Regular exercise is an important part of maintaining your overall health. If you wear ill-fitting shoes when doing so, though, working out could actually do more harm than good – especially if foot pain and mobility issues make it impossible to keep up your routine. Fortunately, finding the right athletic shoes is easy if you follow the tips below. 

3 Tips for Picking Out the Perfect Workout Shoe

1. Identify Any Foot or Gait Issues

If you have fairly flat feet or if you have a tendency to overpronation, it’s important to find shoes that have plenty of arch support. People with average arches and steady gaits, on the other hand, may feel more comfortable in a lighter, minimalist shoe because too much padding could weigh them down. If you suffer from plantar fasciitis or other heel-related problems, it’s important to find shoes that offer thick heel cups or pads for cushioning. Visit your foot doctor in advance to talk about your gait when exercising so they can make appropriate recommendations. 

2. Consider the Shoe’s Purpose 

Do you walk around the local high school track or run on a treadmill at the gym? Do you lift weights or hike cross-country trails? To prevent foot pain, consider how much support the activities you love require. If you’re a long-distance trail runner, for example, you’ll need more support for your joints than if you’re just power walking in your neighborhood. While the staff at your athletic store or your trainer can offer you tips on proper form for your chosen activity, a foot doctor can offer you advice tailored to your footfall and activity levels. 

3. Go Shopping Later in the Day 

Although the change is typically so slight as to be imperceptible to the eye, feet can swell gradually as the day goes on, particularly if you sit or stand in the same position for a long period of time. If you’re shopping in person, visit the store shortly before closing to ensure you’re finding a shoe that will fit you comfortably no matter what time of day you like to exercise. If you order shoes online, try them on just before going to bed to ensure the best fit. It is also wise to wear your athletic socks when trying on sneakers because they tend to be thicker than normal socks. 

If you suffer from chronic foot pain, the underlying issue could be as simple as wearing the wrong shoes – or it could be something more complicated. To ensure you’re getting the right fit for your lifestyle and addressing any underlying issues, turn to Dr. Joseph G. DiPrima at Advanced Foot Care Center of Rochester. From his offices in Fairport and Rochester, NY, this friendly, experienced foot doctor provides comprehensive care, including gait scan evaluation to help you identify issues, get custom orthotics, or find the right shoes. To request an appointment, fill out the contact form on his website or call (585) 249-0020.