Occupational Footwear. Because a number of occupations put the feet in danger, workers in high-risk jobs should be sure their footwear is protective. For example, non-electric workers at risk for falling or rolling objects or punctures should wear shoes with steel toes and possibly other metal foot guards. Electric workers should wear footgear with no metal parts (or insulated steel toes) and rubber soles and heels. Chemical workers should wear shoes made of synthetics or rubber, not leather.
Shoes for Sports |
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Aerobic Dancing |
Sufficient cushioning to absorb shock and pressure, which should be many times greater than shock from walking. Arches that maintain side-to-side stability. Thick upper leather support. Box-toe. Orthotics may be required for people with ankles that over-turn inward or outward. Soles should allow for twisting and turning. |
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Cycling |
Rigid support across the arch to prevent collapse during pedaling. Heel lift. Cross-training or combo hiking/cycling shoes may be sufficient for the casual biker. Toe clips or specially designed shoe cleats for serious cyclers. In some cases, orthotics may be needed to control arch and heel and balance forefoot. |
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Running |
Sufficient cushioning to absorb shock and pressure. Fully bendable at the ball of the foot. Sufficient traction on sole to prevent slipping. Consider insole or orthotic with arch support for problem feet. |
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Tennis |
Allows side-to-side sliding. Low-traction sole. Snug fitting heel with cushioning. Padded toe box with adequate depth. Soft-support arch. |
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Walking |
Lightweight. Breathable upper material (leather or mesh). Wide enough to accommodate ball of the foot. Firm padded heel counter that does not bite into heel or touch anklebone. Low heel close to ground for stability. Good arch support. Front provides support and flexibility. |
Cosmetic Foot Surgery
Taking fashion to extreme limits, some women have turned to cosmetic surgery as a drastic way to fit into high-heel shoes. Procedures include surgical shortening of the toes, narrowing of feet, or injecting silicone into the pads of feet. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) and other medical podiatric associations have expressed concern over this apparently growing trend. The AOFAS strongly advises against cosmetic foot surgery and urges consumers to carefully consider the relative risks and benefits of undergoing unnecessary surgical procedures.
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