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Two women out shopping shoe shopping tips
December 14, 2023

Expert Tips for Finding Shoes That Love Your Feet

At Feet First Clinic, we know a thing or two about shoe shopping tips.

Finding comfortable footwear is important for maintaining foot health, but some people think it’s impossible to find supportive shoes with stylish flair. Fortunately, most quality brands know the key to constructing comfortable and stylish footwear; you just have to know what to look for. 

A crucial part of foot care advice is teaching people how to find shoes they love, and that love their feet back, so let’s get to it with our top shoe shopping tips! 

Top Shoe Shopping Tips

  • Know your foot type
  • Consider your activities
  • Look for quality construction, technologies and materials
  • Pay attention to cushioning
  • Check for breathability
  • Ensure the perfect fit
Photo Credit: iStock

Know Your Foot Type

First thing’s first, do you have flat feet, a normal arch, or high arches? Sometimes active people with flat feet need stability running shoes, which control movement while maintaining a level of flexibility. Because of this flexibility, stability shoes can be a good alternative to the more rigid and stiff motion control shoe. 

The design of stability shoes aims to provide a safe platform for the foot which would otherwise cause overpronation (excessive inward rolling of the foot). This can help flat footers reduce the risk of injuries or strain on the ankles and knees. People with high or normal arches can look for shoes without extra stability features, AKA neutral shoes. 

Consider Your Activities

This shoe shopping tip is a given, but important to reiterate. For example, running shoes have different features than walking shoes that factor in the specific way your feet hit the ground during running. Likewise, if you need a shoe for a job that keeps you standing all day long, make sure you accommodate that too. Check out how to choose the best footwear for your job. 

Image Credit: iStock

Look for Quality Construction, Materials and Technologies

There’s nothing worse than a shoe that doesn’t last long. To avoid this, look for well-constructed shoes with sturdy soles, durable materials, and good stitching. 

Top quality brands also implement unique shoe technologies that add extra comfort and protection for your feet. Some examples include waterproof GORE-TEX fabric, cork footbeds, and EVA midsoles. Learn more about the pros and cons of shoe materials and technologies here. 

It’s also important to note that if your chiropodist recommends custom orthotics, you should try to find shoes with removable insoles. 

Image Credit: iStock

Pay Attention to Cushioning

The level of cushioning varies between shoes. Consider the amount of cushioning you need based on your foot type, the activities you do, and any specific comfort requirements. People with chronic joint and foot pain, high arches, mobility restrictions, diabetes, and seniors may need more cushioning than people with no foot concerns. 

Check for Breathability

Shoes with breathable materials can help keep your feet dry and comfortable. Promoting a healthy foot environment can also ward off issues like foot odour. This is particularly important if you’re engaging in activities that cause your feet to sweat more than usual. If you think you need a breathable shoe, look for runners made with mesh fabric with minuscule holes on the upper that let air flow through the shoe. 

Ensure the Perfect Fit

Shoes that don’t fit properly can be linked back to virtually every foot condition. 


First, measure your feet to see if they have changed in size. Next, find a shoe that fits well and leaves a small amount of wiggle room in the toe box. There should be about a finger’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. This allows room for natural foot movement and prevents toe cramping. Another expert tip: make sure you’re standing straight and upright when checking the toe space: Our feet move forward when we stand up, so checking toe space when you’re sitting won’t tell you anything about how a shoe fits when you’re actually walking around. You should also make sure your heel is at the back of the shoe and use the laces to secure your foot into the correct position: if your foot is not secured properly, it may slide forward when you walk, which can make you think that a shoe is too small when it’s not.

Image Credit: Drazen Zigic from FreePik

Looking For The Perfect Pair?

Come to Feet First Clinic for a shoe fitting to guarantee your next pair of shoes are right for you. Don’t forget to consult our shoe shopping checklist and book an appointment with a chiropodist to go the extra mile! Call us at (416) 769-3338 or book an appointment using the form below or the button at the top of your browser!

Banner Image Credit: standret from FreePik!

