How to Pick Shoes

Photo by Michael Weschler

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How to Pick Shoes

By Ranit Mishori, July 2007

If your shoes are too narrow, too short, or too large, they can cause discomfort, injury, and deformity. So when shopping for shoes, don't let style be your only guide. Follow these tips for a perfect fit

Measure your feet every time you buy shoes. Foot size increases as you age.
Avoid shoes with a heel higher than 2¼ inches.
If you must wear high heels, look for a wider toe area.
Buy shoes at the end of the day—feet often swell by the evening.
Shoes need to be fitted at the heel as well as at the toes. Make sure the heel doesn't slip.
Try on both shoes. It is common for one foot to be larger than the other. Fit the shoes to the larger foot.
Leave a 1/2-inch space between the end of your longest toe and the end of the shoe.
When the shoe is on your foot, you should be able to freely wiggle all of your toes.
Walk around in the shoes to make sure they fit well and feel comfortable.
Make sure the ball of your foot fits comfortably into the widest part of the shoe.
Don't get stuck on a size—sizes vary among different makers and brands.
If the shoes feel too tight, don't buy them. Shoes don't stretch.

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