Shoes selection

How to Choose the Right Shoes

Your choice of footwear can affect foot comfort, the management of certain types of pain, and injury prevention. If you have foot pain or an injury, appropriate footwear may help reduce stress on affected structures.

The right shoes depend on your foot shape, condition, and activities. Your podiatrist can help you find footwear that best meets your needs.

4 Factors to Consider

1. Sole flexibility

The shoe should generally bend near the base of the toes rather than in the middle of the sole.

2. A firm heel counter

The back of the shoe should provide adequate support to help keep your heel in place.

3. Appropriate support

The stiffness of the sole and the level of arch support should be suited to your condition and needs.

4. Appropriate heel height

The difference in height between the heel and forefoot should be chosen according to your comfort, condition, and activity.

Tips for Choosing the Right Shoes

Shop later in the day, when your feet may be slightly more swollen.
Make sure your shoes provide enough room in length, width, and depth.
Avoid narrow or pointed toe boxes if you experience toe pain.
Choose shoes that provide adequate support and feel comfortable from the moment you try them on.

What About Sports Shoes?

Footwear should be suited to the activity you practise. For running, for example, choosing between minimalist and maximalist shoes depends on several factors, including your experience, running technique, running surfaces, injury history, and goals.

Minimalist shoes generally offer less structure and cushioning, while maximalist shoes feature thicker soles and more cushioning. Neither type is ideal for everyone.

Why See a Podiatrist?

A podiatric assessment considers your foot shape, pain, medical history, and activities to help you choose appropriate footwear.

Well-fitting shoes can help reduce friction and pressure associated with certain foot conditions, including hallux valgus (bunions), hammertoes, corns, calluses, and blisters.

Experiencing foot pain or looking for footwear suited to your needs? Book an appointment with our podiatry team in Mirabel.

Health services

Valleyfield: 450-371-0321 Vaudreuil-Dorion: 450-455-8500 Mirabel: 450-974-5928 Gatineau: 819-773-4230 Trois-Rivières: 819-801-1278 Boucherville: 450-356-1666 Virtual services : 450-455-8500 (1-866-222-6735)