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January 12, 2023
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In addition to medial support, they offer a stiff heel, firm cushioning and a more rigid midsole. Neutral shoes do not contain bonus support features in the midsole. They are typically for "normal" pronators or people with a normal arch. People with high arches can also wear neutral shoes as they don't need bonus motion control and stability features. Weight You don't want to feel like your shoes are weighing you down while running. You want your feet to feel as light as a feather and to notice a "spring" in your step. When your shoes are lighter, you can run for longer periods. This is because you're using less energy to lift your foot off the ground, which protects you from fatigue. Lightweight shoes can also improve your form during exercise. It's all about making your experience as effortless as possible. 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Ensure you try shoes on before purchasing and remember that some brands follow slightly varied sizing charts so there's not necessarily one "true" size. Go up a half size, if necessary. If you're unsure of sizing, or of the socks you'll wear, get a half size up as it's easier to account for slightly larger shoes than those too small. Also, tight shoes in cold weather reduces circulation, which makes your feet cold – regardless of any insulating features. Check the space around your toes. You should have some wiggle room around your toes to flex freely. Test for having roughly half a thumbprint worth of toe space between the toe box and your toes. Try them on with running socks. Try on your shoes with the socks you plan on wearing. If you’re planning on wearing socks with different thicknesses, bring them all with you when you go shoe shopping. Run around. If possible, test out the shoes in-store by walking or running for a brief moment. Better yet, some stores and clinics even have treadmills for test rides. Top choices for winter 2022 running shoes Saucony Peregrine 11 GTX The Saucony Peregrine 11 ICE is a trail running shoe with a highly water-resistant upper to keep your feet dry in all conditions. What sets this shoe apart from the rest is its Vibram Arctic Grip Technology on the outsole, which provides excellent grip and traction on slippery conditions (hence why it’s called the “ICE”). This feature offers some of the best traction on the market for running shoes, short of using addons like crampons. Although it’s not GORE-TEX, the technology in the upper is still highly effective at keeping your feet dry in wet, slushy conditions and snow (They kept Erica’s feet completely dry in 3” of slush and snow when we took the photo above). But if GORE-TEX is a must for you, fear not: the Peregrine also comes in a GORE-TEX version without the Vibram (known as the Peregrine 11 GTX). Features Water-resistant and breathable upper Vibram Arctic Grip Technology includes aggressive rubber lugs for extra traction on slippery surfaces PWRRUN cushioning provides a responsive feel while a rock plate ensures additional protection for pushing uphill and driving downhill with confidence. Best for: Trail running in rain, snow, slippery or muddy conditions. Saucony Guide 14 RUNSHIELD The Saucony Guide 14 RUNSHIELD is a weatherproof version of the Guide 14, one of the brand's best-selling and most popular shoes. The Guide 14 is a stability shoe for runners looking for better support around the arch area. It also comes in wide and regular width sizing depending on your preference. For more information about the Guide 14, check out our Saucony Running Shoe Guide (note: cute puppy does not come with the shoe). Features Water-resistant upper Thermal backing on the tongue to keep you dry and warm Reflective panels and bold colouring for increased visibility Best for: Winter road running for those who overpronate and are looking for more rigid cushioning and support. Saucony Excursion TR15 GTX The Excursion TR15 Packs the necessities for a good time outdoors-essential cushioning, rugged traction, and durable protection-with a new streamlined look for wherever the trail takes you. Winter features Grippy lugs on the outsole are made with carbon rubber for rock-solid footing. The trail-specific mesh with supportive overlays locks your foot into place and protects you from debris without looking or feeling bulky. Best for: Everyday use on snowy roads or in slushy conditions. ASICS GT-1000 8 GTX The GT-1000™ 8 G-TX is a lightweight stability trainer with winter features like a rigid outsole and a GORE-TEX upper, making it a great option for winter running. It is the winterized companion to the GT-1000, one of ASICS’ most popular stability running shoes. While many trail shoes tend to focus more on grip and weather-proofing features at the expense of supportive features, the GT-1000 8 G-TX stands apart by also providing substantial arch support and stability features for runners who overpronate, have flat feet, or