Get Advice For Selecting Appropriate Footwear For Athletic Activities.

Finding great athletic shoes can be a daunting task because of the dizzying array of athletic shoes available. However, it’s very important to pick the right shoes for running, walking, and other activities to prevent shin splints, heel pain, and other problems. Wearing proper fitting shoes can also boost your performance. While many sports shoe stores have knowledgeable staff that can help you select the right shoes for your needs, it doesn’t hurt to brush up on your knowledge of athletic shoes prior to buying new footwear.

1. Try on athletic shoes after a workout at the end of the day
   • Your feet start swelling in the morning and don’t stop swelling till about 4pm. Your feet will be the largest after a workout at the end of the day, so try on athletic shoes at this time
2. Wiggle your toes
   • When your foot is in the shoe, you should be able to wiggle all of your toes freely up and down. Your feet will swell and lengthen during a workout, so there should a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of your shoe.
3. Get a pair of shoes for each activity
   • If you do different activities, such as running and walking, get a pair of shoes for each activity. Running shoes should be more flexible and have more cushioning than walking shoes, which are stiffer.
4. Your heel should fit snugly in the shoe
   • Your heel should fit snugly in the shoe, but it shouldn’t be too tight. There should be heel movement, though it shouldn’t be uncomfortable or cause irritation. Your heel shouldn’t slip as you walk or run. When the shoe is laced up, you ought to be able to slide your foot out.
5. Get a good feel for shoes by jogging or walking in them
   • You can’t get a good feel for shoes just by standing in them, so it’s best to try the shoes on and then go for a quick walk or jog on the store’s treadmill or in a hallway. The support under your arch should feel natural. If you feel the arch of your foot cramping, then you should select a shoe with less arch support.
6. Have your feet measured
   • People often assume that their shoe size will never change, but this may not be the case. The size of your foot may change with time, so you should have your feet measured twice a year. Every time you go out to buy shoes, try on different shoe sizes for fit. Various factors may affect how a shoe will fit you, including the shape of the upper and the way the shoe is stitched together. Sizes also vary between different shoe brands.
7. Don’t buy for looks
   • Avoid choosing shoes based solely on their appearance. When you buy athletic shoes, think of their fit and feel, not fashion.
8. Bring your own socks
   • When shopping for athletic shoes, bring along the socks that you’ll use when you work out. If you use orthotics, bring those along, too.The rule of thumb is that you should replace your running shoes after 350-400 miles of use. You can also tell that it’s time to replace athletic shoes if they feel less comfortable and supportive than they used to or the back of the soles look worn out.

Keep Your Feet Healthy And Prevent Foot Pain

For more advice on how to choose the right shoes, care for your feet, and maintain good foot health, get in touch with the Integrative Foot & Ankle Centers of Washington to schedule an appointment with one of our podiatrists. We have offices in Kirkland, Redmond, Everett, and Renton.