January 12, 2023
How do we know if our running shoes are high quality? What's more, what should we look for when hunting for new shoes?
It can be easy to simply look for the cheapest pair and call it a day. But before you know it those low-quality running shoes will start to wear down, which puts you at risk of sustaining an injury or developing a chronic foot condition.
Luckily, we've compiled a list of essential features that make a great running shoe!
10 Indicators of Great Running Shoes
Shock absorption
Cushioning
Breathability
Support for your foot type
Weight
Flexibility
Traction
Durability
Waterproof
Bonus Features
Shock Absorption
This is a fancy term for how high-quality athletic shoes withstand impact with the ground. Shock absorbers are frequently mentioned when people discuss vehicles and are described as any device that smoothens or dampens shock impulses.
Shock absorption in your shoes should help your muscles like a car's shock absorbers protect its parts. The National Library of Medicine notes that sufficient shock absorption is required during the landing phase of running or jumping to protect joints and muscles from impact damage.
When looking for new shoes, you should check the level of shock absorption. One of the best shock absorption technologies includes ASICS GEL cushioning, located in their running shoes' forefoot or rearfoot (or both). The GEL compound absorbs the shock from the ground, and its foam midsoles offer a solid rebound. Saucony is another example and uses EVA foam and their Super Rebound Compound (SRC) to provide durable shock absorption in the heel crashpad.
Cushioning
Running shoes for women and men will require a solid amount of cushioning. This will help runners avoid common athletic injuries like Achilles tendonitis, muscle strain and stress fractures and also provide general comfort by combating the onset of foot pain and keeping you on your feet for long-distance runs.
Cushioned running shoes are also beneficial for athletes still recovering from an injury and will provide support and comfort as the foot muscles get back to optimal condition.
ASICS Gel Technology Footwear
Breathability
Wearing running shoes with breathable mesh uppers can work wonders for your foot health. After all, when we exercise, our feet start to sweat, so your new shoes should have a way to ventilate and promote a healthy foot environment. Furthermore, a lack of ventilation can put you at risk of developing athlete's foot or fungal toenails.
Some of the best running shoes for breathability include the Saucony Ride and the Saucony Endorphin. The generously pored mesh and thin fabric help your shoes circulate air and keep the shoe's interior well-ventilated.
Support and Foot Type
If you're wondering if a running shoe is worth investing in, check to see if it advertises its support type. In other words, check if it's a stability, neutral or motion control running shoe.
Generic running and walking shoes often cannot accommodate your specific gait and foot type, but high-quality shoes can.
Here is how to know what type of shoe you will need:
Stability shoes are for people with flat feet who overpronate (the arch collapses upon weight bearing). These shoes may help prevent complications associated with a low arch, like plantar fasciitis. More specifically, they offer extra support on the shoe's inner sole, called a medial post.
Motion control shoes are for runners with more severe overpronation and are essentially stability shoes taken up a notch. In addition to medial support, they offer a stiff heel, firm cushioning and a more rigid midsole.
Neutral shoes do not contain bonus support features in the midsole. They are typically for "normal" pronators or people with a normal arch. People with high arches can also wear neutral shoes as they don't need bonus motion control and stability features.
Weight
You don't want to feel like your shoes are weighing you down while running. You want your feet to feel as light as a feather and to notice a "spring" in your step.
When your shoes are lighter, you can run for longer periods. This is because you're using less energy to lift your foot off the ground, which protects you from fatigue. Lightweight shoes can also improve your form during exercise. It's all about making your experience as effortless as possible.
To address the need for lightweight running shoes, top brands have mastered the art of using light materials and breathable membranes, without compromising on supportive features.
Flexibility
Flexibility refers to how much you can bend or twist your shoes. A running shoe can have either a stiff midsole or a flexible midsole, and a clear sign of a good running shoe is knowing its level of flexibility.
Flexible shoes are great for longer runs and comfort enhancement, and they will always be neutral and not include stability features. Flexible shoes are also better for terrain running and are more lightweight.
Stiff shoes will feature stability enhancements and are great for motion control and improving your running performance.