require extra control to keep their feet and ankles aligned when they run. It does all this while giving you the freedom of movement you need to hit your top speed. (For more information on ASICS’ GT-1000 line, check out our ASICS guide.) Winter features GORE-TEX upper Snow rubber outsole Durable lugs Best for: An all-around winter shoe that is versatile across both dry and wet conditions, from the trail to the road. Additionally, it is one of the few stability winter running shoes on the market for runners in need of additional support and stability features. ASICS Gel-Cumulus 23 AWL The ASICS Gel-Cumulus 23 AWL (or Gel-Cumulus 23 Winterized) is the winterized version of the Gel Cumulus. It is a lightweight high-mileage trainer meaning it's designed for longer runs in variable conditions thanks to its water-repellent upper. The Gel-Cumulus is a neutral shoe with standard cushioning, and no motion control (stability) features. (To learn more about the Gel Cumulus, check out our ASICS guide.) Winter features Reflective accents improve visibility in low-light conditions The water-resistant upper helps repel water and keep feet dry The toggle speed lacing system makes the shoe easier to take on and off Winter-specific outsole that features snow rubber and a lug configuration that provides better grip in cold and wet conditions. Best for: Winter road running for longer distances and for those who enjoy a softer, cushioned feel. ASICS Fujitribuca Max The ASICS Fujitribuca Max is designed for off-road running in all conditions including wet trails and hard-packed snow. Winter features Uphill and download lug pattern for running uphill and downhill Rubber outsole for wet and slippery conditions Gaiter system Breathable upper, but no GORE-TEX outer liner Best for: Off-road winter running (ideally hard-packed snow or wet trails) on hilly terrain.
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December 1, 2021
Walk Into Winter the Right Way: Part One
It's time to break out a pair of boots for a winter walk! Winter is looming over Toronto, dusting the city with snow and making your commutes chilly. Winter can affect people differently, which means when it comes to footwear, many of us have different needs to get us through the winter.  With different needs, come different footwear options. That's why there is such a variety of winter shoes to choose from: They each have different purposes, advantages, and disadvantages. Which one you go with will depend a lot on your priorities, needs, and activities. Suppose you're someone who loves the winter - more power to you! You'll probably want to embrace it and suit up with some warm, protective winter gear. In contrast, you might be someone struggling with a foot condition who just wants to get through the winter with something recommended by a Toronto foot specialist, whereas the fashionista may skip the authentic "winter experience" in favour of winter style. 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First (and foremost), it supports the structures of your foot, which helps reduce strain and pressure on the joints and ligaments in the foot and ankle. It also helps provide stability for those with an abnormal gait. Several foot conditions, such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, can cause your gait to change while your body tries to accommodate foot pain and deformities. Arch support can also help with controlling balance. Mephisto's highly defined, anatomic arch support in the footbed supports the natural shape of your feet and provides stability, balance and foot pain management. Removable footbed: This removable footbed allows this boot to easily accommodate your custom orthotics or specialty insole of choice. The Downside This boot comes with laces and does not have a zipper. This can pose a problem for people who want to quickly slip their shoes on and off without having to bend over to tie laces. The Mephisto Zelda is a bootie, so it doesn't offer much lower leg coverage above the ankle. Mephisto boots won't provide the same degree of insulation as a heavier-duty winter boot. Therefore, your feet might get cold when the weather dips below -5. The Winter Fashionista: The Ara Paula Why You'll Love It If style is your thing, the knee-high Ara Paula might be the way to go. Although you'd be missing out on the faux fur that some winter boots provide, the Paula is still a great choice for nights out with light rainfalls and a dusting of snow. Thanks to the Gore-tex fabric, this trendy staple is waterproof and breathable while giving your winter looks some modern flair.  The slight wedge gives you some height and that extra boost of confidence for your stylish winter looks. They're also pretty comfy: The Ara Paula comes with a cushioned footbed and built-in arch support - an excellent base for your foot that can help with onset foot pain. The footbed is also removable so you can insert your custom orthotics or Superfeet insoles for extra, customized support.  