Fall Footwear Flair: Ensuring Healthy Feet in Autumn Fashion

October 22, 2023

Seasonal foot health is one of the most important factors to consider when shopping for fall footwear. It’s not just about replacing your sandals with boots — it’s about ensuring your feet are protected with high quality materials, and investing in brands that use effective technologies to prevent painful foot conditions.

Autumn Shoe Trends: Healthy Footwear Meets Style

So, what exactly do you need for fall? Take a look below for what you should be on the hunt for when revamping your fall shoe collection.

Warm and Waterproof Materials

Many high-quality manufacturers are using Gore-TEX membrane in their shoes to protect your feet from unwanted moisture, which can be a real issue in the fall. The material works by grouping together billions of miniscule pores that make it impossible for water to get through. Shoes made with Gore-TEX are also good for blocking the cold air from the wind while maintaining breathability.

You can hold off on highly insulated boots and features like shearling lining til the winter rolls around, but it’s still important to keep your toes cozy in the fall. Look for boots and shoes with good seam sealing and leather or suede waterproof uppers. High-quality rubber outsoles can also help trap warmth.

Comfort

Your shoes should always allow for a pleasant walking experience. With proper fall footwear, your feet won’t feel painful at the end of a long day. Look for comfortable boots and runners with a good amount of shock absorption and cushioning to protect your joints, muscles and bones from the ground’s impact. You can also find shoes with removable footbeds so you can easily wear them with your own custom orthotics or inserts.

Traction

A solid grip on slippery, wet pavement is crucial all year long. However, this is extra important in the fall when it gets colder and black ice starts to form. Search for shoes with molded rubber outsoles and high traction rubber to avoid a painful foot injury. As a bonus, high traction can also enhance your running performance.

Saucony Excursion fall footwear close up — Saucony Excursion with traction-ready grip. Source: Saucony

Not Sure What to Buy? Try These Stylish Examples

Need some fall footwear inspiration for comfortable boots and shoes? We’ve got you covered!

Light, stylish fall boots and booties are a must for many women. Try the Sorel Lennox Chelsea WP and Ara Debbie for combined comfort and style.

For hiking adventures and excursions, the Mephisto Nigata-TEX for women and Canyon TEX for men are highly protective choices and keep you on your feet for long hours and help you navigate unpredictable terrain and weather. The ASICS Gel-Sonoma is also designed for outdoor exploration, and the Saucony Excursion is great for trail running in colder temperatures.

Mephisto Nigata Tex Red. Source: Mephisto Canada

Step Into Fall at Feet First Clinic!

Interested in some of the shoes and features we discussed today? Stop by for a shoe fitting with one of our staff members! We’ll be happy to take your fall footwear to the next level!

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A close-up photo of a runner and their legs and shoes

