The Importance of the Right Athletic Footwear

No matter what type of athletics you participate in, it is important that you have the right athletic footwear for that activity. Walkers and runners require different types of footwear to perform at their best and safest. Having footwear that provides the support needed to maximize performance and minimize the risk of injury is vital. Sports can inflict an incredible amount of pressure on the feet, ankles, and legs. The athletic shoe is the shock absorber that keeps damage from happening.

Those who only participate in one type of sport or physical activity can get footwear that is specifically designed for that activity. For those who participate in more than one, a cross-trainer may be the best option.

Finding the Right Athletic Footwear

If it is at all possible, get footwear from a store that specializes in one particular activity. For runners, go to a runner's store. Tennis players can use a tennis store. If that isn't possible, do a lot of research before deciding on the right athletic footwear that will provide what you need. It is best to go to the store at the end of the day when your feet are as large as they will ever be due to swelling. Wear the same socks that are usually worn to perform the activity to ensure a good fit.

Try the shoes on and walk around. Are they comfortable? Is the toe box wide enough? Are the shoes long enough? Try on both shoes and be sure to lace them up. If it all feels good, these may be the right athletic footwear for you.

Signs of the Wrong Athletic Footwear

If the toenails are bruised or cracked, this can be caused by athletic footwear that is too short. Toenails may look purple or black and this is a sign that it is time to get your feet accurately measured.

When blisters appear on the foot, this is usually the result of footwear that is either too large or too small. Getting the correct measurement can help. It is also important to make sure your feet stay cool and dry and this may require a change of socks. Be attentive to hot spots, which are points of friction that can develop into blisters.

Plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis are common conditions that athletes develop. They have many causes, but one of them is shoes that don't provide the necessary support. Athletic shoes are designed to provide a specific type of support for a specific activity, which is why it is so important to choose the right footwear and replace it as it becomes too worn to do its job.

Stress fractures are hairline cracks that develop in bones as the result of repetitive activities. They are common on the feet of athletes. If a stress fracture isn't treated it can result in a complete break. The importance of cushioning in certain activities is to prevent this type of injury. In the case of flat feet or other irregularities in foot structure, custom orthotics help the athletic footwear to provide the necessary cushioning and support.

You can test whether your shoes are becoming worn by wetting their soles and then standing on something. If they don’t leave symmetrical prints, they’re wearing out.

Having the correct athletic footwear is one of the most important things that you can do to prevent injury and improve your performance.