When I go out for my morning walks, I am always attracted to my co-walkers feet. Not because I find them better than their faces. But because I observe that so many of them wear the wrong footwear. Hawaii chappals, sandals, chappals with heels and even slip on moccasins.
I am tempted to stop and tell them to buy a good pair of shoes. But if I do that, then be rest assured that my purpose of burning those calories before the crack of dawn would be totally lost.
But do get yourself a good pair of shoes. And see what a difference it could make.
Before buying shoes: Check your feet. If you have flat feet, you need extra arch support. If you have a high arch, you need extra shock absorption. If you have weak ankles, consider high-tops.
Check your old shoes. Notice where they're most worn, and look for shoes reinforced in those areas.
Shop in the afternoon. Feet swell a little during the day.
Color is secondary. Good fit, support, and cushioning are all more important.
Get a good fit. Experts say there should be about 1/4 inch between your toes and the end of the shoe. Good fit is especially important for women. Fashion dictates that women have dainty feet, and dainty means small. As a result, many women buy shoes that are too small for them, and then suffer chronically aching feet. If you'd want to squeeze into Cinderella's glass slipper, save it for the King's Ball. For everyday exercise, wear shoes that fit.
Match your shoes to your activities. No single pair of shoes is right for all activities. Walking and running involve primarily forward motion and require front-to-back cushioning. Tennis and gardening involve pivoting and require more side support.
Try on both shoes. Feet can be different sizes.
Check the weight. Usually the lighter the better.
Check the traction. Shoes should not slip on any surface.
Test them. Shoes used for exercise should feel comfortable in the store. They shouldn't require breaking in. Jump up and land on your forefoot. In well-cushioned shoes, you should feel almost nothing. Rock from side to side. You shouldn't wobble. Pivot in different directions. Your shoes should feel flexible.
Once you find something, don't worry about the price. Let me tell you it is worth paying for a good fit!
