EVER FEEL LIKE ONE OF CINDERELLA’S STEPSISTERS TRYING TO CRAM YOUR
foot into an impossibly-shaped slipper? Luckily there is no need to chop off your toes or heel—a la the original Grimm fairytale—in order to make the shoe fit. But that does not mean that finding a shoe that properly fits your foot is easy! Not only do you have to search high and low for a quality product, you have to get to know your feet on a whole new level.
It is time to stop playing the part of the stepsister and embrace your inner Cinderella!
SHOPPING TIPS
Like it or not, you are the ultimate authority when it comes down to determining which pair of shoes fit your feet best. One brand may work miracles for your neighbor’s feet but leave you limping.
Luckily, there are some basic principles that can help you in your quest to find a shoe that fits properly:
Buy shoes to fit your bigger foot. It is better to wear shoes that are slightly loose than shoes that are too tight. A loose shoe can be modified with special lacing techniques, thick socks, or inserts. If your feet are more than one size apart from each other, consider investing in shoes that are two different sizes.
Shop during the afternoon or evening. Most people’s feet become slightly swollen by the end of the day. This is because gravity causes blood and other fluid to collect in the feet. Shopping when your feet are at their most swollen will ensure that you purchase shoes to fit your feet’s maximum size.
Shop with socks, inserts, etc. If you plan on wearing orthotics or inserts with your shoes, it is imperative to try on shoes with your inserts. They will drastically change the way the shoe fits. The same goes for shoes you intend to wear with thick socks or nylons.
Leave ample space in the toe box. There should be 3/8 to 1/2 of an inch of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. Make sure that the toe box (the part of the shoe that contains the toes) is wide and deep enough for your toes to spread out comfortably.
Stay tuned for next weeks blog on “Getting To Know Your Feet”!
Any questions on how to finding the right shoe to fit you, Dr. Freels can help! Please call the office at (858) 264-1141 to schedule an appointment!