Traction
Sometimes when we go for runs we don't always have the luxury of smooth, dry pavement or a treadmill. It may start raining, or you may even enjoy taking your runs to some of Toronto's most beloved trails.
The part of the running shoe responsible for traction is the outsole (bottom of the shoe), which are usually made with rubber. Think of them as similar to a car's tires, protecting you from slips and falls, but also contributing to the smoothness of the "ride."
A running shoe should have a strong grip of the pavement and other terrain types. A lot of winter running shoes are made with enhanced traction via a rigid rubber outsole and durable lugs. The Gel-Cumulus GTX or GT-2000 GTX from ASICS and the Saucony Peregrine ICE are examples of running shoes with the best traction.
Durability
For your running shoes to last a long time, they must be durable. Furthermore, the lifespan of a shoe depends on the sum of its parts and the quality levels of the following:
Upper: The mesh and synthetic overlays must be relatively flexible but maintain a thickness level that extends their lifespan. If the upper of a running shoe is thin, there should be less friction between materials to boost durability.
Midsole: The density of the midsole, as well as its firmness, will determine how durable a shoe is. EVA foam, for example, has a high level of resistance, making it a durable material.
Outsole: A weak outsole will ruin your shoes and running experience as it is the point of contact between you and the ground. Generally, the harder the rubber used for the outsole, the more durable it is.
Waterproof
Like breathability and traction features, a waterproof running shoe is critical for rainy weather, moisture control and winter running.
When you stay dry and comfortable, your feet are also protected from rubbing and abrasion, which can lead to blisters.
You can try running shoes made with GORE-TEX fabric for optimal waterproof protection. This membrane consists of a microporous structure that renders fabrics waterproof. Specifically, the microscopic pores are much smaller than water particles, meaning they cannot penetrate the fabric. Some running shoes made with GORE-TEX fabric include the ASICS GT-2000 GTX and the ASICS Cumulus GTX.
Bonus Features
Here are some extra signs of great running shoes you can look out for:
Reflector accents: These will keep you noticeable and safe while running in the dark.
Removable footbeds: For athletes with consistent foot pain, custom orthotics or Superfeet insoles may be necessary for long runs. You can look for running shoes with footbeds that you can remove and replace with your medical device of choice.
Shoe width: Runners with wide feet should look for shoes with varying width options.
Photo by Philip Ackermann from Pexels
January 5, 2023
What comes to mind when we think of the best "medical shoes?" Would they be shoes for doctors? Or shoes someone wears to overcome an injury? While both may technically be true, a medical shoe is simply a shoe that supports and accommodates the structure of your foot, which is a means of treating foot ailments. In other words, they go above and beyond what standard footwear can provide.
The best medical shoes are more widely available than some people may think. Countless shoe brands focus on constructing the best shoe for your foot health. But it can be tough to know what shoe you need to address your unique foot concerns.
Let's assess the best medical shoes of 2023 to better understand what footwear you may be missing out on!
Best Medical Shoes 2023
Saucony Integrity Walker
ASICS Gel-Nimbus
APEX Lace Walker
Anodyne Sport Double Depth
ASICS Gel-Keyano
Saucony Integrity Walker
The reasons the Saucony Integrity Walker shines amongst footwear choices are twofold. This shoe can help with foot pain relief for everyday Torontonians, but it's also a great choice for nurses, doctors, and working students who spend Mondays to Fridays (and sometimes the weekends!) standing all day.
Part of what makes this one of the best medical shoes is its ability to accommodate wide feet, and you can select options based on your foot width. You can choose from wide, extra wide, regular or narrow to ensure the perfect fit. This neutral walker also offers responsive cushioning for people who need to walk or stand for long days. Furthermore, the PWRRUN midsole gives the shoe a light and bouncy feel, as opposed to a clunkier shoe which can weigh you down.
Lastly, this shoe has the stamp of approval from The American Podiatric Medical Association. Not all shoes come with the honour of being recognized as a highly beneficial product for maintaining foot health - so that's a plus!
