There’s nothing worse than a pair of poor-fitting sneakers–especially if you paid way too much for them. Your feet ache almost from the moment you put them on–and it’s downhill from there. You can’t wait to sit down and get them off your feet. It’s bad enough that you have to be on your feet all day. Having to put up with uncomfortable shoes on top of it is the last straw.
In addition to the comfort factor, wearing the wrong kind of shoes can cause problems with your feet, ankles, knees, and back. The difference between a good pair of shoes and a bad pair is like night and day. Whether you’re looking for a comfortable pair of tennies, everyday casual shoes, or the most comfortable hiking shoes; here are some tips on what to look for in a quality pair of shoes.
Comfort: For those of us who live in our retro sneakers, comfort is the number one priority for a good pair of athletic shoes. You want the shoe to fit snuggly around your whole foot, providing lots of all-around support, allowing for plenty of room for your toes.
Support: The biggest characteristic of a comfortable shoe is that it provides good support. A quality shoe has good arch support, with flexibility in the forefoot and midfoot. It is also ergonomic, providing a contoured cradle around the heel. The insole is firm, yet flexible, providing the maximum in support for foot in motion.
Style: Style is always important in a quality pair of shoes. Whether you prefer a standard black shoe, brown leather, or fluorescent green; your shoe should reflect your personality. There is no end to the styles, colors, and combinations of sneakers that are available.
Price: Surprisingly, this is a non-category. Price should be the last thing you consider when buying a shoe. A quality pair of athletic shoes generally costs between $80-$100. The last thing you want to do is cheap out on your shoes–especially if you wear them often. On other extreme, a quality pair of comfortable shoes shouldn’t break the bank. When you purchase your next pair of sneakers, go for quality, not price–your feet will thank you.