The Downside The insulated lining does provide some warmth, but when temperatures dip to a certain level, you might want to consider other options. Likewise, other winter boots may be more practical for long walking periods in adverse conditions. The Winter Warrior: The Sorel Joan of Arctic   Sometimes, Toronto winters just aren't enough for the winter connoisseur. For those who like to trek up north and immerse themselves in a winter wonderland, the Sorel Joan of Arctic is the way to go. Designed for heavy snow use, this boot protects your lower legs and feet entirely while you enjoy your winter walk - even through deep snow. First, this boot is all about being toasty. With a temperature rating of -32 degrees C, you can say goodbye to numb toes. The faux fur shearling cuffs help lock in warmth, along with the removable 6 mm washable felt inner boot. The thick sole in this boot also contributes to insulation and prevents heat from escaping. The entirety of the Joan of Arctic boot protects your feet and lower legs from the snow and slush, thanks to the waterproof suede design. This boot's rubber sole is also suitable for gripping the icy ground during your winter adventures. The Downside Extra protection and warmth often mean needing a bulky, heavy boot. That said, if you're looking to immerse yourself in a winter getaway up north, this likely won't matter too much to you. Likewise, the extra bulk means this boot may fall a little short when it comes to style. It's meant for the outdoors, so it may be difficult to pair with your favourite indoor outfit.  There is no removable footbed, which means this boot may not accommodate orthotics or custom insoles. There is no side zipper, which can make the boots difficult to take on and off for some.
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April 8, 2024
The Link Between Footwear and Back Pain: What You Need to Know
Back pain is common among adults, with up to 80% of people experiencing back pain at least once in their lifetime. While the causes of back pain can vary, one often overlooked factor is the type of footwear we wear. Believe it or not, the shoes we put on our feet can significantly impact our spinal health. This article will explore the connection between footwear and back pain and provide insights into choosing shoes to support a healthy back. The alignment connection Our feet are the foundation of our body's alignment, and our shoes play a crucial role in maintaining proper alignment from the ground up. When we wear shoes with inadequate support or that don't fit properly, it can throw off the alignment of our feet, leading to a chain reaction of misalignment throughout the body, including the spine. This misalignment can cause strain on the muscles and ligaments of the back, leading to discomfort and pain. High heels and back pain One of the most well-known culprits of back pain is high heels. While they may be fashionable, high heels can wreak havoc on the spine. The elevated heel alters the spine's natural curvature, increasing pressure on the lower back and making the muscles to work harder to maintain balance. Over time, this can lead to muscle imbalances, postural issues, and chronic back pain. Flat shoes and lack of support Conversely, flat shoes with inadequate support can also contribute to back pain. Shoes that lack proper arch support don't provide necessary shock absorption and stability, leading to increased stress on the spine. Additionally, shoes with worn-out soles or insufficient cushioning can exacerbate back pain by failing to provide adequate protection against impact forces. Choosing the right footwear So, what can we do to prevent back pain and promote spinal health through our footwear choices? Here are some tips for selecting the right shoes: Opt for shoes with adequate arch support to maintain the spine's natural curvature. Look for cushioned soles that provide shock absorption to reduce impact on the spine. Choose shoes with a supportive heel counter to stabilize the foot and ankle. Ensure proper fit by wearing shoes and walking around to assess comfort and support. Consider orthotic inserts or custom-made orthotics to address specific foot issues and improve overall alignment. When it comes to back pain, every step counts. By paying attention to our shoes and choosing footwear that supports spinal health, we can take proactive steps to prevent discomfort and promote overall well-being. 
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April 4, 2024
The Science of Walking: How Foot Mechanics Impact Your Health