Saucony Integrity Walker
ASICS Gel-Nimbus
The Gel-Nimbus is a great medical shoe for neutral walkers or those with high arches who slightly underpronate. If you have a higher arch, this shoe can prevent and help you manage ankle strain, shin splints and plantar fasciitis.
The newest version of the Nimbus is about 10% lighter than its predecessor, which keeps your steps light and springy. In terms of being a top-notch medical shoe, its advanced impact protection stands out and helps you land your steps without triggering muscle strain. This is thanks to ASICS' highly developed rearfoot and forefoot GEL® technology.
Lastly, the FLYTEFOAM™ and FF BLAST+™ cushioning work together to protect your joints by creating a softer landing, more responsive toe-off, and lightweight impact absorption. After all, cushioning is more than just "padding"; Insufficient cushioning can make your feet too tired to continue throughout the day.
ASICS Gel Nimbus
APEX Lace Walker
The APEX Lace Walker is an orthopedic shoe and a godsend for anyone with flat feet.
This type of foot structure can cause you to overpronate while walking. Likewise, neglecting to buy the proper footwear for flat feet can put you at risk of developing bunions, bone spurs, and arthritis.
The external heel counter in the APEX walker extends around the heel to the foot's arch. Then it works with the internal heel counter to provide excellent motion control and promote neutral steps. This gives people with flat feet a higher chance of successful and comfortable walking.
If that isn't enough to make it one of the best medical shoes, doctors recommend the APEX Lace Walker for anyone who needs stability control and extra comfort.
Apex Lace Walker
Anodyne Sport Double Depth
Anodyne makes shoes for people with diabetes, propelling them to superstar status in our discussion of the best medical shoes. Furthermore, this company's careful construction and focus on health makes Anodyne shoes an appropriate choice for those with other foot problems, not just diabetes.
The Anodyne Sport Double Depth shoe comes with width options, but where it truly shines is in its depth. This gives even more room to accommodate those with debilitating foot conditions than other Anodyne options.
Hailed as perfect for those with "difficult" feet, anyone with extremely swollen feet or who need to insert their custom orthotics into their shoes can use them. Furthermore, those with bunions and hammertoes should consider investing in the Anodyne Sport Double Depth, as those conditions are known for requiring extra depth in the toe box.
Anodyne Double Depth Shoe
ASICS Gel-Kayano
While the Gel-Nimbus is designed for those with high arches who underpronate, the Gel-Keyano is great for people with low arches who overpronate.
This shoe helps with rearfoot support by offering a low-profile external heel counter. The LITETRUSS™ stability feature in the midsole keeps your feet from rolling too far inward, which is the typical experience of overpronators. This is highly beneficial as overpronators are more at risk of putting strain on their muscles, tendons and ligaments, which makes them more injury-prone.
Other features include the Rearfoot GEL® technology cushioning, which gives your shoes much needed shock absorption, and the OrthoLite™ X-55 sockliner takes comfort to new levels.
ASICS Gel Keyano
December 22, 2022
Holiday travel can be an exhausting and inconvenient experience, no matter how excited you are. There is often little time to rest. Standing, walking, and waiting for hours at the airport can also do a number on your feet. Moreover, the Canadian winter weather can surprise you and leave you without the right footwear. That's why bringing the right travel shoes for your plans is critical.
Now, you don't have to jam-pack your luggage with five pairs of travel shoes. That is just another inconvenience, especially for those who want to avoid checking bags at the airport. But you should assess your winter activities and double-check the weather forecast before selecting a couple of shoe types for your travel bag. And if you invest in some of the shoes in today's blog, your feet will thank you!
The Best Travel Shoes 2022
The all-purpose boot
The snow boot
The running and walking shoe
The dressy shoe
The hiker
All-Purpose Boot: Portofino ID1673 or Portofino MS-105
Everyone needs an all-purpose boot to get from point A to point B, especially during the holidays when your travel time includes a dusting of snow. The depth of snow can soak your feet and make the sidewalks slippery, putting you at risk of a fall.
While searching for winter boot travel shoes, you should opt for a brand that offers not only foot support, but also insulation, a solid grip, and waterproofing features.
