How do you know if your shoes fit correctly?
- Is there enough space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe? Ideally there should be around 1.5cm. Your big toe may not always be your longest toe! This will prevent damage to nails & toes.
- Do your shoes give you painful feet? They may not be fitting correctly and could be causing problems.
- Have you had your feet measured? Measuring them at the end of the day when they are the largest to ensure you purchase the right sized shoe.
Problems caused by ill-fitting shoes include:
- Plantar Fasciitis, a shooting pain or ache in the heel.
- Bunions, swelling or deformity of the first joint of the big toe.
- Blisters, can be caused by friction due to rubbing.
- Corns and Calluses, caused by continuous friction between the feet and shoes.
5 Tips for buying shoes!
- Firmness in the Shank – The shank is an internal part of the supportive structure, between the insole and outsole. Grab the front and back of the shoe, you want some firmness when you twist the shoe and not be able to wring the shoe like a tea towel.
- Shoe should bend at the ball of the foot to help with walking.
- Materials – Leather is generally preferred for uppers and Rubber & Synthetic are preferred for the sole as they are shock absorbent, provide good grip and are more durable. Ensure it is well-padded to reduce the pressure on the feet. Ensure the material is breathable to prevent the risk of fungal infections. Absorptive socks can help this.
- Shape- Broad-toed shoes allow room for toes and prevent pressure injuries. Pointy shoes can make toes ‘claw’ and clenched toes can also cause rubbing.
- All shoes should be secured on the feet with either straps, buckles or laces. If feet have to work to hold the shoe in place, the muscles may end up strained.
Don’t buy shoes that need breaking in.
Shoes should immediately be comfortable.