Shoes offer a wonderful opportunity to show off your style and complement your outfit. But your footwear will play a major role in the health of your toes, feet, and ankles. So make sure you select your footwear carefully.
You know that you can try on shoes at the store before you buy them. But pay attention to details in the shape and structure of these shoes to ensure you purchase footwear that will not lead to foot problems down the road. Check out these features you should look for while shoe shopping to ensure you buy footwear that promotes good foot health.
Wide, Comfortable Toe Boxes
The toe box refers to the top part of the shoe that covers your toes. This section of the shoe should have plenty of room for the toes. When you try shoes on, wiggle your toes to ensure they feature space for these important parts of your foot.
If shoes fit too narrowly in this area, the toes will feel squished together. This may lead to complications in your feet over time. Not only could you form blisters or calluses acutely, but you could see deformities develop in your toes and feet, including bunions.
Other inflammatory issues may occur in your feet due to narrow toe boxes too, such as plantar fasciitis. So make sure you check this fit before buying shoes. Be careful if you are interested in a pointy style of shoe.
Shoes that fit too loosely, however, could also be detrimental to your foot health. Make sure your shoes do not feel like they will slip or slide off your foot when in use.
Low, Broad Heel
Many people consider high heels to be a fashionable footwear choice. But an elevated heel, especially with a thin support such as a stiletto style, could pose a serious threat to your well-being.
Instead, you should choose a shoe that features a low heel with a broad shape. This increases support for your foot so that you do not overwork or strain the muscles in your feet when you walk. A lower heel will help you avoid back and leg pain that can also develop due to stress caused by the lack of footwear support.
Supportive, Flexible Sole
The soles of your shoes will play a major role in your overall foot health. So take note of this component of footwear when shopping. You do not want to choose a sole that is too thin, as with many ballet flats. They will not cushion your feet enough, and you could face stress injuries or inflammation in the feet over time.
But you do want to make sure that the sole of your shoe is flexible enough to allow your foot to flex and move properly as you walk. Otherwise, the shoe can inhibit your movement abilities, and you might see a higher risk of musculoskeletal injuries to your feet, toes, or ankles.
This is why trying on and testing shoes before you wear them is so important. When you walk down the aisle of a shoe store, you can feel how your footwear moves with your feet. Then you can tell if these will work in your case. Learn more about the footwear you need by calling your podiatrist.