Buying the right shoes is an investment in foot health. But how do you find ones that fit properly and provide adequate support?
Start with your own feet, and look at what’s already in your closet. Stand barefoot on a piece of paper or cardboard, and trace the shape of each foot. Now take your shoes, one by one, and place them on top of the drawing. If you’re like most people, your “comfortable” shoes will closely match the outline of your own feet.
Identify the shoes that cause pain. If you’re a woman, most of these will be shoes with narrow toes or high heels. Check to see if the toe of the shoe is narrower or shorter than your own toes.
When you’re ready to replace some of that uncomfortable footwear, these tips can help:
- Shop for shoes at the end of the day. Our feet are swollen by the end of the day and trying on shoes during this time will ensure a better fit.
- Perform the Bend Test! If you can bend a shoe in half from toe to heel, they are unlikely to have enough support.
- If the shoe hurts in the store, don’t buy it! The shoe should be comfortable when you try it on. Don’t purchase any shoe that you feel will require a break-in period.
- Make sure the shoe has a wide enough toe box and one fingerbreadth between the tip of your toes to the end of the shoe.
- Bring your orthotics to the shoe store to make sure the fit of the sneaker works with your insert inside them.
DR. ARIEL LEPOFF FAVORITE SHOES:
- ASICS | GEL-KAYANO
This shoe offers great support for those that have flat feet and need increased stability.
2. NEW BALANCE
The 1400 high-top sneakers are a great choice if you have a history of ankle sprains. New balance offers specialty widths which is important if you have a narrow or wide foot.
3. HOKA | GAVIOTA 2 | BONDI 7
These sneakers incorporate a rocker bottom which can relieve great toe pain secondary to arthritis from hallux limitus or hallux rigidus.
4. BROOKS | CASCADIA 15
This is a popular style for walking due to its cushioning and traction.
Remember: A supportive sneaker is half the remedy for foot pain and arch collapse. It is equally as important to have a good orthotic inside the sneaker.
TALK TO A PODIATRIST
If you have foot pain, schedule an appointment today with Dr. Ariel Lepoff at The Medical Group of South Florida for a comprehensive foot examination.
Dr. Lepoff’s services include bunions, hammertoes, heel pain, tendonitis, warts, calluses, sports injuries, foot and ankle fractures, ingrown toenails, wound care, neuromas, diabetic foot care, and so much more!