Today we delve into the relationship between walking and health, with a specific focus on foot mechanics and how crucial they are. The impact walking has on your overall health is something most people don’t think about in their day-to-day life. But foot motion science suggests everyone should learn about this topic!  When your walking pattern is compromised, even slightly, it can put you at risk of developing foot pain, in addition to heel and ankle pain, back pain, knee pain and even hip pain! This can wreak havoc on your overall life as you experience worsening discomfort. Let’s explore more about the connection between your walking pattern and overall health!  The Connection Between Walking and Overall Health To start, here are some basic tidbits of info to remember: The scientific term for “walking pattern” is gait. There is an inverse relationship between musculoskeletal foot conditions and your gait. Foot issues can lead to gait abnormalities as you try to accommodate new pain while still getting to the places you need to go. However, abnormal walking patterns can also put you at risk of developing additional problems.  In addition to pre-existing foot conditions, risk factors that may lead to gait abnormalities include age-related foot changes, your foot type (flat feet or high arches), having foot/ankle injuries in the past, balance and neurological disorders, and ill-fitting and low-quality footwear.  Common Types of Gait Abnormalities and How They Affect Our Health Two gait abnormalities we see a lot at Feet First Clinic are overpronation and supination.  Overpronation is synonymous with flat feet and the resultant issues that develop when you have a flat/fallen arch. When you “overpronate,” your foot rolls inward excessively as you stride forward. Supination is when you place too much weight on the outside of your feet. These walking patterns are often subconscious and your way of trying to adjust to having “non-typical” feet.  Gait abnormalities can completely mess with your lower extremities. In more scientific words, they affect your feet and ankles and lead to misalignments in the lower body, which may contribute to issues such as knee pain, hip discomfort, and lower back problems. This is because your body’s skeletal system is connected and everything must work in harmony. You are also more prone to injury when you overpronate! Lastly, there are many specific versions of gait abnormalities. One may not overpronate or supinate, but different types of pain can result in various compensatory movements. Check out this valuable resource from Stanford Medicine for more. Treating Abnormal Walking Patterns Don’t worry if you think you may have a gait abnormality. Unless your walking pattern is caused by a severe medical issue, you can often work hard at correcting it. There are many services, medical devices, and products you can try.  Foot assessment: Understanding your feet is the first step (no pun intended!).  Video gait analysis: This will provide valuable insights into biomechanical issues, your foot type, and any noticeable abnormalities.  Custom-made orthotics: Orthotics work by improving your gait, over time, and with correct usage.  Strengthening and balance exercises: These improve muscle strength, coordination, and stability.  Surgical interventions (in severe cases of foot deformities, for instance, bunion correction).  Footwear modifications: Medical shoes and stability/motion control shoes can often help.  Focusing on your posture: This helps properly align the body’s skeletal structure. Remember: everything is connected, from head to toe!
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April 1, 2024
Spring Footwear Trends 2024: What’s Hot for Healthy Feet
As the seasons transition and we bid farewell to the winter chill, it's time to update our footwear game for the vibrant days of spring. This year, the trends are about combining style with functionality, ensuring your feet look and feel good. From casual sneakers to rugged hikers, here are the top trendy shoes for spring footwear trends for 2024 that will elevate your style while keeping you comfortable and prepared for whatever the season throws. Sneakers Sneakers, particularly those embodying Converse style, combine timeless fusion and a bit of flair. Pair them with jeans for a laid-back vibe, or dress them up slightly for an elevated look. Ara Fusion Lilly First up on our list of trendy shoes for spring 2024 are the Ara Fusion Lilly sneakers in a sleek grey hue. These sneakers blend style and comfort effortlessly, making them perfect for the transitional period before summer arrives. Their classic sneaker silhouette and subtle grey colour are versatile enough to pair with any outfit, from jeans and a tee to a casual sundress. Plus, their stretchable, breathable construction is perfect for accomodating bunions and hammertoes, so your feet stay relaxed and comfortable all day. Slip-ons Slip-on sneakers allow individuals to slide them on and off effortlessly with no fuss. Wear slip-ons to run errands or to more casual outings without sacrificing comfort and style. NAOT Okahu Slip-ons are a must-have for any spring wardrobe, and the NAOT Okahu in black is a stylish choice that ticks all the boxes. These sleek slip-ons feature a minimalist design with a comfortable footbed that moulds to your feet for a personalized fit. Whether running errands or meeting friends for brunch, these shoes will keep you looking effortlessly chic while providing the support your feet