Give Foot Pain the Boot: Shop with your feet in mind

Suede or leather?  Knee or ankle? Classic or contemporary?  Heel or flat? Gray, Black or Brown?  

Boots are one of the hottest fashion trends for cooler weather, but with the wide range of styles, materials and colors, choosing the perfect pair can be a challenge. Tyson Green, DPM, foot and ankle specialist with Center for Orthopaedics, says it’s worth taking some time with your decision. 

“Don’t sacrifice comfort for style. Careful consideration of your options can prevent discomfort and even painful foot injuries. When it comes to boots, shop with foot comfort in mind.” 

Dr. Green offers some guidelines for finding a comfortable pair – or pairs – of boots that will allow you months of pain-free wear: 

Put your Feet First when Shopping: 

Here are some additional recommendations from Dr. Green that will help you avoid potential foot problems when purchasing boots. 

Have feet measured regularly when shopping for boots or shoes. Your foot size can change throughout your life. 

Keep in mind that your boot size may not fit the same in all styles and brands.

Try boots on in the afternoon because feet tend to swell during the day.

Most feet are not the exact same size, but you should always buy for the larger foot.

Carry an insole when boot shopping in case a pair lack the proper arch support.

Boots should feel comfortable when tried on in the store, there shouldn’t be a “break-in” period.

A boot constructed of natural materials, like leather, will keep feet dry and comfortable during the winter months.

Choose a boot with plenty of toe room, a firm heel counter and traction