Did you know standing all day is terrible for your feet?
According to Dr. Emily Splichal, a podiatrist and human movement specialist located in New York, “Standing too long places special stress on your feet, hips, and legs, just as sitting puts a lot of stress on your back.”
Another New York-based podiatrist, Dr. Hillary Brenner stated, “Wearing comfortable shoes keeps our skeletal system in proper alignment, which improves our posture and relieves the stress on our joints.” In addition, she points out, “Wearing unsupportive or uncomfortable shoes can result in blisters, calluses, ingrown toenails, heel pain, sore feet or tired feet and swelling which can affect our blood circulation.”
Other than podiatrists, researchers like Thomas R. Waters, PhD, and Robert B. Dick, PhD, explored health risks associated with prolonged standing in their study and shared that standing at work for long periods of time can lead to serious health problems, including lower back and leg pain, cardiovascular problems, fatigue, and discomfort.
Therefore, it is crucial to invest in a pair of shoes developed exclusively for standing all day. In this article, we will be discussing various factors to consider when choosing shoes for standing all day.
So, without further ado, let’s get started!
Factors to Consider When Purchasing Shoes for Standing All Day
Here are some essential factors that you should consider before purchasing a pair of shoes for standing all day:
Proper Cushioning
For standing all day, shoes should have good cushioning to absorb the shock of your feet hitting the ground. Look for shoes with thick and ample padding in the heel and toe area.
Insole
You should make sure that the insole is firm. Spongy and soft padding can create instability, making your feet work harder for nothing. If you have sweaty feet, a moisture-wicking insole is recommended.
Our insole cleaning guide will help you keep shoe insoles in tip-top condition.
Type of Foam or Cushioning
There are different foam and cushioning materials used in shoes. Some are better at absorbing shock, while some are better at wicking moisture. Gel cushioning and memory foam cushioning are two of the most popular types.
Arch Support
Arch support is one of the most important features you should look for in shoes if you have flat feet. Shoes with good arch support will keep your feet in a neutral position, preventing pain and fatigue.
Outsole
An outsole is the bottom part of your shoes that directly touches the ground. The outsole should be wide and flat so that it covers the ground and distributes the pressure evenly. For good grip and shock absorption, a durable rubber outsole is recommended.
The Grip of the Outsole
If your occupation requires you to spend the majority of your time indoors on artificial floors, you’ll need a shoe with a good grip. Look for shoes that have deep grooves or ridges on the outsole to prevent slipping. You can make your shoe slip-resistant by following any method listed in our guide on how to make shoes non-slip.
Shoe Size
The shoe upper and the toe box should have enough room to accommodate your feet. Make sure your shoes aren’t too tight or too big. Incorrect shoe sizing can lead to foot problems like blisters and ankle injuries. Shoe sizes vary from brand to brand, so try them on before purchasing.
Here’s a shoe size chart to help you choose the correct shoe size.
Heel-to-toe offset
The heel-to-toe offset is the difference between the height of your shoe’s heel and forefoot. You should have a high heel-to-toe offset (8-12 mm) to reduce pressure on your Achilles tendon and calves.
Shoe Material
The upper part of the shoe should be made from a flexible and breathable material that can bend and conform to your foot’s shape. Breathable materials like leather and mesh are recommended.
Break-in Period
Knowing whether your shoes will need some break-in time is important. The majority of new shoes are stiff, and they will require some break-in time before they can be worn for long periods. Follow one of the tips in the guide on how to break in shoes if you want to break them in quickly.
Now that you know what things to consider when selecting the best shoes for standing all day, you may be wondering, what are the best shoes for standing all day? Well, our best shoes for standing all day guide will provide you with a comprehensive list of shoes perfect for standing all day.
Thanks for reading!
