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Footwear

The shoes you wear every day have a direct impact on your foot health.

Good footwear reduces pressure, prevents pain and helps manage many common foot conditions.

Footwear

The shoes you wear every day have a direct impact on your foot health. Good footwear reduces pressure, prevents pain and helps manage many common foot conditions. Most foot problems seen by podiatrists are made worse, or caused, by poorly fitting shoes.

How to check your footwear fits

A simple check takes less than a minute and can make a real difference to your foot health.

Length

There should be a full thumb’s width between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. If your toes are touching the end, the shoe is too short.

Width

The widest part of the shoe should match the widest part of your foot. Your toes should not be squeezed together or spilling over the sides.

Depth

There should be enough room across the top of the foot. The shoe should not press down on your toenails.

Fastening

Shoes with laces, straps or buckles hold the foot more securely than slip-on styles and reduce the risk of your foot sliding forward.

Sole

A semi-rigid sole with some flexibility provides the best support for most people. Avoid soles that are very thin, very hard or completely flat.

Heel Height

A heel between 1cm and 4cm is ideal for most people. Very flat shoes and very high heels both increase strain on the foot and lower leg.

Footwear tips for common situations

Orthotics

Orthotics are insoles placed inside shoes to support the foot, redistribute pressure and improve function. They can help manage pain and make walking more comfortable.