FINDING THE PERFECT SNEAKER

Invest in a pair of good sneakers now to avoid developing a foot problem later.

Finding the perfect sneaker will help enhance your performance, provide you with the support and comfort you need, as well as, help minimize your risk for injury

So, How well do you know your feet? Do you have a Low arch, High arch, Normal arch?

Here is an easy way to tell what type of foot you have if you don’t already know.

Lay out a paper shopping bag, packaging paper or a heavy paper towel on the floor.

Slightly wet the bottom of your foot making sure the entire surface of the sole is damp.

Step on the bag and then step off. If you see (almost) your entire foot print, its safe to say you have flat feet. If you see half your arch you have a normal arch, and if you see just your heel with a thin line connecting it to the ball of your foot, you have a high arch.

Different brands and styles will be better for different types of feet, so make sure you go to a reputable store, that have an experiened staff to help find the best sneakers for you.

Here are some tips to help you when buying sneakers:

-Know your foot type
-Make sure your sneakers are comfortable
-Always measure both feet while standing, we usually have one foot that bigger than the other foot.
-Buy the size that fits the larger foot.
-Try sneakers on with the same type of sock you would be wearing for your workouts
-If you wear orthotics, bring them with you.
-Always try your sneakers on, the fit will vary with different brands
-Your sneakers should feel comfortable from the moment you put them on. If their not put them back. Don't waste your time their not going to work for you.
-Shop for your sneakers in the late afternoon or evening because your feet swell throughout the day and you want them to be comfortable at all times.
-Leave a little room so you can wiggle your toes, about a thumbs width od distance between the end of your longest toe and the front of the sneaker
-Your heel should feel comfortably snug
-There should be no pressure or tightness around the middle of the foot.
-Only wear your gym sneakers when you work out
-Sneakers should be replaced every 300-500 miles, so keep a work out log starting from date of purchase
-Ill fitting sneakers can cause a host of health problems, such as, calluses, blisters, bunions, corns, hammer toes and loss of toe nails (ususally with runing)
-Finding a sneaker that fits properly can minimize a risk of injury and/or a chronic allilment such as plantar fasciitis and stress fractures.