Walk Into Winter The Right Way: Part Two

December 3, 2021

The snow has finally arrived, and it’s time to go out for some pleasant winter walks (or perhaps dreaded winter walks)! Which also makes it the perfect time for part two of Feet First Toronto’s Walk Into Winter series! Winter boots come with many excellent features focusing on insulation, traction, weather resistance and more, so it’s tough to limit our top picks to just one blog article.

Finding the right winter boot often involves a little give-and-take. For example, if you want something that will protect you in deep snow and blizzards, you may need to compromise a bit on versatility, looks, and the weight of the shoe. If you want something super stylish that will easily pair with your favourite outfits, you may need to give up some of the warmth factor. That’s why it’s important to think about where you will be wearing your boots, and what your specific winter needs are. From there, you can find something that best suits your activities.

That’s why, like last time, we’re featuring some classic winter personas for different winter activities. These personas range from the person who excitedly waits for winter to arrive, to those who can’t wait for it to end. All you have to do is find the persona that suits you best, and we’ll cover the rest!

We’ll highlight our favourite boots from some of the best brands and tell you why you’ll love them. We’ll also touch on some of their downsides that might make you want to consider another alternative. Regardless of what way you’re leaning, you can rest assured that Feet First Clinic is here to help you find the options that work best for you and your winter activities.

These fantastic boots are just a glimpse of what our one-stop shop has to offer!

The Winter Dodger: Sorel Lennox Chelsea

Why You’ll Love It

Let’s be honest; plenty of people dislike winter. Perhaps you’re looking to get from point A to point B as quickly as possible? The cold air and wet snow might bother you, and you prefer to stick with hopping in and out of the car without taking walks during the winter. If this sounds like you, a simple boot like the Sorel Lennox Chelsea is a practical choice. Sorel is known for its weatherproofing technology and constructing boots that tackle seasonality for when you do need to go outside, while still being stylish and versatile.

Unfortunately, you can’t totally avoid the outdoors and are going to have to brave the elements from time to time. Fortunately, the Sorel Lennox Chelsea is great for wet winter weather to get you through those times when you need to trek through the streets of Toronto. The moulded-PU like EVA footbed cushions and helps absorb shock for a gentle walking experience, while the waterproof leather upper keeps your feet from getting soaked. The outside is made from moulded rubber, allowing for good traction and reducing the risk of slipping accidents for those who aren’t used to winter.

Got orthotics? No problem! This boot also has a removable footbed, which lets you easily insert your custom orthotics or specialty insole-of-choice. All in all, with the Sorel Lennox Chelsea, winter dodgers can get all the winter protection they need, while giving you the timeless style you can expect from a sleek, classic winter Chelsea boot.

The Downside

While it works well in light rain and snow, the Sorel Lennox Chelsea is not good for heavy and deep snow.
Other boots may be more supportive when it comes to foot pain management.
The winter dodger likely won’t mind, but other boots are better for frigid temperatures and winter exploration.

The Winter Fashionista: Ara Liverpool Liberty

Why You’ll Love It

Style meets practicality with the Liverpool Liberty boot from Ara. The Liberty is made with a waterproof GORE-TEX upper and interior membrane, which is unique for numerous reasons. GORE-TEX stands out for its ability to stop wet weather from getting in while letting perspiration out, so your feet stay consistently dry. And keeping your feet dry is essential to keeping your feet warm in cold weather.

So why GORE-TEX is one of the best waterproof fabrics? It’s primarily due to the construction of the fabric, which has three layers: a standard outer layer and two separate GORE-TEX layers. Explain That Stuff notes that the two layers have different functions. One is a hydrophilic, thin inner membrane that allows perspiration from your feet to escape without allowing moisture from wet weather to enter.

The other layer is a thicker layer often made from Teflon. This layer is hydrophobic, meaning it repels water regardless of the weather’s persistence or the amount of rain/snow. Knowing your boots are waterproof is excellent news for the winter fashionista. There’s nothing worse than going out for the evening and a sudden rainfall or snowfall ruining the night by drenching your feet. Wet feet can be a recipe for disaster, not only because it’s uncomfortable and makes your feet cold, but also because it can lead to waterlogged and wrinkly skin, blister formation, cracked heels, athlete’s foot and fungal infections.

In addition to being waterproof, Ara is known for being more supportive than other brands without sacrificing style. The Liberty includes their innovative HighSoft technology, which contains a soft upper, a flexible outsole, a padded insole and a comfy foam insert. These super sleek boots also have a removable footbed for those who wear orthotics. To top it off, the slight heel and durable rubber sole provide a stable walking experience that will give you more grip on slippery surfaces than your stereotypical dress boot. All together, the Liverpool Liberty is perfect for stylish Torontonians looking to hit the town, while keeping their feet dry, comfortable, and supported.

And for those wanting something even dressier with a little extra height, Ara also makes a similar boot with a block heel.

The Downside

Other boots may be warmer, with some offering more protection in extreme winter temperatures.

For The Everyday Commuter: Sorel’s Whitney II Plus

Why You’ll Love It

A bulky boot can be a pain for the out-and-about Toronto dweller who needs to regularly commute to work or school. With Sorel’s Whitney II Short Lace Plus you can enjoy protection with a lightweight feeling during your winter activities. This fun, sporty winter boot comes with a cozy microfleece lining. It also has 200g of insulation, which refers to its thickness, not the total weight. Thus, there are no worries about added bulkiness.

