Most of the footwear on the market is not good for the feet.50 percent of Americans under the age of 60 suffer from some kind of foot ailment, many of which are related to wearing harmful footwear, according to the American Podiatric Medical Association.You don't have to go through pain for fashion.Take the right precautions when choosing shoes and look for comfortable features to find a shoe that offers the comfort you need.
Step 1: Look for shoes that have designs that are comfortable.
Some shoes don't have comfort for the sake of style.When looking for a comfortable shoe, you want to look for features that are comfortable.An Achilles notch is one of the features.There is a grooves at the back of the shoe.The notch helps prevent blisters and other damage to the skin at the heels.There is an ankle collar.The area of the shoe that wraps around the ankle is called an ankle collar.Support for the ankle is provided by ankle collars.A shoe.The "floor" of the shoe is the midsole and it helps absorb shock and control foot motion.It's important to find a shoe that fits your foot.A toe box is appropriate.The part of the shoe that holds your toes is called the toe box.If you wear a shoe with a toe box too small for your feet, it can cause problems.A bar.The roll bar helps prevent excess movement in the heel area of the shoe.It can help prevent accidental rolling of the ankle.
Step 2: A shoe that is flexible is a good one to pick.
In walking and jogging shoes, flexibility is an important consideration.Running shoes have to support the weight and force of a running stride.Pick up a shoe and bend the toe upward.The shoe should bend under the ball of the foot.Testing for support can be done by twisting the shoe.When you twist the shoe, there should be some resistance.
Step 3: Choose a shoe that is lightweight.
Heavy shoes take more effort to move around in, and are usually made of a less comfortable material.Heavier shoes can stifle your natural stride because they are less flexible.For hiking or wear in warm, dry weather, shoes made of a lightweight material are useful.It is possible for your foot to breathe more easily in such climates.
Step 4: Pick a small foot.
The greatest support for your ankle and heel can be found in keeping the heel close to the ground.This is important for dress shoes.There is a risk of ankle sprains for anything over 2 inches in height.The greater strain on your feet is caused by the sharper the incline of the shoe.
Step 5: It's a good idea to choose good padding.
Depending on the type of shoe, there will be different types of cushioning.A walking shoe has more cushion on the ball of the foot than a running shoe.Make sure the shoe you buy is designed for the activity you intend to wear it for.Try out the shoe on a hard surface.When walking on a harder surface, the level of comfort the cushion provides may be different.It's a good time to make sure the toe box has enough room for your toes.
Step 6: You can measure your feet.
The first step in getting the most comfortable shoes is to measure your foot size.The salesperson at the shoe store will be happy to help you get an accurate measurement.Many people have different sizes of feet.If you have a larger foot, wear a size that suits it.Measure your feet at the end of the night.Your feet are the most swollen.If you choose shoes that fit your feet well at the end of the day, they will be comfortable all day.You should measure your feet every few years.Your feet change over time.It's best to have a half inch between your longest toe and the end of your shoe.
Step 7: You can identify your arch type.
Depending on the shape of the arch, most feet fall into one of three categories.To get the most comfortable fit, choose shoes that fit your arch.Take a look at your footprint if you are unsure about the shape of your feet.You probably have low arches if you can see most of your foot print.If you can't see high arches.
Step 8: If you have neutral-arched feet, choose firm footwear.
There are neutral-arched feet.Those with neutral arches can wear shoes of their choice, as there is little need to compensate for the drawbacks of the arches.Moderate rear-foot stability and firm midsoles are strong all-around choices for comfort and longevity, as they help sustain the natural stride of the foot.
Step 9: A straight shoe is best for flat feet.
Low arches can cause problems for the feet and legs.Finding a shoe with a straight last and strong motion control is important to stabilizing your stride.Some of the excess pressure placed on the feet where the arch typically rests can be alleviated with raised insoles or supports.
Step 10: You can find shoes with arch support for high arches.
As they do not absorb shock well, high arches can cause strain on joints and muscles.Look for shoes that have arch support to help alleviate the impact that your foot has on your stride.
Step 11: Put your foot in the correct position.
The shoe must have enough room for your foot to rest comfortably.The ball of the foot and toe is included.The false fronts give your toes plenty of space and keep them from becoming cramped.You should be able to fit your toes in the wide toe area.Your foot should fit in any sandal you choose.The toes should not hang over the edge of the shoe.
Step 12: Product details should be looked at before you buy.
Before you buy a shoe, you should look at the product details.The product details can be found on the box of the shoe, or near where it is being displayed, and there are many details needed for choosing the right shoe.If you can't find what you're looking for, ask an employee at the store.After you explain your needs, they can help you pick the right shoe.Product features that can help you make the right decision can be found on the shoe manufacturer's website.
Step 13: An insert is needed.
Put an insert in your shoe if you don't have enough cushion.They are made of a variety of materials.Soft gel inserts may not last long, and can disrupt the natural walking movement of your stride.It is hard to support your feet where they need it the most with an insert.There are shoe stores that can identify where you need support.Stand on one to get a better idea of what to look for.The salesperson can help operate the device.
Step 14: Don't leave the shoes.
Some shoes become more comfortable as they are worn.If you have a pair of dress shoes that you intend on using for long social events, it is a good idea to wear them a few evenings in advance to make them more comfortable for those special occasions.There is more wiggle room with stretched shoes.Take your shoes to a local cobbler to see if they can be stretched.You can buy a self-stretching kit at shoe stores.
Step 15: Use moleskin.
If you break in a shoe, apply a moleskin or other patch to your feet to protect them.The patches can be applied directly to the shoe.Adding more bulk to your foot will help stretch out tight shoes.
Step 16: Adding sole pads or heel grips is a good idea.
Keeping the shoe firm on your foot can be difficult with shoes that are too loose.Adding a pad for the ball of the foot can keep your foot from sliding into the toe box.This is useful for shoes that have an incline.
Step 17: It's a good idea to wear socks that are specialized.
A thicker pair of socks can help fill out the gap if your shoe is too loose.A variety of socks are available that are tailored for comfort as well.Different padding is offered by the sporting goods stores for different activities.There are socks at your local pharmacy.If your doctor can refer you to a specific brand that can help you with your comfort issues, that's great.