Choosing the right shoes for fall

Fall weather promises cooler temperatures, typically accompanied by wet weather. The cool temperatures may motivate you to get outside, whether it’s for yardwork, exercise or simply taking advantage of autumn activities such as outdoor markets or football games. No matter why you step outside, make sure your feet are clad in the right shoes for the job—and for the weather.
The right shoes fulfill their duties
Shoes are definitely a fashion choice, but choosing the right shoe for the activity can help you maintain joint comfort and avoid injury. Hiking or walking shoes offer different traction and overall support than shoes meant for pickleball or tennis. If an active sport or hobby has become part of your regular routine, make sure you have shoes set aside exclusively for that purpose. And no matter how you plan to use your shoes, make sure they provide comfortable arch support and ankle stability.
The right shoes are the right age
The cushioning in the sole of a shoe – along with the padding in its upper portion – contribute to its overall fit and comfort, but they won’t stay that way. You should plan to replace your shoes when they show visible wear, like worn treads, or when they reach their typical lifespan. Running shoes usually need replacement every 300-500 miles or every 4-6 months, while hiking and everyday shoes typically last 8-12 months. Consider the type of shoe and how often you use them when deciding on replacements.
The right shoes fit well
Ill-fitting shoes can create pressure and potential damage to the feet, ankles, lower leg, hip, and spine, so it’s important to ensure you choose a pair that fits your foot. Here are a few tips:
• Feet can grow as we age, so be sure to have your feet measured every year. Stand up while measuring your feet, since the full weight of your body will expand your feet.
• Don’t buy shoes based only on the size. Like clothes, shoe sizes can vary from brand to brand and style to style. Try on shoes, then purchase the pair that fit you best, regardless of the size.
• Leave yourself about 1/2 inch of space between your longest toe and the tip of the shoe. Wearing a shoe that’s too long for your foot may cause toe pain and blisters as your foot continuously slides forward.
• Walk around in the shoes on different surfaces to make sure that they are comfortable before you buy them.
• If your foot is too wide for a certain shoe, don’t buy a longer shoe. Buy a wider brand instead. A larger size of the same brand may be too big in the toe box, allowing your foot to slide back and forth in the shoe.
Of course, proper shoe choice is just one step in overall foot and joint health. Our team of orthopaedists at DOC Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine offer comprehensive podiatry as well as ankle and foot care. If you’re unsure what type of shoe is best for you – or if you think you might benefit from a more specialized orthopaedic shoe – you may want to visit an orthopaedic specialist.