That's where Portofino comes into the picture! They make orthopeadic boots, a feature rarely found in winter footwear that can help with countless foot conditions. Their unisex black boot (ID 1673 on their website) is perfect for a mild snowfall and is lined with genuine sherpa wool that keeps you cozy and warm. They're also waterproof, and the rubber outsole allows for a slip-free walk during the holidays. Moreover, you can remove the footbed if you need to insert custom orthotics or insoles to walk without foot pain.
The MS-105 boot from Portofino is another solid all-purpose option, with the main difference being the outside is made with suede, and there are just laces and no zippers.
Portofino ID 1673
The Snow Boot: Sorel Tivoli Parc Boot
Snow boots differ from all-purpose winter boots, so you may need to alter your travel shoes depending on where you're heading for the holidays.
Essentially, a snow boot should take the insulation and waterproofing features of an everyday boot to the next level. And a boot that can handle deep snow is crucial for any Canadian. Furthermore, some provinces encounter much heavier snow than others. So if you're travelling from the west coast to the east, you should prepare for inconvenient weather. A supportive, warm and protective snow boot is also great for doing some last-minute Christmas shopping on a particularly cold day.
Sorel is known for its winter footwear, and the Tivoli Parc Boot, with its 200g insulation, is great for cold temperatures that dip as low as -40. The shearling collar and microfleece lining also work together to warm your feet. The moulded rubber outsole keeps you safe from sudden slips, and this boot also features a removable footbed for custom insole accommodation. And lastly, the entirety of the boot's upper (sans the laces) is waterproof, so you can walk easily and confidently, knowing the elements won't slow you down.
Mephisto Tivoli Parc Boot
The Running and Walking Shoe: ASICS Gel-Cumulus GTX or GT-2000 GTX
Did you know that you can still go for runs during the wintertime?
That means you can take your fitness goals with you during the holiday season if you bring the right travel shoes. You should assess your comfort level and conditions, but wet sidewalks and trails with compacted, dense snow are usually no trouble!
You should look no further than ASICS for a smooth December running session. If you need a stability or a neutral shoe, you can opt for the Gel-Cumulus for GT-2000 GTX. The GT-2000 GTX is designed for overpronation (low arches and flat feet), and the Gel-Cumulus GTX is designed for neutral gaits and underpronation (high arches). If you aren't sure what type you need, you can read more about shoe stability here!
Both shoes are lined with GORE-TEX fabric to keep your feet dry, letting you stay active as long as you'd like. Other notable features include the engineered mesh upper, lightweight cushioning and reflective accents that keep you visible when it's dark outside. ASICS is also always upgrading and fine-tuning its GEL technology, which makes you feel like you're walking (or running) on a cloud.
The GT-2000 GTX is similar to the Cumulus but includes LITETRUSS™ technology to improve medial support for stability.
ASICS Gel-Cumulus GTX
The Dressy Shoe: Ara Maggie
Sometimes, travel shoes need to be stylish. And while Ara's highly-cushioned waterproof pump may not be the best for snowfall, it's a solid choice for a short journey to a holiday party.
Like your ASICS running shoes, the Maggie is made with GORE-TEX membrane, which guarantees dry feet. It also comes with a removable footbed for easy insole insertion. Ara's Maggie is also made with a stretchy fabric, so it's easy to wear with thick fleece tights or leggings.
Ara Maggie
The Hiker: Mephisto Allrounder Nigata-Tex
Winter hikes are underrated, and snow lovers should bring hiking boots for the holidays!
Mephisto's Nigata-Tex is great for trudging along the winter trails. That's likely why they claim this boot is great for "rising to everyday challenges." More specifically, it combines the lightweight feel of an ankle boot with the protection and innovation of your winter boots.
The ALLRO-TEX technology ensures breathability, which keeps your feet healthy during strenuous activity. The shock absorber in the outsole protects your feet by reducing the harsh impact often felt on hiking trips. Most importantly, they have one of the best grips out of all the shoes in today's blog. This is especially crucial for the unpredictable nature of trails.
