The Best Spring Footwear For Women

April 8, 2021

We all love when winter says goodbye and spring comes to Toronto! The itching to get outside and take a long walk, or even to go for an early hike, come back to us quickly. Naturally, you’ll need to make sure your transition from your winter boots to your spring footwear goes smoothly. You may want to get it over with and buy a few pairs of cheap flats and sneakers. However, you’ll want to avoid this hasty behaviour, as you’ll end up having to repeatedly replace those low-quality shoes.

You’re much better off investing in a few high-quality staples that will last this spring, and many more to come! Not sure where to start? We’ve got you covered. We’re here to talk about the perfect spring footwear for women, depending on your shoe preferences and style. We’ll discuss shoes for women that look amazing! We’ll also go over the foot health benefits that come with choosing these brands, as well as the benefits of Orthopaedic shoes.

Spring Footwear For Women: Brands

Naot
Clarks
Ara
Asics

Naot

The Helm Boot from Naot is a great choice for spring. Perfect for work, shopping, or walking around downtown Toronto, Naot shoes are created with a cork layer that provides sufficient shock absorption. What’s more, the elevated footbed centre lets you stay on your feet for long hours without putting too much pressure on important joints. This will help prevent and alleviate foot conditions like Plantar Fasciitis and Metatarsalgia. Not only that, but Naot footwear provides sufficient hallux support for the big toe. What this means is that your big toe can rest comfortably, not bunching up with other toes, which can cause Blisters, Ingrown Toenails, and more.

Clarks

The Arlo boot from Clarks is perfect if you love wearing a light boot all year long, not just during the winter! Being an orthopaedic boot, they offer the numerous benefits that come with orthopaedic footwear. These benefits include an interior design that feels soft on your skin, rather than the cheaper alternatives that feel rough and lead to blisters. Furthermore, orthopaedic shoes are stretchable and adjust accordingly to the shape of your feet. Cheaper alternatives can force your feet to feel cramped in an unnatural position for long hours.

Ara

Tired of boots altogether? You can check out The Samtchevro, by Ara. It’s a practical, comfortable high heel that provides a flexible outsole and incredibly soft uppers. This can allow you to wear stylish heels to work or on a walk. You may even forget you’re wearing heels since they can feel like sneakers! It’s important to understand that you don’t have to choose between comfort and style.

Asics

If sneakers are your preferred spring shoe, it’s time to talk about Asics. The chunky, white sneaker is a long-lasting trend that pairs well with fashionably casual outfits. You can check out their Gel-Nandi if you’re looking to ditch your winter boots for sneakers. Asics provides maximum comfort and promotes a normal gait. Not to mention they’re known for enhancing performance ability. This means you can pair them with your favourite outfits, and also wear them on your run. Who doesn’t love a multi-purposeful shoe?

Looking For More Guidance On Spring Footwear?

Our Bloor West foot clinic will be able to set you up with any of the shoes we’ve discussed today. Our Full product catalogue is also available for browsing, ensuring you make the right choice for your spring footwear. Likewise, proper footwear is a critical part of foot health, but you may have more concerns. If so, we’re here 6 days a week to help you achieve your goal of happy and healthy feet!

Call us at 416-769-FEET (3338) or Book Your Assessment Today!

Here’s to Many More Years of Foot Care!

At Feet First Clinic, we’re always excited to welcome new clients! After a successful 12 years of treating our amazing patients, we’re ready to continue offering only the best foot care services and products. Give us a call to ask our friendly staff any questions you may have! Our Toronto foot specialists are ready to help!

Call us at 416-769-3338 or Book Your Assessment Today!

