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
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Do I Have To Do That? Teen Foot Care 101

Keeping your feet healthy can help you avoid embarrassing and uncomfortable problems such as athlete's foot, foot odor, and toenail fungus. Follow these steps for healthy feet:
Wash your feet daily with soap and water. It's tempting just to swish your feet around in the shower but today's podiatrist says it's important to use soap to remove germs and grime. Don't forget to wash in between your toes!

Keep feet dry. Fungus, including the kind that causes athlete's foot, loves to grow in moist, damp environments, so after your shower dry your feet thoroughly, paying extra attention to the spaces between your toes. If your socks get wet during the day, change socks (It's not a bad idea to keep an extra pair in your locker or gym bag!).
Trim toenails on a slight curve. Too long toenails not only wreck your socks and look crazy, but they can harbor bacteria (eww!). Use a pair of toenail clippers to cut your toenails to just above or at the edge of your toe. Some docs will tell you to cut straight across, but a slight curve is ok too.
Wear supportive, properly fitted shoes. Improperly fitted, unsupportive shoes are a major cause of foot pain and injury. Don't worry- you don't have to wear granny shoes to get good support.