March 25, 2024
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
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 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
February 1, 2024
It’s no secret that orthopaedic shoes prioritize functionality. However, a common misconception is that orthopaedic footwear couldn't possibly be stylish due to their health-centric nature. The truth is, the evolving market now offers fashionable orthopaedic shoes that combine style with supportive features, catering to those seeking treatment for foot conditions without sacrificing aesthetics. What Does Orthopaedic Footwear Do? Studies show that long-term use of orthopaedic footwear can help manage foot pain, particularly by relieving pressure points in the feet, providing extra cushioning and arch support, and properly aligning the feet’s positioning during movement. Research also shows that orthopaedic shoes trends tend to help improve gait and walking patterns by letting patients take longer strides and increasing gait speed. Orthopaedic shoes can treat a wide range of foot conditions, including but not limited to: Plantar fasciitis Diabetes High arches and flat feet Bunions Morton’s neuroma Different types of arthritis Common Misconceptions About Stylish Orthopaedic Footwear In 2024, it’s easy to disprove the most common myths about orthopaedic shoes, most of which are centred on appearance and fashion flair. These include: "Orthopaedic shoes are only for seniors." The truth is, they can also treat foot conditions common in younger people, like high arches, Achilles tendonitis, and more. There is no age bias when it comes to foot pain! "Orthopaedic shoes are clunky and unflattering." The truth is, there are many sleek, flattering options that qualify as comfortable fashion footwear. And most people cannot even tell that you are wearing medically beneficial shoes unless you let them know! "Orthopaedic shoe types are limited." The truth is, there are a variety of orthopaedic shoes available, including walking shoes, work shoes, athletic shoes, ballet-style flats, sandals, and more. Where to Find Fashionable Orthopaedic Footwear Investing in orthopaedic footwear involves some planning, but it is worthwhile. First, schedule a foot assessment with your chiropodist. If they determine your foot health will benefit from wearing orthopaedic shoes, they can write you a prescription and make recommendations that align with your foot type, gait pattern and foot condition. Then you can select the pair of orthopaedic shoes you will get the most use out of. For practicality purposes, choose a style that suits your life (for example, you may need work shoes more than sandals). At Feet First Clinic, we have a wide variety of orthopaedic shoes available for purchase, but you can also select the pair of your dreams from our extensive footwear catalogue.
January 29, 2024
Children's foot growth is like a race against time. From wobbly steps to confident kindergarten strides, it’s tough to keep up with your kiddo’s footwear needs. The best way to do this is to divide your child’s foot development into different stages and to learn what each stage means for foot growth and shoe requirements. Let's learn about the following age ranges: Age 12 - 18 months Age 2 -3 years Age 4 - 8 years Age 12 - 18 Months Children’s foot growth really kicks in when your little one becomes a toddler and takes their first steps! Proper footwear for toddlers should account for the fact that most of them have flat feet due to their bones, ligaments and tendons being underdeveloped. Moreover, healthy shoes for children in this age range should accommodate fast foot growth and your child’s quest towards walking successfully. Look for non-skid shoes (traction) with wide toe boxes so your toddler doesn’t hurt themselves and their toes can comfortably fan out while they practice balance. Shoes should also have a firm heel counter and a flexible sole to facilitate natural foot movement. Furthermore, you should find shoes with adjustable straps and flexible material to account for the fatty tissue loss and rapid foot growth that occurs at this age. Age 2 - 3 Years Before your child is ready for kindergarten, the foot arch should start forming. However, it is often not fully realized until age 6. While flat feet morph into a more normal arch, your child’s developing motor skills may also allow for more advanced closures like basic shoelaces. Shoe durability also becomes more important around this stage of childhood foot development, as your kiddo can now walk more independently during outdoor adventures. Look for long-lasting shoes made with high-quality materials and technologies that protect your little ones from the elements. Age 4 - 8 Years When school starts, kids’ shoe selection becomes a little more overwhelming. Accounting for foot growth, durability and traction all remain important, but now, styles may cater to increased activity levels and personal preferences. Your kids may now have an opinion on what shoes they like and can make their voices heard during shoe fitting sessions. Foot care for kids in this age range must also take comfort, proper fit, and avoiding foot pain into consideration. A Final Note on Pediatric Foot Health It’s important to remember that some kids struggle with foot conditions that they often grow out of. However, your shoe selections should still factor in these issues. Such conditions include toe walking in toddlers, Sever’s disease, growing pains, long-lasting flat feet, and more. But rest assured, a chiropodist can recommend shoes for your kiddo if you’re unsure of their specific needs.
