Finding the proper shoe fit as we age.

You need to have more than fashion in mind when shopping for shoes. Also, you must consider function as well as keeping your feet in good shape.

Follow these tips to choose the right shoes.

• When shopping, go with a trace of your foot. Place the shoes that you think might be a good fit. If the shoe is smaller or bigger than the tracing, don't even try it on.
• Visit the store in the afternoon to purchase shoes as your feet naturally expand during the day with use.
• Go to the store with the same type of socks that you expect to wear with the shoes.
• Ask the salesperson to measure your foot and get measured every time you purchase new shoes. With age, feet change, becoming broader and wider. Purchase a style that fits the bigger foot if one foot is larger than the other.
• After wearing the shoes, stand in them. Ensure that there's about half an inch space between the longest toe and the end of the foot. Press softly on the tip of the shoe to check for space.
• The half-inch gives your foot more space to press forward as you move.
• To determine how they feel, walk around in the shoes. Do you have enough room at the balls of your feet? Do they match snugly with the heels, or do they squeeze or come off? Do not assume that the shoes will fit with time. Find shoes that fit right from the store.
• Focus on your comfort rather than the size or description of the shoe. Shoe sizes differ among manufacturers. So no matter how convenient an ad says that those shoes are, you're the ultimate judge.
• Consider the width and length of the shoe. If a certain shoe is compressed in the ball of your foot, inquire if it comes in a larger size.
• To check if the shoes have any tags, seams, or other stuff that might irritate the foot, feel the shoes' interior.
• Inspect the soles of the shoe if they are strong enough to protect against sharp objects. Is there any cushioning they provide? When you stroll through the shoe shop, take care of how they feel. To check how the shoe feels on different surfaces, try to walk on hard floors and carpets.
• Lastly, if you play sports, wearing shoes built for that sport is a smart idea. Special shoes for tennis, golf, soccer, rugby, netball, running, cycling, and other sports are available. Every sports shoe has its design, material, and weight that best protect the feet against the stress of that particular exercise.