Shoes are not only a necessity for daily wear, but also an important manifestation of personal style and health. A pair of suitable shoes can make you comfortable all day long, while the wrong shoe selection may cause foot pain and even long-term health problems. This guide will take you through the key factors in choosing shoes and help you find the ideal shoes that are both beautiful and meet your health needs.
1. Understand your foot type
The first step in choosing shoes is to understand the characteristics of your foot type, which is the basis for ensuring comfort.
1. Determine the arch type
Normal arch: The width of the middle part of the footprint is moderate, and this type of foot is suitable for most shoes
High arch: The middle part of the footprint is very narrow or disconnected, and additional cushioning support is required
Low arch (flat foot): Almost the entire sole of the foot touches the ground, and good arch support is required
Simple test method: Step on the cardboard with a wet foot and determine the arch type based on the mark left.
2. Foot width measurement
Use a professional foot measuring device or draw the outline of the foot on paper to measure the distance at the widest point. Common width markings:
Narrow (N)
Standard (M)
Wide (W)
Extra Wide (XW)
3. Toe shape classification
Egyptian foot: The big toe is the longest, suitable for oblique toe shoes
Greek foot: The second toe is the longest, suitable for round toe or square toe shoes
Square foot: The first three toes are almost the same length, and wide-lasted square toe shoes are required
2. Determine the purpose of purchase
The requirements for shoes in different occasions vary greatly, and clarifying the purpose can narrow the range of choices.
1. Daily commuting shoes
Selection criteria: comfortable, durable, easy to match
Recommended styles: leather loafers, low-heeled ankle boots, shock-absorbing sports casual shoes
Key elements: at least 1cm heel difference, non-slip sole, breathable material
2. Sports shoes
Running shoes: choose shock-absorbing type (road running) or stable type (cross-country running) according to running habits
Fitness training shoes: flat-soled hard-soled shoes are suitable for weight training, and flexible and lightweight shoes are suitable for comprehensive training
Ball sports shoes: basketball shoes emphasize ankle support, and tennis shoes focus on lateral movement and stability
3. Special occasion shoes
Formal business occasions: Oxford shoes, derby shoes and other lace-up leather shoes
Banquet activities: match according to the style of the dress, and pay attention to the heel height should not exceed the comfort limit
Outdoor activities: waterproof and breathable hiking shoes or hiking shoes, pay attention to the non-slip outsole
III. Key purchasing factors
1. Fit check
Best time to try on shoes: afternoon or evening (feet will naturally swell)
Length standard: Keep a gap of 1-1.5cm between the front of the toes and the toe
Width standard: The widest part of the sole is not squeezed and can move slightly
Heel fit: The heel is stable but does not rub, and does not slide when walking
2. Material selection guide
Leather: breathable and durable but requires maintenance, top layer cowhide is best
Synthetic material: light and easy to clean but poor breathability
Mesh material: excellent breathability and suitable for exercise, but weak support
Sole material: rubber sole is wear-resistant and non-slip, EVA midsole is lightweight and cushioning
3. Health considerations
Arch support: especially important for people with flat feet or high arches
Heel height range: daily heels are best between 1-3cm, too high can easily cause forefoot pain
Toe space: avoid squeezing the tip, patients with hallux valgus should choose wide shoes
Flexibility: the forefoot should be able to bend naturally, but the torsional rigidity should be sufficient