Footwear is the only item of clothing that can seriously damage your health. Wearing inappropriate or ill-fitting shoes can directly lead to serious and painful conditions like bunions, metatarsalgia, plantar fasciitis and, in extreme cases even arthritis.
Choosing the right shoes for your feet and your lifestyle is therefore very important. Follow the 10 Top Tips below and you’ll be taking a big step towards maximum comfort and mobility:
1. Make sure both feet are properly measured. It’s not unusual for one foot to be bigger and the shoes chosen need to accommodate the larger foot
2. Shoes should only bend where your foot bends i.e. at the joint of the big toe
3. Shoes should prevent feet from being twisted laterally
4. The heel should be fully enclosed within the shoe, high, firm and supportive.
5. The toe section of shoes should be deep and roomy.
6. Shoes should be a thumb’s width longer than the longest toe.
7. Shoes should be able to be fastened by a buckle, belt, strap, or laces.
8. Heels should be no higher than 2.5cm.
9. The shape of the shoe should match the general shape of the foot, if it doesn’t, the shoe will probably be uncomfortable.
10. The midsole of the shoe should be solid – firm, but able to absorb impact from walking
Remember, the two main functions of a good shoe are support and protection. When shoes provide proper support less stress is placed on sensitive areas of the feet.
Even with well-chosen good quality shoes, additional arch support may be needed (particularly for activities like running and hiking) to prevent foot over-pronation and impact injuries.