Mephisto Nigata Tex
December 12, 2022
This holiday season, let's consider healthcare during our shopping trips. Medical gifts are often on the wish lists of people we love, like our grandparents or even our doctors and medical student friends. They want useful gifts that not only ease foot pain and provide comfort, are also special for folks who like to showcase their foot health knowledge and care about preventing foot conditions.
But maybe you don't know where to start as you hunt for a healthy gift.
That's where we come into the picture! Feet First Clinic has curated the ultimate medical gift guide with a special focus on foot health. These goodies are affordable and can be stocking stuffers or larger gifts.
Useful Medical Gifts for Foot Care and Wellness
Here are some great finds in our holiday gift guide:
Shoes, shoes, and more shoes
Medical compression stockings
Orthopedic slippers
Therapeutic massage balls
Superfeet insoles
Foot files
Gehwol products
Shoes, Shoes, and More Shoes
For the loved one who is infamous for buying ill-fitting footwear.
Show someone you care by investing in a long-lasting pair of shoes that provide comfort and the right support.
Of course, it can be tricky to surprise someone without knowing how a shoe will fit, so you can offer to take your loved one on a shopping trip and treat them to a proper shoe fitting. At the end of the session, they'll leave with a great new pair of runners, winter boots, or another type of shoe they need.
To ensure you snag the right shoes to gift someone, consider this trusty shoe-shopping checklist!
Medical Compression Stockings
For the loved one going through pregnancy or struggling with edema-related(swelling) conditions.
There is a lot of misinformation about compression stockings. Some claim that they're only suitable for seniors, they cut off blood circulation, and they're bulky and ugly. But they couldn't be more wrong! Compression stockings are great for young people too! They stimulate blood flow and are super stylish!
Compression stockings help pregnant women and those suffering from foot swelling, and they're a great idea for frequent travellers and people who stand all day long at work. They're also great for athletes who need an oxygen boost for their muscles.
They're a wonderfully versatile gift. To arrange this type of gifting, instruct your loved one to attend a complimentary fitting and then cover the cost when the stockings arrive.
Orthopedic Slippers
For the loved one who wants some extra support and coziness at home.
Orthopedic slippers are a fun gift that would make almost anybody happy simply because they feel so soft and comforting. As a bonus, they can also increase blood circulation, help with spinal issues and lower back pain, and reduce the risk of sustaining an injury from a fall.
You can have some fun shopping for supportive slippers. Some come with furry collars and several colours to choose from. There are also broad selections for both men and women.
Check out this blog to learn why these slippers are a great medical gift idea!
Therapeutic Massage Balls
For the loved one struggling with pain at the bottom of their feet.
This tiny ball works wonders and is the perfect stocking stuffer. You can also include them in a foot care gift box if you'd like them to be a part of a major gift!
They're an accompaniment to several foot exercises (use them instead of tennis balls), and regularly using them can make a big difference in your loved one's quality of life.
Specifically, therapeutic massage balls help loosen tense muscles on the bottom of your feet. You can also use them to help with back and neck pain as they work out knots and boost blood circulation.
Superfeet Insoles
For the loved one looking for extra support to accommodate their footwear.
As far as medical gifts go, Superfeet insoles are a wonderful route to take. The general use of their most popular colour, green, is to provide extra support for people with flat feet, plantar fasciitis and other types of foot pain. They're also great at ensuring your footwear fits more snugly.
But if you have a loved one with more specific needs, worry not!
Superfeet produces several insoles with colours that indicate how they stand out. For example, Superfeet Berry is made specifically for women and comes with a slimmer heel and an arch length to fit the proportions of the female foot. And Superfeet Black is a versatile, low-profile option for people with flat feet. And that's just the beginning!
Foot Files
For the loved one who likes to practice a solid foot care routine.
You can gift someone a foot file as a stocking stuffer or as part of a gift box (throw in some Gehwol products and a massage ball for the perfect foot care selection!).
But why do we need them?
Foot files remove hard, scaly dead skin from the bottom of the foot, making them feel silky smooth. The perfect tool for concluding a luxurious at-home foot care session, you should give them some consideration as you shop for medical gifts.