need. They're perfect for those days when you're on the go. Transitional sneakers Transitional sneakers are another one of our top spring footwear trends. Their adaptable nature allows wearers to effortlessly go from work, to errands, to city strolls, complementing a range of outfits and lifestyles with their understated yet contemporary allure. Clarks Nalle Lace For a versatile shoe that seamlessly transitions from day to night, look no further than the Clarks Nalle Lace. These sneakers feature a classic lace-up design with a modern twist, making them perfect for the in-between period before summer arrives. Their lightweight construction and breathable materials ensure your feet stay comfortable all day, while their sleek silhouette adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit. Whether heading to the office or out for a night on the town, these sneakers have you covered. Clarks Craft Swift Men, step up your shoe game this spring with the Clarks Craft Swift. These casual shoes combine style and functionality, making them perfect for everyday wear. Whether running errands or meeting friends for a casual outing, these shoes will keep you looking sharp and comfortable. Their durable construction and supportive footbeds ensure long-lasting wear, while their classic design adds a touch of sophistication to any ensemble. Their versatile black colour makes them easy to pair with any outfit. GORE-TEX sneakers Engineered with GORE-TEX membrane, these sneakers offer exceptional waterproofing and breathability, keeping feet dry and comfortable in any weather. ASICS Gel-Sonoma GTX For adventurous souls who love to explore the great outdoors, the ASICS Gel-Sonoma GTX hikers are a must-have for spring 2024. Thanks to their GORE-TEX construction, these rugged shoes are designed to tackle any terrain, from rocky trails to muddy paths, while keeping your feet dry and comfortable.
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March 25, 2024
Fashionable Footwear for Sensitive Feet: Style Without Sacrifice
In the realm of fashion, footwear often takes center stage. However, finding stylish footwear for sensitive feet that provides comfort can seem like an elusive quest. Fear not: whether you're dealing with conditions like bunions, plantar fasciitis, or have feet that demand extra care, we'll explore a range of footwear brands that cater to sensitive feet without compromising style. Best for cushioning Mephisto Mephisto is renowned for its commitment to crafting footwear that marries fashion with function. Their shoes feature advanced cushioning and support systems, making them ideal for individuals with sensitive feet. Their footbeds are made of cork, a natural material that is naturally shock absorbent and anatomically contoured for the foot. From sleek sneakers to sophisticated loafers, Mephisto offers various styles to suit various tastes and occasions. The Mephisto Hester sandal features a cushioned cork footbed with a deep heel cup and strong arch. It is perfect for summertime outings, casual strolls or as an indoor slipper. Asics While Asics is primarily known for its performance-oriented athletic shoes, the Gel-Nimbus line caters to those seeking superior comfort and support. The Gel-Nimbus utilizes innovative gel cushioning technology to provide excellent shock absorption. They're excellent for individuals with sensitive feet who lead active lifestyles, whether you're hitting the gym or running errands. Best footwear for width and fit Clarks Clarks have long been synonymous with comfort footwear, and its commitment to quality and craftsmanship shines through in every pair it produces. With a focus on ergonomic design and premium materials, Clarks' shoes relieve sensitive feet without compromising style. Some of their shoes are also available in different widths, from narrow to wide, like the Nalle Lace. This stylish sneaker is available in width with and also comes with a zipper to make it easier to take on and off. Clarks also makes a variety of high-end dress shoes, which are a great option for the style-conscious. Ara Ara is another brand renowned for its dedication to comfort and innovation. Their shoes feature cushioned footbeds, flexible outsoles, and adjustable closures, making them an excellent choice for individuals with sensitive feet seeking style and support. The Ara Lilly has a soft cushioned footbed with a stretchable woven upper. It provides maximum comfort and sophistication for any occasion. Portofino Portofino specializes in crafting footwear that seamlessly blends fashion-forward design with orthopedic support. Their shoes feature anatomically shaped footbeds and shock-absorbing soles, catering to the needs of individuals with sensitive feet without compromising on style. Additionally, Portofino offers shoes in H width, which are slightly wider, providing more room and comfort. They also have a more comprehensive tread depth. For instance, the DY-5068 is a favourite. It features a removable insole, allowing you to insert your