| By :
Brandt R Gibson DPM
Copyright (c) 2010 Mountain West Foot & Ankle Institute As the snow flurries and temperatures fall, flip-flops and sandals give way for shoes and boots. Although this is a welcome change in shoegear (at least for me), choosing the correct boot is more important than ever . Boots have long been a good choice for the winter, but today's fashionable boots are becoming more common . Even those who live in warm environments are opting for boots, often just for the fashion statement. Through following some simple "Elf-approved" advice, you will be comfortable wearing your boots. 1. Measure Your Feet: Although you have been buying shoes for many years, shoe sizes (and feet sizes) change throughout your life. Therefore it is important to measure your feet prior to trying on the boot. Boots (or shoes) should also be fit at the end of the day, when your feet are at their largest. Keep in mind that your boot size may not be the same in all styles and brands of boots. And buy your boots for your larger foot—did you know that most feet are not the exact same size? 2. Boots Should Be Comfortable In The Store: Although materials of the boot may stretch or change slightly through wear, the change will not be significant. It is important that the boot fit in the store. Don't wait for a "break-in period" because the boot will usually remain uncomfortable. Rule of Thumb: If they aren't comfortable in the store, they will not be comfortable when you get home. 3. Boots Should Be Constructed Of Natural Materials: With new man-made materials and desire for more exotic boots, boots may often be constructed of plastics or non-breathable synthetic materials. These materials will usually cause trapping of heat and water leading to increased sweating and foot odors. Natural materials, such as leather, will usually help keep your feet dry and comfortable. 4. Do You Use Orthotics? If you wear orthotics or other specialized insoles, it is important to try the boots while wearing the orthotics. This will ensure comfortable fitting and allow greater arch support to the feet, as many boots are rigid and provide limited or no arch support. 5. How Will They Be Worn? Before buying a boot, think about how you will be using the boot. If you opt for furry snow boots, you will want to look for traction as found in rubberized soles with deep grooves. If the boot is for snowy days, narrow high heels and spikes won't work, but for fashion this may be a good option. Traction can be found with a lower heel or stacked heel. 6. Is This A Specialty Boot? When choosing boots for specific sports such as skiing or snowboarding, you should always work with a specialized salesperson. With good advice, along with your orthotics or insoles, you can not only be comfortable, but you can also improve your performance on the ice and snow. If you are careful in your boot purchase, you can find a boot that will fly you throughout the winter season and allow you to "circumscribe the globe" as Santa does in his "good pair of boots." Finding a specialist in foot & ankle care may also assist you in correctly fitting a boot in this cold season.
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