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December 7, 2020

10 DIY Foot Product Gifts For Less Than $60

Christmas and the holidays are approaching. It's time to prepare your wishlist, and plan what your gifts for your loved ones will be. Encourage proper foot health by opting for any number of these foot product gifts this holiday season. Why not buy your loved one a gift that they'll actually use? Buy the gift of healthy feet, and proper foot hygiene with some do-it-yourself products. These 10 DIY foot product gifts encourage proper foot care, and can be purchased for less than $60, making them a great option for stocking stuffers, or as a wrapped present. As Toronto's leading foot clinic, Feet First Clinic carries all 10 of these foot product gifts in-house. Open six days a week including Saturday for your convenience. For even more options, check out our full product list for what we carry in-store. 10 DIY foot product gifts for less than $60 Superfeet insole - $45-$55 You won't find a better pre-made orthotics than Superfeet. These premium insoles and shoe inserts come in a variety of options, including for sport and for casual use, and retail for less than $60. Best of all, you can easily swap these in and out of each pair of shoes you use with zero hassle. If you're looking for something a bit more durable, and moulded to your foot, we at Feet First Clinic also do custom foot orthotics. Link Gehwol Med Deodorant Foot Cream - $20 Oh no, Foot Odour. Thanks to this deodorant foot cream, you can avoid smelly feet all together. With regular application, this Gehwol product helps prevent foot odour, and protects the skin against fungal infections, while leaving the skin soft and smooth. Link Gehwol Refreshing Foot Bath - $18 A refreshing foot bath formula can help counteract sore, aching and sweaty feet while invigorating tired feet, soothing sore feet and eliminating any unpleasant burning sensation. Gehwol's Foot Bath has a lasting deodorizing action and promotes the circulation with essential oils. The skin is deeply cleansed and kept resistant and supple with sodium carbonate which softens hard skin, corns and calluses. Link Orthosleeve FS6 - $50 Compression attire is great way to reduce swelling, improve circulation, and relieve foot pain. The Orthosleeve FS6 hones in on the ankle and plantar, reducing pain resulting from plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, swollen feet, and more. If you're on your feet all day - including as a nurses, teachers, retail workers, hairdressers, food service workers, and more - this compression sleeve may be just what you're looking for if you experience foot pain and swelling. As standing for long periods of time pools blood in your legs, compression gear can help encourage blood flow. The FS6’s shaped-to- fit design allows it to mold perfectly to your foot shape, support your arches, and relieve your foot pain. Link Strassburg Sock - $50 The Strassburg sock helps relieve heel pain when you sleep. Specifically, this sock is designed to hold the plantar fascia in the optimum healing position at night. Whole you sleep, the sock keeps the foot at dorsiflexion, and over the course of 2-3 weeks, can help lessen the pain associated with plantar fasciitis. The Strassburg sock is particularly appealing because you don't need to wear it throughout the day. Rather, wear it at night, and you'll forget you even have it on. Link Massage ball - $10-$15 One of the most effective do-it-at-home foot treatments is self-massage. Whether it's through foam rolling, or with a massage ball, self-therapy helps encourage blood flow, and can help prevent many common foot conditions. Medilogics massage balls are affordable, durable, and portable. Link Foot file - $20 Sometimes the simplest measures can be the most effective. Pamper your feet at home with a Feet First Clinic-approved foot file. This handy tool gently buffs away rough, dry, and calloused skin. Portable too, you can bring a foot file on vacation, or wherever you go for extended periods of time. At just $20, this affordable product is the gift that keeps on giving, for weeks, months, and years to come. Link Dermal Therapy Medical Grade Creams & Lotions - $15 Dermal Therapy Heel Care actively moisturizes, exfoliates, and smoothes thick, callused, severely dry heels and feet. This medical grade cream includes a 25% urea formula that helps relieve severely dry skin. Urea is an important part of healthy young skin’s natural moisturizing system. Link Naot Scandinavian Footbed Footwear - $50 Make any shoe you own more comfortable by a Naot footbed. A footbed is like an insole, that over time moulds to your foot, and provides optimum comfort and support. These can be particularly useful when wearing formal footwear that don't offer the support of everyday shoes. Swap these in, or out, and you're good to go in seconds. Link Infracare bunion exerciser - $14 Bunions are an angular boney protrusion that forms at the site of the large joint that connects your big toe to your foot. It's a prevalent condition, affecting up to one in three people over the age of 18. For many, bunions pose no problem, and you can absolutely live comfortably with bunions. However, there are a number of exercises and products that can make your life more comfortable. This centres aroud strengthening toe joint and related muscles. Enter, the Infracare bunion exericser. This toe strengthener is made of a durable elastic and soft toe pads that give you a comfortable grip on your toes to enable a gentle stretch of the muscles of the toe joint. Additional exercises for bunions include: Toe spread-outs, toe circles, foot rolls, item pickup, and barefoot walking. Link Your Footcare solutions live here! All under one roof! Our team is trained to handle any and all your foot health concerns. From mild, to critical, we cover all sides of the foot needs spectrum. Call us at 416-769-3338 to ask about actionable steps towards your solution, or Click Above to Book Your Assessment Today!

May 2, 2024

Footwear and Fitness: Choosing the Right Shoes for Your Workout

Whether you're hitting the gym, running, or attending a fitness class, proper footwear is essential for optimizing performance, preventing injuries, and ensuring comfort throughout your workout. With so many options available, choosing the right shoes can be overwhelming. In this blog post, we'll break down the critical considerations for selecting the perfect pair of shoes for your specific workout needs, so you step confidently into your fitness journey. Understanding your feet Before making shoe selections, understand your feet and movement patterns. Consider factors such as foot shape, arch type, pronation (how your foot rolls inward), and activities you engage in. For example, those with flat feet may require extra arch support, while individuals with high arches may benefit from cushioned shoes to absorb shock. Key factors for working out Running Choosing the right shoes for running is essential to preventing injuries and enhancing performance. Look for running shoes that provide ample cushioning to absorb impact and support to promote proper alignment. Consider factors such as your running gait, terrain, and distance when selecting shoes, and opt for models designed specifically for road running, trail running, or racing, depending on your needs. Cross-training For cross-training activities such as weightlifting, HIIT (high-intensity interval training), and circuit training, opt for versatile shoes that offer stability, support, and flexibility. Look for shoes with a flat sole and firm heel to provide a solid base for lifting weights and enough cushioning to support dynamic movements like jumps and lunges. Walking Whether walking for exercise or daily activities, selecting the right shoes is essential for comfort and support. Look for shoes with cushioned midsoles, supportive arches, and durable outsoles to provide shock absorption, stability, and traction. Consider breathable uppers and moisture-wicking linings to keep your feet cool and dry on longer walks. Other sports Choose shoes designed for specific sports, such as tennis, basketball, or soccer, to meet the unique demands of each activity. Look for shoes with lateral support for quick cuts and pivots, ankle support to prevent sprains, and durable outsoles for traction on court surfaces. Additional tips for footwear selection Try shoes in the afternoon or evening when your feet are slightly larger. Wear the socks you typically wear during workouts to ensure the right fit. Test the shoes by walking, jogging, or performing movements similar to your workout routine to assess comfort and support. Replace worn-out shoes regularly to maintain optimal performance and prevent injuries. For runners, shoes typically wear out around 800 kilometres.