orthotics, and a zipper for in-and-out ease. Best seamless footwear Seamless footwear is excellent for sensitive feet as fewer friction points come in contact with the foot. Anodyne Anodyne is dedicated to providing therapeutic footwear solutions for individuals with foot ailments. Their shoes feature extra-depth designs, seamless interiors, and accommodative toe boxes, making them an excellent choice for those with sensitive feet seeking relief without sacrificing style. They also accommodate foot sensitivities for people with diabetes. The Anodyne No. 23 is designed with comfort in mind. It features a roomy toe box and plush cushioning, ensuring all-day comfort without compromising style. APEX APEX specializes in crafting shoes that cater to the unique needs of individuals with foot conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, and neuropathy. Their shoes feature innovative technologies such as pressure-relieving insoles and stretchable uppers, providing unparalleled comfort and support for sensitive feet. The APEX Ambulator Conform Oxford is engineered for comfort and stability. This Oxford-style shoe features adjustable closures and a removable orthotic insole, making it ideal for individuals with sensitive feet seeking style and functionality. Best footwear with natural materials Certain materials in shoes can aggravate sensitive feet. If you have skin sensitivities or allergies, you may develop contact dermatitis, which can cause a red rash and itchiness, and even skin blisters. Possible allergens in footwear that can lead to contact dermatitis include rubber, the glue that binds your shoes together, a nickel buckle on a sandal, chromates, formaldehyde, or paraphenylenediamine (a type of dye). If your shoes give you a rash or redness, you can try footwear with natural materials. Our picks include: NAOT Shoes crafted from natural materials have garnered widespread acclaim for their comfort, sustainability, and timeless appeal. Among the pioneers in this domain stands NAOT, renowned for its innovative use of cork beds in crafting footwear that melds impeccable comfort with eco-consciousness. NAOT's cork beds are ingeniously designed to conform to the wearer's foot contours, providing unparalleled support and cushioning. Sourced from renewable cork oak trees, this material delivers superior comfort and embodies the brand's commitment to environmental responsibility. One such option for summer is the NAOT Amadora, which is wrapped in suede and moulds to the shape of the foot with each wear. Mephisto Similarly, Mephisto has carved a niche in natural-material footwear, prioritizing comfort and style. Embracing premium leathers, cork footbeds and other natural textiles, Mephisto integrates advanced technologies into its designs to deliver optimal support and flexibility. Whether strolling through urban streets or traversing rugged terrain, Mephisto shoes offer a harmonious blend of form and function, appealing to the discerning consumer seeking quality craftsmanship and sustainable elegance. The Mephisto Izae is a casual-looking sneaker with optimal comfort, fit and a leather lining.
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February 26, 2024
Walking Shoes Vs. Running Shoes: What’s the Difference?
While they often look similar, running shoes have athletic shoe features and specialized running shoe technology that set them apart from walking shoes. However, high-quality walking shoes are still designed to fit comfortably and provide arch support and cushioning - after all, walking is still a form of physical activity! The main difference is that running shoes propel us forward, enhance our performance abilities and are designed with more shock absorption. But there's still more to discover when comparing walking vs. running shoes. We're here to break it down for you. Main Differences Between Walking Vs. Running Shoes Flexibility Cushioning Shoe design Additional differences Flexibility  The most flexible parts of the shoe vary between walking and running shoes. Prevention.com notes that running shoes have more flexibility in the midfoot and arch so users can push off using the ball of the foot. Walking shoes have more flexible soles to support steady heel-to-toe movement.   Cushioning Again, both walking and running shoes have good levels of cushioning, but it is distributed according to the shoe design and activity (running vs. walking). Running shoes often have more cushioning in the heel and forefoot. This is to absorb impact from the ground’s harsh effects on the joints and muscles, distribute energy efficiently, and provide comfort during strenuous exercise. Walking shoes, on the other hand, provide comfort by placing more cushioning in the midsole and arch areas to encourage comfortable, long walks. Shoe Design Walking and running shoes are crafted with different needs in mind. For instance, running shoes tend to be lighter to enhance agility and reduce fatigue. They also often have mesh uppers (perforated fabric) to promote breathability and allow air flow to enter and leave the shoe environment. This reduces foot odour and helps keep your feet feeling fresh and clean. Conversely, walking shoes can be heavier and include thicker materials since they are accommodating slower-paced, sustained movements. Additional Key Differences Between Walking and Running Shoes Heel-to-Toe Drop: The heel-to-toe drop is the height difference between the heel and forefoot on the bottom of the shoe, measured in millimeters. Walking shoes usually have a lower heel-to-toe drop to encourage a more natural stride, whereas running shoes may have a slightly higher drop for an efficient push off.  