The weight of the world rest all on one part of our body; the feet! When considering a shoe purchase there are several important factors to keep in mind to ensure your feet will be the most comfortable they can be.

• Be sure to measure both feet by length and width approximately once a year. Foot size changes with age, but also with weight gain or loss. Also, both feet may not be exactly the same size. Select the shoe size that fits your larger foot. If necessary, use an insole to adjust the fit for the smaller foot.
• Measure your feet toward the middle or end of the day to account for normal swelling.
• Be aware that shoe sizes vary from brand to brand and style to style.
• When you try new shoes, wear the kind of socks or stockings that you intend to wear with them.
• Be sure that you have a thumbs width, or approximately one-half inch of space from the end of your big toe to the tip of the shoe. Your toes should never hit the end of your shoe.
• Make sure that the widest part of your foot comfortably fits the widest part of the shoe.
• Buy athletic and work shoes that meet the stability, support, protection, and cushioning requirements for what you intend to use them for.
• Beware of high-heeled shoes. Women are at risk for developing a variety of foot, knee, hip, and back problems as a result of wearing high heels. Low or no heeled shoes with plenty of room in the toe are far healthier for your total body.
• Shoes should feel fairly comfortable when you first put them on. If you immediately feel severe pressure, cutting or pinching "breaking" them in will not help. Try another size or style that will better suit your feet!