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Footwear should be given the same consideration as any other piece of sporting equipment. Sports shoes should protect as much as possible, be durable, and should be right for the sport and surface. If running, the shoe should have adequate cushioning in the midsole
and a flared heel for stability.
Registered podiatrists will be able to give advice on suitable footwear. They will be able to suggest suitable warm up exercises to ease you gently into your chosen sport, and help prevent injury.
Shoes for sporting activities
Getting the right shoe really cuts down on the likelihood of suffering a sports-related injury. Make sure that you buy a shoe that is designed for the activity you are doing:
Running shoes
Running shoes are designed for just that – running! They are very flexible, which enables the foot to bend and flex through each step. Do not use for sports such as tennis, basketball or aerobics, which involve sideways stepping.
Cross trainers
These are much stiffer and provide greater support for the foot when side-to-side movements are made, allowing them to be used across a range of activities.
Sports shoes
Designed for tennis, basketball etc and give a combination of flexibility and sideways support.
Fitness shoes
Designed for aerobics etc, they combine flexibility with support and incorporate cushioning to lessen the effect of shock generated during high impact work.
Quick tips to remember when shoe shopping
1. Make sure you can wiggle your toes a little.
2. Try on both shoes and walk a few steps to see if they pinch or rub.
3. Leave 1cm of room from the top of your longest toe to end of the shoe.
4. Feet are usually biggest in the late afternoon/evening.
Socks
Good socks will not only help keep your feet comfortable within your shoes but will also keep them dry by drawing moisture away from the feet. Whatever you do, don’t wear 100% cotton socks - they hold the moisture against the skin, causing painful blistering. Wool and silk are often
found blended with the latest generation of synthetic materials. If you find wool too warm or irritating, you could try an acrylic blended sock.
Socks made with new materials such as CoolMax or DriMax are designed to wick sweat away from the skin, keeping it nice and dry.
Soc Chiropodists & Podiatrists 27th April 2006
Categories: Sports
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