What to Look for in a Shoe
How to Choose the Right Shoes for Your Feet
When it comes to selecting the perfect pair of shoes, most people focus on aesthetics—colour, style, or brand. However, the most important factor should always be how well the shoe fits your foot. Wearing ill-fitting shoes can lead to discomfort, foot pain, and even long-term foot problems. At Waikato Podiatry, we often see patients experiencing issues caused by shoes that are too tight, too loose, or lack proper support.
If you're investing in new footwear, here's what you need to consider to ensure a comfortable, supportive, and healthy fit.
1. Why Good Fit Matters
A well-fitted shoe supports your foot structure, prevents excessive pressure, and reduces strain on the joints, ligaments, and tendons. Shoes that are too tight or too narrow can cause conditions such as:
✅ Blisters & Calluses – Due to constant rubbing and friction.
✅ Bunions & Hammer Toes – From prolonged compression of the toes.
✅ Morton’s Neuroma – Nerve pain caused by excessive pressure on the forefoot.
✅ Plantar Fasciitis – Heel pain due to poor arch support.
Ensuring a proper fit from heel to toe is essential for foot health.
2. The Importance of Forefoot Fit
One of the most common shoe-fitting issues occurs in the forefoot area (the front part of the shoe where your toes sit). If the forefoot is too tight, it can squeeze the metatarsals (long foot bones), leading to compression, pain, and irritation of the soft tissues between them.
🔹 How to Check Forefoot Fit:
When standing in the shoe, your toes should be able to move freely without feeling cramped.
Your foot should sit comfortably within the midsole—not hang over the edge.
If you notice bulging along the sides, the shoe is too narrow.
At Waikato Podiatry, we often see patients suffering from forefoot compression, which can lead to chronic foot pain over time. The best way to avoid this is to ensure your shoes provide ample width and support in the forefoot area.
3. Why Width Matters
Shoe width is just as important as length when it comes to finding the perfect fit. Many people unknowingly wear shoes that are too narrow, which can cause discomfort and long-term foot issues.
Signs your shoes are too narrow:
Your foot bulges out the sides.
You feel tightness or compression in the forefoot.
Your toes feel squished together.
Understanding shoe width options
Most quality shoe brands offer different width options, but many people don’t realise this.
When shopping for shoes, check the width label inside the tongue or on the box. If you struggle with foot pain or frequently feel that your shoes are too tight, opting for a wide-fit shoe can make a significant difference.
4. The Midsole & Arch Support
Another common fitting mistake is choosing shoes that don’t support the midsole and arch correctly.
If the midsole area is too tight, it can compress the foot, causing irritation to tendons, ligaments, and nerves. On the other hand, a lack of arch support can lead to excessive strain on the plantar fascia, contributing to heel pain and arch discomfort.
Key midsole features to look for:
✅ Adequate arch support to prevent excessive strain.
✅ A stable, cushioned midsole to absorb shock.
✅ A roomy fit in the midfoot area to prevent compression.
A simple way to check for proper midsole fit is to try the shoes on at the end of the day when your feet are naturally more swollen. If they feel too tight or restrictive, consider a different width or style.
5. Getting the Right Fit – Expert Help Available
Finding the perfect pair of shoes can sometimes be overwhelming, especially with the variety of brands, styles, and width options available. If you're unsure about the best fit for your feet, professional advice can make all the difference.
At Waikato Podiatry, we offer expert shoe-fitting assessments to help patients find the best footwear for their needs. We can:
👟 Assess your foot structure, width, and arch type.
👟 Recommend footwear suited to your activity level and foot shape.
👟 Provide custom orthotics if additional support is needed.
👟 Suggest trusted shoe stores such as The Shoe Clinic, where experienced staff can guide you to the right fit.
Final Tips for Buying the Right Shoes
✔ Try shoes on at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen.
✔ Walk around in the shoes to check for any tight spots.
✔ Ensure there is a thumb’s width of space between your toes and the shoe’s tip.
✔ Check width labels and opt for a wider fit if needed.
✔ Get professional fitting advice if you experience discomfort.
The key to healthy, happy feet starts with choosing shoes that fit correctly. Prioritising width, forefoot space, and midsole support can help prevent foot pain and long-term problems.
If you’re struggling with finding the right shoes, visit us at Waikato Podiatry for expert guidance. The right fit can make all the difference in comfort, support, and foot health.