April 29, 2024

Preventing Heel Pain: Tips and Exercises

Heel pain is a common complaint affecting individuals of all ages and lifestyles, from athletes to office workers. It can be frustrating and debilitating, whether it's caused by plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, or Achilles tendonitis. Fortunately, you can take steps to prevent heel pain and keep your feet happy and healthy. This blog post explores practical tips and exercises for preventing heel pain and maintaining optimal foot health. Causes of heel pain Before diving into prevention strategies, it's essential to understand the common causes of heel pain. Plantar fasciitis, the inflammation of the band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, is one of the leading causes of heel pain. Other culprits include: Heel spurs Bony growths on the heel bone Achilles tendonitis Inflammation of the Achilles tendon at the back of the heel Factors such as improper footwear, overuse, obesity, and poor foot mechanics can contribute to the development of heel pain. Heel pain prevention tips Choose supportive footwear. Invest in shoes that provide adequate arch support, cushioning, and stability. Look for options with a slightly elevated heel to reduce strain on the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia. Maintain a healthy weight. Excess weight can put added pressure on the feet and exacerbate heel pain. Maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise to reduce the risk of developing heel pain. Gradually increase activity. Avoid sudden increases in physical activity, such as jumping into a rigorous exercise routine or increasing mileage too quickly. Gradually increase activity levels to allow your feet time to adapt and prevent overuse injuries. Stretch regularly. Incorporate stretching exercises into your daily routine to improve flexibility and prevent tightness in the calf muscles and Achilles tendon. Focus on stretching the calves, hamstrings, and plantar fascia to alleviate tension and reduce heel strain. Practice good foot mechanics. Pay attention to your foot mechanics when walking, running, or participating in sports. Avoid overpronation or excessive rolling inward of the feet, as this can strain the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon. Heel pain exercises Calf stretch. Stand facing a wall with one foot in front of the other, keeping the back leg straight and the heel on the ground. Lean forward, bending the front knee until you feel a stretch in the calf of the back leg. Hold for 30 seconds, then switch sides. Plantar fascia stretch. Sit on the floor with one leg extended before you. Loop a towel around the foot and gently pull the toes towards you until you feel a stretch along the bottom of the foot. Hold for 30 seconds, then switch sides. Achilles tendon stretch. Stand facing a wall with one foot in front of the other. Place your hands on the wall at shoulder height and lean forward, bending the front knee until you feel a stretch in the back of the lower leg. Hold for 30 seconds, then switch sides. Heel pain can be debilitating and impact daily activities and quality of life. Incorporating these prevention tips and exercises into your routine can reduce the risk of developing heel pain and keep your feet healthy and pain-free. Remember to listen to your body and seek professional medical attention if you experience persistent or severe heel pain.