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September 21, 2023

Polydactyly: Understanding the Rare Phenomenon of a Sixth Toe

Polydactyly is a rare genetic foot condition that causes a sixth toe (and toenail) to grow as the last toe on the foot, next to the pinky toe. However, the sixth toe can sometimes be in the center of the toes or next to the big toe. The sixth toe is often called a digit (dactyl), with “poly” referring to “many.” Today we’re going to answer all your questions regarding this rare condition, including: What are the causes of polydactyly? How does polydactyly affect foot health? How can you manage polydactyly? Photo by Daisy Laparra on Pexels Causes of Polydactyly Polydactyly is more common in children. This is because many adults will have had the sixth digit removed during their toddler years. Outside of genetics and genetic diseases, there are no known causes. A child can also be born with a sixth digit for no reason. How Does Polydactyly Affect Foot Health? Polydactyly does not usually cause foot pain. As far as toe conditions go, the main issue is finding accommodating footwear. Patients may need to search for specialized shoes and medical shoes. The emotional toll a condition like polydactyly can take on a person may be more pressing than the physical toll, and can lead to self-esteem issues. Photo by FreePik How to Manage Polydactyly Managing polydactyly often involves simply removing a child’s sixth toe. Many sixth digits develop poorly and don’t look the same as other toes and fingers. These are generally removed via in-office excision (more common for extra fingers) or surgery under anesthesia (more common for extra toes). If parents of children with a sixth digit wish to remove it, they should seek surgical intervention when the child is around one or two years old. This allows the bone to grow to the point where the cosmetic outcome is more favourable. This is also a good age since your child will likely not recall having this problem later in life and, according to Boston Children’s Hospital, can tolerate anesthesia more than an infant. Children who've had a sixth toe removed should get regular chiropody care after they recover from surgery. If you’ve had a sixth toe removed as a child, you should also seek regular chiropody care into your adult years. Services like gait analyses, custom orthotic fittings, callus and skin care, and more can ensure foot health is on the right track. Photo by jcomp from Freepik

September 14, 2023

Bunions 101: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Management Strategies

Bunions - or for those who have them, the painful, bony nuisances that form at the big toe joint - are a common foot condition for older people, especially women. While surgical intervention can sometimes help those with debilitating bunions, lifestyle changes and effective management strategies can help you avoid a bunionectomy in many cases. Moreover, surgeries are usually only necessary if your bunions cause regular functional and mobility problems and chronic pain, which is often not the case. Let’s look at the causes and symptoms of bunions and explore how you can manage them without invasive measures. Image Credit: Fabrikasimf from Freepik Symptoms of Bunions Bunions protrude from the side of your big toe, forming an “L” shape angle. Additional symptoms of bunions include: More corns and calluses than you would normally have due to the big toe rubbing against the second toe Mild redness, pain, and swelling Limited movement in the big toe Severe bunions can cause overlapping toes, pain that doesn’t subside, and toe angulation of more than 40 degrees. Photo credit: istock Causes of Bunions The main culprit? The wrong shoes! Wearing high heels may make you feel good about yourself aesthetically, but they can damage your physical health over time and are one of the main causes of bunions in women. Narrow, tight, and pointed shoes (often the design of stilettos and other types of heels) squeeze and push your toes together and forward unnaturally, increasing pressure on the big toe and leading to bunion formation. Having another condition that targets the joints, like osteoarthritis or Rheumatoid arthritis, or one that causes an abnormal gait, like flat feet, can also hint at bunions in your future. Activities where your toes are more vulnerable than the rest of your feet, like dancing, may also be a risk factor. Image by rawpixel.com from FreePik Bunions: Management Strategies You can tackle a mild bunion problem from home and with regular visits to the chiropodist. Here are some of the best ways you can prevent bunions from ruining your day or getting worse: Change your footwear: Ditch the high heels for comfortable alternatives and shoes with extra room in the toe box. If you’re not sure where to start, attend a shoe fitting. Try bunion splints or aligners. They can hold the affected joint in place. Therapeutic taping can help hold the joint in place and temporarily relieve pain. Shoe stretching may help secure more room in the toe box and take pressure off the bunion. Try these 5 simple exercises for bunions. They are relatively easy, low-impact, and don’t require exercise equipment. Get custom orthotics. Orthotics might reduce excess pressure on the big toe joint and correct any biomechanical issues that are contributing to your bunions (plus they're also super comfortable!). Ask about shockwave therapy. This innovative, non-invasive, and quick procedure is an effective management strategy for bone and joint conditions. It can help relieve pain caused by muscle tightness around the bunion. It's important to remember that bunions don't disappear like other conditions sometimes do. But successfully practicing these treatment methods can help you avoid surgery. If you suspect your bunions are too severe for these strategies, speak to your family doctor. Bunion products available at Feet First Clinic

