Do the Shoes I Wear Really Matter?

By The Custom Orthotics Team

If you are experiencing foot pain, you are not alone! 75% of Canadians will experience foot pain at some point in their lives! Your feet are the building blocks of the human body. Improper footwear can lead to malalignment of the foot and ankle affecting the rest of the body.

Poor Alignment –> Stress & Strain on Muscles & Ligaments –> Aches & Pains

Buying a new pair of shoes can be quite challenging. Here are some helpful tips when buying.

Wide Toe Box: The shoe should be wide enough for the ball of your foot. Avoid pointy toes which force the toes into an unnatural position, leading to bunions and pain.

Proper Length: Ensure there is one thumb width between the end of the toes and the shoe. While walking, your foot spreads out, lengthening approximately 1cm in all directions.

Proper Heel Height: A lower heel height increases comfort. Higher heel heights increase pressure on the ankles and balls of the feet, causing injuries, calluses and bunions over time.

Removable Footbed and Sufficient Depth: As the day progresses, feet swell and there needs to be sufficient room without causing pain or discomfort. This is also very important if you wear an orthotic device as they take up space in the shoe.

Firm Density Midsole: The midsole plays a crucial role in reinforcing proper foot support and alignment.

Rigid Heel Counter: This keeps the ankle in the correct position, preventing the ball of your heel from rolling/slipping away from the shoe when running or walking.

Minimal Torsion/Twist: Shoes that twist easily do not provide arch or base support.

Trying on Shoes:

End of the day when your feet are tired and swollen.
Always try on both shoes.
When measuring your foot, stand up! Feet and arches splay when standing.
Walk around in the shoes to be sure they are comfortable.
Don’t rely on shoe sizes – each brand makes their shoes on different lasts.
Have each foot measured regularly – feet get larger with age.
Purchase shoes that are comfortable when you first try them on. Do not expect shoes to stretch or “break-in.”