![]() ![]() (If you’re suffering from foot or joint problems, talk through your optimal shoe choices with your doctor.)Īs you might expect, high heels are problematic. And if you’re wondering about the benefits of orthotics, the research is mixed. Sandals and flats often fit this description, though many don’t. The healthiest footwear for both older and younger adults should fit well and have a low, broad heel, a thin and flexible sole, and some kind of lace, strap or Velcro to ensure the shoe stays firmly attached to the foot, he says. Some of Menz’s research on older adults shows that too-short or too-narrow shoes can lead to foot deformities and increased risk for weakness and falls, as well as growths like bunions, corns and calluses. “The two main issues with people’s footwear are poor fit and heel elevation,” says Hylton Menz, a podiatrist and professor of biomechanics at La Trobe University in Australia. “Also, people with neuropathy who have loss of sensation in their feet-you put them in a minimal shoe, and that person will probably hurt himself or herself,” he says.īut there are some simple rules to follow when shopping for healthy footwear. ![]() For example, some people accustomed to running in traditional shoes who quickly transition to minimal footwear may be at risk for injury, and so will those who slam their feet down when they walk. “They’re comfortable and they protect our feet, so there are benefits and costs.”ĭetermining the “healthiest” shoe for a given person has to take into account their age, health status, walking and running habits, and other factors, he says. “We”-meaning human beings-“started wearing shoes for a reason,” Lieberman says. But traditional shoes can be good for your feet, too. ![]() Given all this evidence, there’s a case to be made that the ideal footwear is the one you were born with-or at most a minimal shoe. If you don't get the confirmation within 10 minutes, please check your spam folder. Click the link to confirm your subscription and begin receiving our newsletters. For your security, we've sent a confirmation email to the address you entered. ![]()
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