Traction and Grip Pattern: Both walking and running shoes need good traction to prevent slips, falls and injuries, but running shoes may have a more intricate traction pattern since running is a riskier activity.  Soles: Running shoes have stiffer soles, which helps with swift movements and lets you run faster. Walking shoes may have thinner soles because a closer connection to the ground is safer for walking than running. 
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February 15, 2024
High-Heel Health: Protecting Your Feet in Heels
High heels make a fashionable statement and give you a boost of confidence while taking your outfits to new heights. No one can deny, they look good! But are they good for your foot health? Should we really be wearing them? “Healthy high heels'' may seem like a misnomer, but the truth is, there are ways you can maintain your foot health, even as a high-heel lover. Let’s dive into the topic of healthy high heels and learn how you can simultaneously prioritize fashion trends and foot function.  Top 3 Ways to Protect Your Feet in Heels While high heels may cause issues by altering the natural position of the foot-ankle complex, there are ways you can implement them into your daily life to minimize these effects: Choose healthy high heels Minimize high heel strain Perform strengthening exercises Choose Healthy High Heels Fashionable foot health sometimes means avoiding risky shoe choices. If the main goal of wearing heels is to establish a stylish height that pairs well with clothing, there are options you can choose that aren’t the typical ultra-high, pointed-toe stiletto. Heeled shoes that focus on health can come as boots, wedges, and platforms - even pumps! All of which usually offer more stability, arch support and cushioning, without sacrificing style.  Minimize High Heel Strain Minimizing high heel strain involves implementing some simple tips and remembering the importance of foot care in heels. Here are some to consider:  Take breaks If you choose to wear a stiletto or another heel with a low level of support and stability, make sure you bring a back-up pair of shoes to change into when you need a break.  Opt for lower heels Lower heels can prevent foot injuries by offering better stability and centre of gravity. Unsurprisingly, it is also easier to walk and maintain balance with a lower heel.  Opt for thicker heels Thicker heels provide more support and stability than stilettos. They're also less likely to break than thin, hour-glass shaped heels. A broken heel poses a risk of tripping and falling.  Wear insoles with your heels  If your heels can accommodate them, wear Superfeet insoles for added comfort and support.  Ensure a proper fit Unbeknownst to you, your feet can often change in size as the years pass. Make sure you try your heels on and walk around the store to assess how you move in them. Ensure there is ample room for your toes to reduce your risk of bunions, ingrown toenails, and more. Attending a proper shoe fitting at a foot clinic can also guarantee a perfect fit.  Perform Strengthening Exercises There's no denying that wearing heels can be risky. You increase your chances of developing bunions, hammertoes, and other conditions, and sudden falls and foot injuries are more likely. That said, strengthening exercises for heel wearers can add an extra layer of protection against these issues! Try some toe-targeted exercises to keep those bunions at bay, and ankles movements to help with stability and balance. Toe Splays Sit or stand and spread your toes apart as far as you can. Hold for a few seconds, then bring them back together. Repeat for 10-15 repetitions. Ankle Circles Lift one foot off the ground and rotate your ankle clockwise for 15 seconds. Reverse the direction and rotate counterclockwise for 15 seconds. Switch to the other foot and repeat. Towel Scrunches  Place a towel or piece of fabric on the floor and stand on it with your bare feet. Scrunch the towel toward you using only your toes. Repeat for 10-15 repetitions. For a list of more extensive exercises that target the rest of the foot, check out these resources: Top of the Foot Pain Exercises Morning Foot Exercises to Start Your Day Pain Free A Beginner’s Guide to Exercises for Relieving Arthritis
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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.