G orgeous heels or any other pair of great-looking shoes can make us feel like winners one minute and have us crying from foot pain or blisters in the next. However, we’re not about to swear off pretty footwear for most of our lives, right? We’ll just have to choose our shoes more carefully. Here are a few things to remember when choosing shoes to make sure they don’t hurt your feet.
Get the Right Size
We don’t need to tell you that shoes that are too small will hurt your feet, so always get the correct size, especially when you’re buying closed shoes. With closed shoes, leave about an inch of space between the front of the shoe to your longest toe. You want just enough wiggle room in your shoes and not cramp your feet.
You don’t want shoes that are too big either because your feet won’t feel secure and stable and will move around too much in your shoes. And that could lead to foot pain or injuries.
Get Shoes That Fit the Shape of Your Feet
Some women can walk in high heels without any problems while some women will experience pain after only minutes of walking in heels. It all depends on the shape of their feet. Take note of the width of your feet, as well as the arch. You want your feet to feel as natural as possible while walking in the shoes. Of course, you can argue that heels are not natural at all. That brings us to the next point.
Consider the Type and Height of the Heel and Style of the Shoe
If your feet line in 3-inch stilettos then by all means go and rock them! But if 3-inch tall or super skinny heels are too much for you, don’t fret. You can opt for a different height or type of heel. You can go for platforms, chunky heels, kitten heels or wedge shoes
Choose an inch or two inches of height if more than that is uncomfortable. You can also ditch the heels altogether and go for comfy yet stylish flats
Also, choose a style of shoe that is comfortable for you. Don’t force your feet into pointy-toed shoes if they’re not comfortable. Rounded-toes or open-toed shoes can look just as stylish.
Pay Attention to the Materials
Shoes made of a soft material tend to be more comfortable than shoes made of stiff materials because the soft material conforms to your feet better. Real leather or suede will adapt to the shape of your foot over time and help lessen chafing or blisters near the toes or in the heel cup or back of the shoe which is where most people experience rubbing and where blisters usually develop. Synthetic materials tend to be less flexible and stiff.
Also pay attention to the seams and other parts or accessories like laces and straps. Seams and straps can rub against your foot and cause irritation
Check the flexibility of the soles as well. Look for rubber soles that are pliable enough to allow your foot to bend comfortably with each step.
Check for Cushioning or Padding
Choose shoes that have enough cushioning or padding on the inside, especially in the ball of the foot. Some shoes have special or cushy insoles for added comfort and they can make all the difference.
The bottom line is, choose what feels good for you and your feet. Also, try changing it up every day. Alternate between heels and flats or different styles to give your feet some rest.
Have you designing your own shoes yet? Head to Shoenvious.com and start designing your own shoe according to the height, width, color and style that you want.
