Flexible shoes are good for the feet, right? Wrong! Here’s why

When it comes to travel and leisure, flip-flops and foldable shoes tend to be the staple choice for many women. Yes, they are lightweight, versatile, and easy to bring along wherever we go but, they may not be the best option for our body. 

These shoes can cause serious foot, hip, knee, and back injuries. In fact, many foot experts believe that flip-flops and foldable shoes are among the most dangerous shoes out there. Due to their little or no support, these shoes can cause critical problems in the arch and heel of the foot, including plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of tissue on the bottom of the foot.  

EXPERTS RECOMMENDATIONS

Shoes to avoid

Fashion shoes may look attractive, but they aren’t doing your body any favors. For long term benefits to your body, the worst types of shoes you should AVOID include:

• Flip flops:

In general, these shoes provide no support. Lack of proper foot support is a leading cause of plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis. Plantar fasciitis is the result of excessive pull of the plantar fascia, an arch-supporting ligament, causing pain and inflammation at the heel. Achilles tendinitis, on the other hand, is the result of poor arch support thus leading to overstretching of the tendons and muscles. The thong flip flop can also cause hammertoe as the toes constantly struggle to hold the foot in the shoe. 

• Flexible/ foldable shoes.

If you can twist a pair of shoes with ease or even bend them in half, that simply means support is compromised. Shoes with good arch support will be difficult to manipulate. Similarly, the feet will eventually suffer due to the absence of an arch system to help absorb the brunt of the pressure the feet endure every day.  

• High heels.

Three- to four-inch heels change the alignment of your body, which puts extra stress on your legs, hips and back. Wearing high heels regularly causes the Achilles tendon to tighten and shorten, which can actually make it painful to wear flat shoes. High heels also create more pressure on the ball of your foot, which causes the foot’s natural padding to thin and provide less cushion where you need it most. All of this extra pressure can also lead to calluses.

• Pointed-toe shoes

Particularly high heels, that scrunch your toes together. These can aggravate an existing bunion. The awkward positioning of your toes can also cause them to contract and eventually curl under permanently, a condition known as hammertoe. 

Shoes & Shoe-Wearing Routines that are GOOD for you!

• Soft shoe materials:

A shoe’s quality is often not visible at first glance, but it can be felt at every step. Invest in footwear made only with quality materials (e.g. luxe lambskin leather) that are kind to your skin and feet. 

• Slight heel: 

Avoid shoes that are entirely flat. It is highly recommended to wear shoes with a slight heel. This slight angle can provide better support and balance.

• Switch up your footwear: 

Alternate your shoes daily. Avoid wearing the same shoes more than four to five days in a row. Rotating your footwear reduces overuse of a muscle group or set of joints.

At the end of the day, our health is our priority. We only get one set of feet in this lifetime – it is therefore important to take care of them properly.