Finding the right shoeThe shoes you choose are a vastly important element in your overall foot and ankle health. Think of shoes as homes where feet may spend most of the day. Like any good home, they should be accommodating and supportive. If they are too cramped, too spacious, or just don’t fit the needs of the occupants, then it isn’t long before things begin to suffer. Thankfully, finding the right shoes with the best fits isn’t that hard, even if there might be more factors to keep in mind than expected.

Substance, then Style

Nobody is saying that finding the right shoes means having to buy something boring or clunky. Just ask the staff at The Right Shoe, where we believe that function and comfort shouldn’t come at the cost of style and performance. There are many great styles that can still be achieved with healthy sensibility, and keeping the comfort of your feet the top priority will benefit you much further in the long run.

There is a right time for everything, even when it comes to buying shoes. Since feet tend to swell some through the day, shoe shopping in the late afternoon or evening ensures you are looking when your feet are at their largest, helping to ensure the best fit. Feet also tend to grow with age, so get your feet measured annually to keep track. Stand while doing so to ensure the best information.

As you try shoes on, consider the following:

  • General Shape – If you’re the type who doesn’t want to spend all day trying every shoe on, take a tracing of your foot to the store with you. If you place a shoe over the tracing and it’s too short or too narrow, don’t even try it on.
  • Toe Room – While standing, press lightly on top of the shoe to gauge the space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. It should be about half an inch. Also wiggle your toes to make sure they’re not cramped together and are able to lie flat. Tight shoes can contribute to deformities such as bunions and hammertoes.
  • Width – If a shoe does not feel wide enough in certain locations, ask an associate if the shoe comes in a wider model. Moving up a half-size does not always solve this problem, or it might solve the problem at the cost of too much slip in the heel and toes. Giving the foot too much room to move can cause the toes to repeatedly slam against the front of the shoe while moving, causing problems.

Ultimately, the best indication of shoe fit is how your feet feel in them. Take time to walk about the store to get an idea of how they move on and with your feet. If you feel the shoes need to be stretched or stuffed with pads for a proper fit, put them back. They are not the right shoes for you. If you are searching for a particular style of shoe for walking, running, or other sports, a trained and knowledgeable associate can be your best ally.

A Helping Hand for Healthy Feet

If you suffer from chronic foot or heel pain, finding the right shoes can be a step in the right direction toward finding relief. The doctors at Martin Foot and Ankle can examine your feet and help you determine the best shoes to accommodate your specific needs. We can also provide custom-made orthotics and other treatments that can keep your feet comfier and healthier. Our offices in Hanover, Lancaster, Lititz, and York, PA can all be reached by calling (717) 757-3537.