Buy Good Shoes:

A Guide to Foot Health

What do I recommend?

There are a number of great shoes on the market. I have really enjoyed Altra shoes. They have a great aesthetic, comfort, and I believe in their biomechanics philosophy. Check out Fleet Feet store in town for their great customer service and selection of shoes

Importance of Well-Fitted Shoes

• Spending a significant portion of life in shoes emphasizes the importance of proper fit and comfort.
• Feet endure immense pressure daily, making it crucial to protect them with well-fitted shoes.

Guide to Selecting the Right Shoes

• Get your feet measured while standing to ensure accurate sizing.
• Try on both shoes and walk around the store to assess comfort and fit.
• Purchase shoes for the larger foot, as feet are rarely identical in size.
• Avoid shoes that require a "break-in" period; they should be comfortable immediately.
• Look for shoes with a leather upper, stiff heel counter, good cushioning, and flexibility at the ball of the foot.
• Wear the same type of socks or stockings during shoe fittings as you plan to wear with the shoes.
• If you use prescription orthotics, bring them along for shoe fittings to ensure compatibility.
• Do not rely on previous shoe sizes, as feet may change over time.
• Shop for shoes later in the day when feet are slightly swollen.

Poor Support and Alignment

• Impact: Shoes with inadequate arch support or cushioning can cause your feet to flatten or roll inward (overpronation), leading to misalignment of your ankles, knees, hips, and lower back.
• Result: This misalignment can strain the muscles and ligaments in your lower back, contributing to pain or discomfort over time.