Shoe Buying Advice from a Podiatrist
Aug 16, 2024
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Your shoes are so much more than a fashion statement. In fact, your shoes can contribute to — or detract from — the health of your feet.
That’s why our providers at NYC Foot & Ankle Center in the Manhattan Valley neighborhood of the Upper West Side often incorporate guidance on proper shoes into their treatment plans for issues like diabetes and bunions.
If you’re ready to buy a new pair of shoes and wondering what the experts say, read on.
While trendy shoes might catch your eye, comfort should always come first. Look for shoes that provide ample cushioning, support, and room for your toes to move.
Skip the high heels and choose low (or no) heels. Your feet will thank you after long periods of standing.
Understanding whether you have flat feet, high arches, or neutral arches can help you select shoes that offer the right support. Your provider can assess your foot type and recommend the best shoe features to look for.
While you might be tempted to start your day shopping, resist! Your feet tend to swell throughout the day, so it’s best to shop for shoes in the late afternoon or evening.
This trick means you’ll find a pair that fits comfortably even when your feet are at their largest.
If possible, get a professional fitting with a Brannock Device®. This tool provides an accurate measurement of foot size, including length, width, and arch length, which helps in selecting the right shoe size.
Feet can be different sizes, so always measure both feet and fit your shoes to the larger foot. Make sure there’s about a half-inch of space between your longest toe and the front of the shoe to avoid cramped toes.
A good shoe should bend at the ball of your foot —the padded portion of your sole between your toes and arch — not in the middle.
Check for arch support and make sure the shoes provide stability, especially if you plan to use them for walking or running.
If you’re running, look for running shoes. If you’re cross-training, choose cross-trainers. For example, basketball shoes tend to have more ankle support, which is great for quick pivots during a game. Hiking boots also tend to have higher ankle support, which can help prevent sprained ankles out on the trails.
Using shoes designed for your specific sport or activity helps prevent injuries.
No one wants smelly feet, but unfortunately, some materials are more prone to foul odors. Ideally, you want shoes made from breathable materials like leather or mesh to keep your feet cool and dry — and odor-free!
Avoid synthetic materials that can cause sweating. Keep in mind that sweaty feet are more prone to fungal infections.
New shoes need time to mold to your feet. Wear them for short periods initially and gradually increase the duration to avoid blisters and discomfort.
Shoes lose their support and cushioning over time. Replace your shoes every 300-500 miles if you’re a runner, or when you notice significant wear and tear.
Don’t wait until your shoes are completely worn out before replacing them.
Thinking about underlying conditions might put a damper on shopping, but when you factor in conditions like diabetes or plantar fasciitis, you can get a pair of shoes that supports your foot health rather than harms it.
If you have specific foot issues like bunions, plantar fasciitis, or arthritis, our team is more than happy to give you specific recommendations based on your unique anatomy. We can suggest features, shoes that work well with orthotics, or even how to get started with custom orthotics.
Questions? Contact our office today to schedule a consultation. You can call us or utilize our online booking tool.