you have been prescribed orthotics, it is a good idea to make sure that your shoes can accommodate them. Look for shoes that have a removable liner, so that you can add your custom orthotics and still have a secure fit. Some brands that offer shoe models that are orthotic friendly include Vivaia, Vionic and Naturalizer.
It is also a good idea to get your shoes professionally measured every time you purchase them. This is because your feet can change in size throughout the day and it is important to have a shoe that fits properly. Getting your shoes professionally fitted can help to prevent foot pain and other health problems.
