Finding The Best Shoe
You will probably find that the best shoe for you is the the one that fits and "feels" the best. Your best shoe should give you the proper support, flexibility, cushioning, as well as compensate for any possible overpronation. Everyone's feet are different. Shoe fitting experts can really help you find the best shoe for your walking distance, speed, style, and surface as well as your weight and stride.
The Best Shoes for You
Today's shoe's are made with the best technology and finding the best footwear for your situation should be reasonably easy. Here are some essential shoe qualities to keep in mind:
- Shoe Flexibility: You should be able to bend and twist your shoes. When you take a walking step, your foot will flex as you roll through a step from heel to toe. If your shoe is too stiff, your foot will have problems with each step.
- Flat Shoes: Walking shoes should have a relatively flat and softer heel.
- Shoe Heels Should Not Be Flared: Feet strike with the heel first when walking, so you do not want a big flared heel.
There is no better feeling than when you are wearing a comfortable shoe.
Comfortable Shoes allows us to enjoy our daily activities pain free. Properly fitting Shoes also prevents potential health problems.
Buying Shoes
Most shoes last an average of three to twelve months. As you begin to wear out a shoe, you begin to notice a difference in comfort. Worn out shoes can cause back pain, sore knee joints, or aching feet. The time to replace your shoes is when the cushion has broken down or motion control has been lost.
Everyone's feet are different. The best shoes should give you proper fit, support, cushioning, and flexibility.
Well-cushioned Shoes compensates for any irregularities in your foot or your stride.
Some Common Foot Irregularities
High Arched Feet
High arched feet do not roll inward very much. There will be a highly curved arch along the inside of your foot. Also, your toes would appear to be in a clawed position. Highly arched feet are rigid and are unable to absorb shock properly when striking the ground. The reason for this is that the foot is not able to roll inward when the foot strikes the ground. This lack of pronation can cause heel, knee, shin, and back problems. People with high arched feet, should try to stay away from stability or motion control shoes, which reduce foot mobility.
Flat Feet
The term "Flat Feet" refers to people who have a low arch, or no arch at all. Sometimes they are said to have "fallen arches". Most people's feet have a space on the inner side when the bottom of the foot comes in contact with the ground. This is called the arch. The height of the arch varies in size from one person to another. Flat Feet are generally a hereditary condition. Firm midsoles will help people with flat feet.
Over or Under Pronation
Over pronation is excessive inward rolling motion of your foot. This inward motion is considered unhealthy because it can cause a great deal of strain on your back, ankles, knees, and lower legs. Over pronation can cause shin splints and plantar fasciitis. Under pronation occurs when the outside of your foot takes the brunt of the shock when striking the ground. This condition can cause problems with the ligaments in your feet and ankles. Good midsole design can help combat pronation problems.
Shoes Buying Tips
Shop for Shoes late in the day. Feet tend to swell as the day goes on. Shoes purchased in the morning may feel tight by the afternoon.
Shop for Shoes with your health and comfort in mind. Your foot size changes slightly every year, so be prepared to measure your foot regularly. Choose shoes that are naturally shaped like your foot. Shoes with "no compromise" comfort design are intended to fit human's natural design, not to conform our feet to a "fashionable look".
Check to see how the sole feels on the bottom of your foot. Shoes soles should be soft and supportive. People with high arches generally need more support.
Stand up and walk around to get a feel for your shoes. Your feet shouldn't slide around inside and there should be little bit of room beyond your largest toe, but no more than 1/2 inch.
Edmonton Shoes Home
|
|