Buying shoes is almost as complicated as finding the perfect home. There is an abundance of athletic and casual shoe options, but not many helpful suggestions about the best brands. When you do find a brand you like, many buyers get frustrated at which style to choose because there is never a clear-cut answer on what the difference is between all of the different types. Not only do shoes allow you to do activities you enjoy, but they can even decrease joint pain and orthopedic conditions. However, the opposite is also true. An improperly fit shoe that does not provide support, changes your biomechanics, or is too hyperflexible contributes to increased incidence of foot, ankle, knee, hip, and even spine symptoms. Unfortunately, there is not one shoe that is perfect for everyone, as everyone’s foot and gait style is unique.
So here are a few tips to decrease the frustration when it comes to shoe-shopping.
1. Try all footwear on in-person.
2. Place two fingers on the sole of the toe. If you can fold it onto itself or side to side easily, the shoe is probably too hyperflexible and will likely not provide enough support and shock absorption. We call this the “Holmes Rule.”
3. Check the tread wear on your shoes. If the tread is worn, it is time to go shopping for new shoes. Evaluate where the tread is most worn. If on the outside of the forefoot (near the toes), then you are likely supinating. If towards the inside (closer to the big toe area), then you are likely pronating.
4. Try to go to a shoe store that can identify the best shoe match for you based on your foot shape, the way you walk or run, and your activity. We recommend Fleet Feet, Team Nashville, or Nashville Running Company if you live in the Nashville area.
5. Remember, a manufactured shoe may not fit your needs perfectly. Over-the-counter or custom orthotics/inserts can help your foot to achieve normal realignment and promote proper foot mechanics. Having an appropriate orthotic/insert that is interchangeable amongst all your shoes can decrease foot, knee, hip, and even back pain! We have specific orthotic specialists that work with our practice.
6. A good quality shoe will begin at $75. Be careful buying shoes that are highly- discounted.
Recommended shoe brands:
BRANDS
Asics
Brooks
Hoka
On Cloud
Saucony
New Balance
Karhu
Altra
Mizuno
WIDE TOE BOX
Hoka
Mizuno
Altra
Brooks
Asics
New Balance
CASUAL SHOE
Clarks
Merrell
Johnston & Murphy (XC4 Technology)
Vionic
WALKING/RUNNING
Brooks
Hoka
Asics
New Balance
Mizuno
On Cloud
Karhu
Alta
AGILITY ACTIVITIES
Brooks
Asics
New Balance
Nike
HIKING **
Merrell
Keen
Hoka
Saucony
Altra
Salomon
(**specific hiking versions of these brands)
This is not a complete list of recommended shoes for each category, but a compilation of recommendations based on research and patient feedback.
SHOES FOR SPECIFIC SPORTS: follow sport-specific recommendations for shoe wear
Taylor Moore, FNP-C
Impact Sports Medicine and Orthopedics
