Top Ten Tips to Finding the Correct Shoe Fit
Keep your feet happy with the right shoe fit
The last thing you want, after having purchased a brand new pair of shoes, is days or weeks later to find they are resulting in sore, aching, unhappy feet! Read on below, to see 10 top tips to help make sure you avoid some very common shoe fit mistakes; to keep your feet happy and healthy!
1. Have your feet measured
Whilst it can be tempting to just buy online, nothing beats having your foot length and width measured in store to find the perfect fit. Shoe brands often incorporate changes in the design each year, so it is important that you get measured for optimum shoe fit. Your foot can change over time as well, which means if it has been a while between pairs (even of the same brand) getting measured is essential. In addition, you may find one foot is longer than the other. If this is the case, it is important to always prioritise the larger foot when fitting for shoes.
2. Make sure your orthotics fit
If you have orthotics make sure your bring them along to any fitting to ensure they will fit in the shoes. If you have a full-length cover, ensure the shoe has a removable insole so that the orthotic can completely replace the insole. If you have a shell or ‘half-length’ orthotic, be sure to sit the orthotic in place as a starting point to ensure you have the right fit. You do not necessarily have to go up a size if you have a low bulk custom orthotic.
3. Watch your width
Your foot may be suited to a wider fit depending on not only your feet, but also the shoe design and brand. Typically flatter, flexible and wider feet will be more suited to a wider fit. If you feel you will need to allow the shoe to ‘stretch’ or ‘wear in’ to become comfortable you should strongly consider a wider fit or a different style, particularly if you have any history of forefoot pain , such as a neuroma, corns or calluses on your 5th toes.
4. Check your length
You should allow at least a finger width in front of your longest toe when standing. You should have enough room in the shoe so you can wriggle your toes and easily lace up the shoe across your midfoot.
5. Size can differ
Shoe sizes can significantly differ between brands and even differing models of the same brand. It is important not to rely on your previous sizes alone as dress or slimmer type shoes tend to run smaller than running shoes, for example.
6. The comfort test
The size and fit might be correct. The colour might be your favourite. It might be your favourite brand. But it doesn’t feel comfortable. It is incredibly important that when trying on new shoes that is passes the comfort test. Some shoes for some feet just might not feel right. It may be too cushioned or not cushioned enough, too soft or too stiff, or you just might not like how your foot feels and responds to them. This is a red flag that the shoe isn’t for you – trust your judgement.
7. Walk around in the shoes instore
Walking around with the shoes on enables you to immediately check for any unexpected rubbing or irrittation. You should make sure your feet are not slipping and sliding. Ensure there is no rubbing on the achilles tendon and the shape of the toe box fits comfortably around your toes.
8. Shop in the afternoon
Our foot expands and swells with use during the day. Therefore, getting your shoes later in the day helps you get the most accurate fit, so you find your shoes are comfortable all day long.
9. Wear the right socks for the shoe
This helps ensure a proper fit and comfort. If you are going to buy runners, wear your sports/running socks. If you will wear a thin sock with a dress shoe, that should be the sock you wear when trying them on.
10. Watch for seams or other potential irritations
Often toe deformities such as bunions or hammer toes can make a shoe fit difficult. Be sure to carefully examine the shoes for any tags or seams that run close to or on top of the toes – sometimes where seams meet or run can put extra pressure on a bunion joint (link) or a hammer toe. In these cases, it may be best looking at an alternative shoe.
See a podiatrist for the right shoe advice
Our Melbourne podiatrists are available if you need the right advice on picking the right running shoe, and can help with recommendations on orthotic friendly, orthopaedic, dress and casual shoes that may suit your feet.
Do you need shoe advice?
At our Melbourne foot clinic our podiatrists are experts in foot biomechanics and footwear advice.
So if you are struggling to find a shoe that is comfortable for your feet, book an appointment with one of our friendly podiatrists today!