Did you know that 48 per cent of Australians experience foot pain weekly? This is based on a survey released by the largest podiatry group. The most common foot problems were related to heel or arch pain. If left untreated, podiatrists warn their patients that the condition could lead to bunions, corns, and serious walking disorders.
Women, in particular, choose fashion over health when buying shoes. However, it is possible to wear stylish shoes without sacrificing foot health.
Here are some practical tips for choosing women’s shoes.
Get the Right Fit
Based on an article released by the Australian Podiatry Association, our feet expand at the end of the day. The ideal time to go shopping is during the late afternoon or evening. Moreover, our foot size changes as we age. Thus, it is advisable to have our feet measured every time one buys shoes.
Aside from getting the right size, anyone can check for comfort by doing the following:
- Wiggle your toes. There should be sufficient space for your toes to move around.
- Walk around to check for tightness and pinching. Even if you have the right shoe size, your feet might be wider than other people. If the ball of your foot is crushed, it is better to choose a wider style.
- Your heels should not slip off the shoes.
- Check the inside of the shoes for materials that could cause blisters.
Select Suitable Styles and Materials
Leather is still the best material for shoes. Aside from being durable, leather shoes will stretch to follow the shape of your feet. Its breathability ensures that your shoes won’t smell bad.
Regarding style, some women’s shoes are better choices because they give better foot support. Here are some recommendations from podiatrists:
- Choose lace-up sneakers with optimal arch support. Soles should be able to absorb the shock of running.
- Ankle boots are perfect for supporting your ankles.
- Choose slip-on sandals if you are going for long walks. For added height, there are sandals with block heels.
- Wedge heels are better than stilettos when it comes to support and balance. For special occasions like weddings, however, stilettos are a perfect match for formal dresses. The trick is to use leather or gel cushions for the soles and balls of your feet.
Prepare for First-aid
If your shoes are still hurting your feet, buy the following accessories:
- Nylon socks to prevent blisters from worsening
- Leather insoles to cushion your feet
- Leather stretch spray
- Gel cushions
Check for Wear and Tear
A good practice is to clean your shoes regularly with shoe polish, leather cream, or suede shampoo. Also, check for worn-out soles, damaged interiors, and loose flaps. They could permanently affect your gait and cause wounds.
Selecting Shoes for Special Cases
If you are buying shoes for seniors, take into consideration that they are prone to falling. Here are some tips:
- There should be a high-back to support their ankles.
- Soles should be firm but not too thick. They should also have an excellent grip to prevent slipping.
- Heels should not be more than one inch to keep them stable.
- An adjustable lace or buckle on the front side ensures that the foot won’t slip off.
Another special case is diabetics. Since a significant number of Australians are developing diabetes, choosing the right shoes is critical. There should be minimal risk of developing foot injuries like blisters and calluses. Infection can lead to gangrene.
By applying these five tips, you can wear women’s shoes that are both stylish and comfortable.
