29/10/2026
Choosing the right shoes for your feet...
The right shoes should work with your feet, not against them. A good fit isn't just about getting the correct shoe size — the length, width, shape and depth of the shoe all matter.
👣 Give your toes some room
Your longest toe shouldn't be touching the front of your shoe.
Aim for around 1–1.5cm of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. This gives your toes room to move and allows for the natural movement of your foot when walking.
A simple guide? Around the width of your thumb.
👣 Check the width
Your shoe should comfortably accommodate the widest part of your foot, without squeezing your toes together or pressing against the sides.
Remember, your feet spread and change shape when you're standing, so always check the fit while standing rather than sitting down.
👣 Don't forget the depth
It's not just the length and width that matter.
There should also be enough room above your toes so they aren't rubbing against the top of the shoe. This is particularly important if you have prominent toes, bunions, thickened nails or areas of pressure.
What makes a good shoe?
👣 Look for a supportive sole
The middle section of the sole shouldn't bend excessively underneath your arch. A shoe that's too floppy through the middle can make your feet work harder than they need to.
Some flexibility at the front of the shoe is useful, particularly around the toes. A gently curved or rocker-style sole can also help the foot roll forwards during walking.
👣Choose shoes you can adjust
Laces, straps or Velcro fastenings allow you to alter the fit across the top of your foot.
This helps keep the shoe securely in place and means you can adjust it if your feet change in size during the day.
👣 Look for cushioning
Think about what you'll be using the shoes for.
If you're going to be walking or standing for long periods, a sole with good cushioning and shock absorption can help reduce the amount of impact travelling through your feet.
👣 Can the insole be removed?
A removable footbed can be a really useful feature.
It gives you the option of replacing the original insole with your own orthotic or prescribed footbed, if needed, without making the shoe too tight.
👣 Match your shoes to what you're doing
There isn't one perfect shoe for every situation. The footwear you choose should be suitable for the activity, workplace and environment you're in.
Working somewhere with a risk of heavy objects?
Choose protective safety footwear with a suitable toe cap.
Working somewhere slippery?
Look for slip-resistant soles designed for the environment you're working in.
Could you stand on nails or other sharp objects?
You may need footwear with puncture-resistant soles.
Regularly climbing ladders?
Make sure your footwear fits securely and is unlikely to slip off your feet.
On your feet all day?
Prioritise comfort, cushioning and a supportive fit. As a general guide, avoid regularly wearing heels higher than around 2cm if you're going to be standing or walking for prolonged periods.
👣Your feet aren't one-size-fits-all
Everyone's feet are different, and what works brilliantly for one person might not work for someone else.
If you're struggling to find comfortable footwear, experiencing rubbing or pressure, or simply aren't sure what type of shoe would suit your feet, a podiatry assessment can help you work out what your feet actually need.
The right shoes can make a huge difference to how your feet feel.
