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At first glance you might think that choosing the right size shoe is as simple as checking the tag and moving on. But there are further considerations that go into finding a shoe that fits correctly – your foot type, the activities you plan to do in your shoes and how those shoes will be worn all play a factor in this exciting world of footwear. Your feet are much more important to your daily health and happiness than you may realize, and a well-fitting shoe is the perfect place to start. Whether you have wide or narrow feet, high or flat arches or any other unique challenges with finding shoes, we’ve got you covered with these helpful tips for finding a shoe that fits your foot best.
Measure Your Feet Before You Shop
There are a few measurements that can help you find the right fit. The length of your foot stays pretty much the same, but the width can change based on how your muscles are working during the day. To measure the width of your foot, put your foot on a piece of paper and mark where the two sides meet. Take that paper to a shoe store or use a tool like the Brannock Device. It’s important to measure both feet to see if one foot is slightly bigger than the other.
Know Your Foot Type
If you have a high arch, you’re going to want a shoe that gives you extra support and cushioning, as well as a bit of a higher toe box. If you have a low arch, you’re going to want a shoe with less cushioning and a slightly lower toe box, as well as a bit of extra room in the toe area. If you have wide feet, you’re going to want a bit more width in the toe box. If you have narrow feet, you’re going to want a shoe that has a bit less room in the toe box.
Check For Shoe Fit Issues
Look at the toe box of the shoe to see if there’s extra room in one or both feet. This can mean one or both feet have added room, or one foot has less room than the other. Next, look at the width of the shoe. If one foot is slightly wider than the other, it can also cause fit issues like calluses and blisters on the sides of your foot. Other fit issues can be caused by an uneven heel or an incorrect arch fit. This means that the heel of your foot is squished up against the back of the shoe or that your arch is not sitting correctly in the shoe.
How Can You Find The Right Shoe Fit?
Now that you know what to look for in a shoe and how to fit your foot in a shoe, it’s time to find the right pair for you. Start with what you know works for you. If you like certain brands and models like New Balance or Nike, try to stick with those. If you are still struggling to find a shoe with the right fit, look into custom foot orthotics where a team of professionals will help you develop the perfect fit for you.