January 22, 2024
Foot health can be an afterthought until pain or discomfort sets in. At that point, you're left trying to treat a foot condition rather than taking a more preventative approach. One common condition is plantar fasciitis, which causes pain in the heel and sole. Plantar faciitis is the most common cause of inferior heel pain in adults In this comprehensive foot health guide, we explore the ins and outs of plantar fasciitis, from understanding its causes to preventive measures and effective treatments. Understanding plantar fasciitis Plantar fasciitis surfaces when the band of tissue supporting the foot arch, known as the plantar fascia, becomes inflamed. This can stem from various factors, including improper footwear, overuse, or certain medical conditions. Knowing and recognizing the symptoms and early signs can be crucial for effective management. Prevention Proper footwear selection Shoes with arch support and cushioning are essential for healthy feet. In fact, insufficient arch support is one of the most common causes of plantar fasciitis. You can also consider custom orthotic inserts or shoe inserts like Superfeet for additional support. Foot exercises and stretches Regularly perform exercises to strengthen the foot and calf muscles and incorporate stretching routines to maintain flexibility. Gradual activity progression Avoid sudden increases in physical activity, and take occasional rest days to allow your feet to recover. Rapid increases in intensity can overload the heel and plantar fascia. Instead, take a cautious approach to building up volume, and reduce the intensity if you notice any discomfort. Treatment strategies Supportive Footwear Insufficient arch support is one of the most common causes of plantar fasciitis. Selecting footwear with strong arch support and a good heel counter will go a long way toward alleviating plantar fasciitis. symptoms. Rest and ice If you have acute (sudden, short onset) plantar fasciitis, give your feet the needed rest, and use ice to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Rest and ice are critical parts of the RICE method - rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Combining all four elements provides a comprehensive and holistic approach to recovery. Note: ice is not recommended after the initial onset. Physical therapy Consult a chiropodist for targeted exercises and manual therapy techniques to improve foot strength and flexibility. For example, at home, you can perform a calf and arch stretch using a towel. To perform the towel stretch, place a towel around your foot while holding on the ends with your hands. Then use the towel to pull back on foot for 30 seconds. Do this 3 times with 30 seconds of rest in between. You can keep the towel near the bedside so you can perform the stretch before going to sleep and before taking your first steps in the morning. Read more about effective lower leg exercises for plantar fasciitis in this guide. Orthotic inserts Consider using custom orthotic inserts or Superfeet to support and relieve pressure on the plantar fascia. Anti-inflammatory medications When necessary, over-the-counter or prescription medications can help manage inflammation and pain. Shockwave Therapy If your plantar fasciitis is chronic (i.e.: persisted longer than 3-6 months), you may be a candidate for shockwave therapy. Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive, highly effective treatment where soundwaves are applied to the affected area. This stimulates your body's inflammatory response to heal the plantar fasciiits. Lifestyle modifications Weight management A stable, healthy weight reduces stress on the feet. Combine a balanced diet with regular exercise. For instance, foods rich in vitamin C are great for our foot health, as this superstar nutrient can fight foot pain caused by inflammation. Proper foot care Problems with our toenails and skin on the feet can worsen over time and ultimately affect our gait. To prevent this, practice good foot hygiene, inspect your feet regularly for signs of issues, and address any concerns promptly. Long-term management and recovery Consistent follow-up care Regularly check with healthcare professionals to monitor your progress and adjust treatment plans. Consider booking an annual foot assessment to determine if your foot needs have changed at all, or if there are any issues that need addressing. Surgical options In more severe cases, surgical intervention can be an option. Work closely with a healthcare professional for a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation and recovery. It's important to note that conservative treatments, like proper arch support, rest, exercise, and other preventative measures, are often sufficient to treat plantar fasciitis. Surgery is generally seen as a last resort.