Chances are you know your shoe size or hopefully know your shoe size. The correct shoe size is key to maximum comfort for your feet. After all, you don’t want shoes that are too small or so big that the shoes easily slip off your feet.
However, you may not be able to find the right shoe for your foot based on size alone. If you have abnormally shaped feet or feet that are not typical, you know that simple sizing will not guarantee a comfortable fit. For example, your feet may be narrow and “swim” in a standard size shoe or your foot is wide and needs more width than a traditional shoe.
Besides comfort, why is the right shoe size important? Here are some reasons not to try to slip your foot into a nice flat or be content with baggy sneakers:
Constant and unpleasant wear. In addition to being uncomfortable to wear, ill-fitting shoes can also make walking excruciating and embarrassing. Always having to stop and put your foot back in your shoes or constantly needing to stop to rest your sore and swollen feet from tight shoes makes walking a chore. Constantly worrying about your shoes falling off or causing discomfort can be embarrassing and keep you from enjoying the moment.
When your feet hurt, you’re less motivated to use them, which can decrease your desire and ability to exercise and care for the rest of your body.
Increased risk of foot problems. Blisters are no fun, and depending on their size and location, they can make movement difficult. Excessive chafing from baggy shoes and too tight confines from shoes with a tight fit can cause additional foot problems such as calluses, bunions and ingrown toenails. Foot problems not only hurt and cause discomfort, but they can also make your feet look bad, adding to some people’s shyness.
Foot problems associated with ill-fitting shoes can also lead to back, hip, knee, and ankle problems that can lead to decreased mobility and quality of life.
Things to consider when buying shoes
While shoe shopping may seem like a simple event, it’s worth remembering that our feet change over time. Foot specialists recommend having your feet measured once a year. Certain life events, such as having children and getting older, can cause feet to widen, lengthen, or shorten. In many people, one foot is usually longer than the other. When shopping for shoes, plan your trip later in the day when the swelling in your feet has subsided. Feet are estimated to swell by 10-15% over the course of the day, with most of the swelling occurring in the middle of the day, when you’re likely to be on your feet the most.
Different shoe manufacturers design and style their shoes differently. The fit of each pair of shoes can also be significantly different. It’s not unusual for one size to fit in one shoe brand and be a different size in another. It’s important to spend time trying on different shoes from manufacturers to get an idea of whether each pair is right for your feet.
And of course, to avoid the discomfort, embarrassment, and foot problems like ingrown toenails associated with ill-fitting shoes, avoid unsupportive flats like flip-flops and slip-on shoes. high heels and small toe.
If you are unsure about the proper size and fit for your foot, make an appointment with your local foot specialist.