Choosing the right shoe

Most of us are guilty of having bought a pair of shoes because we loved them so much, only to find they did not fit. The shoes were then destined to spend their life gathering dust in the back of the wardrobe. Or if we were really silly we would wear them just because they made us look good despite the agony they were causing.

Corns, bunions, hammer toes, shortened calf muscles and ingrown toe nails

Corns, bunions, hammer toes, shortened calf muscles and ingrown toe nails are not exactly fashion "must-haves" but what we are all prone to if we don't buy the right shoes.

When buying shoes it is best to try them on at the end of the day when your feet are at their largest and remember to try on both shoes as most of us have different size feet. Stand up to fit the shoes properly and ensure there is about a half-inch between the end of your big toe and the end of the shoe.

Your feet won't shrink

Remember your feet won't shrink and the shoes won't stretch that much so it is important to buy shoes that fit properly. If you have a broad foot take this into consideration and buy wide fitting shoes.

It is also important to remember your personal requirements. If you are pregnant realize that your feet may grow a full size and heels are just not the go. Select substantial comfortable shoes with thick supportive soles.

If you are over 65 choose lightweight, shock absorbing soles. Look for leather upper that will breathe and non-slip soles.

We should all look after our feet and our body as a whole. We can do this by giving up those stilettos as an everyday necessity. Select more practical shoes. A 1 ½ to 2-inch chunky heel with a padded insole and spacious toe area is a much wiser selection for work. Save the 3-inch heels for special occasions.

And remember you can still look good in a practical pair of shoes.