Ready. Set. Go. In Arizona, there are always trail runs, 5K’s and special awareness race/walks that happen every month of the year. Typically, these events require the majority of us to pick up an exercise routine and prepare for the events. Having shoes that fit and support your feet should be a crucial part of your training program.
Finding the right shoes for your feet can be really difficult. When you walk into a shoe store it can be overwhelming with all the options available to you. Even if focused on one brand, there are many styles within that brand complicating the decision. Below are a few tips to help guide you while trying to find the correct shoe.
Determine the type of activity – Most importantly you want to get the right shoe for the right job, using a walking shoe for running or a training shoe for hiking may not be your best option. Shoes these days are designed with specific activities in mind and staying within those guidelines will help you find the best shoe for the job.
Ask – If you find yourself in a podiatrist office because of an injury, make sure to ask your podiatrist what shoes he or she recommends. It is a simple question that can go a long way in your recovery and recurrence of injuries. Some individuals need a pronation control shoe, opposed to others that can benefit from a neutral shoe. Additionally, your podiatrist can usually recommend a store that he or she trusts in providing you with excellent professional help in finding the correct shoe for your foot type.
Size it up – This may seem elementary; however, it is amazing how many people wear shoes too small or too large for their feet. Make sure to have at least a half of thumbnail of space in your new shoes. This allows enough room to let your foot function without the shoe getting in the way. If you have orthotics or just received them from your podiatrist, make sure to bring them with you. Orthotics will take up more room then your standard insole so to ensure a proper fit try on your new shoes with your orthotic in place.
After all, your shoes will be supporting you for a few hundred miles. It is important to take your time and get the proper shoe for your foot type. If you notice any changes in your foot health or think you may benefit from orthotics, please consider making an appointment with Dr. Jay C. Larson at Sole Foot and Ankle Specialists in Glendale, Arizona.