A guide for patients about footwear

Why does footwear matter?

Unsuitable or badly fitting footwear is the cause of many foot problems. As feet spend so much time in shoes and slippers, it’s important they fit properly to help keep feet healthy and pain free.

Badly fitting shoes can increase your risk of falling. Shoes should be well-fitting, supportive and ideally not have a high heel. Worn-out slippers can also pose a falls risk. Not wearing any footwear and only walking in tights, socks or bandages can also increase your likelihood of falling.

If you are concerned about your risk of falling please speak to your GP or a healthcare professional.

What type of footwear is best?

Shoes for every day wear should have a:

• fastening (laces, a strap with Velcro or a buckle) to hold the heel
• back in the shoe and to allow your toes more room to wiggle
• shock absorbing sole
• breathable upper (leather or a man-made equivalent)
• broad heel no higher than 1½ inches (4cm)
• plain front if you have bunions or bony lumps that could rub on a seam.

Shoes for particular activities should be specific to the activity, such as:

• running shoes for running
• dancing shoes for dancing.

Should I have my feet measured?

Ideally, but bear in mind that different makes and different styles will affect how the shoes fit.

I want to wear fashion shoes…

If you want to avoid foot problems, save your party shoes for parties!

How can I tell if shoes fit?

• Make sure the shoe fits comfortably around the heel. You should be able to insert your little finger between the back of the shoe and your heel.
• There should be a gap about the width of your little finger between your longest toe and the end of the shoe.
• Wiggle your toes to make sure all of them can move freely.
• Most of us have one foot bigger than the other so make sure you try both shoes on and then walk around the shop to check if they’re comfortable.
• It is better to buy shoes in the afternoon as feet may swell a bit towards the end of the day. Shoes bought in the morning may be too tight by the afternoon.

I can’t find shoes to fit

The Independent Footwear Retailers Association may be able to help.

Phone 01295 738726

Email ifra@shoeshop.org.uk

Visit www.ifra.org.uk

If you would like more information…

We have a number of leaflets on common foot problems on our website.