September 4, 2023

Best Shoes for Teachers 2023

Teachers spend long hours on their feet, so choosing comfortable and supportive shoes is essential to prevent foot fatigue and discomfort. From standing at the front of the classroom, traveling to or from work, or walking between classrooms, teachers put their feet to the test every day. The best shoes for teachers offer a combination of cushioning, arch support, stability, non-slip soles, and durability. The right pair of shoes can make a difference in a teacher's daily life, providing comfort, support, and style that keeps up with their fast-paced roles. The Ontario Physical Activity Safety Standards in Education suggests that "appropriate footwear is a shoe designed for athletic activities with a sole that provides traction and is secured to the foot." Without the proper footwear, teachers are at greater risk of developing two common foot conditions: plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. In this guide, we list our recommendations for the best shoes for teachers to maximize comfort and keep your feet feeling great all day. Saucony Saucony has a wide range of footwear, including athletic, athleisure, and sport-specific shoes. With a strong focus on running shoes, Saucony caters to various running styles and preferences and is known for its durability, support, and cushioning. For teachers, we recommend the Saucony Triumph 21 for those looking for a more athletic shoe or the Saucony Shadow Original and Jazz Triple for a more casual appearance. Asics ASICS shoes are amongst the most popular in the world. The brand's GEL cushioning system makes them a great choice to protect your feet and keep them feeling their best. They have great shoes for walking and standing, like the Asics Gel-Nimbus 25 (for people with neutral gaits or high arches), the Asics Novablast 3 for those seeking a rocker sole, and the Asics Gel-Kayano for those requiring a stability shoe. Apex Apex shoes provide ample support, cushioning, and ergonomic design to promote proper alignment and alleviate common foot ailments. From orthotic-friendly features to diabetic footwear options, APEX aims to accommodate diverse needs, ensuring individuals with conditions like plantar fasciitis, arthritis, or diabetes can experience improved comfort and mobility. Look at the Apex Boss Runner Active Shoe for a supportive and comfortable option on the job. Anodyne Anodyne footwear specifically caters to those with diabetes, neuropathy, and other foot-related sensitivities. Their footwear features extra depth and roomy toe boxes to provide ample space for toes and accommodate custom orthotics. In addition, Anodyne shoes also often incorporate seamless interiors to minimize irritation and pressure points. The Anodyne No. 75 or No. 72 Casual Sport shoes are excellent for teachers mixing comfort and style. Mephisto Mephisto shoes strongly emphasize quality and feature the brand's soft-air midsole technology. Their shoes prioritize shock absorption and cushioning, which reduces impact on joints and promotes a smoother walking experience. Mephisto offers both casual and dressier options like the Mephisto Wing or Majestro. ara Shoes ara Shoes blend of fashion and functionality appeals to individuals seeking versatile footwear that combines style and comfort. Look at the Ara Leigh footwear line from Ara Shoes for a solid shoe choice for teachers' working hours. Portofino Portofino shoes are backed by Italian craftsmanship and offer a premium footwear line for a more formal look. Whether it's delicate stitching, exquisite leather, or refined silhouettes, Portofino Shoes blend traditional artistry and contemporary aesthetics. Consider the Portofino DY-5068 model if you're a teacher in the market for new shoes. Clarks Clarks shoes combine form and function. They're also backed by close to 200 years of innovation. The Clarks Unstructured Line is excellent lightweight footwear with flexible soles, ideal for long days on your feet. We recommend the Clarks Nalle Lace or the Clarks Court Lite Wally outside the Unstructured line.

