Let’s Go Shoe Shopping – with Help from a Podiatrist

I say more support is better, but it does depend on pathology. If someone has a bunion, they might want some added flexibility around their toebox. If a patient has diabetes, they might want a shoe with minimal seams that cause less inflammation and irritation. 

A new sneaker should be resistant. You shouldn’t be able to push the heel and toe upwards and inwards, and likewise, you shouldn’t be able to twist and bend the length of the sneaker. 

Looking at the treads on the shoe to see how worn they are is a good way to measure wear and tear. Most people should invest in a new pair of sneakers about once a year, especially if you’re an avid walker or runner. 

I realize some people gravitate toward more stylish shoes that might not necessarily have optimum support. If you try something on and have to tell yourself, “Oh, once I break this in, it’ll feel better,” that’s never a good idea. I would recommend a rounded toe over a pointy toe, and a wedge over a stiletto heel. 

I see a lot of people wearing the wrong shoe size. They tell me “Oh, I’ve been wearing the same size since high school,” when really, your shoe size should increase throughout the course of your life. If it’s been a while, it’s important to get your foot size checked.