TIPS FOR BUYING SHOES

From ancient Egyptian times down through the centuries, footwear has been designed to meet mankind's real and perceived needs: protection, support, comfort, sturdiness, and stylishness. Here are some tips to help you buy the right shoes:

• Have your feet measured while standing up
• Always try on both shoes, and walk around the store
• Always buy for the larger foot; feet are seldom precisely the same size
• Don't buy shoes that need a "break-in" period; shoes should be comfortable immediately
• Don't rely on the size of your last pair of shoes. Your feet do get larger!
• Shop for shoes later in the day; feet tend to swell during the day, and it's best to be fitted while they are in that state
• Be sure that shoes fit well (front, back, and sides) to distribute weight. It sounds elementary, but be sure the widest part of your foot corresponds to the widest part of the shoe
• Select a shoe with a leather upper, stiff heel counter, appropriate cushioning, and flexibility at the ball of the foot
• Buy shoes that don't pinch your toes, either at the tips, or across the toe box
• Try on shoes while you're wearing the same type of socks or stockings you expect to wear with the shoes
• If you wear prescription orthotics you should take them along to shoe fittings

For longer service, keep shoes clean and in good repair. Avoid excessive wear on heels and soles. Give your shoes a chance to breathe, don't wear the same pair two days in a row. Follow these steps to good care of your shoes!