Footwear plays a large role in the health of your feet and ankles, and caring podiatrists recommend finding the right shoes to fit and support your feet. To learn more about choosing the right footwear to suit your feet and your lifestyle, check out the information below.
Foot Size
The size of your feet can change over time, depending on your age, lifestyle, and even the time of day. Shop for shoes at the end of the day, because that’s when your feet are largest. It’s also important to have your feet measured by a podiatrist or shoe specialist to determine the right fit for your shoes. The ideal pair of shoes gives you a half-inch of room between your longest toe and the edge of the shoe, ensuring your feet have room to move and flex. Additionally, one foot can be larger than the other, so make sure to choose shoes that fit your larger foot well.
Comfort
Stylish shoes may be coveted by fashionistas, but it’s important to choose a shoe that is comfortable above all else. Podiatrists warn that shoes with extreme square, oval or pointed toes cause toe disfigurement and other complications such as bunions and toe pain. High heels measuring over three inches high can also injure your feet and ankles, putting pressure on the balls of the feet and causing balance issues as well as added stress on your ankles and knees. Choose a lower heel if you’d still like a lifted look for better distribution of your weight for foot and ankle health. If you have hard-to-fit feet, check out larger department stores or even specialty stores to find a selection of shoes with the look you want and the fit you need to feel good.