Shoes! Is there anything better or more fun to pick out? With so many different shoe stores and types of shoes available (for every season in the Hudson Valley) it can be hard to pick out the right pair for you!
There are a few different things to keep in mind when picking out new shoes. The first being which of the three foot types do you have?
- Normal Feet
- Pronators (people with this type have relatively flat feet)
- Supinators (people with this type have high arches)
For those with normal feet, shoe shopping is relatively easy – you can wear any type of walking shoe!
For those with pronators feet, shoes with motion control (shoes which are more rigid) are usually best. It is also good to avoid shoes with a lot of cushioning.
For those with supinators look for shoes that are reinforced around the ankle and heel as well as those designed with extra shock absorption.
It is also good to think about where you will be using your new shoes! Will you be hitting one of the local gyms in Dutchess County, or will you be hitting the pavement at one of our many local venues, such as:
- The Mall Walking Club held in the Poughkeepsie Galleria
- Historic Front Street in Newburgh, NY
- The Village of Fishkill, Wappingers or Hyde Park for shopping and history
- The City of Beacon for their weekend Farmer’s Markets
- Or the Rail Trail of the Hudson Valley
A few other helpful suggestions for picking out the right pair of shoes for you is to:
- Shop at the end of the day after your feet have had time to swell
- Measure your larger foot while standing
- Try on multiple shoes brands and walk around the store in each pair
- Do not judge solely on the style or color of the shoe, go with the fit and comfort level
- If buying walking shoes – only use them for walking
- Consider buying 2 pairs of walking shoes and rotating them – this allows the shoes to breath in-between uses
- Remember shoes wear out – so after 300 – 600 miles (depending on individual use) – replace them!
Also if you are having any foot trouble or pain, please contact podiatrist Dr. Yavor Geshev from Hollowbrook Foot Specialists located in Wappinger Falls, NY for an appointment.
By Yavor Geshev, DPM, FACPM
