SHOES HAVE MANY COMPONENTS

UPPER: Outer layer of shoe material, often leather or canvas.
TOE BOX: Area surrounding the toes.
VAMP: This cradles the area where the toes are connected to the foot, called the metatarsals.
COUNTER: Stiff material on either side of the heel.
LAST: Shape of the shoe.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Modern day footwear has become a fashion statement with protection, comfort, function and hygiene dropping in priority. When shopping for shoes, we recommend :
FIT: Shoes should fit snugly in the heel and provide ample room in the toe area. Shoes should not cause redness or irritation to any part of the foot.
SHAPE: Pointed toe shoes should accommodate for narrowing of the toe box.
MATERIALS: For maximum comfort, look for breathable, lightweight materials that are strong yet supple. Best bets are leather and cotton canvas. Vinyl does not let the foot breathe.
TREAD: Shoe soles should be chosen for how they interact with the surface on which they will come in contact.
CUSHION: Shoes constructed with more cushioning will absorb more impact and better protect your feet.
SHOE WEIGHT: Lighter shoes may seem more comfortable initially, but heavier shoes may provide more support.
SPECIAL NEEDS: Extra-depth shoes or custom-shoes may be necessary to accommodate for structural foot deformities. Consult your foot surgeon if needed.

General Tips on Shoe Purchasing

• Purchase shoes at the end of the day (when your feet are larger) to be certain they won’t be too tight.
• If you can’t wiggle your toes, the shoes are too small. Round or square-toed shoes have the most room, while narrow or pointed-toed shoes have the least and can aggravate conditions such as bunions and hammertoes.
• Measure both feet. One usually is larger and the shoe should fit comfortably on that foot.
• Try on shoes with socks or any special insert you normally wear. 
• Walk around the store in the shoes before purchasing. They should feel comfortable. Do not expect shoes to stretch to fit your foot. 
• Footwear with adequate cushioning or shock absorption, such as athletic shoes, absorb more stress and protect your feet. This is useful for anyone with heel pain.

• Shoes should have good arch support. Those that bend in the mid-sole area can lead to plantar fasciitis or arch & heel pain. 

Note:  Hammertoes, bunions, heel pain, and flatfeet are aggravated by poorly fitting or inappropriate footwear. Custom inserts or orthotics can help relieve pain and aid in the treatment of certain foot deformities.

Shoes For Babies

Feet are usually the last part of a baby to emerge during delivery. But they are one of the first things to worry parents. Here are some tips for healthy growing feet and ankles:

• When possible, allow babies to go shoeless.
• Use shoes for protection and balance when the child starts to walk.
• Leave ample space between the child's longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• Ensure shoes are held snug against the heel without slippage.
• Toddlers rarely say their shoes don't fit, so look for irritation, blisters, uneven wear, excessive perspiration or pain.

Shoes for Children

• Be sure there is ample space (a thumb’s width) between the child’s longest toe and the front of the shoe. 
• Shoes should fit snugly around the heel to avoid slippage.
• Inspect your child’s feet often for irritation or blisters. The shoe fit also should be checked frequently since children are continuously growing.

Buying Shoes During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, a woman's feet may grow a half to a full size permanently. Simple things women can do to ease pregnancy-related foot discomfort include:

• The extra weight of pregnancy can lead to heel pain or plantar fasciitis. Arch supports can help avoid this problem.
• Wear an athletic shoe or running shoe with a roomy toe box to avoid aggravating conditions such as bunions or hammertoes.