Services & Treatments

Choosing A Good Shoe In Perth

Are You Looking for new Shoes? Your Footwear is Most Important

Read what our Podiatrists have to say…
Your podiatrist will be able to provide you with some great advice and may recommend a particular style or brand of shoe to suit your purpose. Below is a general guide to assist you, which outlines the important supportive structures and fitting criteria that help to decide which shoes are right for your feet.

Features of a good shoe

The rearfoot

• Firm heel counter- press on the back of the heel with your thumb. A firm counter will not collapse into the shoe.
• Minimal heel- try to avoid high heels so that your body weight is evenly distributed across your heel and forefoot
• Removable innersole- this will allow extra depth when removed to accommodate an orthotic

The top (transverse arch)

• Adjustable straps, laces, or a buckle will ensure your foot is held within the shoe and does not slip in and out. It will also allow for an increase in your arch height if wearing an orthotic.

Toe-box

• Shape: conform to the natural shape of the toes. Avoid pointy shoes which will compress your toes together and encourage bunion deformities.
• Width: you should be able to drag the fabric across the joints in your forefoot with your fingers however not enough to gather and pinch it.
• Depth: accommodate for any deformities such as bunions and hammer-toes and to give the toes some room to move

Flexibility

• The shoe should mainly bend where the toes bend naturally, and be firm and rigid through the sole under the arch area.

The arch

• Arch support already inbuilt into the shoe may provide some comfort and support over footwear without support.Should more specific and aggressive support be required an orthotic device can be used.