Teens: How To Pick Out Shoes

Right Shoe, Right Activity
Soccer shoes are different from Converse sneakers for a reason. Sports-specific shoes help prevent against injury by providing appropriate support. Basketball shoes, for example, provide extra ankle support, because of the side-to-side movements that are typical of the strain basketball puts on the ankle.
Get Fitted

If you need an athletic shoe, go to a shoe store that specializes in athletic footwear. The associates there are trained to help you find a shoe that's appropriate for your foot, the way you walk, and your sport. Look for a shoe that fits your foot, but don't be upset if it's not your normal size. Just like clothes, shoe size ranges from brand to brand. When you try on the shoes, they should be comfortable right away. Did you know that your feet are not the same size as the other? Pick a shoe that fits the larger foot. You should never have to break in a pair of athletic shoes.
Check For Support
The perfect shoe fits your foot in the front, the middle, and the back. Backless shoes alter the way you walk, and that causes foot pain and discomfort later on. You don't have to give up your flip-flops for good, but you can't wear them all the time. When shopping for shoes, look for ones that are stiff in the middle but bend at the ball of the foot. High heels are ok for special occasions like prom, graduation, and dates. Platforms or wedge heels are a better option.
Don't Let Your Soles Flap
When your soles start to flap, it's time to get new shoes. Check the tread and midsole, the cushiony part just before the sole. If there are uneven signs of wear, start shopping! Athletic shoes need to be replaced yearly; running shoes every 300-400 miles.
If you are a teen and experiencing foot pain or discomfort, call one of our six locations to make an appointment.
Connecticut Foot Care Centers
Podiatrists in CT
Visit our website, friend and like our page on Facebook, and follow our tweets on Twitter. 

Picking Out Shoes and Socks

There are so many options these days when it comes to purchasing shoes in styles, colors, brands, and fits. Most often when you go to pick out shoes there are no shoe attendants to help you size your foot or to help you find the correct size. Here are some tips we recommend to our patients when they are looking to purchase new shoes and socks:
Shoes:

• Buy shoes in the evening when your feet are most likely to be swollen. This will give you the best fit throughout the day. 
• If you have diabetes, tell the store clerk. If the store clerk doesn't know what this means, find a store that does.
• Look for shoes with roomy toe boxes. Shoes with roomy toe boxes will help prevent bunions, hammertoes, neuromas, and blisters.
• Try on shoes wearing the socks you would normally wear. That is, if you're looking for boots, bring winter socks along with you.
• Good shoes that will last are made of materials that are flexible and breathable. Athletic shoes should be made of comfortable materials.
• Leather is always the best option when looking at shoe materials. 
• If you wear insoles in your shoes, bring them along with you. 
• Avoid shoes with plastic tops or uppers or sandals that have straps between the toes. Plastic shoes should be avoided in general. They cause your feet to sweat and slide within the shoe, causing blisters. 
• Wear sandals on a limited basis. They provide little protection and support for your feet. 
• Don't purchase shoes with thin soles as they can be easily punctured and don't protect your feet from cold weather or hot pavement. 
• Try not to go barefoot, even at home. Wear slippers instead. 

Socks

• Socks should be cushioned. 
• Socks without seams are the best because the seams irritate toes or bony prominences on your feet. If you only have or can find socks with seams, position the seam before putting on your shoes. 
• Stockings or nylons should fit loosely around your toes to leave room for movement when walking. Pull them on, and then pull at the toes to create wiggle room. 

If you are unsure about shoe and sock selections, call one of our six locations to make an appointment.
Connecticut Foot Care Centers
Podiatrists in CT
Visit our website, friend and like our page on Facebook, and follow our tweets on Twitter.

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