People often get injured because they don’t buy the proper shoe for their feet. So if you want to prevent potential injuries or discomfort, it’s essential you’re buying men’s shoes that fit well.
But how do you know your shoes fit correctly when shopping for men’s shoe brands? What should you look for outside of online customer reviews?
If you’d like some shoe shopping tips, keep reading.
This guide teaches you how to find the right size shoe for your foot. You’ll also learn some helpful shoe-buying tips. Stick to a familiar brand once you find a shoe that you love.
Ready to learn more? Check out the tips below.
Know the Size and Style of Your Foot
Your first step is to get an accurate measurement of your foot. Some people will make the mistake of letting someone else tell them their shoe size. Try some shoes on in a store, and see what feels comfortable.
Don’t buy a shoe that’s tight. You won’t always get a pair of shoes that will stretch comfortably. You could visit a podiatrist before shopping online. The foot specialist can help you understand what shoe you should pick.
What Activities Will You Participate In?
When shopping for new shoes, you should think about their purpose. Will you go running in these new shoes? Do you need a pair of sneakers that will comfortably fit everyday activities?
You’re going to want a different shoe for tennis or running. Think about the particular activity and how the shoe will fit the purpose. Avoid an injury by picking the one that fits the action.
Most people also don’t think about the sole of the shoe. Quality and supportive soles will have a bit of a heel.
Shopping Tips for Trying on Shoes
Try going to the shoe store in the afternoon. Your feet tend to expand and swell during the day, so try on shoes during this time.
Your feet will often swell. Remember that they might swell when shopping for new shoes, so find a giant shoe.
You should also avoid picking up shoes that feel too short. Pick a wide shoe instead of a half-size bigger. There should be a thumb’s width between the end of your shoe and your big toe.
You will want to wear socks that you intend to wear with the shoes, as well. Are you going to wear thick socks or thin dress socks?
When you arrive at the store, ask the salesperson to measure both feet. Buy the shoe that will fit your larger foot.
Walk around in your sneakers for a few minutes. This will help you check if the quality of the shoe and material feel comfortable.
Don’t Always Follow the Crowd
You might have heard about a pair of shoes that everyone’s buying. Look at getting your own stylish shoe that will suit your intended purpose. When buying shoes, don’t fall into the trap of getting a pair everyone has.
Think about why you’re buying the sneakers, and note if they are flashy. Do they serve the appropriate purpose?
What Shoes Worked Before?
You should think about the kind of sneakers or shoes you wore in the past.
Where did you buy those shoes from, and can you get them again? Is there a brand that suits your foot better? Try shopping from the same brand.
If you find a good brand, try to keep buying from them. Most businesses will try and provide consistent products to their customers.
Unless they drastically transform the design, you can keep buying from that online store.
Wide or Narrow Shoe Styles
Some shoppers will need a shoe that suits a narrow foot, while others will need a wide shoe.
Also, if you have had foot issues before, find a solution for bunions, heel pain, or hammertoes.
You Could Visit a Specialty Store
If you need an active shoe, you could try and find a specialist. A specialist will observe your run and note your form and gait. Many people who need running shoes are new and need a fitting.
Try to Replace Your Running Sneakers
It’s important to replace your sneakers from time to time, and it will depend on your usage. Look at replacing sneakers at least every 400 miles you run.
You’ll also know it’s time to change your shoes if the bottom and sides of your shoes have begun to wear down. You might notice pain in your knees, hips, back, or feet. Your shoes aren’t giving you enough support.
Shoe Design and Foot Shape
When shopping for new shoes, you’ll need to consider your foot shape and the shoe design. The upper structure, heels, and the toe box should suit your foot shape. Don’t fit your foot into a shoe that isn’t suited for it.
Notice how your arch feels to understand if the shoe works with your foot shape. Are you getting enough support from the shoe?
Athletic footwear will have two unique styles. You can buy high-tops or low-tops. A high-top sneaker will appear stylish and is popular among streetwear lovers. Low-top shoes will have an elegant look.
Comparing the Fit
The fit is an important factor when buying shoes or sneakers. The fit of your shoe’s critical if you’re buying them for running or walking. If the shoe fits snugly, you will have better performance and endurance.
Make sure you have space for your toes to flex while running. You don’t want to have sores and blisters over your feet. If you’re a cyclist, find a shoe that will fit securely, so your feet don’t move about while pedaling.
When you buy a sport-specific shoe, you want enough room for your large toe to rest without a tight feeling.
Comfortability Factor
Sneakers are way more comfortable to wear compared to other footwear. Some shoes will have extra padding to help support the underside of your foot.
The EVA midsole will help boost comfort. A soft cushion to the foot will absorb any impact or blows.
Cushioning the collar and tongue will help you avoid chafing or friction. You will also notice more cushioning around your ankles and increased support.
Shop Around for the Right Materials
Suede, leather, mesh, and canvas are common materials used in shoes.
Mesh and canvas have breathable factors, so your feet remain well-ventilated. A mesh lining will often get used in shoes to improve breathability.
The sneakers’ exterior will be made from rubber to improve traction and grip. Rubber will also minimize tripping and slipping on wet floors.
Does the Footwear Suit You?
When shopping for shoes, you’ll want to notice how you feel after wearing the shoe. Do your feet feel super cramped or weary? Have you developed a few sores or blisters? You should look at swapping shoes.
Sneakers are popular footwear options. They can get worn to semi-formal or casual events. They are easy to pack and wear while traveling. These factors should help you when you go shopping for new shoes.
Examine the Shoe Sole
When shopping for shoes, you’ll wear daily, notice the sole of the shoe. Do you think it’s thick enough to withstand daily wear?
You might put unnecessary pressure on your legs and angles if the sole is super thin.
Leather and Fabric Shoes
Fabric and leather shoes often mold to a person’s foot shape when they wear them daily.
You will notice these shoes feel way more comfortable compared to manufactured materials. These shoes are also way more flexible.
Fashion Style and Fit
When shopping for new shoes, you’ll want to consider how the shoe style fits into your overall look.
Don’t buy shoes that you’ll never end up wearing because they don’t suit you. Find something that’s going to work well with your current wardrobe.
You also shouldn’t sacrifice comfort for a relaxed look. Find a pair of shoes that will give you an edgy look without any lasting pain or discomfort.
Consider Buying a Special Pair of Sneakers
Look at getting a pair of Air Jordans or Nike sneakers that you have dreamed about for years.
Have you always wanted a pair of Chuck Taylors or Converse sneakers? Shop around and find a reputable seller. Find out more here.
Buying Men’s Shoes That Will Last
Buying men’s shoes can often feel overwhelming, but you can do it successfully with the correct measurements. You should understand the shape of your foot and work with a podiatrist if you need help.
Find shoes that provide your arch and ankles with adequate support.
Need more shopping tips? Check out our fashion resources today.