Gehwol Products
For the loved one who embraces skincare.
Gehwol is known for its abundance of high-quality foot creams, sprays and powders. They also make lovely bath foams and revitalizing bath salts for tired, achy feet.
You can gift someone one product as a stocking stuffer or try creating a gift bundle with some variety. Here's a great example of a Gehwol gift bundle:
Gehwol's Fusskraft Herbal Foot Bath
Gehwol's Med Salve for Cracked Skin
Gehwol's Foot and Shoe Deodorant
Gehwol's Med Lipidro Cream
December 1, 2022
Winter has graced our presence again, and while we're all bearing it (or enjoying it!), many forget precautions that keep our feet comfortable, clean, warm and dry. But worry not; with a reliable winter foot care routine, you can get through the chilly season without risking the most common foot conditions.
Here are some steps to create the perfect winter foot care routine. Be sure to follow it as often as possible for the best results!
Find the best winter shoes
Create a workout routine
Keep your feet clean
Master your skincare routine
Winter Foot Care Routine Part 1: Find The Best Winter Shoes
The first step in your winter feet treatment journey is securing the best winter walking shoes that accommodate your needs.
In the wintertime, the best walking shoes will generally be boots since you will want to keep your feet toasty warm. That said, brands like Saucony and ASICS make solid winter running shoes for snowy trails, roads and paved sidewalks.
If you spend a lot of time walking and need extra support, you can opt for winter boots with a removable footbed for your insoles or orthotics. Supportive winter boots should also have sufficient arch support and shock-absorbing heels.
Suppose snowy conditions are your concern. If so, select boots made with waterproof material, like GORE-TEX. You should also ensure your winter boots have a good amount of traction to prevent slipping. And lastly, try snug boots with faux fur shearling cuffs and insulating features to keep warm. Failing to shield your feet from the cold can put you at risk of chilblains (painful inflammation of the tiny blood vessels in the feet).
Winter Foot Care Routine Part 2: Create A Workout Routine
Did you know cold temperatures can affect blood circulation, causing foot pain?
Foot care isn't just about buying high-quality shoes and calling it a day. Sometimes it's about putting in some strenuous effort that, in the long run, can protect you from discomfort and pain. After all, your feet hold you up daily, so they should be as strong as possible.
That's where foot stretches and exercises enter the picture!
Incorporating your foot exercises into your general morning routine is a great habit. First, a lot of people get their day started by working out. Second, certain foot conditions like plantar fasciitis can feel worse in the morning, so attentive care can prep your foot muscles for starting your day.
Try curating your workout by mixing and matching these great stretches and exercises:
Toe Flex and Raise
Calf Stretch on a Stair
Forward Leg Swings
Ankle Circles
Banded Leg Exercise
Wall Squats
Leg Raises
Cat / Cow Stretch
Toe Curls
Golf Ball Stretch
Bonus: The exciting news is that some of these stretches are multi-purposeful! Many can also help alleviate back pain, help with hip mobility, stretch your calf muscles, and more!
Winter Foot Care Routine Part 3: Keep Your Feet Clean
Many assume shielding our feet in winter boots is enough to protect them from harm. But it would be unwise to think this way. When your feet sweat in warm boots for long hours, they're begging for a hygiene routine, so vigilance is key.
Keeping your feet clean will prevent skin irritation, calluses, cracks, fungal infections, athlete's foot, and more! And don't forget, you have to keep them dry as well.
If you follow this simple routine, you should be in the clear:
Wash your feet daily in warm water and mild, skin-friendly soap.
Be sure to dry thoroughly and even dust with foot powder. Gehwol's Foot Powder, in particular, protects your feet from excessive perspiration and can prevent foot odour.
Thoroughly dry in between the toes.
Change your socks frequently.
Try moisture-wicking socks for added protection.
Winter Foot Care Routine Part 4: Master Your Skincare Routine
Is there ever a time of year when skin care is more critical? With heat blasting in communal spaces and unpredictable precipitation catching us off guard, your feet need extra TLC when it's cold outside.