August 31, 2023

Foot Callus Treatment: When to Seek Professional Help

Often, a foot callus will go away independently if you change your shoes and eliminate friction and discomfort. Specialized creams and foot soaks can also help speed up the process. But for an unfortunate minority, calluses can become thicker and thicker, eventually causing pain and discomfort and making it necessary to seek foot callus treatment from a chiropodist. Source: iStock At-Home Treatment for Foot Calluses You don't need to rush to the doctor every time you see a callus. In fact, many people will have a mild callus on their foot at any given time, and they aren't typically a medical priority without signs of severity. As far as foot conditions go, they are one of the most common. But it's still a good idea to keep on top of them by practicing foot care from home so you can ensure they don't get worse! Gehwol's Med Callus Cream loosens hard callus layers and may even completely remove a mild callus in up to 28 days. For additional foot health benefits, try Gehwol's Extra Universal Foot Cream, which targets calluses using a combination of natural oils and medicinal ingredients. It also has deodorizing properties and strengthens and invigorates tired feet. Moreover, you can include foot soaks in your at-home callus care routine. Try Gehwol's Refreshing Foot Bath, which keeps the skin resistant to callus formation while smoothening existing calluses. Source: Gehwol Canada Source: Gehwol Canada Seeking Professional Help For Calluses Sometimes taking care of your foot health means visiting your local foot clinic for foot callus treatment from a chiropodist. Here are some signs to look out for: Your callus is causing discomfort Your callus looks inflamed Your callus is very thick Your calluses keep coming back It hurts to put pressure on a callus when walking You see signs of an infection, like pus and drainage. This is especially dangerous if you have diabetes. You just want smooth feet, and to ensure your calluses are treated in a safe, sterile setting. Chiropodists treat calluses using sterilized tools to shave down the area. Following this, they will apply ointment or moisturizing cream to help the skin heal. Your chiropodist can also tend to calluses during a medical pedicure. In addition, foot health specialists can recommend using products to help protect pressure points from friction, like foot protection pads and custom orthotics, to ward off painful, recurring calluses. Source: iStock

August 24, 2023

Summer and Swelling Feet: How to Prevent Foot Inflammation in Hot Weather

Most are thrilled when the temperatures warm up. But for some people, the summer and swelling feet are a dreaded yearly occurrence. Foot inflammation in hot weather happens when sweltering heat causes our blood vessels to dilate, leading to fluid pooling in the legs and feet. This is also called heat edema. Those with underlying health or foot conditions can be more prone to foot inflammation in the summer. Still, young and healthy adults who exercise in high temperatures or gyms without proper ventilation can also experience it. For those wanting to prevent foot inflammation this summer, there is hope. Let’s check out several ways you can keep your feet cool and comfortable. Photo Source: Photo by brgfx on Freepik Exercises and Stretches PHoto by FreePik Boosting your blood circulation with movement and activities can reduce foot swelling (not to mention the other foot health benefits you can enjoy). Try a solid, low-impact exercising and stretching routine, performing a few sets twice daily. Compression Stockings Compression socks place pressure on the feet and legs so fluids cannot pool as easily. They also boost blood flow. That said, compression stockings are generally not recommended for diabetes patients. If your swelling feet are a diabetes symptom, you should seek other relief methods. Compression socks can also be uncomfortable during the summer, so make sure you wear them indoors in cool spaces. You can also try lighter, sheer hosiery instead of knee-high socks. Orthopedic Shoes Wearing the right shoes can help accommodate larger, swollen feet and prevent your heat edema from worsening. Look for orthopedic shoes and medical shoes with extra cozy and protective features, such as more width and depth, stretchy fabric, easy adjustability (like velcro and buckle closure straps), and removable insoles you can replace with orthotics if needed. Summer and Swelling Feet: At-Home Foot Care Tips for Preventing Foot Inflammation Chiropodists and other healthcare professionals recommend the following tips for reducing heat-related foot swelling: Eat magnesium-rich foods or take supplements. Studies show that foot swelling is often a result of magnesium deficiency. Lower your sodium intake. Stay hydrated. Soak your feet in an Epsom salt bath. Stay in cool, air-conditioned areas and avoid hot temperatures when possible. Photo by FreePik

