SHOES HAVE THE FOLLOWING COMPONENTS

UPPER: Outer layer of shoe material, often leather or canvas.
TOE BOX: Area surrounding the toes.
VAMP: This cradles the area where the toes are connected to the foot, called the metatarsals.
COUNTER: Stiff material on either side of the heel. It is there to prevent forward and backward movement of the foot.
LAST: Shape of the shoe.

What To Look For In A Shoe:

1.SHAPE: Square or Round Toe Shoes are better that Pointed toe shoes.

2.FIT: It should provide ample room in the toe area in both width and Height.

It should fit snugly in the heel .

3. MATERIALS: Leather & Cotton Canvas are the best as they let your feet Breathe.

4.TREAD: Depending on use and what you are using them for, the tread is determined. For example for running outdoors the tread should be rough and grippy but if you run on a Treadmill then the tread should be smooth so as not to damage the belt.

4.CUSHION: More cushioning will absorb impact better.

5.SHOE WEIGHT: Lighter shoes may seem more comfortable initially, but heavier shoes may provide more support.

6.SPECIAL NEEDS: Extra-depth shoes or custom-shoes may be necessary to accommodate for structural foot deformities.

7. Sole : The outer sole in diabetic shoes must not bend & must have a rocker bottom.

A Podiatrist(Foot Doctor) is best suited to answer your questions and needs for special shoes, not a shoemaker.

General Tips on Shoe Purchasing

• Purchase shoes at the end of the day (when your feet are larger) to be certain they won’t be too tight.
• If you can’t wiggle your toes, the shoes are too small. Round or square-toed shoes have the most room, while narrow or pointed-toed shoes have the least and can aggravate conditions such as bunions and hammertoes.
• Measure both feet. One usually is larger and the shoe should fit comfortably on that foot.
• Try on shoes with socks or any special insert you normally wear.
• Walk around the store in the shoes before purchasing. They should feel comfortable. Do not expect shoes to stretch to fit your foot.
• Footwear with adequate cushioning or shock absorption, such as athletic shoes, absorb more stress and protect your feet. This is useful for anyone with heel pain.
• Shoes should have good arch support. Those that bend in the mid-sole area can lead to plantar fasciitis or arch & heel pain.