Updated May 2026
Choosing the right footwear is essential for preventing foot conditions, maintaining hygiene, and supporting good posture.
The right shoes reduce strain on your feet and lower the risk of long-term issues such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, and joint pain.
Key Takeaways
- Match shoes to your arch type for proper support and alignment.
- Use the insole test to check width and fit.
- Choose activity-specific shoes for stability and performance.
- Opt for breathable materials like mesh to reduce moisture buildup.
- Clean shoes by hand to protect cushioning and structure.
- Seek a podiatrist’s advice if you experience ongoing pain or need a gait analysis.
Why Appropriate Footwear Matters
Footwear directly impacts your foot comfort and overall health. Whether you’re an athlete, on your feet all day or mostly seated, proper shoes help
- Prevent chronic foot conditions
- Maintain hygiene and breathability
- Support correct alignment and walking patterns
Understanding Foot Mechanics
To choose the right shoes, it helps to understand how your feet move.
What are Pronation and Supination?
- Pronation: The foot rolls inward when walking or running. Excessive pronation (common in flat feet) can cause strain and imbalance.
- Supination: The foot rolls outward. This is often seen in high-arched feet and can reduce shock absorption.
Matching shoes to these movement patterns helps prevent injury and improves comfort.
The Impact of Improper Footwear
Wearing poorly fitted shoes can quickly lead to foot problems:
- Tight shoes create pressure points, causing blisters, corns, and calluses
- Loose or unsupportive shoes reduce stability and increase the risk of ankle sprains
How to Find the Right Fit
Fit is about more than just shoe size.
- Pro tip: Remove the insole and stand on it. If your foot spills over the edges, the shoe is likely too small or too narrow.
If needed, look for wide or extra-wide options to avoid toe compression.
Arch Support and Cushioning
Different foot types need different support:
- Flat feet are best supported by motion-control shoes that help reduce overpronation and improve stability.
- High arches benefit from neutral, well-cushioned shoes that improve shock absorption.
Choosing the Best Shoe Materials
Material affects comfort, durability, and breathability:
- Mesh is lightweight and breathable, ideal for reducing moisture and heat buildup.
- Leather is durable and supportive, but less breathable and may take time to break in.
Why Activity-Specific Footwear Matters
Shoes should match your activity:
- Running shoes are designed for forward motion and shock absorption
- Court shoes are built for side-to-side movement and ankle stability
Using the wrong type (e.g., running shoes for tennis) increases the risk of instability and injury.
Essential Shoe Maintenance
Proper care extends shoe life and protects foot health:
- Clean regularly using a soft brush or cloth
- Avoid machine washing, which can damage the structure and adhesives
- Replace shoes every 600–800 km or when the tread wears smooth
When Should You Consult a Podiatrist?
While general advice is helpful, not all “recommended” shoes are suitable for everyone.
If you have a specific foot deformity, persistent pain, or a history of lower limb injuries, professional guidance is essential.
A podiatrist can provide a gait analysis and tailored recommendations based on your unique lower limb condition.
Common Questions About Footwear
How often should I replace my daily work shoes?
Usually, every 6–12 months, depending on wear patterns and the compression of the cushioning material.
Can the wrong shoes cause back pain?
Yes. Poor foot alignment can cause a “knock-on” effect, altering your posture and putting unnecessary strain on your knees, hips, and lower back.
Are expensive shoes always better?
Not necessarily. The “best” shoe is the one that matches your foot shape, activity level, and mechanical needs, regardless of the brand name.
To book a foot or ankle assessment, please contact Southwest Foot and Ankle Centre today on (08) 9791 1319 or by booking an appointment online!