Try Gehwol's Med Salve for Cracked Skin or Dermal Therapy Heel Care to tackle any pre-existing skin conditions, like cracked heels and dry skin, right off the bat.
But preventing skin conditions by moisturizing is equally important. Try moisturizers with ingredients like glycerin, propylene glycol, urea and lanolin, all of which work by locking in pre-existing moisture. Many Gehwol foot creams include these ingredients, so you can select the one that appeals most to you.
As for when you should moisturize, the best time is after showering or bathing when your feet are already clean and dry. Apply your moisturizer evenly across the entire foot, avoiding build-up between the toes. You can moisturize before bed if you like, but slip on some socks to avoid getting it on your sheets.
Other skincare tips include:
Avoid long, hot showers and baths, as they can dry out your skin. Try a lukewarm temperature instead, or reduce the amount of time you spend in there.
Get a humidifier for your space.
Drink more water.
Exfoliate your feet with homemade scrubs or medicinal foot scrubs from Gehwol. Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and removes debris that lies deep within your pores.
November 7, 2022
Feet come in different shapes and sizes, and some people go through life with wide feet.
You could simply be born with wide feet, or your feet may increase in width as you get older. Wide feet can also be caused by a foot deformity (like bunions and hammertoes) or a temporary condition like pregnancy.
Whatever the reason is behind your wide feet, shoe shopping can be an ordeal. Wide shoes are certainly available, but many people make the mistake of wearing ill-fitting shoes that heighten discomfort levels. In terms of managing wide feet, hunting for the proper footwear is key. Let's look at some tips you can use to find shoes for wide feet!
How to Find Shoes for Wide Feet
Don't trust the listed size
Look for wide and extra wide widths
Buy shoes with laces
Search for shoes with removable insoles
Check the toe room
Try shoe stretching services
Don't Trust the Listed Size
Sometimes, people with wide feet just go for one of the largest sizes and trust it will fit. This can be more common for people who tend to shop online.
But this isn't wise. Many shoe companies don't focus on the importance of wide shoes and simply list shoe options as narrow, wide, long, etc., with a standard numerical size (these refer to the length of the shoe, not the width).
But with wide feet, you need extra information to trust that the shoe will fit properly. Don't simply assume a basic "wide" description will be enough to comfortably accommodate your feet. Furthermore, you should always shop for shoes in person when you have larger feet.
Look for Wide and Extra Wide Widths
Try to find shoes that list width options. For example, a shoe may have a "B" width size as a "standard" option. But width options may also extend to "D - Wide, 2E - Extra Wide, and 4E - XX-Wide."
Pay attention to shoe manufacturers that list these options. And as we've mentioned before, don't try to go up a size and assume it will fit. Buying a larger will size will leave you stuck with a longer shoe, not a wider one.
Buy Shoes with Laces
Lots of different shoes come with laces, even heels. Opting for shoes with laces allows you to adjust according to your foot's width and loosen them up if needed. Lacing can also enhance the functionality of your footwear and can boost comfort levels after going for a long walk.
To maximize space, try using the eyelets that are closest to the ankle and leave the eyelets closest to the toes empty. You'll be able to tighten your laces without restricting the front of the shoe, where the foot is the widest.
Search for Shoes with Removable Insoles
While shoe shopping, try to find shoes where you can take out the footbed. Not only do removable insoles allow you more wiggle room, but having the option to replace them with custom orthotics or specialized insoles will give you added protection from foot pain.
Check the Toe Room
Assessing the toe room can indicate if you need to go up in width or both size and width. A good way to do this is to see if you have a finger's width of room between your toe and the end of the shoe. If you do, but the shoe still feels tight, you only need to go up in width.
Try Shoe Stretching Services
At Feet First Clinic, shoe stretching services are available by walk-in --- no appointment necessary. That said, it's important to note that this only works if your shoes are already close to the proper size and just feel a little tight. Shoe stretching also only works if you have a pair of shoes made of leather or natural material.
Foot clinic staff can expand the width of the shoe by one full-width size.
