Finding the right walking shoe for your foot is important for everyone—and especially so for those with wider feet. Wide feet may be genetic, or caused by age, flat feet, weight gain, or pregnancy. Trying to squeeze a wider foot into a medium or narrow width shoe can lead to bunions, hammertoe, ingrown toenails, blisters, calluses, and more. However, many people are not even aware that they need a wide shoe, so it is important to check your foot’s correct length and width every time you purchase new shoes. Stand on a piece of paper at the end of the day (after a full day of use), and trace the outline of both feet. Record the length (from the big toe to the heel) as well as the width at the widest part of the ball of the foot. Check these measurements against an online shoe-sizing chart to help determine if you need a wide fit walking shoe. Wide size feet also need walking shoes with ample room in the toe box, good arch support, a wide insole, and a well-constructed outsole with plenty of shock absorption and traction. If you need help determining the accurate length and width of your feet, or have foot issues that make it difficult to find shoes that are comfortable, consult with a podiatrist.

It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Thomas Tran from Southwestern Foot & Ankle Associates, P.C.. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.

Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting

• Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
• Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
• Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
• Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
• Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot

The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Frisco, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.