Shoe Shopping 101: What You Need To Know

When shopping for shoes is a necessity, you have no choice but to go out and do it. That said, you do have the choice to educate yourself on how to do it better. In fact, finding this article was really fortuitous, since the secrets listed below will make your shopping a snap.

If you dont know your shoe size, measure both feet. Many people have one foot that is a little bigger than the other. You need shoes that fit both of your feet in order to have comfort.

If you have to wear orthotic devices for your feet, take them with you when you go shopping for a new pair of shoes. Try finding a pair that allows you to comfortably wear your orthotic devices. Get some tips from your orthotist if you are not sure what kind of shoes you should get.

Do you understand about foot pronation? A shoe salesperson that does can help you choose a shoe to protect you if your foot pronates while walking. Pronation is caused from weak tendons and muscles around your ankle. When your foot pronates, it allows your ankle to lean outward. This is one of the primary causes for ankle injuries.

Whenever you go shoe shopping, wear or bring the same type of socks that you will be wearing with the shoes you intend to buy. If you dont try the sizes on while wearing these socks, you really cant get a good idea about the actual fit. Avoid trying shoes on barefoot or with nylons too, unless they are heels or sandals.

Dont buy a pair of shoes that you have trouble walking in. Too many people do this, especially when it comes to dress shoes and high heels. If you cannot realistically wear it, then it is a waste of money. There is bound to be a shoe that looks great and is easy to walk in, so keep looking.

Dont think you have to break in your shoes. Some sales people will try to convince you that new shoes need to be broken in in order for them to fit. It usually doesnt work out this way. In fact, you should only buy shoes that feel comfortable in the store. If the shoes dont feel comfortable the first time you try them on, take a pass on them.

Be cautious about buying shoes online. Different brands and styles fit differently. Even if you know your shoe size, you will probably span a full size and a half depending of the cut of the shoe. Remember that your shoe size changes over time too. Pregnancy, falling arches and other issues increase the size of your foot over time.

If you are a female, avoid wearing high heels when possible. Many women love the fact that high heels make them taller and feel sexier. The problem is that high heels can cause major damage to your body, including your back, legs, and feet. Try to wear them only on special occasions.

Exercise

Get a pair of good quality athletic shoes. This is especially important if you exercise. Active wear shoes give your feet the proper support. Shoes that were not created for certain activities wont support the feet and can even cause damage to the body.

What does it take to shop smarter for shoes? Reading this article is a great first step, for sure. Now you need to take the lessons contained here and apply them to your strategy. As you tackle each shoe store one by one, your end result will be a good one - the perfect pair of shoes!