Questions About Orthotics:
Q: I have orthotics. Do you have shoes I can wear?
A: Yes, many of our customers wear orthotics and over 90% of our shoes work well with orthotics. Most of our shoes, even the dress shoes, have removable insoles to allow orthotics to sit better in the shoes. Keep in mind, however, that the orthotic that is meant to control your foot when you are out exercising may not fit all dress shoes. You many need to work with your podiatrist to get a special dress shoe orthotic.
Q: Does my shoe size change with an orthotic?
A: Usually not. But many people wear shoes that are too small for their feet and if you are one of those we will help you find a better fitting shoe.
Q: What brand of shoe is best for an orthotic?
A: There is no one “best” brand. One of the
features we look for in almost all of our shoes is the ability to comfortably
hold an orthotic or arch support. One of our Shoe Fitting Specialists will
work with you to find the best shoe for your foot and your orthotic.
Q: Can I wear sandals with my orthotic?
A: Yes, most of our sandals have removable footbeds!
Q: My work requires me to wear some type of dress shoe, pump or slip-on. What can I wear?
A: We have a fine selection of dress shoes that will work for you.
Questions About Shoes
Q: How do I know if my shoes are worn out?
A: All shoes have a lifespan. Materials used in shoes do break down over time. We suggest that you evaluate your shoes using the shoe test [link to Shoe Test]. In addition, set your shoes on a flat surface and check to see if they are leaning. Look at the soles of the shoes and check for excessive wear. Pull the insole or arch support out of the shoe, set it on the counter, and check for leaning or excessive compression on the insert. If your shoes do not pass The
Shoe Test or do have excessive wear they are worn out; it is time for a new pair or repair.
Helpful Hint: The approximate lifespan of the midsole of an athletic shoe is 400 miles.
If you are walking two to three times a week for a half an hour at
a time, you should change your shoes at least every six months. We
suggest that you rotate wearing two pairs of shoes.
Q: How are my shoes supposed to fit?
A: Shoes should not pinch or bind your feet, nor should they allow your feet to slide in the shoes. When checking the fit of your shoes, first check your heel to ball length. The shoes should flex where your foot naturally bends. Second, check your heel to toe length. You should have 3/8” to ½” space at the end of your longest toe. Your toes should not touch the end or top of your shoes when walking. The shoe should fit secure at your midfoot (instep area). Your foot should comfortably fill the space in the shoe. Many people wear an over the counter arch support or custom orthotic for increased comfort and support. A well fitted should cradle the heel securing allowing for 1/8” heel slippage. Finally, your shoes should feel comfortable. It’s not normal for shoes to hurt your feet.
Q: What’s the difference between a straight and a curved last?
A: The last is the mold the shoe is formed from. “Last” is
also used to describe the shape of the shoe, fit characteristics of the
shoe, and the inside base construction of the shoe. In this case,
straight and curved lasts describe the shape of the shoe. If you
look at a shoe sole side up you can see if the shoe looks more like a rectangle
or a half moon. Shoes range from extremely straight to semi-curved
to curved. Generally people with flatter arched flexible feet wear
straight last shoes and people with higher arched rigid feet wear curved
last shoes. Trace your bare feet on a piece of paper and you can learn
the shape of your feet. Match your foot to shoe shape for a comfortable
fit.
Q: Do shoe sizes run the same across brands?
A: No. Just like pants, a size 8 in one brand does not necessarily fit the same as a size 8 in another. Shoe companies have their own lasts. Just because the size is standardized does not mean the fit is standardized. Do not dismiss a shoe because it doesn’t fit in “your size”, maybe you need a different size in the same style.
Helpful Hint: Generally athletic shoes run a half size to a size smaller than what you measure on the brannock device.
Q: Can I wear a cross trainer for running or exercise walking?
A: We recommend that you do not wear a cross trainer for exercise walking or running. Cross trainers are made to support your feet when moving laterally (from side to side) and for quick movements such as in racquetball, basketball, tennis, volleyball, and aerobics. Walking and running shoes are made to support foot biomechanics during forward motion. If you like a variety of exercise, do yourself a favor and buy two pairs of shoes, one for cross training sports and the other for walking and running.
Questions About Foot Problems:
Q: How can I help my warm moist feet?
A: Many people don’t realize that their socks contribute to the temperature and wetness inside their shoes. You want to wear sock fibers that wick sweat away from your feet, maintain their shape and padding throughout the day, and regulate the temperature inside your shoes. For more sock information (Click on “Finding
the Perfect Sock”). Warmth, darkness, and moisture inside your shoes also promote foot fungus. So, do yourself a favor and get out of those cotton socks, which absorb moisture but keep it clinging to your foot. Wet abrasive socks, which do not hold their shape and contribute to increasing temperatures inside your shoes, are not necessary.
Questions About Exercise & Fitness:
Q: Can I wear a cross trainer for running or exercise walking?
A: We recommend that you do not wear a cross trainer
for exercise walking or running. Cross trainers are made to support
your feet when moving laterally (from side to side) and for quick movements
such as in racquetball, basketball, tennis, volleyball, and aerobics. Walking
and running shoes are made to support foot biomechanics during forward
motion. If you like a variety of exercise, do yourself a favor
and buy two pairs of shoes, one for cross training sports and the other
for walking and running.
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