Choosing The Right Shoes: What to Look for When Buying New Shoes

February 21, 2019

Choosing good walking shoes is a fundamental step in avoiding food pain. Wearing walking shoes that are comfortable helps prevent injuries such as blisters and calluses. Further, they should support and protect your foot to allow the foot muscles to work less. This avoids future problems such as heel pain or plantar fasciitis.

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Below are some characteristics you should look for in a shoe:

1. The sole of the shoe should not twist.
2. The toe box region should be deep and roomy.
3. The shape of the shoe should match the foot for the shoe to be comfortable. That is why leather shoes are a great option; leather shoes mold around the foot after a couple times of wear, which provides the foot with optimal comfort.
4. The shoe should be a thumb width longer than the longest toe.
5. The sole should be solid to allow shock absorption. 

SHAPE

You should consider the shape of your feet when choosing shoes. No two feet are equal; they come in many different shapes and sizes. To avoid future problems, you should definitely consider the shape and size of your feet, and the shoes should conform to the shape of your feet, not the other way round. Take into consideration the following tips:

Width and length: It is important to know that too narrow or too wide walking shoes can cause blisters and calluses. Further, if the toe box is not high enough, it can help increase future foot disorders, for example, bunions. 

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Arch: Arches play a crucial role in how the foot adapts to surfaces when you walk as they help distribute the body weight evenly. People have different arches and, in general, shoes do not offer arch support or, if they do, it is minimal arch support. However, for optimal comfort and to reduce injuries, people should combine a good pair of shoes with orthopedic support as orthopedic support completely adapts to the form of each person’s foot.

Chose shoes that are comfortable and can accommodate your own arch support insole. Note that there are three main types of foot categories: natural-arched feet, low-arched/flat feet, and high-arched feet. It is always recommended that you consult your doctor regarding the type of arch support or personalized insoles you need and get them accordingly. Do not try to treat yourself as these could cause further issues in the future.

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FIT

Shoes can have the best design in the world and not fit you properly. When you are looking for shoes, it can be hard to find a shoe that you really like and that fits well in your feet. However, you should focus more on the fit and comfort than on the design. When you are shopping for shoes, you should keep in mind the following:

1. Have socks you will wear with the shoes, so you can try the shoes with the same socks.
2. Remember that both shoes will not fit equally to your feet as it is common to have a foot larger than the other.
3. Be sure the shoe is wide enough. You should get a snug fit, not tight.

Consider different factors depending on the shoes:

Athletic shoes: The shoe should feel comfortable right away.

Sandals: These shoes are only good for short distance walking. For better comfort, choose sandals with wrap around the ankle.

Boots: Boots may fit loosely and usually they do not provide arch support. Get a size that allows you to add insoles with arch support to improve comfort and avoid injuries. Note that genuine leather shoes are a good choice when buying new shoes; the leather molds around your feet, which leads to better fit and comfort.

Heel shoes: heels are bad for the feet, the knees and the spine as they alter the body posture and can cause pain. Avoid walking long distances in heels and try to choose heels that do not curve in to minimize pain.

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When to replace your shoes?

Remember that after wearing your shoes for a while, you should replace them to prevent injuries, instability and foot pain. Shoes that have been worn a lot do not provide enough support or shock absorption. You should change your shoes when the outsole is worn. You can usually find a great pair of shoes from $60 to $160, depending on the style. If you are paying more, you will be paying for brand recognition and design. 

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Remember: Shoes affect your feet, legs, and joints. Your physical activity can put stress on your feet, ankles, legs, and joints when the shoes you are wearing are too tight, too loose or they do not have proper support. Improper footwear can cause tendon pain, bunions, ingrown nails, back pain, postural issues, etc. Wearing the wrong shoes, can increase your chances of injury, exacerbate existing problems, cause stress and pain to your bones and joints, etc.   

Finally, many studies have shown that there is no “best shoe” for a specific type of foot. You should choose according to comfort and proper fit, and with the possibility to include your orthopedic arches in the shoe. 

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