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How To Choose The Right Shoes
Research reveals that our feet reduce or grow in size at periodic intervals. So it is not at all surprising that the shoe that fitted us perfectly last year is not the same size this year. It is crucial to choose shoes that fit us perfectly to prevent injuries to back and legs.
Old and worn out shoes can cause terrible back pain, aching feet, and extremely sore knee joints. If your shoes have given more than 550 miles for walking or running, it is time to buy new shoes. Usually sports shoes wear out after 70 hours of pure sports use. Expensive shoes will show no outward wear and tear, so you cannot wait for the heel to wear out or the shoe to tear before you replace it. If your old shoe has served you well, it will be safer to go for the same type and fit rather than trying out something new each time.
You need to familiarize yourself with the several factors that affect the fit of your shoe before you start looking for the correct fit.
About 80% of the population has one leg shorter than the other! In some people, one end of their foot is very pliant while the other end is quite unbending. Also the knee and feet alignment varies in different people. Some people’s feet turn out or in, or point outwards. Likewise, the knees could knock, or bow outwards, or be in a neutral position. All these factors influence the actual fit of the shoe.
Knowing about the common irregularities that can occur in people’s feet will also help you in asking for the right shoe. If you have highly arched feet, avoid motion and stability control shoes as they tend to reduce the mobility of your foot. This irregularity can be set right if you insert special customized pads into your shoes. Go for motion control or stability control shoes with a firm mid-sole if you are flat-footed. Those with excessive inward rolling of foot while in motion (over-pronation) will have severe strain on lower legs, ankles, knees, and back. And those with under-pronation, that is when the outside of your foot bears the shock when your foot hits the ground, are more prone to ligament injuries in the feet. Stability shoes with a dual-density mid sole or roll bar are best for those with either under or over pronation.
It is important to buy shoes only from a store that has knowledgeable sales personnel and displays a wide choice of shoes. If you are looking for athletic shoes, a good pair of running shoes or crosstrainers is sufficient although the shoe industry promotes different shoes for different activities. Stability control, neutral cushioning, and motion control are the three main categories of shoes. There are two types of sports shoes; one that is meant for frequent stop-go movements, and one that is suited for running or walking.
Shop for shoes only in the evening when your feet are slightly larger after the day’s activitiy.
You need to also try on several pairs before deciding on the one that fits you best. Then, you should wear the shoes and walk around the store for at least five minutes to gauge your level of comfort. Look for shoes that match the shape of your feet as they will be more comfortable. Carry your socks with you to the shoe store. You will find out the exact fit only when you put on your shoes with the socks that you normally use. Your feet should be supported on all sides and should not flop around inside the shoe. The shoe with the best fit is one that offers some cushioning, quite a bit of flexibility, and lots of stability, and a maximum of half an inch more than your longest toe.
It is amazing what a good sports shoe can do to generate enthusiasm for sports and outdoor activities. Wearing a good shoe with a perfect fit, can make you go the extra mile effortlessly and painlessly. A pair of good shoes is your key to an active and healthy life.
This article is contributed by Shoes Echuca.
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