Thanks to the nylon upper and PU (polyurethane) coated synthetic overlays, the Whitney II is also a solid weather-resistant choice when faced with unexpected city weather. The durable moulded rubber soles – something Sorel is notorious for – are fantastic for traction on the wet, slick pavement when you’re in a hurry. It also has a removable footbed, a beloved feature for people who need to wear orthotics. The pull tab comes in handy for the everyday commuter, allowing you to put them on without a fuss, while the laces let you loosen and tighten them to your preferred fit.

The Downside

The laces are not waterproof.
Other brands, like Mephisto, offer more supportive features.
As a short boot, the Whitney II Short Lace Plus may not be ideal for deep snow

The Winter Explorer: Sorel Whistler

Why You’ll Love It

Some people absolutely love winter and count down the days until it arrives. If this sounds like you, you might want to stick with Sorel. Embracing winter means investing in an exceptionally warm and rugged winter boot. With its cozy wool lining, the Sorel Whistler can keep your feet warm in temperatures as low as -32 degrees Celsius. You’ll need something that traps warmth if you’re heading up north for a crisp winter adventure, as those temperatures can dip much lower than Toronto’s.

The Sorel Whistler also comes with a removable EVA foam footbed. This footbed also helps lock in warmth and offers shock absorption qualities, reducing the chances of experiencing joint and muscle strain. It’s also removable, so you can use your custom orthotics or high-quality insoles. The Whistler also provides excellent protection from the elements with the OutDry waterproof construction and full-grain leather materials.

The Downside

A reasonably supportive boot, but it falls short compared to other brands, like Mephisto or Ara.
It’s discontinued! So get it while you can!

Those With Foot Pain Concerns: Mephisto Opera-Tex

Why You’ll Love It

From Mephisto’s ALLROUNDER series comes the exceptionally supportive Opera-Tex boot for people who struggle with painful foot conditions. This Mephisto boot can keep you warm in -10 degrees C temperatures, which makes it great for people with mobility concerns looking to stay close to Toronto for the winter. They’re also well insulated and waterproof. When it comes to sticking close to the GTA (with occasional ventures beyond), The Opera-Tex is a good choice as it’s also appropriate for moderate to deep snow levels.

The Opera-Tex includes Mephisto’s classic removable anatomical footbed, featuring an ACTIVE SUSPENSION shock absorber system. Shock absorption is vital as it reduces the adverse effects that walking can have on people with foot conditions. Without ample shock absorption, the “shock” from the impact of the ground can strain the interconnected knees, hips, lower back, feet, and ankles. The footbed is also removable, which can be a priority for people who need to wear custom orthotics or insoles.

The Downside

Not suitable for extreme winter temperatures below -10 degrees Celsius
It can be clunky and heavy, and may not pair nicely with every outfit. You may therefore need to bring an extra pair of shoes to wear indoors if you’re going somewhere nice.

Experience Winter With The Best Footwear!

Feet First is special for being a multifaceted foot clinic that offers a wide range of shoes on sale! All you have to do is ask your chiropodist what you may need, and we’ll handle the rest! Our staff can guide you through your options and help you make the best choice possible – so winter doesn’t do some serious damage to your foot and ankle health.

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

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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. With that, here is part one of Feet First Clinic's Walk Into Winter series! We'll feature some top-notch winter boots and pair them with the winter persona that suits you and your winter activities best! (Want to learn more about what makes winter footwear unique? Check out our winter footwear guide!) The Winter Hiker: The Saucony Peregrine Ice Why You'll Love it Not everyone treats the winter like something that needs to pass; some Torontonians embrace it! If you enjoy hitting the GTA winter trails, you're going to need extra traction for those icy surfaces. That's where the Saucony Peregrine Ice from their Trail series might pique your interest. This shoe lets you enjoy the benefits of a lightweight sneaker, combined with protection from the slippery ground. Thanks to the fantastic Vibram Arctic Grip Technology in the rubber outsole, you can run through various trail conditions without slipping, and therefore reducing your chance injury. Furthermore, the waterproof Gore-tex fabric and water-resistant upper guard your feet from wet winter conditions, like slush, water and trail debris. The Peregrine Ice is also quite comfortable. Made with PWRRUN foam and an extra layer of topsole cushioning, you can continue exploring your favourite trails without tiring quickly. The cushioning also gives you an extra boost and keeps you on your feet for long periods without the annoyance of foot pain. It also has a removable footbed to accommodate your custom orthotics. These perks combined are perfect for physically active people who keep up with their running routines all year round. The Downside It doesn't provide the warmth that winter boots have. Not suitable for deep snowfalls: The shoe doesn't rise above the ankles, so it's more suited for trails with compacted snow. People With Foot Pain: The Mephisto Zelda Why You'll Love it Winter boots from Mephisto are an excellent choice for people struggling with foot pain. The water-resistant Mephisto Zelda winter bootie is lightweight compared to heavy-duty winter boots, and laces up so you can adjust the fit and opening. The luxurious, soft faux fur also keeps your feet toasty when those temperatures start dropping in Toronto. Chiropodists note that Mephisto is one of the best shoe brands in terms of foot pain management. The following technologies work together to make Mephisto footwear shine: SOFT-AIR Technology: A Mephisto staple! The flexible and soft midsole provides excellent cushioning -- perfect for sensitive feet. Shock absorbing heels: Shock absorption protects the foot and ankle joints from fatigue. This is also the case for your knees and back! Mephisto's shock-absorbing heels are a protective barrier between your feet and the harsh impact of the ground. Arch support: Arch support is essential for a couple of reasons. 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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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

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