April 25, 2024

Exploring Foot Reflexology: Benefits for Overall Health and Well-being

Foot reflexology benefits are becoming a hot topic. Studies show that published scientific articles on the subject are increasing, piquing public interest. But is there a reason to subscribe to holistic foot care? Can foot reflexology techniques truly benefit our health or treat common foot conditions? And if so, how does reflexology for health work? Let’s answer all of these questions today! How Does Foot Reflexology Work? Foot reflexology is a holistic practice. It involves applying pressure to specific points on the feet, known as reflex points, which correspond to various organs, glands, and parts of the body via an energetic connection. By stimulating these points, the goal is to help with a wide variety of ailments and health concerns. For example, the toes may correspond with the head and brain, the ball of the foot with the diaphragm and arms, and the area of the foot between the ball and heel corresponds with the small intestine. Check out this detailed chart from Healthline for more. How Reflexology May Help With General Health Problems Reflexology may be a good option for you if you experience any of the following: Premenstrual symptoms: A significant study demonstrated that foot reflexology could effectively reduce cramping and hormonal side effects. Participants were observed after 8 foot reflexology sessions. Blood pressure: Reflexology can sometimes reduce blood pressure in hypertensive patients. Don’t forget, your feet and your heart are connected in other ways too! Mental illness: Holistic foot care may reduce anxiety and depression symptoms in adults. Chemotherapy side effects: Foot reflexology may help reduce shortness of breath in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. Can Foot Reflexology Treat Foot Conditions? Be sure to talk to your chiropodist if you are interested in trying new foot care treatments; this applies to reflexology or any type of unfamiliar service. It’s worth researching holistic foot care if you have any of these conditions: Plantar fasciitis: Reflexology techniques involving pressure points and trigger point release may reduce heel pain. Heel spurs: See note on plantar fasciitis above. Osteoarthritis: Holistic foot care may stimulate blood circulation, mildly relieving joint stiffness. Diabetic neuropathy / Diabetes Mellutis: Studies indicate that foot reflexology may help increase skin sensation and reduce blood sugar levels.

April 22, 2024

Age-Defying Foot Care: Keeping Your Feet Youthful at Any Age

When it comes to anti-aging routines, our feet are often overlooked. Yet, they are one of the hardest-working parts of our body and deserve just as much attention as our skincare regimen. As we age, our feet undergo natural changes that can lead to discomfort and mobility issues if left unchecked. In this blog post, we'll explore age-defying foot care tips to help keep your feet feeling youthful and vibrant at any age. 1. Maintain proper hygiene Good foot hygiene is the foundation of age-defying foot care. As we age, our skin becomes thinner and more susceptible to infections, making it essential to keep our feet clean and dry to prevent fungal infections and bacterial growth. Wash your feet daily with soap and water, paying close attention to the spaces between toes, and thoroughly dry them afterward to prevent moisture buildup. 2. Moisturize regularly Dry, cracked skin is a common issue that affects aging feet. To keep your feet soft and supple: Moisturize them regularly with a rich foot cream or lotion. Focus on areas prone to dryness, such as the heels and soles, and consider using products containing ingredients like urea or shea butter, known for their hydrating properties. For an extra treat, indulge in a weekly foot soak followed by a moisturizing foot mask to pamper your feet and lock in moisture. 3. Supportive footwear As we age, the fat pads in our feet naturally thin out, leading to decreased cushioning and shock absorption—this is known as fat pad atrophy. Investing in supportive footwear with ample cushioning and arch support is crucial for maintaining foot health and preventing discomfort. Look for shoes with a roomy toe box to accommodate any changes in foot shape, and opt for styles with adjustable straps or laces for a customized fit. Additionally, consider wearing orthotic inserts or custom-made orthotics to provide extra support and cushioning. 4. Consistent exercise Like the rest of our body, our feet benefit from regular exercise to improve strength, flexibility, and circulation. To keep your feet limber and mobile, incorporate simple foot exercises into your daily routine, such as toe curls, ankle circles, and calf stretches. Additionally, consider practicing yoga or tai chi, which can help improve balance and stability, reducing the risk of falls and injuries as we age. 5. Routine and regular check-ups Regular foot exams are essential for detecting foot problems or underlying health issues early. Schedule regular check-ups with a chiropodist or foot specialist to monitor your feet's health and address any concerns promptly. They can provide valuable insights and recommendations tailored to your needs, helping you maintain healthy, youthful feet for years.

