How To Pick The Right Footwear



by Jennifer Castroy


It is very common to buy a wrong pair of shoes. Doing so may not only be a monetary waste but also affect your feet. Of course, incorrect shoes may cause medical conditions in your feet. You got to wear the right pair of shoes in order to avoid such foot problems. The foot wear must be shopped based on the type of foot, body and physical activity.

As a first step, it is important to assess and learn about your arch profile. The 3 common arch profiles are Normal arch, flat arch and high arch. Identify your arch type by observing your footprint with full attention. If you find your foot print to be half arch, then you might have a normal arch. If you have a normal arched foot, then you could use the most common type of shoes. Because arched foot is versatile and balanced. However, if your activity involves running or walking, then you might have to look for stability shoes. If you are a light weight runner, then a moderate cushion shoe or other shoes with moderate features would be ideal for you.

If you find your foot print displaying the entire foot, then you might have a low arch or a flat arch. Most often, the inner side of the foot may not have enough balance for those with low or flat arch. So, wearing a motion controlled shoe can prevent the inward pronation for people with low arch.

If you noticed the shoes just show the ball and heel of the foot as footprint, then it is known as high arch shoe. In this case, a cushion type of shoe will be chosen for high arch and this does not actually absorb the shock. Therefore, you need a cushion shoe to aid in order to restore the natural inward pro nation.

For skinny ankles; bulky or chunky shoes are a strict no-no. Not only will these look oversize; they will prove to a complete mismatch with your body type. Delicate shoes with elegant heels (optional) and pointed toes would be an ideal choice. For ankles that are thicker; a bolder shoe will be able to match and balance the ankle width. Ankle straps or heels with curves should be avoided.

When buying boots; ensure that the top part of the boot snugly fits around the calf. Choose the boots according to your shape of your legs. A thick heeled boot will help balance a fuller body. For shorter legs; ankle straps should be avoided as they make them appear even shorter. Mules and thongs are an ideal option for those with medium to short legs. Most importantly; shoes that pinch can be devastating for your feet.

When shopping for walking shoes; ensure that the front part of the shoe flexes or bends easily. After putting on the shoes; wiggle your toes to ensure that the toe box has enough room for toe movement. Also ensure that the heel is snugly cupped within the shoe and offers adequate cushioning and stability. Lean back on your heels after putting on the shoes; and ensure that your heels are well supported. Walk around the showroom taking gradual steps from heel to toe. Ensure that there is no pinching or any kind of resistance. Furthermore, a thick tongue is preferred in order to prevent the friction or pressure on the foot caused by the laces. Padding on the ankle collar is a must for running shoes as they secure the Achilles tendon.




About the Author: