You can spend hundreds of dollars on wonderful shoes that will hobble you in a matter of days. But when you know what to look for, you can get shoes that look great on your feet and that you can wear for hours on end in comfort. What makes the difference? Here are some of the major considerations. Bear in mind that special activities, like sports or hiking, call for specific design elements that might differ from general-purpose shoes.
First, a good shoe controls the foot, not vice versa. Don't confuse "control" with "constrict"--feet need room to move. Structurally, feet are very complex and require specific kinds of support to avoid injury-causing stretches, bends, and twists. Good shoe design provides comfortable support that cradles your foot and keeps it in proper alignment whether moving or standing still.
One good test is to hold the shoe and try to twist it. If it's easy to bend the shoe out of shape, it's probably not a good choice. Another test is to try to bend the shoe in half so the toe meets the heel. You can almost roll some shoes into a ball. That indicates very little support, which means it's probably not a good choice for long-term wear.
Shoes need to bend easily with your toes, but they should firmly support the heel and arch. That's the job of two pieces: the heel counter and the shank.
Most people should look for long heel counters, the support that goes from the heel to the arch. One reason athletic shoes feel comfortable is that they typically have long heel counters. You can judge a shoe's heel counter by feeling the firmness of the actual cup of the heel. This is the area that cradles your heel. It should be firm, but not stiff. Put a thumb on the center of the counter at the back of the shoe and push forward. It should flex with minimal pressure.
The shank, often steel, is in the sole of the shoe under your arch and supports it. This also adds durability to the support. Depending on the material used, shoes without a shank tend to break down over time, resulting in decreasing arch support.
The materials used in construction are also very important. For example, leather is best for uppers and linings. It naturally wicks moisture away from your foot and it breathes, allowing moisture to evaporate. This makes a healthier, more comfortable in-shoe environment.
And, finally, the quality of construction makes a difference. Feel around the inside of the shoe. It should feel smooth, with no protruding seams or ridges. Look at the stitching to see if it's even and tight. Check to see that the soles and heels can be replaced and the whole shoe refurbished for extended life. Once you find a pair of shoes you love, the last thing you want is to have no option but to throw them away only a few years later.
These are some of the factors that make a good shoe. There are many others that vary among manufacturers and styles. If you have any questions, or simply want more information, please write, call, or visit us.
