Mike Pezzotta, C.PED, Pedorthist/Orthodist

10 tips to a GREAT shoe fit!

1. Shoe sizes are not standard. Sizes vary between shoe brands and styles. A size 8M from one manufacturer might fit like a size 8N from another. Don’t select shoes by the size marked on the shoe, start with a size range and go from there
2. Have both feet measured every time you purchase a pair of shoes. Over the course of your lifetime, your feet will change in both size and shape. For many people, one foot is slightly longer and/or wider than the other, so fit the largest foot first. Bonus tip: Go to a shoe store that measures both feet and wear the type of socks you will use for the specific activity.
3. Select shoes that match the shape of your foot. It’s fun to be stylish but if your foot shape doesn’t match your shoe shape, you’re on the wrong track to a good fit.
4. When you shop for shoes, try on various types and styles. Judge shoes by how they fit your feet. Don’t select any styles that feel too tight, too loose, or irritate parts of your foot. If shoes feel too snug or too loose at the “try on” stage, your feet will likely suffer down the road.
5. Shoes should be as wide as your feet, and longer. When shoes contact the ground during walking or running, feet elongate. Allow adequate space (1/2”-3/8”) at the end of the shoe for your longest toe. Note: this is where the saying “rule of thumb” came into play.
6. Make sure the widest part of your foot (the “ball”) fits comfortably into the widest part of the shoe. This match permits shoes to bend where your feet flex, giving you a more functional and more comfortable wearing experience
7. Heels should fit comfortably in the shoes. Don’t buy shoes too small just to avoid heel slippage. If your foot has excessive slippage in the heel of your shoe, try a different shoe, or ask your shoe fitter to make some minor adjustments.
8. Inserts or Orthotics affect the way a shoe fits. Shoe inserts or foot Orthotics will take up shoe space intended for your feet. If you require Orthotics, you may need a roomier shoe. In some cases, removal of the original shoe insert is necessary to accomplish an improved fit that will allow the inserts to function properly and your shoes to fit correctly.
9. Choose shoes appropriate for the activity AND the time you perform the activity. Feet change shape and size during the day AND under different conditions: after exercise, in warm weather, with weight gain, or from sitting to standing. When shoe shopping, remember that your feet are generally larger after an activity than preceding it, so buy accordingly.
10. Walk in the shoe to make sure it feels comfortable. No need to do a marathon run while trying on shoes, but at least take a walk around the store. Shoes express your fashion sense and affect your health and activities. So choose wisely. Be sure to shop stores that offer full service, including a good size and width selection and staff trained in proper shoe fitting and measuring.

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