Athletic shoes come in many shapes and sizes, and these days come with a lot of bells and whistles as well. The consumer is bombarded by many models and numerous accessories which make the selection of the proper shoe a difficult task. One must also consider foot type, foot function and existing foot problems to determine the correct shoe. The decisions can be simplified by understanding a few key components which will help narrow the choices and find the shoe that will best fit and function with your foot.

Shop By Activity
First of all, one shoe is not made for every athletic activity. You must consider the type of activity in which you will be participating. Sport specific shoes help prevent injuries by giving support in the appropriate areas. A running shoe can create injuries if used for tennis or basketball. Running and walking shoes are made for straight-forward activities. Tennis and other court-shoes provide additional support for side-to-side motion. Purchasing shoes for each sport is more expensive but is important for preventing athletic injuries. Finding a shoe to complement your activity will help improve your performance and decrease your chance of getting injured.

Your Arch
The athlete's foot type is important as well. Just as certain tires go on certain cars, so do certain shoes complement certain foot types. The three foot types are determined by the height of the arch: low, medium and high. The arch height should always be determined when the person is standing since a false impression can be made when the foot is not weight bearing. It will determine the shape of the shoe, the shoes' last. The last of the shoe can be determined by looking at the bottom of a shoe to establish how much curve there is to it. Identifying the foot type will also determine how much cushioning and support is necessary in the shoe.

Low Arch
A low-arched foot is usually a more mobile foot. This results in the foot providing increased shock-absorption during the thousands of impacts each day. This foot had the potential to allow too much motion and needs a more supportive shoe that offers better motion control and stability. This type foot may benefit from a straight to slightly curved last shoe. In severe cases, the use of custom shoe inserts (orthotics) may be necessary to control the foot's motion adequately.
Top Picks for Motion Control Shoes

High Arch
A high-arched foot is usually a more rigid, stable foot. This results in more stress and shock being transmitted to each foot and leg. This type of foot needs more cushioning inherent in the shoe to provide for better absorption of shock to prevent injuries to the feet and legs. The use of a curved or semi-curved last shoe is best for the athlete with this foot type as it contours better to the shape of the foot.
Top Picks for Cushioned Shoes

Foot Problems
One must also take into consideration existing foot problems. Lumps and bumps including bunions, bone spurs or injured nails may require more space in the front of the shoe or changes in your lacing pattern. Patients who use ankle braces or orthotics also need to be sure these devices will fit in their shoes. Prior injuries could have been cause by shoes that were not correct for your foot. If you are having more pain in a certain pair of shoes, you may need to find a model which is better suited for your foot.

What features do you need in a shoe?
Three things should be checked in all shoes before they are tried on: heel counter, torsional stability, and "shoe break." The heel counter is the portion of the shoe surrounding the heel and should be firm and reinforced for extra stability. Torsional stability (the amount of twist in a shoe) is determined by grabbing the back and front of the shoe and attempting to twist as if one was wringing out a towel. Very little twisting motion should occur. The final feature to establish is where does the shoe "break" or fold. Attempts to fold the shoe in half should allow folding out near the toes at the most distant quarter of the shoe. Shoes that fold in the middle or near the heel may cause discomfort or even an injury.

Get Fit
Once a "good shoe" has been established it is important to get a proper fit. If a shoe does not fit appropriately it will not function well. The following considerations are helpful in establishing proper shoe fit:

1. Wear the socks and in-shoe devices or braces you normally wear for the activity.
2. Shop for shoes at the time of day you normally participate in your activities. Your feet swell in the afternoon when you have been on them all day.
3. Leave one finger's width (one-quarter inch) between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. Ensure your heel does not move excessively.
4. Walk, jog or run in both shoes in the store or on the sidewalk in front of the store. Ensure they are comfortable--do not count on "breaking in" your shoes.

Selecting proper athletic shoe gear encompasses both arts and science. Fortunately, most shoe store employees have the proper knowledge to assist you with finding the "right" shoe. If you are having foot pain or difficulty fitting shoes, a visit to a sports podiatrist can help select the best shoe for your foot type and function. Understanding the basic principles of shoe selection and foot type will allow you to narrow the choices to a few models and let comfort and fit be your guide.

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