What Shoes Should I Wear for My Work?
Every occupation comes with different dress requirements, whether it’s suit and tie, casual, or a designated uniform, but what about the shoes? Almost every occupation requires a different type of shoe. In some jobs, wearing the wrong types of shoe can even get you into a painful accident!
Choosing shoes for your job should not be as difficult as choosing your career path. That’s why we wanted to take some of the guesswork out of it for you.
Why does footwear matter at work?
Many jobs come with occupation-specific hazards, like heavy objects that could fall, dangerous chemicals and liquids, or slippery surfaces. Wearing steel-toed boots could save your toes from a heavy object, while slip-resistant soles can ensure you don’t slip and fall while rushing around a corner at work. If your work requires long hours of standing of walking, shoes with extra cushioning or arch support can help keep your feet comfortable.
Some professions even require employees to work in extreme temperatures. Insulated boots in the winter time are necessary for cold, outdoor jobs, while shoes and socks that are made from sweat-wicking material are good to prevent fungal infections on sweaty feet.
Jobs that have you on your feet for long stretches of time can put strain and stress in your feet, causing pain from your feet all the way to your lower back. You could end up with bunions, calluses, plantar warts, or permanent back pain, or even alter the way you walk and stand.
Choosing the proper fitting-shoe
Choose shoes that are made for your foot shape. If you have wide feet, be sure to look for styles that come in a wide size.
Shop at the end of the day when your feet are at their biggest size so you can prevent shoes from feeling too tight at the end of the day.
Make sure your big toe has enough space in each shoe when you’re standing. There should be about ⅜” to ½” extra space from the tip of your toe.
Don’t select by the size on the box, but by how the shoe feels when you wear it. Different brands have different sizing. Remember to try on both feet!
Walk around in both shoes before you buy them to ensure they fit both feet comfortably. Shoes shouldn’t require a “break-in” period.
If you’re looking for information on the best shoes to wear for your job, your podiatrist can always help you! At Precision Foot and Ankle Centers, our team of podiatrists are here to help guide you through choosing the best shoes for your specific feet. Dr. Eric Feit, Dr. Alona Kashanian, and Dr. Roohbakhsh Maher are board-certified foot doctors who provide comprehensive foot and ankle care to treat and manage podiatric conditions. Need shoe recommendations? Suffering from heel pain or bunions? Want to prevent sports injuries?
Contact us at any of our locations in Los Angeles, Torrance, and San Pedro to schedule an appointment today!