August 19, 2023

Back to School Shoes for Kids 2023: A Comprehensive Guide

Your child is about to return from summer camp and gear up for the school year. As a parent, it's time to shift your shoe guide focus from summer adventures to 2023 footwear trends for the classroom, playground, school gym, and more! This guide will discuss the best 2023 school shoes for kids and other vital foot health tips for children: Know your child's condition Invest in orthotics Get the right shoes Get ready for the elements Sizing, sizing, sizing Prepare for gym change rooms Image Credit: Katerina Holmes from pexels Know Your Child's Condition There are a wide variety of foot conditions unique to children. Knowing if your kid is struggling with one is the first step towards securing quality footwear and the best kids shoes for 2023. Common foot conditions in children include: Pediatric Flat Feet: Most kids have flat feet in their toddler years before arches form by age 5. However, some kids struggle with flat feet for much longer. Arch support is extremely important for little ones with flat feet. Studies show that kids who wear footwear with added arch support enjoy less physical foot pain, improved mobility and even bonuses like faster stair ascent time (although kids shouldn't be running on the stairs at school!). A stability shoe like the ASICS GT-1000 runner, or custom orthotics, are highly recommended for kids with flat feet as the GT-1000 series is for people who overpronate (meaning the foot lands on the outside of the heel, which transfers weight incorrectly and causes pain over time). Sever's Disease: This disease occurs when the growth plate on the back of the heel becomes inflamed. It is common in growing kids, especially young athletes. One of the major risk factors of Sever's disease is having an overactive child exert energy without considering the proper shoe recommendations. Choosing school shoes with a deep-heel cup can help relieve pain. Osgood-Schlatter Disease / Growth Spurts: Running and jumping kids can develop Osgood-Schlatter disease in the knee, which feels like swelling and pain below the cap. It can also sometimes be attributed to growing pains and spurts. You can soothe symptoms by suiting your kids up with shoes with good shock absorption. Shock absorption dilutes the hard ground and gym floor's effect on your child's joints. Pigeon-toeing: Children who walk with their feet pointing inward are pigeon-toeing or in-toeing. Dealing with pigeon-toeing can be tricky because some specialists suggest you shouldn't use corrective shoes until the child is around nine or 10 so they have a chance to naturally grow out of it. ASICS GT-1000 for grade school kids. image credit: asics website Invest in Orthotics From flat feet to growing pains, custom orthotics help with most musculoskeletal foot conditions common in children. School floors are notoriously hard and flat, so the extra arch support, shock absorption and cushioning can help with a pre-existing condition and keep it from progressing into more painful territory by putting more strain on vulnerable areas. Get the Right Shoes Quality footwear can make the difference between a painful day at school and a day with some relief and comfort. But how do you know what school shoes to buy for your kids? It may depend on their foot type: Kids with low arches and flat feet that persist after age five should consider a stability shoe like the ASICS GT-1000 for kids. It will correct the overpronation we discussed earlier with extra support in the midsole and arch area and prevent their abnormal gait pattern from causing more discomfort. You should also consider the needs of children with neutral gaits. The ASICS Novablast is built to accommodate growing feet and may be a solid choice for its extra cushioning and energetic bounce underfoot. ASICS Novablast for kids. Image credit: Asics Website Sizing, Sizing, Sizing Some kids may need to attend a shoe fitting before returning to the classroom. To ensure shoes fit for the whole school year, leave half an inch of room from the toe to the end of the toe box to account for growth spurts. If your child feels like their toes are being squished on the sides, look for shoes with added width. Prepare for Gym Change Rooms We all know schools are a breeding ground for the common cold. But your child can also contract highly contagious foot conditions like warts, athlete's foot and toenail fungus if they don't protect their feet in the locker rooms and change rooms. To prevent this, ensure your kid heads to school with flip-flops, shower shoes or sandals in their gym bag. Get Ready for the Elements Hopefully, your child already has a pair of the Saucony Peregrine from their camp adventures. But if not, it’s never too late! Your kids should always be prepared for mud, rain, sudden light snowfalls, and other weather events. The Peregrine ice is perfect for the fall months leading into winter and shields your child’s feet from moisture while offering an excellent grip on the ground and slippery pavement. Saucony Peregrine for Kids. Image Credit: Saucony Website

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The Best Spring Footwear For Women

Spring Footwear For Women: Brands

Naot

Clarks

Ara

Asics