Wearing shoes that are ill-fitting is not just a matter of comfort. If your shoes are too narrow in width or too tight in the toes, you could eventually develop debilitating problems with your feet.
Choosing style over support can lead to a host of different foot problems such as corns, calluses, bunions, ingrown toenails, plantar fasciitis, and so on. While those stylish shoes do look good, the rewards are short-term, and you will be paying for them over the long-term.
When buying shoes, the best advice is to choose comfort over style and luxury. Take your time, and don’t buy on impulse. Let’s talk about what you should look for when buying great-fitting shoes that support your feet in all the right ways.
How a Properly Fitting Shoe Feels
If you’re wondering how to know whether a shoe fits properly when you’re trying it on in the store, here are a few important things to keep in mind:
Enough Wiggle Room for the Toes
Well-fitting shoes will allow your toes to sit comfortably, with enough distance for them to move inside the shoe (not too tight) and room for the tip of the big toe. Don’t buy shoes that squish your toes together.
Not Much Space Between Your Heel and the Back of the Shoe
If you’re stuck between a size bigger and a size smaller, choose the size bigger if you must. With a shoe that’s slightly too large, you can use custom orthotic insoles to fill up the size difference.
To find out if it’s the right size, move your feet inside the shoes as if you’re tiptoeing (you can stay seated while doing this) and stick a finger between your heel and the shoe. The right size will leave you with a bit of space but not too much space, because the shoes will adjust to your feet as you walk in them. However, shoes that are too big will eventually feel as if you’re swimming in them.
Comfortable Width
Pay attention to how the ball of your foot rests in the widest part of the shoe. Put them on and walk around the store. If the shoes feel too tight and uncomfortable, it will be very painful to walk in those shoes, because they won’t get better. Likewise, if they feel too big, you may be surprised that you have to try them in a half-size smaller.
Podiatrist for Foot Problems in South Texas
If you are experiencing foot pain, it may have something to do with your choice of footwear. Our podiatrists at The Podiatry Group of South Texas will give you professional advice and recommendations for shoes that are most appropriate for your type of foot. We will not only treat your foot pain and provide relief, but we will also make sure you understand how to avoid the issue in the first place.
To schedule a consultation with our experienced podiatrists, call our location nearest you today. You can also fill out our easy-to-use appointment request form now. We look forward to helping you get back in step!
