As the leaves turn, many of us are starting our fall and winter shopping for the year. Going through your closet and deciding what to keep and what to part with can be difficult, especially when it comes to shoes. Are your boots from last year feeling a little tight in the toes? How do you replace some of last season’s favorites? New England Podiatry is here with tips on how to sort through your cold-weather footwear.
Is It Time to Toss Them?
Getting rid of your favorite shoes is difficult, especially if you can’t find an exact replacement. But if you find the pair ill-fitting as the year passes, it’s important that you stop wearing them. The health of your feet is more important! Below is an easy checklist for checking your shoes:
- How do the heels look? Are they worn out? If so, some shoe repair stores may be able to help.
- Have you had your running shoes for over a year? Are your feet in pain after your daily run? If so, replace them.
- Are your boots not providing any arch support? Are the soles worn down? Time for a new pair!
- How about your orthotics? Socks? If you find them worn, it’s best to get something new.
Everything Is Replaceable
Except for your feet, of course. If you’ve sorted through your closet and came up with a few pairs you need to throw out or donate, you may want to start shoe shopping. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- If you’re looking for an exact replacement, or something very similar, bring in your old shoes to show the salesperson. It can be difficult to describe what you’re searching for. This ensures that you get the best match.
- Bring the socks you’re planning on wearing with your new shoes. Like to wear thick socks with your winter boots for extra warmth? Take them along!
- Always remeasure your feet! Our feet grow as we age. To avoid pain from too-tight shoes, get your feet measured every time you shop.
At New England Podiatry Associates, Dr. Ronald Etskovitz, Dr. Raymond Murano III, Dr. Catherine Jacobs, and Dr. Zachary Sax treat various foot and ankle conditions. Equipped with a board-certified podiatrist team, we offer two convenient locations to provide excellent care for patients in Norfolk, Suffolk, and Middlesex Counties. Contact our Chestnut Hill office at 617-232-1752 and our Newton-Wellesley office at 617-630-8280. We are still offering a telemedicine option for your safety and convenience.