How to Choose Shoes That Don't Hurt

Shop in the Afternoon, Always

Feet swell as the day goes on, so a shoe that fits at nine in the morning can pinch by evening. Do your shoe shopping in the afternoon or after a walk, when your feet are at their largest. Wear the same kind of socks you plan to wear, and have both feet measured, most of us have one foot a little bigger than the other.

The Toe and Heel Fit Tests

There should be about a thumb's width between your longest toe and the end of the shoe, and room to wiggle your toes. The heel should hug snugly without slipping or pinching. A rounded, deep toe box lets the toes spread instead of curling to grip the shoe, which is what causes hard skin and corns over time.

Why Lower Heels Often Win

For daily wear, low heels beat flats for many women, a slight heel supports the foot better than zero drop. The height matters more than the width of the heel, and sky-high styles push pressure onto the ball of the foot. A cushioned sole and a wide, padded heel are what keep you comfortable through a long day.

Read the Sole and Upper

Turn the shoe over and check the sole: it should be sturdy, non-slip, and thick enough to cushion impact. The upper should be soft, breathable, and free of hard seams or ridges that rub. Feel inside for tags or stitching that could blister you, and avoid stiff pointed toes that squash the front of the foot.

Break-In Is a Myth

Do not believe a shoe needs to be broken in. A correctly fitting shoe feels good from the start. If it hurts in the store, it will hurt at home, and no amount of wearing will fix a poor fit. Trust your own comfort over the number on the label, because sizes shift from brand to brand.