Dr. Terry Walton, a podiatrist, shares tips for buying a shoe that fits the foot properly and how to care for some common foot ailments.
- After purchasing new leather shoes, make the break-in process less painful by wearing the shoes with a thinner sock while watching television or reading. The shoes will slowly stretch and conform to your feet.
- If you are prone to blisters before hiking or running, try to eliminate friction points. Tape toes, heels and the balls of feet with moleskin.
- Your walking shoes should not be too snug, because a tight fitting (or a loose-fitting shoe for that matter) will contribute to blisters. To choose shoes of the right size, go shopping right after a long walk, when your feet are the most swollen.
- Don't rely on the size of your last pair of shoes. Have your feet measured while you're standing. You shouldn't never on shoe size alone. Try them on to make sure they feel comfortable.
- Your right and left foot are not always the same size, so pick shoes that fit the largest portion of your feet.
- Select a shoe with a leather upper or other breathable material, a stiff heel, and appropriate cushioning and flexibility at the ball of the foot.
- Try on shoes with the same type of socks or stockings that you expect to wear with those shoes.
- Put on both pairs of shoes and test-drive them in the store by walking at your fastest pace. Don't worry about looking silly because your comfort depends on this. Your shoes should not slip when you walk on them. New shoes generally don't need a "break-in" period. They should fit comfortably right away.
- When you stand in the new shoe, there should a half inch or a finger's width from the end of your longest toe to the end of the toe box (the front interior of the shoe). You should be able to wiggle all your toes comfortably.
- Try different brands of socks. Be sure to launder the sizing out of new socks before wearing them. Try not to wear cotton socks because they retain moisture, which softens the skin and makes it easier to tear or form blisters.
- Look for socks with modern synthetic fabrics that are formulated for walking or running.
