How do I buy a proper footwear?

BUYING SHOES

Any injury to the foot can impact your ability to move. High heels and pointy-toed fashion shoes are natural adversaries to your feet. Although the angle of high heels may make your legs look long and graceful, it puts pressure on the toes and upsets your complete normal balance of your feet. Keep your use of high heels to a minimum and opt for flats instead.

Sport-specific shoes are engineered to provide the support, motion control, and cushioning that minimize foot injuries associated with a particular activity. Sports shoes can also be worn every day. However, they will lose their cushioning effect over time and should be replaced if the lining no longer bounces back when you press on it.

Remember to check shoes for air flow—do they have porous fabric or air holes so that your feet can breathe? The toe should be more rounded with wide toe box than pointed, resembling the natural shape of the foot. With one hand on the heel and the other on the toe, try to bend the shoe—does it give? If it doesn’t flex, it’s probably too stiff. Next, place the shoe on the floor and push it forward—is there any resistance? Shoes with poor tread design or smooth bottoms can lead to slips and falls.

Although shoe construction certainly matters, fit is really the key element in keeping your feet healthy. Consider getting your feet measured. Your feet may well have increased in size as you age. Be sure to shop for shoes at the end of the day, when your feet are larger due to activity. Measure both feet, since they are often different sizes, and always fit to the larger size. Allow 1/2″ of room between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. Feel along the sides of the shoe while it’s on your foot to check that the widest part of your foot corresponds with the widest part of the shoe. Take a test stroll across the store to verify that the shoe flexes when you walk, and that your heel doesn’t slip in and out. Wear the hosiery or socks you expect to wear with the shoes.

The most important test of all is completely subjective: Are they comfortable? A particular pair of shoes may look great, but if they’re going to leave you sore or limping, leave them in the store. Be kind to your feet—they’ve got to carry you a long way.

AT THE END OF THE DAY WEAR WHAT IS COMFORTABLE TO YOUR FOOT AND NOT WHAT IS LOOKING GOOD. FOOT WEAR CAN BE CHANGED BUT NOT YOUR OWN FEET.