Shoes are much more important than many people realize. Karen Asp writes that people walk around 2.5 miles or 5,000 steps a day on average. Not only that, but more people are taking fitness more seriously. Many have taken up more rigorous activities such as cross-training, running, and other sports. This can take a toll on your feet. While most people wear shoes suitable enough for daily use, not everybody wears comfortable shoes. For one reason or another, you may be stuck with a pair that just doesn’t feel right. Perhaps it’s a tad too small or a bit too narrow for wider set feet. Wearing the right pair of shoes is not just for comfort but for your health as well. Here are the many health benefits of wearing comfortable shoes:
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They prevent foot pain
One of the main causes of foot pain and discomfort are shoes with reduced toe box volumes. These types of footwear constrict the toes and prevent them from moving freely. Size mismatch can also cause pain. It's important to know that shoe size can vary between different makes and models. A wrong sizing can also occur if there has been some time since your feet were last measured. You might also be using shoes that are not appropriate for your daily activities. And unfortunately, some people cannot find the right shoes in their size. Finding a comfortable pair in the right size and with a roomy toe box can help prevent foot pain, making it easier to walk and go about your day. If the shoes are even a little bit uncomfortable well after the break-in period, then you’ve probably got the wrong pair. You might want to consider another shoe with a different shape; especially if you have larger feet and may need wide shoes riverside to help you feel better.
They improve circulation
When shoes are uncomfortable and worn for an extended period of time, they can end up causing more damage to our feet. This can result in swelling, causing bad circulation in the feet and legs. In fact, a study published on NCBI found that shoes affect blood flow parameters and the veinous pressure on lower limbs. More comfortable footwear designs such as sandals, athletic shoes, or soft shoes showed more improvement in venous variables than uncomfortable designs like rigid shoes or high heels. Good quality, comfortable shoes can improve blood movement in your feet, legs, and the rest of your body, preventing the appearance of varicose veins, swollen legs, and other similar problems.
They improve posture
Comfortable shoes will naturally improve your posture because your entire body is primed to be in its proper alignment, from your head to your toes. If you’ve ever worn a pair of uncomfortable shoes, then you may recall how you were forced to walk differently to accommodate your footwear or reduce the pain. The wrong shoes will force the position of your feet, ankles, knees, hips, and even your back into an unnatural position, causing strain on your body. It's crucial for you to maintain the proper body mechanics to reduce body pains and chances of injuries. Comfortable and appropriate shoes should help support your joints or muscles adversely and allow you to walk upright with little to no effort.
They allow you to be more active
An active lifestyle is important for anyone looking to stay healthy. To participate in sports and exercises, one has to have the right gear, especially comfortable and sturdy shoes. The SoleSavy podcast outlines on their shows how various sneakers are made for specific sports and activities, such as New Balance sneakers for walking and the Under Armour Curry 8 models for basketball. These sneakers serve different purposes, but they are both comfortable to wear and offer great support for particular activities. In our blog post ‘5 Different Types of Exercises You Can Do at Home’, we list walking and running as some of the most popular and best exercises you can do from home.
But you don't have to be in training or on the court to wear performance shoes since they're just as beneficial for daily wear. If you're always on the move, be sure to get shoes that are made with quality, breathable materials, and a comfortable sole to offer proper comfort and support.