Bottomline Safety Inc.

You have 26 bones and an intricate webbing of muscles in your feet. Sometimes, they can't stand up to the pressure, especially if you’re wearing the wrong footwear. From steel toe caps to high heels, here are the ways your shoes could be damaging your feet.  

  1. Too Tight

Shoes that are too-small, or even just pulling your laces too tight can restrict your arch from moving freely. Weak arches can cause frequent cramps. It might help to wear foot-strengthening insoles to provide the support you need, or do simple arch strengthening exercises.

  2. Too High

Women are attracted to sexy footwear. However, these killer heels come at a price. Higher heels can increase the torque on the joints. It forces your ankles to bend forward, a movement that could restrict circulation in your lower limbs, leading to spider veins.

  3. Too Flat

They may look and feel more comfortable than your 6-inch stiletto, but they can be just as damaging. This is because shoes with flat soles don’t give your feet the protection they need, as well as arch support. Experts say your feet should be elevated by at least 1/4 inch.

  4. Too Pointy

Some people like pointy-toed boots and shoes because they look sleek and sophisticated. However, they also have a negative effect to your feet. Shoes that have much pointier toes than our feet can force your big toe inwards. This can cause bunions.

  5. Too restrictive

Your foot needs to go through a full range of motion to develop their flexibility and strength. If your shoes are too stiff or restrictive, you are preventing your feet to move freely while walking. Try to avoid shoes with many layers of synthetic materials to protect your feet.

Having the right pair of shoe for the job makes all the difference. What you wear should hold up to various types of working conditions. At the end of the day, your shoes can take a toll on not just your feet, but your whole body. It is important to find a pair that is durable, comfortable, and with toe protection features.

  1. Extensive Walking

If your job requires you to walk on a tile floor all day, you need to have adequate arch support and cushioning. This will help absorb shock for those who do a lot of walking. Your physical condition also counts. For instance, if you have ankle problems, you’ll need additional support.

  2. Slippery Surfaces

Some workplaces have wet and greasy floors. This means that the risk for slips and falls is also high. The best work footwear for this type of environment is a pair that’s slip-resistant. It should also have adequate cushion, and supports the arches and ankles.

  3. Outdoor Environment

If your job entails you to hike in steep terrains and be exposed to wet conditions, buy shoes that have deep-tread and waterproof features. This can help your feet grip on slippery surfaces, while having enough support that your ankles need. Laces ensure that walking shoes stay on securely.

  4. Formal Shoes

Even if you’re wearing them in a formal setting, like the office, they still need to be functional and comfortable. Nowadays, there are numerous foot support accessories that women can use for formal footwear – heel and arch support inserts, insoles and cushions.

  5. Protective Work Shoes

There are many jobs requiring you to be on your feet all, or most, of the day. The nursing profession, restaurant and retail industries are just some examples. Like it or not, you won’t be able to change your work requirements. However, you can choose the best shoes to protect your toes and make your job more enjoyable.

  1. Large toe box

Because your feet tend to swell throughout the day, buy a pair with a large toe box. Keep in mind to shop for footwear in the late afternoon, when your feet are at their largest. As you fit a pair, make sure that there’s a wiggle room for your toes. Comfy shoes don’t pinch.

  2. Low heel

Just like a 6-inch stiletto, completely flat shoes are also not recommended when standing on your feet all day. According to experts, the heels of your feet should be elevated by at least 1/4 inch to ensure a good arch support. Stay away from shoes with a heel of 2 inches or higher.

  3. Tie with laces

For an additional support and protection from injury, wear a pair with laces or velcro straps. Think of them as the seatbelts of a shoe. They actually prevent your foot from sliding forward when walking, stopping your foot from unwanted movement.

  4. Good arch support

When shopping for footwear, consider going to retail shops that specialize in work shoes. Talk to the fitter and explain your field of work – what you will be using the shoes for? Make sure that the shoes have adequate arch support. You can also purchase a replacement insole.