Good shoes can make you feel better and help prevent injury. Your shoe choice affects your entire body, not only your feet.
We shares her advice about how to choose the right shoe:
1. Select a shoe that has a solid foundation
Shoes are like the foundation for a home. A house built on a soft, mushy foundation will be wobbly. If you select a shoe that has a soft base, the same thing will happen to your feet. You can test the foundation of a shoe by gently bending at the toe. It’s too soft if it folds into half. It is a good support if it bends a little but remains mostly rigid.
2. Make sure that it has arch support
Several trendy shoes, such as Vans, Chucks, and others, have flat soles that can cause discomfort over time. Shoes with arches give you more stability and balance by providing support on the bottom of your feet.
If you must add an insert, it’s best to buy a shoe that has a built in arch. Avoid buying an insert from a large-box retailer if you have to. Instead, visit a specialty shop. They can measure your foot to determine the correct insole.
3. Get your laces!
Shoes that have laces are generally preferred to slip-ons, as they offer better support and keep your foot firmly in place on the shoe’s sole. Birkenstocks, for instance, may have an arch, but they won’t protect you feet as effectively as a running or tennis shoe.
4. Choose the right shoe for your comfort level and foot type
Do not buy shoes just because they are on sale, your favorite colour or that a friend has recommended them. Choose the shoe that you find most comfortable.
To determine your shoe size and width, have your foot professionally measured at a local shoe store. Remeasure your feet at least every few years, as the size and shape of your foot can change.
Try on a variety of brands and styles until you find the one that is most comfortable for you. Do not let your brand loyalty stop you from exploring other options.
Avoid shoes with a small toe box or that don’t allow at least a one-finger gap between the edge of the shoe and your big toe. You should also try walking around and standing up in the shoes so you can feel how they feel when your foot is flat.
5. Replace worn out shoes
Shoes don’t last forever. Upgrade your shoes when the texture of the soles begins to wear out around your heels or ball of feet. Use the opportunity to try new styles and brands when you throw out your old shoes. You may find that your old favorite shoe is still the best for you, or you might discover a new one. Be open-minded.
6. High heels are not for everyone
Heels can cause stress to the body if worn for long periods. If possible, choose flats instead of heels. If you decide to wear heels, ask a friend to drop you at the venue so that you won’t have to travel long distances. Wear walking shoes and then change into heels when you get to the venue.
7. When you are in pain, get help
Incorrect shoes can cause pain in your feet, calves, shins knees, hips, and lower back. Upgrade to a new, properly fitted and comfortable tennis shoe or athletic shoes if you experience this type of pain. If you are still in pain, it might be time to visit a physical therapist.
Our team can help students with a wide range of pains and strains that are part of student life. Talk to your doctor about getting a physical therapy prescription if you feel you would benefit from the services.
