Summer is half over, and people have been outdoors, hiking, playing sports, and enjoying the sun. It puts a lot of wear on your feet and footwear. Let’s review some tips on what you need to know before making your next shoe purchase.
To ensure you get the best shoes for the most comfortable fit, follow these tips:
- Most people have feet that are slightly different sizes, so make sure both feet are measured, and you try on both shoes.
- Try to go shoe shopping at the end of the day. Your feet will be swollen and larger from a day’s worth of activity. It will give you a more realistic fit.
- When you try on shoes, do so with the socks you normally wear.
- Your toes should have enough wiggle room to move around without restriction. Make sure there’s about a half-inch of space between the longest toe and the tip of the shoe’s toe box, which is about the width of an adult’s thumb.
- The heel of the shoe should fit snugly, so it does not slip out when walking, but not so tight that it scrapes your heel.
- Make sure to walk around the store several times to ensure the shoes fit properly when in motion. Check the foot for any redness that could indicate rubbing or pressure.
- If you’re buying athletic shoes, be sure to purchase the appropriate shoe specifically designed for each activity.
- In general, the proper athletic shoe should provide adequate support, shock absorption, traction, and protection necessary to keep the foot working properly and free from injury and stress.
- You should replace athletic shoes more often than normal footwear to avoid wear and tear on your feet due to worn soles, weakened heel counters, and evident creasing of the upper.
Contact a specialist immediately if you find an issue or are experiencing pain or discomfort. Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, Dr. Donal M. Erickson, Dr. Keith Sherman, and their staff will help diagnose and treat your foot or ankle. Call Syracuse Podiatry, located in East Syracuse, New York, for more tips and expert advice. Call 315-446-3668 or make an appointment online today.