April 18, 2024

Innovative Treatments for Common Foot Problems in 2024

Innovation has always been important in the healthcare world, with chiropody and innovative foot treatments being no exception! These days, with advanced foot care, you can enjoy pain management and comfort without resorting to a time-consuming ordeal like surgery. Let’s explore the services you can participate in thanks to innovation and great ideas! Innovative Treatments for Common Foot Problems in 2024 Confusing and lengthy procedures can cause you to neglect the foot condition you may be struggling with, so modern treatments should save you time and put you at ease! Here are some of the best innovative treatments available today: Shockwave therapy Custom orthotics Video gait analysis Onyfix Splinting and taping Shockwave Therapy Healthcare professionals have been using shockwave therapy to address musculoskeletal conditions since the 1980s. While the term “shockwave” can be off-putting, it’s a totally non-invasive procedure and most patients report very mild discomfort and no pain. Shockwave therapy is quickly shaping up to be one of the best Achille’s tendonitis, Morton’s neuroma, and plantar fasciitis solutions. It works by targeting injured tissues, boosting blood circulation and stimulating a natural healing response in our bodies. To learn more about shockwave therapy, click here. Custom Orthotics Orthotics date back to ancient civilization when humans started to realize their feet needed more support! As the centuries passed, they have become one of the most innovative treatments because now chiropodists and manufacturers can mold them to fit your specific needs. Custom orthotics treat a wide range of conditions and help correct your gait. To learn more, click here. Video Gait Analysis A video gait analysis uses technology and visuals to determine what type of unique gait (walking pattern) you have. Think of it as a much more advanced version of walking on a treadmill! It gives your chiropodist the insight they need to help you correct it and avoid pain as much as possible. To learn more, click here. OnyFix Imagine if you could alter your nail growth pattern without using invasive tools? Primarily used as an ingrown toenail treatment, OnyFix uses composite material to ensure your nails grow evenly and correctly! It’s one of the newest chiropody treatments and only became popular in North America within the past decade or so. To learn more, click here. Splinting, Taping and Correction Tapes, splints and other devices can help people manage foot deformities without surgeries. For example, patients often experience bunion relief with bunion correctors, which are both affordable and comfortable and put your toes in an optimal position. Splinting and taping can also do the same for various conditions! To learn more, click here.

April 15, 2024

Preventing Sports Injuries: Essential Foot Care for Athletes

For athletes, maintaining peak performance and preventing injuries is paramount. While much focus is often placed on strength training, conditioning, and proper technique, one crucial aspect that is sometimes overlooked is foot care. Our feet bear the brunt of athletic activities, absorbing shock, providing stability, and propelling us forward. So taking care of our feet is very important for preventing sports injury. The term "sports injury" refers to injuries most common during sports or exercise but are not limited to athletes. For example, factory employees may get tennis elbow, or those working retail may get plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis. Generally, however, "sports injuries" occur in active individuals. In this blog post, we'll explore essential foot care tips for athletes to help prevent sports injuries and keep them at the top of their game. 1. Choose the right footwear The foundation of foot care for athletes begins with selecting the appropriate footwear. Different sports require specific types of shoes to provide adequate support, cushioning, and stability. For example, runners should opt for running shoes with ample cushioning and support, while basketball players may benefit from high-top sneakers for ankle support. Replacing worn-out shoes regularly is essential to maintain optimal support and cushioning. 2. Ensure proper footwear fit Improperly-fitted shoes may lead to foot problems, including blisters, bunions, and ingrown toenails. Athletes should pay close attention to the fit of their shoes, ensuring enough room in the toe box to prevent cramping and rubbing. Additionally, shoes should provide a snug but comfortable fit around the heel and midfoot. A proper fit around the low ankle prevents slipping and instability during activity. 3. Practice good foot hygiene Proper foot hygiene is essential for preventing fungal infections such as athlete's foot and toenail fungus. Athletes should wash their feet daily with soap and water, paying particular attention to the spaces between toes. After washing, thoroughly dry the feet, especially between the toes, to prevent moisture buildup, which can create an environment conducive to fungal growth. 4. Stretch and strengthen Incorporating stretching and strengthening exercises into your routine can help improve flexibility and stability, reducing the risk of injury. Focus on stretching the calves, Achilles tendon, and plantar fascia to maintain optimal range of motion and prevent tightness that can lead to injuries such as Achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis. Additionally, incorporate exercises that target the muscles of the feet and ankles, such as toe curls and ankle circles, to improve strength and stability. 5. Listen to your body The most crucial aspect of foot care for athletes is listening to your body and promptly addressing any signs of discomfort or pain. Ignoring pain or pushing through injuries can lead to further damage and prolonged recovery time. (Muscle injuries require an average of 2 to 3 weeks of recovery time.) If you experience persistent pain, swelling, or discomfort in your feet or ankles, seek professional medical attention to prevent further injury and expedite healing.

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Fall Footwear Flair: Ensuring Healthy Feet in Autumn Fashion

Autumn Shoe Trends: Healthy Footwear Meets Style

Warm and Waterproof Materials

Comfort

Traction

Not Sure What to Buy? Try These Stylish Examples

Step Into Fall at Feet First Clinic!

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Related Posts

10 DIY Foot Product Gifts For Less Than $60

Footwear and Fitness: Choosing the Right Shoes for Your Workout

Preventing Heel Pain: Tips and Exercises

Exploring Foot Reflexology: Benefits for Overall Health and Well-being

Age-Defying Foot Care: Keeping Your Feet Youthful at Any Age

Innovative Treatments for Common Foot Problems in 2024

Preventing Sports Injuries: Essential Foot Care for Athletes

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Carolina Charles

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