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The Best Footwear for Healthy Feet: What to Look for in Shoes

Selecting the best footwear for foot health is an often overlooked part of self care. The right shoes not only get your feet from point A to B, but can also prevent various types of foot pain, like arch pain or heel pain. Better yet, solid shoe choices can shield your feet from some of the most frustrating chronic foot conditions. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key features to look for in supportive shoes and why these elements matter for healthy feet.

Arch Support

Arch support is key for foot pain prevention and daily comfort. This feature helps position the foot in a healthy arch alignment so it can support your body weight more evenly. Studies show this is extra helpful for people with flat feet and high archesessentially creating the normal arch they need. Lack of proper arch support can lead to conditions like plantar fasciitis. Arch support in shoes typically looks like a raised, curved section along the inner part of the insole. 

Shock Absorption

Shock absorption is a must-have for athletes, long walk lovers, or those who work on their feet, like servers or construction workers

It’s essentially cushioning that keeps the harsh effects of the pavement, floor, trails and more from damaging your joints. This is especially important for people with conditions like arthritis or heel spurs. Supportive shoes with adequate shock absorption use materials like EVA foam or cork to cushion the foot, thereby minimizing strain on the feet, ankles, knees, and lower back. Click here to learn more about it!

Grip

Is fall prevention important to you? If yes, make sure you buy non-slip shoes or shoes with a solid-grip outsole. 

A firm grip is vital for healthy feet because it reduces the risk of sprains or fractures. It should work on various surfaces, from slick sidewalks to gravel paths. Older people with balance issues should ensure their shoes have this crucial feature. 

Waterproofing and Breathable Materials

Waterproof shoes (such as shoes made with GORE-TEX fabric) keep your feet dry in wet conditions, reducing the risk of fungal infections and blisters. Likewise, breathable fabrics with perforation in the shoe’s upper promotes air circulation, which is a top-priority feature for many athletes at the gym. That said, choosing the right materials can make a significant difference in comfort and hygiene for everyone, not just athletes. 

Removable Footbeds

It may seem counterintuitive to buy a shoe that has something you don’t need, but hear us out! The best footwear for foot health typically have them!

Shoes with removable footbeds offer customization options for those who need orthotics or insoles from brands like Superfeet. From pregnancy to diabetes, many conditions require this shoe perk. 

This feature may also make it easier to keep your shoes clean, or even extend their lifespan since you aren’t using its original footbed as often.

On The Prowl For The Best Footwear?

Look no further! Toronto’s Feet First Clinic is your one-stop-shop for all of your needs, including the best footwear for optimal foot health! Our chiropodists can help explain shoe features you need, and our friendly foot staff can help you hunt for them during a shoe fitting. Call us at (416) 769-3338 or book an appointment here!

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Carolina Charles

Patient Relation Coordinator (She/Her)

If you’ve been to the clinic before, chances are you had the pleasure of meeting Carolina! Carolina’s daily goal is going above and beyond to make sure patients are always completely satisfied. Having worked in the podiatry industry for 22 years, Carolina brings a wealth of knowledge pertaining to client service, insurance policies, and procedures.​ She steers the ship to make sure everything runs smoothly on the daily. Carolina is known for spicing up every outfit with her signature costume jewellery.